Kicking off the first big week of album releases in 2010, we have Vampire Weekend’s highly anticipated sophomore record, Contra. From my few listens, the band still retains that signature African sound from their debut. But, I’ve never been too high on these guys in the first place, so maybe a more keen listener will notice any new flourishes with this one.
Also out this week is Owen Pallett’s Heartland, which sees the singer/songwriter disposing of his long-time Final Fantasy moniker. I think this change should have happened much earlier, as that name never sat well with me in the first place. The album has been described by Pallett as “a fully orchestral record, designed to exist simultaneously as an album, a 45-minute piece of orchestral music and a set of songs for looped violin and voice.”
Another release worth mentioning is also my recommendation this week: Laura Veirs’ July Flame. In my opinion, it’s the first great release of 2010. Rounding out this week is Athens, GA’s Nana Grizol and their sophomore release, Ruth. If you’re not familiar, the band includes Laura Carter and Robbie Cucchiaro — both formerly of Neutral Milk Hotel.
Adam Green
Minor Love
MP3: “What Makes Him Act So Bad”
Blockhead
Music Scene
MP3: “Which One Of You Jerks Drank My Arnold Palmer?”
Jason Boesel
Hustler’s Son
MP3: “Hand of God”
Laura Veirs
July Flame
MP3: “Sleeper In The Valley”
Nana Grizol
Ruth
MP3: “For Things That Haven’t Come Yet”
OK Go
Of the Blue Colour of the Sky
Video: “WTF?”
Owen Pallett
Heartland
MP3: “Lewis Takes Action”
Shlohmo
Shlomoshun Deluxe
MP3: “7AM”
The Paperbacks
Lit from Within
MP3: “Slow Learners”
The Scruffs
Conquest
MP3: “Treasure Girls”
Vampire Weekend
Contra
MP3: “Horchata”
Woodpigeon
Die Stadt Muzikanten
MP3: “Die Stadt Muzikanten”
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Laura Veirs is delightful.