Review: The New Pornographers - Together (* * *)

Let’s face it: even on an off day, the New Pornographers make some pretty good music. And given that the group incorporates the collective talents of AC Newman, Neko Case and Dan Bejar, you would probably expect that to be the case. But even a great band becomes a lot less interesting when they release a by-the-numbers type record. There is something to be said for the fact that the Pornographers have album construction down to a science; and getting what you expect in terms of structure and style certainly isn’t a bad thing (especially after 2007’s Challengers disappointed many—myself not included). But while the group's latest album, Together, sees them return to the speed and form expected of them, it also sounds an awful lot like a less inspired version of albums that came before it. As a result, it plays as if it were composed by a band that’s merely coasting—and we all know the Pornographers have much more to offer us than that. (Continue Reading @ In Review Online)

Worth Hearing: January 20, 2009

Here's a list of some of the notable and worthwhile albums being released this week and some links to where you can get a listen:


A.C. Newman: Get Guilty - MySpace page - I've only heard a few tracks from this album, but if those were any indication, it's great.

Andrew Bird: Noble Beast - listen to the album at NPR (My Review) - An amazing record from one of indie's most consistent artists.

Animal Collective: Merriweather Post Pavilion - listen to the album at NPR (My Review) - Absolutely fantastic, a must-hear!

Antony and the Johnsons: The Crying Light - listen to the album at Spinner - A strangely beautiful listen.

Bon Iver : Blood Bank EP - listen to the EP on their MySpace page - A nice four-song set for a follow-up to last year's stellar debut.