Top 25 of 2008 - Alphabetically (Part IV)

Ten to go; here are the next five; this section of the list probably contain some of my most unique picks:

Johnny Flynn - A Larum

A Shakespearean actor and poet, Johnny Flynn brings an "olde fashioned" folk style to his debut album, A Larum. He and his band, The Sussex Wit, show remarkable maturity throughout the eclectic set of 14 songs, using guitars, strings, horns, and keys to help give life to Flynn's witty yarns. Sometimes lighthearted, other times wistful or melancholy, A Larum is consistently fascinating and enjoyable. Flynn's new artistic outlet is a welcome one.
--------------------------------------

Larsen & Furious Jane - Zen Sucker

I'm cheating a bit on this one as Larsen & Furious Jane's most recent album, Zen Sucker, isn't actually available yet in the U.S., but I can't help mentioning it here. The Danish band's latest effort is, without a doubt, a top ten record in my book. Nearly flawless in its construction and execution, Zen Sucker makes for an addicting mix of beauty, intensity, and emotion. Achieving the perfect balance between experimental alternative rock and accessible melodies and arrangements, this is a unique and truly special album.
-------------------------------------

Marching Band - Spark Large

I heard very little mentioned about these guys this year, and I can't for the life of me figure out why. The duo from Sweden make radiant pop music with layers of harmony and joyful melodies so wholesome it actually causes the clouds to part and the sun to shine even on the darkest of days. Spark Large's 12 songs might be a little sweet for some listener's tastes, but with so many fantastic arrangements and infectious musical hooks, Marching Band should win themselves quite a congregation if given the exposure. Spark Large is a smile-inducing masterpiece.
------------------------------------

The Republic Tigers - Keep Color

The Republic Tigers are another band that didn't get enough love this year, in my opinion. Their debut album, Keep Color, is rarely boundary-pushing or revolutionary, but it effectively blends 80s synths and classic indie rock with just a bit of psychedelia in a very effective and enjoyable way. Kenn Jankowski's smooth tenor voice, surrounded by constant vocal harmony, fits well into the band's crisply produced and well-executed tunes, which range from spacey anthems to danceable pop songs.
------------------------------------

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Cardinology

Ryan Adams has been cranking out great music for a little over a decade now, and Cardinology is no exception. It's level, relaxed, and generally grounded, which for Adams (now three years sober) is a good thing. The Cardinals provide ample support with their consistently solid musicianship, and while Adams breaks no new ground here, his strengths as a songwriter remain sharp. Despite occasionally lonely or downhearted lyrics, he imbues his tunes with an underlining message of hope that feels refreshing and breathes life to Cardinology.

Review: Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Cardinology (* * * *)

Another year, another Ryan Adams album. One of the most prolific singer/songwriters of this generation presents another solid set of songs after last year's Easy Tiger. Adams has spoiled us into expecting consistently great music and he and backing band The Cardinals don't disappoint.

After apparently cleaning up his life and kicking drugs in 2005, Adams continues his messages of hope and of recovery from a broken heart and a battered life. True, the topics are not exceptionally original, but Adams excels at explaining ideas and stories with beautiful simplicity. It's occasionally discouraged; "I wish I could tell you just how I felt/I don't pray I shower and say 'Good night' to myself." but generally the music retains at least a bit of light shining through the gloom. The opener "Born Into A Light" is an encouraging tune, urging us all to "keep the faith" and reminding us that we will "heal inside eventually," which serves as something of a theme for the album.

Cardinology is decidedly less "country" than it's predecessor ("Evergreen" excluded) and more focused on rock with traces of blues and folk. Adams and crew turn up the volume slightly on the first half of the album, especially on "Go Easy," "Fix It," and the harder-edged "Magick." Later, the songs are often more subdued and relaxed, like the wistful "Crossed Out Name" and the slow piano and vocal combination of "Stop." The band sound comfortable and confident, providing elegant touches on Adam's more thoughtful moments and exclamation points on his declarations.

Nothing on Cardinology could be considered a musical revelation, or even a true step forward for Ryan Adams, but the music, the writing, and the execution make for an album that is easy to love*. Here's to hoping for more next year.

Favorite Tracks: "Born Into A Light," "Evergreen," "Let Us Down Easy" "Crossed Out Name"





*In fact, though this review is fairly short, it's taken me several hours to write because I've had to stop, get my guitar, and play/sing several of the songs before being able to focus on the task at hand (really).

Worth Hearing: October 28

I've already reviewed four albums coming out this week; Snow Patrol's A Hundred Million Suns, Kaiser Chiefs' Off With Their Heads, Los Campesinos' We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed., and Bloc Party's Intimacy. Here's a list of a few albums that might be worth your time.

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Cardinology
I've been listening to this quite a bit over the last few days. I'll post a review up here very soon, but for now, just know this is an album you should hear!

Jesse Malin - On Your Sleeve
A nicely executed collection of covers from from The Ramones to Sam Cooke done with Malin's relaxed, comfortable style.
Listen at Spinner

O'Death - Broken Hymns, Limbs, and Skin
Fiercely played fiddle, guitar, and banjo serve as the background for singer Greg Jamie's howled, dramatic narratives. It's folk, bluegrass, and punk all rolled into one exciting package.
Listen at Spinner

Eagles Of Death Metal - Heart On
At first listen, Heart On is a solid rock 'n' roll album with big, crunchy guitars that's sexy, exciting, and fun.
Listen at Spinner

School Of Seven Bells - Alpinisms
School of Seven Bells is the side project for Secret Machines member Benjamin Curtis featuring twin sisters on vocals. They have an interesting and unique sound, much more so than Secret Machines ever did anyway.
Listen at Spinner

Preview: Cardinology

Two weeks to go until Ryan Adams & The Cardinals release their eagerly-anticipated new album, Cardinology. The band has released clips from five of their new songs, which you can hear here!

Cardinology Audio Clips

Born Into A Light
Fix It
Magick
Cobwebs
Evergreen

I'm pumped about the new album, and I'll put up a review here when I can. Apparently iTunes is offering an exclusive Pre-order deal with a bonus track called The Color Of Pain, if you're interested...and really, who wouldn't be.