Possible one of the most entertaining bands making music today, The Cat Empire are back with a brand new album that has them going to all sorts of new directions with their music. Rooted in world music styles, mostly Reggae and Latin, the entire album twists and
turns with a funkiness and darkness that this band has not developed before. There are elements of urban funk and hip hop in the instrumentation, while the vocal delivery by both singers is spot on. The cleverness of their unconventional instrumentation is intriguing, and adds layer upon layer to the music. Their typical fun party band style is still evident on tracks like "Falling," without being too over the top and taking away from the depth of the album." Standouts include "Feeling's Gone" and "On My Way" which will surely be huge hits in the US and their native Australia. The biggest surprise on the album, and a potentially overlooked gem, is "Only Light" which has an almost 70's psychedelic rock feel to it and is vaguely reminiscent of Pink Floyd. The Cat Empire is one of the world's best bands, and they have proven that you don't have to follow the same path or use the same mold as everyone else to be successful and create great music. This album is their most artistic to date and shows off the band's range, ablility, and creativity even more than ever before.
Dance music has been made cool again by LCD Soundsystem. This, their third album, is however, less danceable, than their first two from a "party-in-the-club" standpoint. Yet, indie kids will surely be able to get their groove on with these nine tracks. Much like LCD's first two albums the disc is heavy on syncopated rhythms and synthesizers, but this time Jame Murphy & Co.'s lyrics play much more of a heavier role in the music. "Drunk Girls," the album's first single, is an excellent track and reminiscent of the work the band has previously done. The album's true gems are "You Wanted A Hit" which has a bit of an 80's synth pop feel and "Dance Yrself Clean." "One Touch" and "Pow Pow" are also great additions to LCD Soundystem's catalogue. LCD Soundsystem started it all with the indie rock meets dance rock style of music Now that many other bands have jumped on board this wagon, it seems that these guys are still doing it right, making it classic, and bringing us the danceable indie rock music that is uniquely their own.
Keller Williams is an incredibly eclectic singer, songwriter, and musician. He always takes a unique approach at creating music, and this time he has partnered again with the Keels for another bluegrass style album. His first album with the Keels went over quite well, and featured a ton of original tunes. This time, Keller decided the time was right to reinvent a ton of cover songs, ranging from everything from pop to country to alternative rock. The songs chosen span several decades and the artists covered are as eclectic as Williams himself. Standout tracks on the disc include Marcy Playground's "Sex And Candy," Amy Winehouse's "Rehab," and the 90's alternative rock staple "Pepper" by Butthole Surfers. Songs by bluegrass artists Danny Barnes and Yonder Mountain String Band made the album, as well as a somewhat obscure Grateful Dead tune. Rounding out the mix are inclusions of covers by Ryan Adams, Cracker, The Raconteurs, and the Presidents Of The United States Of America. The entire album makes each song sound like a Keller Williams original, which is exactly the end result you want when making a cover album. You recognize the songs, but they sound brand new and super interesting, and Keller & the Keels prove that excellent musicianship will aways make a great album.
Indie rock has never sounded so good. The dark melodies and and moody delivery of the lyrics sets Fanfarlo apart from many indie rock bands on the scene these days. It is reminiscent of Arcade Fire and even a little matt pond PA, as the instrumentation and orchestration of the music is beautifully executed. Songs such as "I'm A Pilot" and "Ghosts" stand out as lyrical masterpieces. Other tracks like the single "Harold T. Wilkins," show how accessible the bands music is, despite the fact they stand out by being different from what is on the radio now. "Fire Escape" and "Luna" are also songs that show off the mastery of their compositions. Fanfarlo is a diamond in the rough, and this album will thoroughly be enjoyed by music fans of any kind.
Bronze Radio Return's newest release, their first full length, is a collection of original songs that show off the bands mix of roots rock and indie pop music coupled with their live energy. It is certainly the type of album that is going to get them recognized and bring them out of the shadows. The album is filled with incredible lyrics, and one of the best is the song "Digital Love." Other standouts include "Lo-Fi," It's OK Now," and the album's closer "Stone's Throw Away." The unique vocal style of the singer and the familiar, yet still original, music will not likely have the band being dubbed a carbon copy of any other act out there. BRR definitely follows their own path and their talents are showcased well throughout this album.
