This is fine.
Whoa there! We have to choose? Sadly, yes. I mean, you can pull the old switcharoo, and go back and forth, but to really get both of these bands, you should probably stay at both. Here’s where I think you should go…
If you’re looking for news on that transcontinental outfit, then you’re looking for the wrong group. If, however, you’re a fan of bands like Sonny and the Sunsets you’ve definitely stumbled across some deliciousness. The Limes recently released their latest album Rhinestone River on Goner Records. For some reason, they’re not getting a lot of love, perhaps because of the name confusion. Still, one listen to this track here, and you’ll probably see all sorts of similarities with the modern world. Come on, give these guys a chance, and get down with me and my imaginary Memphis friends.
Download: The Limes – Bottom of the Hole [MP3]
Patrick Wolf is a magnificent genius. Everything he’s done has fascinated me, on various levels, but always involving his music. He’s set to release a new single in December titled “Time of My Life.” The track is a bit of a personal narrative, reflecting on a crumbling relationship. I’m hoping the release of his new material means that his sequel to The Bachelor, which you need, is soon to hit the streets. Please be true.
Download: Patrick Wolf – Time of My Life [MP3]
We’ve got more great news from our friend over at Chapter Music in Australia. Geoffrey O’Connor, the lead man behind one of our favorites, The Crayon Fields, will be releasing a new solo record for everyone to enjoy early next Spring. Based on this first track, it’s a slower affair, illustrating Geoffrey’s ability to control the melodies within his mind. While it may be a slow-burner, it definitely has me excited, as I’ve loved everything I’ve heard from him up until now, so the guy can’t go wrong in my book. You might also go back and look for Geoffrey’s old solo work under the name Sly Hats.
Download: Geoffrey O’Connor – Now And Then [MP3]
After their dallying with a rock-opera it seems that The Decemberists are back at what they do best, offering up eclectic folk tunes with lyrical genius for those of you interested in those sorts of things. The first single has Colin singing with some female vocal contributions, and we’re excited to report the guitar sound harkens back to the golden days. Their new record is titled The King is Dead, and it will hit stores on January 18th on Capitol Records. I’m crossing my fingers for another Picaresque.
Download: The Decemberists – Down By The Water [MP3]
L.A. based outfit Grouplove are hot on the radar of many music bloggers these days, and for good reason. The band is getting ready to drop their debut EP on January 25th and are promoting that release with this new upbeat single “Colours”. The sound is often times most comparable to Annuals and is without a doubt happy go lucky pop music.
Download: Grouplove – Colours [MP3]
I’ve fallen in love with The Orchids over the past several years, so I’m glad my special order of their latest album, The Lost Star, finally came in the mail. I haven’t spent a lot of time talking about this band, but rest assured that those of you in the know of twee pop will surely adore their work. Now, for me, twee doesn’t have a negative connotation; it means sincerity combined with honest pop, and that’s always where my heart has been at. Give The Orchids a chance here, and make sure to check out their back catalog if you dig the new stuff. This isn’t going to let you down.
Download: The Orchids – She’s My Girl [MP3]
Once again, the sounds from New Zealand are just too catchy to escape. While running through Finest Kiss, I hit upon Surf Friends, a great new discovery. They’ve just released their debut album, Confusion, which is chock full of angular guitar riffs and sugary melodies. As I listened to “You’re On My Mind,” I can’t help but feel a little bounce in my step as the pace picks up, the harmonies kick in, and the song takes off. Yea, the rest of the record is just like it! You can get it now from Power Tools Records.
Download: Surf Friends-You’re On My Mind [MP3]
I came across the British group The Soundcarriers when I was checking in on another act, but I’ve since found that the latter can’t hold a candle to my new favorite UK import. The Soundcarriers use a combination of warm male and female vocals to push their songs forward, using a quiet hush over each song to allow room for small specks of melodic beauty to work through. The band just released their newest LP, Celeste, and it’s been keeping me nice and cozy ever since I got ahold of it. Give this a try.
Download: The Soundcarriers – Morning Haze [MP3]
When your band calls it quits, its difficult to know precisely what to do. Luckily for Ross Flournoy, formerly of The Broken West, he’s got his head on straight, heading in direction of power-pop bliss. His new outing, under the name of Apex Manor, will be releasing their debut, The Year of Magical Drinking, on his his old label Merge Records. The first single offers up a steady back beat, cleanly distorted guitars, and popaholic bliss. Look out for the record on January 25th in the New Year.
Download: Apex Manor – Under the Gun [MP3]
