Wild Nothing
(Captured Tracks)
Bringing a new meaning to the one-man band and to musical acts from Virginia, Jack Tatum created the gorgeous, hazy, and often lyrically incoherent, Wild Nothing at the end of 2009. 2010’s “Gemini” stands out from the work of other new wave shoe-gaze bands, and creates—and sustains—the brighter side of melancholy. “Chinatown” and “O Lilac” are reminiscent of the fuzzy urgency of The Jesus and Mary Chain, while “Summer Holiday” is a beautiful and crucial song that will make Wild Nothing a much bigger deal than they already are.
–Lucy Westcott
Amos Lee
(Blue Note Records)
Amos Lee, the Philadelphia-born guitarist best known for producing a rather unique blend of R&B-laced folk music, has just released his fourth studio album, “Mission Bell.” The album marks Lee’s first studio release since his 2008 effort, “Last Days at the Lodge.” In some ways, “Mission Bell” is simply an evolved product of his previous works, combining his trademark soulful approach with what seems to be a very introspective, acoustic guitar-heavy presence. The album lacks consistency as some tracks such as, “Hello Again” and “Stay With Me” seem to drag on a bit too long, but Lee attempts a speedy recovery with terrific guitar work on songs, such as “Jesus” and “Behind Me Now,” leaving us with somewhat of a mixed bag of an album.
–Andrew George
Joanna Newsom
(Drag City)
With a voice already so distinguishing, Joanna Newsom brings a new almost ethereal sound to her latest album. The singer-pianist-harpist came out with her third full-length album, “Have One On Me,” this past year—the first since her 2006 release of “Ys.” Newsom’s distinct voice – sometimes child-like, sometimes operatic, sometimes like a grandmother’s grainy lullaby, paired with understated and alternating stringed instrumentation makes for a beautiful and completely unique experience. An interesting note: Newsom is the lady lover of Lonely Island comedian Andy Samberg. Perhaps this angelic songstress even inspired the SNL Digital Short, “Jizz in My Pants”?
–Maura Welch