Mumford And Sons – Sigh No More
For some (namely the Brits), Mumford And Sons at this point might be old news. This London based quartet have been the pride of BBC for well over a year now, plucked from the same crop that has given us Laura Marling, Johnny Flynn and Noah and the Whale. But what helps Mumford And Sons stand out is that all members add vocals to create a wall of harmony. For fans, “Sign No More” will be a tangible package to house the songs they’ve grown to love in recent years. For newcomers, it makes a fine introduction.
Thee Silver Mount Zion Memorial Orchestra – Kollaps Tradixionales
To most, they are simply referred to as “Silver Mount Zion”, as the constant variances on their name can be a bit hard to keep track of. And their music varies from album to album about as much as their name does. Since 1999, Silver Mount Zion have been a heavy hitter for the prominent and revered label, Constellation. Forming in Montreal, the band has released six full lengths and an EP. Work on their latest, “Kollaps Tradixionales”, started almost a year ago, so those who their last tour were not only treated to new material, but have a good idea of what is in store.
Peter Gabriel – Scratch My Back
If music had a pope, it would be Peter Gabriel. Some may argue, sure. But if you’re a pope, you’re infallible. And while “Scratch My Back”, Gabriel’s much anticipated covers album is certainly not perfect. Some covers might fall a bit flat, but it’s highlights (namely Bon Iver’s “Flume”) are certainly enough to make it worthwhile. Besides, its symphonic mastery is so epic that if you were to meet him face to face, you’d probably bow. (Stay tuned for “I’ll Scratch Yours”, featuring the artists Gabriel covers, covering him.)
Tindersticks – Falling Down A Mountain
The Tindersticks are one of those bands that have been under your nose for years, and you just never knew it. They’ve been kicking around England and the world for almost 20 years, and popping up everywhere like a venerable game of whack-a-mole. Depending on what you count, they have anywhere from eight to twenty-plus albums, and are showing no signs of slowing down
Lightspeed Champion – Life Is Sweet! Nice To Meet You
Lighspeed Champion is Devonte Hynes, a musician, a producer, an author, songwriter and composer. And he works hard to earn each one of those titles. He’s written songs for The Chemical Brothers, Florence and the Machine, and Solange Knowles. He has also released a handful of comics and short stories. And now, he’s back with “Life Is Sweet! Nice To Meet You”, an album highly anticipated after his very successful 2008 debut.
