Spoon – Transference (Merge)
Austin, Texas native Spoon are back with their seventh full length effort, “Transference”. Since they first emerged in 1994, Spoon have been steady working their way into the mainstream by continuing to write rock songs with undeniable hooks. Fans were given a taste of “Transference” in the form of the “Got Nuffin’ EP” released last summer, and their patience is finally rewarded.
Hawksley Workman – Meat (Isadora)
Hawksley Workman doesn’t like to stay in one place, and nowhere is that more evident than on his latest release, “Meat”. Places he mentions on “Meat” include Tokyo, Paris, Los Angeles, Sydney, amongst others. From a lyrical standpoint, he seems half way between happy-go-lucky and an emotional mess, highlighted on the eight minute epic “You Don’t Just Want To Break Me (You Want To Tear Me Apart)”. Like his earlier releases, there is a sense of playful creativity, which is welcoming. And according to the man himself, “this record is meant to be played loud”. Hawksley is also be releasing a companion album entitled “Milk” digitally, gradually releasing songs over a five month period.
Eels – End Times (Vagrant)
The Eels story is a long and sad one. Mark Oliver Everett (better known as E) has been recording songs about death, depression, and anything downer since 1992. Since their debut, “Beautiful Freak”, was released in 1996, E’s sister killed herself, his mother died of cancer, and several of his closest friends also passed away. Through it all, the Eels have maintained with an ever-changing line up, including John Parish and Lisa Germano, releasing albums sporadically, and maintaining a relentless tour schedule. Now, the Eels bring us “End Times”, an album “based on themes of broken love”.
Surfer Blood – Astro Coast (Kanine)
Pitchfork buzz band Surfer Blood have arrived on the scene with their debut album, “Astro Coast”. And they have all the ingredients for success too. They’ve successfully created their own version of that oh so popular lo-fi indie garage punk sound. They’ve also worked hard on making a name for themselves, with a non-stop tour schedule and a heightened web presence. For Surfer Blood, they’re a band that is out to conquer.
