From My Ears To Your Eyes: Recent & Recommended

There hasn’t been a whole ton of new stuff that I’ve been inspired to tell you about lately, which is kinda why I haven’t been posting about new stuff.  This doesn’t mean new stuff isn’t being released..because, believe it or not, the music world goes on even if I’m not around to be it’s cheerleader all the time. Anyway, while I’m too lazy to write full reviews about some stuff right now, I still strive to spread knowledge to you, the loyal reader, and with that in mind, here is a brief collection of thoughts about some newer stuff I’ve listened to lately.

Broadcast The Nightmare – ‘Twenty Twelve’
Sumerian Records
Released April 14, 2009

I enjoy me some rock and roll music. Broadcast The Nightmare, from right here in Bear Country (aka Atlanta), play rock and roll music. Does this mean I enjoy BTN? Why yes, actually it does! My opinions on metal these days can be so fickle and it’s really tough to put into words why I like one thing and get instantly bored with something else; something that might essentially sound just like the first thing I juuust told you I enjoyed. But here’s the deal, despite the fact that BTM does the whole thrashy metalcore thing that’s been done to death, I think these guys sorta stand out and I find myself enjoying this record a good bit. It’s pretty solid and totally one of the better metal releases I’ve heard so far this year. Give ‘em a go if you’re into stuff like August Burns Red or some other metal as balls band with breakdowns.

Melody Gardot – ‘My One And Only Thrill’
Verve Records
Released April 28, 2009

From time to time, even the hardest of rockers need to chill out and unwind, and when that time comes, why not listen to the smooth jazzy stylings of Melody Gardot? Light some candles, drink some wine, take a bubble bath and just relax. Sounds like a good time..AMIRITELADIES??? Srsly though, I’ve been a fan of this young lady for a few years now and Lord knows I’m not much of a jazz/lounge/easy listening AC kinda dude, but there’s something about Gardot’s music that appeals to me.  Most likely, that something is her voice. She has an incredible voice that has really helped establish her as a one of a kind talent not only just  in my ever-important opinion but in the opinions of critics and fans all over the world.  Plus, her story is interesting..she was almost killed a few years back  while riding her bike in Philly and has a myriad of health issues she’s dealt with since (look it up, you’ll probably say ‘oh wow’ when you read about what she goes through). That aside though, the cd really is nice and enjoyable. It’s mellow and awesome and I through my full support behind it.

Huck Notari – ‘Very Long Dream’
Released Feb 17, 2009

From time to time, my friend James (you may recognize him as BEP’s Bazmazh) likes to tease me for some of the music I listen to. He generally doesn’t have any real merit to his insults or mudslinging, he just likes to annoy me. One of the things he makes fun of are the names of some of the dudes I listen to. These dudes are usually folk singers and he usually has some wise cracks about song content and whatnot..but hey, I’m used to it and I deal. Point is, both this guy’s name and the album art aren’t really gonna help my case when it comes to him. Oh well, it’s a chance I have to take.  If there’s a come out of nowhere surprise hit so far this year for me, it’s this record.  To put it quite bluntly, ‘Very Long Dream’ is a lo-fi folky/americana masterpiece of a cd. Recorded live with his buddies up in his hometown of Portland, I think this record is the audio equivalent to an older, faded pair of jeans with holes in the knees.  I really find it to be super comfortable and welcoming music  that has the sound of something much older than it is.  It’s folk done right; honest and unassuming, full of heart and devoid of any trace of self importance. A wonderful listen if I do say so myself.