Wednesday 15 September 2010

currently listening to...The Coral

The Coral-Butterfly House

The latest album from the Liverpudlian psych-rockers is simply brilliant. I went to their gig at the o2 Shepherds Bush Empire and they performed each track immaculately. '1000 Years' manages to be ridiculously catchy yet endearing all at the same time. Opener 'More Than A Lover', closer 'North Parade' and 'middelton' 'She's Comin' Around' make up some of the main highlights of the record.

Think stunning harmonies, effortless melodies and crafty guitar lines.

currently listening to...Leftfield

Leftfield-Leftism

The debut album from the electronica duo from London. This record was nominated for the Mercury Music Prize in 1995, losing out to Portishead's 'Dummy'.

You need to hear this.

New Music #9 Junip

Junip-Fields

Acclaimed soloist Jose Gonzalez's 'pre-fame' band.

After being on 'hiatus' since 2005, the band started releasing material this year. The album consists of some beautifully crafted psych-folk tracks that at times makes you think it's a little empty, before correcting yourself by appreciating its subtlety.

There's always been something extremely charming about Jose's vocals, and this record doesn't miss out on this. You almost find yourself hypnotised at points by the tenderness of the melodies ('Without You' could have lasted all day and you wouldn't have noticed). Your mind will be fixed on Jose's guitar, which although doesn't offer anything in the way of experimentation or exhilaration, intrigues nonetheless, and keeps you interested throughout.

An endearing record from the Swedish trio...it's great to have Jose back.

New Music #8 Sennen

Sennen-Age Of Denial

Listening to XFM's Exposure last night, I heard 'shoegazing' Norwich band Sennen's 'Falling Down' off their 2010 album 'Age Of Denial'. There's something reclusive about the track (if that makes any sense). Even when it 'kicks in' after four and a half minutes it seems to be holding something back. Dark, ominous, foreboding-yet at times, rather gentle. It shouldn't work doing it this way, but it does-nicely.

A solid record where favourite tracks will differ across the board. Nothing stands out majorly at either end of the scale. It lies somewhere between 'shoegaze' and 'mellow-pop' on the scale, but it's one of those albums that doesn't need defining. It's fine as it is.

It certainly won't blow your mind, but drawing heavily on their well established influences, it makes for a pleasant listen.

The band have just released a 5 track EP - 'Innocence'.