Ponies in the Surf – Ponies on Fire (Asaurus)
The first full-length album from this brother-sister duo is even more enjoyable than the lovely EPs they’ve released. Gentle, dreamy pop balladry with echos of children’s songs, European and South American folk music, even old-time gospel and country – it all adds up to timeless, spellbinding music from musicians with their own unique vision.
Gentleman Caller – Ice Water (Smokeylung)
In my alphabetical journey through my CD collection I was reminded how much I enjoy the first album from this Indianapolis pop-rock band. The songs are catchy, but also carry with them a sense of atmosphere, and mystery.
The Complete Motown Singles Vol. 1: 59-61 (Hip-O-Select)
As Christmas gifts (the best gifts ever) I received the first three volumes of this amazing series. Hip-O-Select is slowly releasing on CD, in chronological order, every Motown single. I’m just getting into the first volume, but it’s fascinating, not just because of the great songs that I’d never heard before, and those I had, but to hear the hits in context, and to hear the label reaching towards its own, now-legendary style.
David Dondero – South of the South (Team Love)
A troubadour with a knack for putting people and places in song, David Dondero continues doing what he does well on his excellent fifth studio album. It’s powerful, dark stuff, focused largely on trying to wipe away the pains of the past.
The Casting Couch – Row Your Boat (I Eat Records)
This Austin, Texas band (with Georgia roots, and at least one Elephant 6 connection) impressed me earlier in the year with their debut EP, 5 Songs, and their first full-length is just as good. They’ve got a country-ish vibe and a philosophical side, plus a way with hooks and an endearing, laidback style.
LL Cool J – Walking With a Panther (Def Jam)
I always thought Bigger and Deffer was the classic and this was right below it in terms of quality, until I recently listened to them both again. Now I’m thinking this was LL’s peak. Despite a few misguided sappy ballads (“I Need Love” wannabes), it’s a forceful album. Later on his massive ego would make every album unsteady, but here he smoothly made bragging an artform. Of course the hooks and beats don’t hurt, either.
The Capstan Shafts – The Sleeved and Grandaughters of the Blacklist (Abandoned Love)
This Vermont lo-fi one-man-band has put out so much music in the last year or so, and it just keeps getting better.
Michael Penn – March (RCA)
I found this laying around my old bedroom in my parents’ house while I was home for Christmas and put it on. I’d forgotten how enjoyable it is. He really knows how to put a pop song together; and did right from this debut.
Landing – Brocade (Strange Attractors)
Landing are back into space with their new album. They’re shaking off the pop songs and floating, jamming, and experimenting away. It’s a very pretty, absorbing album.
Project Runway (Wednesday, Bravo)
I don’t care about fashion (and certainly don’t dress too fashionably), but I love this show. I think what hooks me is the way they have to create something under specific restrictions and guidelines.
