Chairlift – Something (Columbia/Young Turks)
Heard while browsing in a local record store and bought ten minutes later. No point denying the 80s influences all over this album, but they pull off the increasingly rare trick of twisting it all into something fresh and interesting, grows in stature with each play and made me think at times of Boston’s wonderful Tribe.
Simple Minds – X5 (Virgin)
The first five albums boxed with additional tracks, released to coincide with a tour where the band will play five songs from each album. Amazing price but no sleeve notes etc. It’s been said before but after the brilliance found here the fall from grace was shocking and long lasting.
Jim White – Where it Hits You (Loose)
It took me ages to pick up Transnormal Skiperoo, but after loving that I didn’t hesitate this time. Initial plays suggest this one may be even better.
Momus – The Philosophy of Momus (Cherry Red)
I’m rediscovering the Momus back catalogue after seeing him live for the first time since the 1988 Creation Records, Doing it for the Kids gig. This album from 1995 is a great entry point for a newcomer to the wonderful world of Momus.
Wire – Red Barked Tree (Pink Flag)
Still loving this album, great songs building on all periods of the band’s career, also great live as evidenced by the just released companion piece, The Black Session: Paris 10 May 2011. Masterful.
Dory Previn – Mythical Kings and Iguanas (BGO)
Ashamed to say my investigation of this album was prompted by a mention following Dory’s recent death at the age of 86. Was aware of the name but had never gone further. That was a mistake, bittingly witty, dark lyrics alongside warmly melodic music, will be delving further.
Talking Heads – Chronology (Eagle)
Packaged in an excellent hard back book format, this DVD is far from the standard greatest hits collection, instead focussing on the years up to the Stop Making Sense era. Great live footage and other odds and ends. Prompted me to also pick up the Burning Down Rome DVD, despite poor picture quality, a pretty amazing record of a 1980 gig with added incredible Adrian Belew guitar work…
Jane’s Addiction – The Great Escape Artist (Parlophone)
I keep coming back to this one, some may say it doesn’t measure up to past work, but to me this is pretty much great from start to finish. Didn’t really see that coming and nearly didn’t bother picking it up, just goes to show.
Dave Davies – Hidden Treasures (Sanctuary)
Beautifully put together collection of Dave’s 60s work, giving us the possible form of what would have been his debut solo album. Much has appeared on the various excellent recent Kinks reissues, but it’s great to have it all in one place plus extras, all at a give away price as well.
The Lucy Show – Remembrances (Words on Music)
A very welcome collection of rare tracks, demos and unreleased songs, including three from an early 90s reunion. There are still a few non album tracks yet to see reissue though, a live album would be nice as well…
