Too True by Dum Dum Girls (January 28)
Thoughts: Thanks to Steven at Surrender To The Void for the recommendation. An impressive album that I completely overlooked, full of powerful tracks. While some of the lyrics are a bit repetitive, you sort of forgive that, because the sound is so well-produced. Has been described as a career pinnacle for the band.
Favorite tracks: Cult of Love, Lost Boys And Girls Club, Too True To Be Good, Rimbaud Eyes
Album rating: 7.5/10
No Mythologies to Follow by Mø (March 11)
Thoughts: I almost didn't bother, as I thought it might be trash. I had zero expectations for this pop release by rising star Mø. A strong debut album, with a number of solid pop tunes. On first listen, it hit me with one good track after another. However on repeat visits I'm not as enthusiastic, so maybe it isn't quite as great as I initially thought. As you can hear, I'm still kind of undecided about my verdict.
Critics have complained that many of her tracks sound the same, and that her music is too similar to other contemporaries such as Lana Del Rey, Lorde, Chvrches, and so on, and I tend to agree with that. The songs didn't get stuck in my head, but I can see myself returning to the album.
Favorite tracks: Pilgrim, Maiden, Never Wanna Know, Walk This Way, Slow Love, Waste Of Time,
Album rating: undecided
Love Letters by Metronomy (March 18)
I didn't think it was that good on first listen. wow was I wrong. Really improves on repeat spins. I liked the variation in the instrumentation from track-to-track. Especially the first half of the album impressed me.
I'm pretty certain Aquarius (Let the Sunshine in) by The Fifth Dimension was an influence.
Favorite tracks: The Upsetter, I'm Aquarius, Love Letters, Monstrous,
Album rating: 8/10
Which are your favorite new albums? Heard any of these releases yet? As always, comments are welcome.
Might give the new Metronomy a listen. Been listening to Lorde a lot recently. Pharrell Williams' new album is good, for a bit of mindless listening. Happy is definitely the standout track though.
ReplyDelete@Jaina: I too have been listening to Pharrell, Happy is so catchy, and so are other tracks on his album. Lorde, I especially liked “Royals” which got stuck in my head. Hope you enjoy Metronomy, their 2011 album is also worth looking up.
DeleteYou're welcome. I haven't got the chance to catch up with more new music as I'm waiting for some new stuff yet... there is a video that.... well... just watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiT1e9krL2g
ReplyDelete@thevoid99: Thanks again. I remember you love Jena Malone so that music by her band The Shoe must be a big deal for you. Quite revealing that video!
DeleteINDEED!!!!!
DeleteI still need to check out Too True, but I'm also undecided on No Mythologies to Follow. I really liked it initially, though. I like "I'm Aquarius," but I haven't listened to Love Letters entirely yet.
ReplyDelete@Josh: Too True by Dum Dum Girls is currently #10 on my list of favorite albums of 2014.
DeleteI guess we had the same reaction to No Mythologies to Follow. Especially the first half of the Lover Letters album is worth your time.