Pitchfork Albums: January 2006
>> Tue:01-31-06
- Richard Ashcroft: Keys to the World
Another collection of maudlin strings, chintzy brass, and anguished, bombastic vocals from the once-charismatic Verve singer. [Parlophone; 2.0]
- William Basinski: The Garden of Brokenness
More sad, slow yet beautiful piano loops built from recently reconstituted old tapes. [2062; 7.5]
- Ghislain Poirier: Breakupdown / Bounce Le Remix
Two records-- one a Chocolate Industries release featuring appearances by Beans and Seba, the other a self-released remix project-- from the hotly tipped Quebecois. [Chocolate Industries / self-released; 7.9 / 7.5]
- Mark O'Leary/Tomasz Stanko/Billy Hart: Levitation
Best of four albums released last year from Irish jazz guitarist O'Leary documents a five-year-old session with trumpeter Tomasz Stanko and veteran drummer Billy Hart. [Leo; 7.7]
- Matthew Shipp: One
Latest Thirsty Ear release often resembles the early 20th century piano studies of Ravel or Debussy as closely as it does modern jazz. [Thirsty Ear Blue Series; 7.3]
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>> Mon:01-30-06
- Robert Pollard: From a Compound Eye
Former Guided by Voices leader starts the next phase of his voluminous career with this, his debut solo album for Merge. [Merge; 7.1]
- Rocky Votolato: Makers
Seattle singer-songwriter retools and finally issues this Barsuk release a year after his rough draft started making the file-sharing rounds. [Barsuk; 4.2]
- Excepter: Sunbomber EP
Five-song EP displays the NYC free/noise/improv band's most overt minimalist pop gestures yet. [5RC; 7.2]
- Burning Star Core: The Very Heart of the World
C. Spencer Yeh's latest batch of ambient drone features contributions from members of Wolf Eyes, Hair Police, and Eyes, among others. [Thin Wrist; 7.0]
- The Standard: Albatross
Melodramatic Yep Roc band builds a quiet tension between guitars, pianos, and Tim Putnam's terse yelp. [Yep Roc; 5.8]
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>> Fri:01-27-06
- Tarkio: Omnibus
Early work from the Decemberists' Colin Meloy, this record collects the best from an indie-folk band he fronted during his days as an undergraduate in Montana. [Kill Rock Stars; 5.7]
- Clearlake: Amber
English band unveils its third album of sleepy, sylvan pop, which harmoniously meshes fiery guitars and ostentatious instrumentation. [Domino; 7.4]
- Meredith Bragg and the Terminals: The Departures EP
Appropriately titled EP deals with holding off the heartbreak and daunting logistics of moving on after a breakup. [Kora; 7.6]
- Samara Lubelski: Spectacular of Passages
Idyllic bedroom psychedelia takes pop orchestrations to previously unimagined levels of insulation. [The Social Registry; 6.5]
- Ariel Pink: House Arrest
Latest record from Paw Tracks' lo-fi, nostalgia-obsessed singer-songwriter. [Paw Tracks; 6.2]
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>> Thu:01-26-06
- Bonnie Prince Billy and Tortoise: The Brave and the Bold
Indie greats team for a covers album, which features interpretations of songs by Bruce Springsteen, the Minutemen, Devo, and Elton John, among others. [Overcoat; 5.4]
- Pearls and Brass: The Indian Tower
Drag City power trio are another in a line of indie bands re-discovering the joys of classic rock. [Drag City; 5.8]
- Boduf Songs: Boduf Songs
Kranky reissues the debut LP from English bard Mat Sweet, originally released as a CD-R in 2004. [Kranky; 7.0]
- Ulrich Schnauss: Far Away Trains Passing By
First issued on City Centre, this ambient techno LP is expanded to a 2xCD set for its U.S. bow. [Domino; 6.9]
- Marah: If You Didn't Laugh, You'd Cry
Latest from the Springsteen-aping Philly band. [Yep Roc; 5.5]
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>> Wed:01-25-06
- Arctic Monkeys: Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Their LP was only released two days ago but these Sheffield teens are already considered the UK's biggest new band since Oasis. [Domino; 7.4]
- Plastic Constellations: Crusades
Anthemic indie band goes for expertness in place of pure exuberance on its Frenchkiss debut. [Frenchkiss; 7.8]
- Delta 5: Singles & Sessions 1979-81
Kill Rock Stars collects striking examples of the Leeds post-punk band's tense, barbed dark pop. [Kill Rock Stars; 8.3]
- volcano!: Beautiful Seizure
Debut album from the Chicago art-rock trio is full of unpredictable, volatile compositions. [Leaf; 7.4]
- BARR: Beyond Reinforced Jewel Case
Odd yet striking work from Brendan Fowler, who has been referred to as a motivational rapper, a comedian, and a performance artist. [5 Rue Christine; 6.4]
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>> Tue:01-24-06
- Jenny Lewis With the Watson Twins: Rabbit Fur Coat
Rilo Kiley leader steps out on her own with an indie-yuppie soul/country record released via Conor Oberst's Team Love label. [Team Love; 6.1]
- The Elected: Sun, Sun, Sun
Blake Sennett creates a modern pop simulacrum of traditional country, devoid of the electro accents that pocked his most recent record. [Sub Pop; 6.8]
- Acid Mothers Temple and the Cosmic Inferno: IAO Chant From the Cosmic Inferno / Cosmic Funeral Route 666
Kawabata Makoto's group, now backed by the Cosmic Inferno, continues to be as prolific and awe-inspiring as ever. [Ace Fu / Acid Mothers Temple; 7.9 / 6.7]
- East River Pipe: What Are You On?
Merge issues the latest from singer/songwriter F.M. Cornog. [Merge; 5.8]
- Made in Mexico: Zodiac Zoo
Former Arab on Radar guitarist Jeff Schneider leads this noise-rock combo. [Skin Graft; 5.6]
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>> Mon:01-23-06
- Cat Power: The Greatest
On her seventh album, the enigmatic singer-songwriter aims to make her Chan in Memphis, employing veteran soul musicians and splitting her record between visiting their sonic space and inviting them into hers. [Matador; 7.9]
- The Advantage: Elf-Titled
Second album of covers of classic video-game music from the 5RC-signed quartet. [5 Rue Christine; 7.9]
- Sparrow: The Early Years
Absolutely Kosher presents a collection of first steps from Jason Zumpano. [Absolutely Kosher; 7.1]
- Film School: Film School
Now a quintet, the Bay Area band follows a handful of well-received demos and EPs with this LP of atmospheric rock. [Beggars Banquet; 6.9]
- John Cale: Black Acetate
Disappointingly tame effort from the usually unpredictable Welshman. [Astralwerks; 4.4]
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>> Fri:01-20-06
- Various Artists: Fonotone Records
Third release from the incomparable Atlanta label Dust-to-Digital compiles 131 tracks from Joe Bussard's Fonotone Records, "the last of the 78 rpm record labels," over five discs, and adds a 160-page book, 17 color postcards, three record label reproductions, and a nickel-plated pop-bottle opener. [Dust-to-Digital; 8.8]
- Various Artists: All Tomorrow's Parties 3.1
Belated compilation celebrating the Matt Groening-curated festival features Modest Mouse, Sonic Youth, the Stooges, and the Shins, among others. [ATP; 8.0]
- Chrome: Straight to the Pros: Dragged-N-Chopped
Debut album from the protégé of Three-6 Mafia house producers DJ Paul and Juicy J. [Hypnotize Minds; 7.8]
- Paul Weller: As Is Now
Yep Roc issues the latest from the former Jam leader and current elder statesman for Britain's trad-rock community. [Yep Roc; 7.2]
- Steve Spacek: Space Shift
Former Spacek head offers his solo debut, highlighted by a J Dilla-produced single. [Sound in Color; 6.0]
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>> Thu:01-19-06
- Spoon: I Turn My Camera On EP / Sister Jack EP
Two Gimme Fiction EPs-- one superfluous thanks to an LP bonus disc; the other more rewarding and featuring a John McEntire remix. [Matador UK / Merge; 3.4 / 6.3]
- Tall Dwarfs: Weeville / Fork Songs
Reissues of two of the lo-fi New Zealand band's LPs, one of which is boosted by the addition of the Dogma EP. [Cloud; 7.0 / 6.9]
- Various Artists: American Primitive, Vol. II: Pre-War Revenants (1897-1939)
Subtitled Pre-War Revenants (1897-1939), this exquisite collection of classic folk was the final record curated by John Fahey. [Revenant; 8.6]
- The Universe: The Outer Void Intrepid Sailor:
Microindie-released space-pop odyssey from a band led by Architecture in Helsinki's Gus Franklin. [Microindie; 7.1]
- Jarboe: The Men Album
Former Swans leader drafts Low's Alan Sparhawk, Chris Connelly, Blixa Bargeld, and others to assist with this 20-track, 2xCD release. [Atavistic; 4.8]
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>> Wed:01-18-06
- Miles Davis: The Cellar Door Sessions 1970
6xCD set contains six sets recorded at Washington D.C.'s tiny The Cellar Door, including material that was rearranged and issued on 1971's Live-Evil. [Columbia; 9.4]
- Various Artists: New York Noise 2
Soul Jazz follows its 2003 collection of Big Apple late-70s/early-80s no wave and post-punk with a sequel featuring Sonic Youth, Glenn Branca, and Arthur Russell. [Soul Jazz; 8.1]
- FM3: The Buddha Machine
What looks like a small transistor radio, complete with two AA batteries, turns out to be an ambient machine programmed with nine continuous loops. [Staalplaat; 8.2]
- Arizona Amp and Alternator: Arizona Amp and Alternator
New record from the prolific Howe Gelb features contributions from M. Ward and members of Grandaddy and the Arcade Fire. [Thrill Jockey; 7.3]
- Gogogo Airheart: Rats! Sing! Sing!
Veteran San Diego band blend bratty discopunk, brooding college rock, and dub. [GSL; 6.3]
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>> Tue:01-17-06
- David Thomas Broughton: The Complete Guide to Insufficiency
Like Richard Youngs, Ben Chasny, and early Devendra Banhart, this Leeds native explores the apocalyptic, alchemical side of contemporary folk-pop. [Plug Research; 8.4]
- DJ Shadow: Funky Skunk
Limited-edition mixtape blends Shadow's typical production style with sections devoted to grime, mainstream hip-hop, crunk, and Miami bass. [Obey; 8.0]
- Modeselektor: Hello Mom!
Crossover-ready electro-pop from Bpitch Control. [Bpitch Control; 8.3]
- Various Artists: Congotronics 2: Buzz 'n' Rumble from the Urb'n' Jungle:
Second volume in this Crammed Discs series is a comp that reveals the depth of the unique, vibrant Kinshasa music scene. [Crammed Discs; 7.9]
- Omar Rodriguez: Omar Rodriguez
Mars Volta star takes a rewarding solo turn that mixes guitar solos, spasmodic drumming, and computer and tape effects with traditional jazz elements. [Willie Anderson; 7.1]
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>> Mon:01-16-06
- Sonic Youth: SYR6: Koncertas Stan Brakhage Prisiminimui
Sixth volume in the avant-rock band's SYR series was recorded live (with help from Tim Barnes of the Silver Jews) at the Anthology Film Archives in 2003 as a memorial tribute to experimental filmmaker Sam Brakhage. [SYR; 7.0]
- Coil: The Ape of Naples
This collection was assembled from the late Jhonn Balance's final recordings and earlier, uncompleted material originally recorded at Trent Reznor's New Orleans studio. [Threshold House; 7.9]
- Safety Scissors: Tainted Lunch:
Intricate digital disco, squishy laptop house, and fabulous left-field pop delivered with warmth and intimacy, humor and whimsy. [~scape; 8.5]
- 13ghosts: Cicada
Originally self-released in 2004, this LP-- chockablock with ideas, encompassing an impressive breadth of styles and sounds-- is given a welcome reissue. [Skybucket; 7.8]
- Edith Frost: It's a Game
On her latest Drag City release, the singer-songwriter crafts a country-folk tribute to co-dependency. [Drag City; 5.8]
>> Fri:01-13-06
- Nine Inch Nails: Pretty Hate Machine
Out of print for three years, Trent Reznor's debut is reissued by Rykodisc with neither bells nor whistle [Rykodisc; 5.6]
- Seu Jorge: The Life Aquatic Studio Sessions featuring Seu Jorge
Acoustic, Porteguese-langugage covers of David Bowie songs, as heard in the Wes Anderson film. [Hollywood; 6.8]
- Lil Wayne: Tha Carter II
Veteran rapper breaks from Mannie Fresh and grows up quickly, displaying a flexible flow and more layered lyrics. [Cash Money; 8.1]
- Holy Fuck: Holy Fuck
Rhythmically adept Beans backup band aims to create the equivalent of modern electronic music without actually using the techniques-- looping, splicing, programming. [Dependent; 6.9]
- Sunroof!: Silver Bear Mist
Former Skullflower leader Matthew Bower unveils his latest, lengthy drone excursion. [VHF; 6.0]
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>> Thu:01-12-06
- Belle and Sebastian: If You're Feeling Sinister: Live at the Barbican
iTunes-only charity album was recorded as part of ATP's Don't Look Back Series and presumably released in part to finally match the Scottish band's best set of songs with a proper recording of their arrangements. [iTunes; 9.1]
- George: A Week of Kindness
Mancunian duo follow its underrated 2003 cult-fave The Magic Lantern with another record of rain-soaked indie pop. [Pickled Egg; 7.9]
- Matt Elliott: Drinking Songs
As indicated by its title and dissolute Parisian artwork, here the former Flying Saucer Attack member has created an album steeped heavily in spirits, both alcoholic and otherwise. [Ici d'Ailleurs; 7.2]
- Coptic Light: Coptic Light
Debut from the post-rock supergroup-- it features members of Don Caballero, Storm and Stress, and Antioch Arrow-- swells with fluid improvisational riffs and dizzying rhythms. [No Quarter; 6.9]
- Comet Gain: City Fallen Leaves
KRS issues the band's latest album of wistful jangle pop. [Kill Rock Stars; 5.9]
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>> Wed:01-11-06
- Morningwood: Morningwood
Next in a line of NYC retro-fetishists, Morningwood's LP reads like their AudioScrobbler, systematically tallying new wave and glam ingredients with the utmost clarity. [Capitol; 3.9]
- Nurse With Wound: Livin' Fear of James Last
Steven Stapelton attempts to sum up his prolific career of gothic song titles and experimental tape loops in a mere two discs. [Castle; 8.2]
- Awesome New Republic: ANR So Far
Neurotic indie rock party tracks from the Miami-based duo. [Sutro; 7.9]
- Anthrax: Anthrology: No Hit Wonder (1985-1991)
2xCD compilation gathers the best from the New York trash metal band's classic Joey Belladonna-led lineup. [Island; 7.7]
- The Foxymorons: Hesitation Eyes
Pop/alt-country duo issue their third LP and first created via the ever-popular tapes-through-the-mail technique. [Heatstroke; 7.3]
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>> Tue:01-10-06
- Boris: Pink
Japanese sludge trio unleash their most melodic, conventionally structured, and aggressively addictive LP to date: Flirting with shoegaze and ambient, Pink is a 47-minute frenzy that welcomes 2006 with open arms, bludgeoning fists, and a call to arms against MOR complacency. [Southern Lord; 8.7]
- Steve Reich: You Are (Variations)
The composer's first new work since 2002's Three Tales finds him working with choral and orchestral elements, but is as rhythmically driven as anything he's done in years. [Nonesuch; 8.0]
- Ian Brown: The Greatest
Best-of collection from the uneven solo career of the former Stone Roses leader. [Polydor; 7.0]
- Rah Bras: Whohm
An attractive disjunct between spazz rock, rhythmic linearity, and a surprising touch of tenderness. [Lovitt; 6.8]
- Thomas Brinkmann: Lucky Hands
Floor burners, sonic experiments, and punchy, dubby techno from the artists also known as Soul Center. [Max Ernst; 6.6]
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>> Mon:01-09-06
- Various Artists: Pixies: Hey!: Live Pixies 2004-2005
Download-only, band-selected set features 28 live tracks recorded on the group's wildly successful comeback tour. [eMusic.com; 8.2]
- Various Artists: Trojan Dub Rarities
3xCD set features work by the Upsetters, Augustus Pablo, and Tapper Zukie, among others. [Trojan; 7.0]
- Guitar Wolf: Golden Black
Narnack issues a 26-track collection of the best from the 50s rock'n'roll- and punk-obsessed Japanese band. [Narnack; 7.0]
- Mark Eitzel: Candy Ass
Selections from a film score are oddly paired with more traditional singer/songwriter work on this solo record from the AMC leader. [Cooking Vinyl; 4.0]
- Ministry: Rantology
Poorly executed and ultimately unnecessary odds'n'sods compilation from the industrial legends. [Sanctuary; 2.0]
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>> Fri:01-06-06
- Various Artists: OHM+: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music: 1948-1980
Recently reissued and expanded 3xCD set-- now with the addition of a DVD-- collects three generations worth of electronic music landmarks. [Ellipsis Arts; 9.0]
- Richard Youngs: The Naïve Shaman
Latest Jagjaguwar release from the prolific Glaswegian free music maverick. [Jagjaguwar; 7.7]
- Bound Stems: The Logic of Building the Body Plan EP
Generous seven-track EP from the quickly developing indie rock band. [Flameshovel; 7.1]
- Circle: Forest
Proggy metal riffed on keyboards and organs and operatic vocals color this Finnish band's latest release. [No Quarter; 6.4]
- The Paddingtons: First Comes First
Owen Morris-produced Brit band sound like, you guessed it, mid-90s UK guitar rock. [Vertigo; 5.5]
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>> Thu:01-05-06
- T. Rex: The Slider / Zinc Alloy & The Hidden Riders Of Tomorrow / Dandy in the Underworld / The T. Rex Wax Co. Singles: A's and B's 1972-77
Following Universal's 2004 T. Rex reissue campaign, the first of two runs of Rhino's expanded, 2xCD Marc Bolan-led releases is highlighted by the glam-rock classic The Slider. [Rhino; 9.8 / 5.8 / 7.9 / 7.0]
- Espers: The Weed Tree EP
A short collection of covers in the most stouthearted folkloric tradition, this EP features re-interpretations of works by Nico, Durutti Column, and Blue Öyster Cult. [Locust; 7.9]
- Nadja: Truth Becomes Death
Heavy and abstract, this Alien8 band plows the increasingly popular territory between slow metal and staticy ambiance. [Alien8; 7.5]
- Quintron & Miss Pussycat: Swamp Tech
NOLA duo blends electroclash, heavy-handed satire, skate-rink jams, and White Stripes-like rock. [Tigerbeat6; 7.2]
- Various Artists: High School Reunion
Subtitled "A Tribute to Those Great 80s Films" this release features Frank Black, Kristin Hersh, Matthew Sweet, and more covering tracks from two-decades-old teen flicks. [American Laundromat/Face Down; 6.2]
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>> Wed:01-04-06
- The Notorious B.I.G.: Duets: The Final Chapter
Shameless holiday cash-grab recycles old Biggie verses in new songs that feature contributions from Jay-Z, Just Blaze, and, um, Korn. [Bad Boy/Atlantic; 4.2]
- Dreamies: Dreamies: 2006 Special Edition
Bill Holt's brilliant, odd one-off-- inspired by John Cage and the Beatles' "Revolution 9"-- is given a reissue. [Wilmington Studies; 8.7]
- Windy & Carl: The Dream House/Dedications to a Flea
Kranky pairs a new record from the dream-pop duo with a previously released pair of tracks written in honor of a lost pet. [Kranky; 7.3]
- Books on Tape: Dinosaur Dinosaur
Deranged, abrasive beatscapes and densely detailed and riotous mini-compositions from Alien8. [Alien8; 7.1]
- Les Angles Morts: What's Real?
Former Arcade Fire members head this post-rock meets post-punk band. [Blue Skies Turn Black; 5.7]
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>> Tue:01-03-06
- The Strokes: First Impressions of Earth
The New York band, once the supposed leader of a new rock revolution, follows its underrated second album by simultaneously settling into diminished expectations and ratcheting up its sound, trying new things, going for broke. [RCA; 5.9]
- Jane: Coconuts EP
Originally self-released as a limited-edition CD-R, this 46-minute EP from Animal Collective's Panda Bear and DJ Scott Mou features two lengthy skeletal jams. [Psych-O-Path; 7.0]
- Kites: Peace Trials
Load artist offers a mix of distracted psych, gritty electronics, self-made machines that don't work half the time, and a mostly implied ultra-left politic. [Load; 7.7]
- Bright: Bells Break Their Towers
After a half-decade wait, the improvisational duo issue another LP of finely-textured ambient rock. [Strange Attractors; 7.2]
- Kind of Like Spitting: Learn: The Songs of Phil Ochs
Indie band not only revives the 60s protest singer's songs on this covers album but studies and evangelizes them. [Hush; 7.2]
- Richard Ashcroft: Keys to the World
Another collection of maudlin strings, chintzy brass, and anguished, bombastic vocals from the once-charismatic Verve singer. [Parlophone; 2.0]
- William Basinski: The Garden of Brokenness
More sad, slow yet beautiful piano loops built from recently reconstituted old tapes. [2062; 7.5]
- Ghislain Poirier: Breakupdown / Bounce Le Remix
Two records-- one a Chocolate Industries release featuring appearances by Beans and Seba, the other a self-released remix project-- from the hotly tipped Quebecois. [Chocolate Industries / self-released; 7.9 / 7.5]
- Mark O'Leary/Tomasz Stanko/Billy Hart: Levitation
Best of four albums released last year from Irish jazz guitarist O'Leary documents a five-year-old session with trumpeter Tomasz Stanko and veteran drummer Billy Hart. [Leo; 7.7]
- Matthew Shipp: One
Latest Thirsty Ear release often resembles the early 20th century piano studies of Ravel or Debussy as closely as it does modern jazz. [Thirsty Ear Blue Series; 7.3]
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>> Mon:01-30-06
- Robert Pollard: From a Compound Eye
Former Guided by Voices leader starts the next phase of his voluminous career with this, his debut solo album for Merge. [Merge; 7.1]
- Rocky Votolato: Makers
Seattle singer-songwriter retools and finally issues this Barsuk release a year after his rough draft started making the file-sharing rounds. [Barsuk; 4.2]
- Excepter: Sunbomber EP
Five-song EP displays the NYC free/noise/improv band's most overt minimalist pop gestures yet. [5RC; 7.2]
- Burning Star Core: The Very Heart of the World
C. Spencer Yeh's latest batch of ambient drone features contributions from members of Wolf Eyes, Hair Police, and Eyes, among others. [Thin Wrist; 7.0]
- The Standard: Albatross
Melodramatic Yep Roc band builds a quiet tension between guitars, pianos, and Tim Putnam's terse yelp. [Yep Roc; 5.8]
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>> Fri:01-27-06
- Tarkio: Omnibus
Early work from the Decemberists' Colin Meloy, this record collects the best from an indie-folk band he fronted during his days as an undergraduate in Montana. [Kill Rock Stars; 5.7]
- Clearlake: Amber
English band unveils its third album of sleepy, sylvan pop, which harmoniously meshes fiery guitars and ostentatious instrumentation. [Domino; 7.4]
- Meredith Bragg and the Terminals: The Departures EP
Appropriately titled EP deals with holding off the heartbreak and daunting logistics of moving on after a breakup. [Kora; 7.6]
- Samara Lubelski: Spectacular of Passages
Idyllic bedroom psychedelia takes pop orchestrations to previously unimagined levels of insulation. [The Social Registry; 6.5]
- Ariel Pink: House Arrest
Latest record from Paw Tracks' lo-fi, nostalgia-obsessed singer-songwriter. [Paw Tracks; 6.2]
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>> Thu:01-26-06
- Bonnie Prince Billy and Tortoise: The Brave and the Bold
Indie greats team for a covers album, which features interpretations of songs by Bruce Springsteen, the Minutemen, Devo, and Elton John, among others. [Overcoat; 5.4]
- Pearls and Brass: The Indian Tower
Drag City power trio are another in a line of indie bands re-discovering the joys of classic rock. [Drag City; 5.8]
- Boduf Songs: Boduf Songs
Kranky reissues the debut LP from English bard Mat Sweet, originally released as a CD-R in 2004. [Kranky; 7.0]
- Ulrich Schnauss: Far Away Trains Passing By
First issued on City Centre, this ambient techno LP is expanded to a 2xCD set for its U.S. bow. [Domino; 6.9]
- Marah: If You Didn't Laugh, You'd Cry
Latest from the Springsteen-aping Philly band. [Yep Roc; 5.5]
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>> Wed:01-25-06
- Arctic Monkeys: Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not
Their LP was only released two days ago but these Sheffield teens are already considered the UK's biggest new band since Oasis. [Domino; 7.4]
- Plastic Constellations: Crusades
Anthemic indie band goes for expertness in place of pure exuberance on its Frenchkiss debut. [Frenchkiss; 7.8]
- Delta 5: Singles & Sessions 1979-81
Kill Rock Stars collects striking examples of the Leeds post-punk band's tense, barbed dark pop. [Kill Rock Stars; 8.3]
- volcano!: Beautiful Seizure
Debut album from the Chicago art-rock trio is full of unpredictable, volatile compositions. [Leaf; 7.4]
- BARR: Beyond Reinforced Jewel Case
Odd yet striking work from Brendan Fowler, who has been referred to as a motivational rapper, a comedian, and a performance artist. [5 Rue Christine; 6.4]
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>> Tue:01-24-06
- Jenny Lewis With the Watson Twins: Rabbit Fur Coat
Rilo Kiley leader steps out on her own with an indie-yuppie soul/country record released via Conor Oberst's Team Love label. [Team Love; 6.1]
- The Elected: Sun, Sun, Sun
Blake Sennett creates a modern pop simulacrum of traditional country, devoid of the electro accents that pocked his most recent record. [Sub Pop; 6.8]
- Acid Mothers Temple and the Cosmic Inferno: IAO Chant From the Cosmic Inferno / Cosmic Funeral Route 666
Kawabata Makoto's group, now backed by the Cosmic Inferno, continues to be as prolific and awe-inspiring as ever. [Ace Fu / Acid Mothers Temple; 7.9 / 6.7]
- East River Pipe: What Are You On?
Merge issues the latest from singer/songwriter F.M. Cornog. [Merge; 5.8]
- Made in Mexico: Zodiac Zoo
Former Arab on Radar guitarist Jeff Schneider leads this noise-rock combo. [Skin Graft; 5.6]
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>> Mon:01-23-06
- Cat Power: The Greatest
On her seventh album, the enigmatic singer-songwriter aims to make her Chan in Memphis, employing veteran soul musicians and splitting her record between visiting their sonic space and inviting them into hers. [Matador; 7.9]
- The Advantage: Elf-Titled
Second album of covers of classic video-game music from the 5RC-signed quartet. [5 Rue Christine; 7.9]
- Sparrow: The Early Years
Absolutely Kosher presents a collection of first steps from Jason Zumpano. [Absolutely Kosher; 7.1]
- Film School: Film School
Now a quintet, the Bay Area band follows a handful of well-received demos and EPs with this LP of atmospheric rock. [Beggars Banquet; 6.9]
- John Cale: Black Acetate
Disappointingly tame effort from the usually unpredictable Welshman. [Astralwerks; 4.4]
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>> Fri:01-20-06
- Various Artists: Fonotone Records
Third release from the incomparable Atlanta label Dust-to-Digital compiles 131 tracks from Joe Bussard's Fonotone Records, "the last of the 78 rpm record labels," over five discs, and adds a 160-page book, 17 color postcards, three record label reproductions, and a nickel-plated pop-bottle opener. [Dust-to-Digital; 8.8]
- Various Artists: All Tomorrow's Parties 3.1
Belated compilation celebrating the Matt Groening-curated festival features Modest Mouse, Sonic Youth, the Stooges, and the Shins, among others. [ATP; 8.0]
- Chrome: Straight to the Pros: Dragged-N-Chopped
Debut album from the protégé of Three-6 Mafia house producers DJ Paul and Juicy J. [Hypnotize Minds; 7.8]
- Paul Weller: As Is Now
Yep Roc issues the latest from the former Jam leader and current elder statesman for Britain's trad-rock community. [Yep Roc; 7.2]
- Steve Spacek: Space Shift
Former Spacek head offers his solo debut, highlighted by a J Dilla-produced single. [Sound in Color; 6.0]
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>> Thu:01-19-06
- Spoon: I Turn My Camera On EP / Sister Jack EP
Two Gimme Fiction EPs-- one superfluous thanks to an LP bonus disc; the other more rewarding and featuring a John McEntire remix. [Matador UK / Merge; 3.4 / 6.3]
- Tall Dwarfs: Weeville / Fork Songs
Reissues of two of the lo-fi New Zealand band's LPs, one of which is boosted by the addition of the Dogma EP. [Cloud; 7.0 / 6.9]
- Various Artists: American Primitive, Vol. II: Pre-War Revenants (1897-1939)
Subtitled Pre-War Revenants (1897-1939), this exquisite collection of classic folk was the final record curated by John Fahey. [Revenant; 8.6]
- The Universe: The Outer Void Intrepid Sailor:
Microindie-released space-pop odyssey from a band led by Architecture in Helsinki's Gus Franklin. [Microindie; 7.1]
- Jarboe: The Men Album
Former Swans leader drafts Low's Alan Sparhawk, Chris Connelly, Blixa Bargeld, and others to assist with this 20-track, 2xCD release. [Atavistic; 4.8]
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>> Wed:01-18-06
- Miles Davis: The Cellar Door Sessions 1970
6xCD set contains six sets recorded at Washington D.C.'s tiny The Cellar Door, including material that was rearranged and issued on 1971's Live-Evil. [Columbia; 9.4]
- Various Artists: New York Noise 2
Soul Jazz follows its 2003 collection of Big Apple late-70s/early-80s no wave and post-punk with a sequel featuring Sonic Youth, Glenn Branca, and Arthur Russell. [Soul Jazz; 8.1]
- FM3: The Buddha Machine
What looks like a small transistor radio, complete with two AA batteries, turns out to be an ambient machine programmed with nine continuous loops. [Staalplaat; 8.2]
- Arizona Amp and Alternator: Arizona Amp and Alternator
New record from the prolific Howe Gelb features contributions from M. Ward and members of Grandaddy and the Arcade Fire. [Thrill Jockey; 7.3]
- Gogogo Airheart: Rats! Sing! Sing!
Veteran San Diego band blend bratty discopunk, brooding college rock, and dub. [GSL; 6.3]
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>> Tue:01-17-06
- David Thomas Broughton: The Complete Guide to Insufficiency
Like Richard Youngs, Ben Chasny, and early Devendra Banhart, this Leeds native explores the apocalyptic, alchemical side of contemporary folk-pop. [Plug Research; 8.4]
- DJ Shadow: Funky Skunk
Limited-edition mixtape blends Shadow's typical production style with sections devoted to grime, mainstream hip-hop, crunk, and Miami bass. [Obey; 8.0]
- Modeselektor: Hello Mom!
Crossover-ready electro-pop from Bpitch Control. [Bpitch Control; 8.3]
- Various Artists: Congotronics 2: Buzz 'n' Rumble from the Urb'n' Jungle:
Second volume in this Crammed Discs series is a comp that reveals the depth of the unique, vibrant Kinshasa music scene. [Crammed Discs; 7.9]
- Omar Rodriguez: Omar Rodriguez
Mars Volta star takes a rewarding solo turn that mixes guitar solos, spasmodic drumming, and computer and tape effects with traditional jazz elements. [Willie Anderson; 7.1]
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>> Mon:01-16-06
- Sonic Youth: SYR6: Koncertas Stan Brakhage Prisiminimui
Sixth volume in the avant-rock band's SYR series was recorded live (with help from Tim Barnes of the Silver Jews) at the Anthology Film Archives in 2003 as a memorial tribute to experimental filmmaker Sam Brakhage. [SYR; 7.0]
- Coil: The Ape of Naples
This collection was assembled from the late Jhonn Balance's final recordings and earlier, uncompleted material originally recorded at Trent Reznor's New Orleans studio. [Threshold House; 7.9]
- Safety Scissors: Tainted Lunch:
Intricate digital disco, squishy laptop house, and fabulous left-field pop delivered with warmth and intimacy, humor and whimsy. [~scape; 8.5]
- 13ghosts: Cicada
Originally self-released in 2004, this LP-- chockablock with ideas, encompassing an impressive breadth of styles and sounds-- is given a welcome reissue. [Skybucket; 7.8]
- Edith Frost: It's a Game
On her latest Drag City release, the singer-songwriter crafts a country-folk tribute to co-dependency. [Drag City; 5.8]
>> Fri:01-13-06
- Nine Inch Nails: Pretty Hate Machine
Out of print for three years, Trent Reznor's debut is reissued by Rykodisc with neither bells nor whistle [Rykodisc; 5.6]
- Seu Jorge: The Life Aquatic Studio Sessions featuring Seu Jorge
Acoustic, Porteguese-langugage covers of David Bowie songs, as heard in the Wes Anderson film. [Hollywood; 6.8]
- Lil Wayne: Tha Carter II
Veteran rapper breaks from Mannie Fresh and grows up quickly, displaying a flexible flow and more layered lyrics. [Cash Money; 8.1]
- Holy Fuck: Holy Fuck
Rhythmically adept Beans backup band aims to create the equivalent of modern electronic music without actually using the techniques-- looping, splicing, programming. [Dependent; 6.9]
- Sunroof!: Silver Bear Mist
Former Skullflower leader Matthew Bower unveils his latest, lengthy drone excursion. [VHF; 6.0]
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>> Thu:01-12-06
- Belle and Sebastian: If You're Feeling Sinister: Live at the Barbican
iTunes-only charity album was recorded as part of ATP's Don't Look Back Series and presumably released in part to finally match the Scottish band's best set of songs with a proper recording of their arrangements. [iTunes; 9.1]
- George: A Week of Kindness
Mancunian duo follow its underrated 2003 cult-fave The Magic Lantern with another record of rain-soaked indie pop. [Pickled Egg; 7.9]
- Matt Elliott: Drinking Songs
As indicated by its title and dissolute Parisian artwork, here the former Flying Saucer Attack member has created an album steeped heavily in spirits, both alcoholic and otherwise. [Ici d'Ailleurs; 7.2]
- Coptic Light: Coptic Light
Debut from the post-rock supergroup-- it features members of Don Caballero, Storm and Stress, and Antioch Arrow-- swells with fluid improvisational riffs and dizzying rhythms. [No Quarter; 6.9]
- Comet Gain: City Fallen Leaves
KRS issues the band's latest album of wistful jangle pop. [Kill Rock Stars; 5.9]
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>> Wed:01-11-06
- Morningwood: Morningwood
Next in a line of NYC retro-fetishists, Morningwood's LP reads like their AudioScrobbler, systematically tallying new wave and glam ingredients with the utmost clarity. [Capitol; 3.9]
- Nurse With Wound: Livin' Fear of James Last
Steven Stapelton attempts to sum up his prolific career of gothic song titles and experimental tape loops in a mere two discs. [Castle; 8.2]
- Awesome New Republic: ANR So Far
Neurotic indie rock party tracks from the Miami-based duo. [Sutro; 7.9]
- Anthrax: Anthrology: No Hit Wonder (1985-1991)
2xCD compilation gathers the best from the New York trash metal band's classic Joey Belladonna-led lineup. [Island; 7.7]
- The Foxymorons: Hesitation Eyes
Pop/alt-country duo issue their third LP and first created via the ever-popular tapes-through-the-mail technique. [Heatstroke; 7.3]
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>> Tue:01-10-06
- Boris: Pink
Japanese sludge trio unleash their most melodic, conventionally structured, and aggressively addictive LP to date: Flirting with shoegaze and ambient, Pink is a 47-minute frenzy that welcomes 2006 with open arms, bludgeoning fists, and a call to arms against MOR complacency. [Southern Lord; 8.7]
- Steve Reich: You Are (Variations)
The composer's first new work since 2002's Three Tales finds him working with choral and orchestral elements, but is as rhythmically driven as anything he's done in years. [Nonesuch; 8.0]
- Ian Brown: The Greatest
Best-of collection from the uneven solo career of the former Stone Roses leader. [Polydor; 7.0]
- Rah Bras: Whohm
An attractive disjunct between spazz rock, rhythmic linearity, and a surprising touch of tenderness. [Lovitt; 6.8]
- Thomas Brinkmann: Lucky Hands
Floor burners, sonic experiments, and punchy, dubby techno from the artists also known as Soul Center. [Max Ernst; 6.6]
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>> Mon:01-09-06
- Various Artists: Pixies: Hey!: Live Pixies 2004-2005
Download-only, band-selected set features 28 live tracks recorded on the group's wildly successful comeback tour. [eMusic.com; 8.2]
- Various Artists: Trojan Dub Rarities
3xCD set features work by the Upsetters, Augustus Pablo, and Tapper Zukie, among others. [Trojan; 7.0]
- Guitar Wolf: Golden Black
Narnack issues a 26-track collection of the best from the 50s rock'n'roll- and punk-obsessed Japanese band. [Narnack; 7.0]
- Mark Eitzel: Candy Ass
Selections from a film score are oddly paired with more traditional singer/songwriter work on this solo record from the AMC leader. [Cooking Vinyl; 4.0]
- Ministry: Rantology
Poorly executed and ultimately unnecessary odds'n'sods compilation from the industrial legends. [Sanctuary; 2.0]
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>> Fri:01-06-06
- Various Artists: OHM+: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music: 1948-1980
Recently reissued and expanded 3xCD set-- now with the addition of a DVD-- collects three generations worth of electronic music landmarks. [Ellipsis Arts; 9.0]
- Richard Youngs: The Naïve Shaman
Latest Jagjaguwar release from the prolific Glaswegian free music maverick. [Jagjaguwar; 7.7]
- Bound Stems: The Logic of Building the Body Plan EP
Generous seven-track EP from the quickly developing indie rock band. [Flameshovel; 7.1]
- Circle: Forest
Proggy metal riffed on keyboards and organs and operatic vocals color this Finnish band's latest release. [No Quarter; 6.4]
- The Paddingtons: First Comes First
Owen Morris-produced Brit band sound like, you guessed it, mid-90s UK guitar rock. [Vertigo; 5.5]
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>> Thu:01-05-06
- T. Rex: The Slider / Zinc Alloy & The Hidden Riders Of Tomorrow / Dandy in the Underworld / The T. Rex Wax Co. Singles: A's and B's 1972-77
Following Universal's 2004 T. Rex reissue campaign, the first of two runs of Rhino's expanded, 2xCD Marc Bolan-led releases is highlighted by the glam-rock classic The Slider. [Rhino; 9.8 / 5.8 / 7.9 / 7.0]
- Espers: The Weed Tree EP
A short collection of covers in the most stouthearted folkloric tradition, this EP features re-interpretations of works by Nico, Durutti Column, and Blue Öyster Cult. [Locust; 7.9]
- Nadja: Truth Becomes Death
Heavy and abstract, this Alien8 band plows the increasingly popular territory between slow metal and staticy ambiance. [Alien8; 7.5]
- Quintron & Miss Pussycat: Swamp Tech
NOLA duo blends electroclash, heavy-handed satire, skate-rink jams, and White Stripes-like rock. [Tigerbeat6; 7.2]
- Various Artists: High School Reunion
Subtitled "A Tribute to Those Great 80s Films" this release features Frank Black, Kristin Hersh, Matthew Sweet, and more covering tracks from two-decades-old teen flicks. [American Laundromat/Face Down; 6.2]
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>> Wed:01-04-06
- The Notorious B.I.G.: Duets: The Final Chapter
Shameless holiday cash-grab recycles old Biggie verses in new songs that feature contributions from Jay-Z, Just Blaze, and, um, Korn. [Bad Boy/Atlantic; 4.2]
- Dreamies: Dreamies: 2006 Special Edition
Bill Holt's brilliant, odd one-off-- inspired by John Cage and the Beatles' "Revolution 9"-- is given a reissue. [Wilmington Studies; 8.7]
- Windy & Carl: The Dream House/Dedications to a Flea
Kranky pairs a new record from the dream-pop duo with a previously released pair of tracks written in honor of a lost pet. [Kranky; 7.3]
- Books on Tape: Dinosaur Dinosaur
Deranged, abrasive beatscapes and densely detailed and riotous mini-compositions from Alien8. [Alien8; 7.1]
- Les Angles Morts: What's Real?
Former Arcade Fire members head this post-rock meets post-punk band. [Blue Skies Turn Black; 5.7]
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>> Tue:01-03-06
- The Strokes: First Impressions of Earth
The New York band, once the supposed leader of a new rock revolution, follows its underrated second album by simultaneously settling into diminished expectations and ratcheting up its sound, trying new things, going for broke. [RCA; 5.9]
- Jane: Coconuts EP
Originally self-released as a limited-edition CD-R, this 46-minute EP from Animal Collective's Panda Bear and DJ Scott Mou features two lengthy skeletal jams. [Psych-O-Path; 7.0]
- Kites: Peace Trials
Load artist offers a mix of distracted psych, gritty electronics, self-made machines that don't work half the time, and a mostly implied ultra-left politic. [Load; 7.7]
- Bright: Bells Break Their Towers
After a half-decade wait, the improvisational duo issue another LP of finely-textured ambient rock. [Strange Attractors; 7.2]
- Kind of Like Spitting: Learn: The Songs of Phil Ochs
Indie band not only revives the 60s protest singer's songs on this covers album but studies and evangelizes them. [Hush; 7.2]
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