Justin Townes Earle - Midnight at the Movies

Artist: Justin Townes Earle


Album: Midnight at the Movies


Label: Bloodshot


Release Date: 3rd March 2009


Rating: 4/5



I am really impressed with this album; JTE has obviously enlisted some amazing talent for this album, and Bloodshot Records seems to have really let him have his way with this record. The apple does not fall far from the tree in some of his writing, paying homage to his father, Steve Earle in the fourth song. Tremendous harmonies create an amazing sonic tapestry that make me urge Bloodshot to release this on vinyl so i can hear the wider dynamic range. Please? Anyway, if you like your country with a bluegrass- colored folk rock a la Americana, then you will surely enjoy this album!

-Natty B-

4th March 2009

Brian Wilson - That Lucky Old Sun

Artist: Brian Wilson


Album: That Lucky Old Sun


Label: Capitol


Release Date: 19th August 2008


Rating: 2.5 / 5



Although not nearly as entertaining as 2004's Smile this album does have several shining moments. The tune "California Role" is a lot of fun with many musical layers including a very bouncy piano. "Oxygen to the Brain" introduces the listener to a flute and a French horn, which in this day and age is very uncommon. There are many tiers throughout this recording which is very sonically pleasing! Some of the lyrics are bouncy, quirky, fun that will need to be listened to more than once. For some fans, the spoken word segments (over light musical twists) will be lost and maybe never regained. However, personally, I liked the little extra tidbits. Not the pinnacle of his career, but it is an enjoyable album and should be listened to a few times!

-Natty B-

4th March 2009

Serge Gainsbourg - historie de melody nelson

Artist: Serge Gainsbourg


Album: histoire de melody nelson


Label: Light in the Attic Records, Seattle, USA


Release Date: originally 1971, CD reissue 2009


Rating: 4.5/5


Ahh, the old adage: sex sells. This album released 38 years ago, is no exception to that rule. The best part of this album is it's longevity of like-able listen-ability. His smoky, alluring voice is still just as entertaining today as it was almost 4 decades ago. The French equivalent of Leonard Cohen at times, he weaves an amazing tapestry of vocals in his native tongue unlike anything you've heard before. The soft plinking guitars and drums make for a wonderful background to the growling vocals. Funky R&B basslines rumble along, making this a lush and joyous sonic adventure. Add in some lovely lass' lyrics on a couple of the tracks and it brings it to a complete audio orgasm. Great production from start to finish, sexy cover, in-depth and very informative liner notes- a tremendous package. A recommended soundtrack to your next romantic meeting with a woman you wish to woo- please pass the Champagne.

-Natty B.-
4th March 2009