Five Overlooked Albums From the First Half of 2011
The Civil Wars – Barton Hollow
The Nashville duo of Joy Williams and John Paul White have delivered a stripped-down, beautiful debut LP most critics have ignored, with the exception of the always South-of-center Paste Magazine.
The Civil Wars – I’ve Got This Friend
Ringo Deathstarr – Colour Trip
The Austin shoegazers have honed in on their songwriting knack to bring a pretty stellar, exciting new take on the Loveless-esque, 80’s craze that’s been all the rage these days, resembling a more lo-fi Pains of Being Pure At Heart.
Ringo Deathstarr – Do It Every Time
Witches – Forever
The Athens group will likely receive a plethora of R.E.M. comparisons, and while the Buck/Mills influence is certainly heard, Witches prefer an even gloomier, simpler approach, and the results, eventually spellbinding, will grow on you.
Dawes – Nothing Is Wrong
LA-based, ATO-repping Dawes continue their Laurel Canyon rock on this, their second album, a more polished, sonic production with simpler arrangements, focusing on sharp melody and a theme of being restless.
Not In the Face – Bikini
Emulating the finest traits of guitar/drum duos before them (Black Keys, the White Stripes), Austin’s Not In the Face (coolest band name ever) have concocted a lo-fi bluesy, punky, poppy ear assault.
July 12th, 2011 at 5:59 pm
Yes! You rule dude. I love that Witches album!