2008 in Music
Too early? Not really! We’re almost one quarter down, and some great albums have already been released.
Basia Bulat – Oh, My Darling
Sure, the music is winsome, and she may singlehandedly bring back the Autoharp as the instrument to buy this year. Whatever brings you to Basia Bulat, though, you’ll stay for the melodies. Like my favorite from last year, Emma Pollock, Basia Bulat’s primary gift is the ability to create catchy, complex vocals that hit on all cylinders.
The Whitsundays – The Whitsundays
Listen: Sorry James
Some bands thrive on innovation; The Whitsundays thrive on commitment. Faint praise? Hardly. Though their album at first seems like nothing you couldn’t cobble together from a few Turtles and Zombies records, the precision and attention detail will make you feel oh, so 1966. Dig the amazing harmonies! From beginning to end, a very entertaining listen.
The Mountain Goats – Heretic Pride
The news here is that the Mountain Goats have abandoned the theme-based, autobiographical album format for the first time since 2002, and this album is all the stronger and more entertaining for it.
What have you been listening to, from this or any year?