Some great music coming out recently..
Robert Plant
H ave you heard Robert Plant’s new album, Band of Joy? I’m an instant fan of this new offering of the fusion of Americana and ‘something’ of the cutting edge. What is this ‘something’? Modal movements, strange ambiance, discord and rhyme; whatever you call it, it seems to fit well with the traditional. The more I hear the tunes, the more I am hooked.
Track 1, in my opinion, is a little weak, but still great if you view the video. This is a song by another group… I like Robert’s version best.
Track 2 is addictive. And I relate.
Track 3 has a great storyline. Love this tune.
Track 4, Silver Rider, is rough but soothing. Good music to have playing while I write my monthly columns. Or while browsing the ‘net.
I’m not quite into the mood of Track 5, but Tracks 6 and 7 are excellent. Seven might well be at the top of my most-liked from this collection.
I’m not a Monkey fan. And, Track 9 is fair. But, the last three cuts are really becoming part of my “most-liked”.
I cannot get enough of the album. What do YOU think? I’d love to hear your comments.
Justin Townes Earle
Or, how about Justin Townes Earle’s latest album?
I loved his craft since the earlier work where he sings about the train… now, this new offering, has me a total fan. I love his voice, his arrangements, and his sense of story.
Track 1, Harlem River Blues – catchy and dance-able, it still is not the strongest track on the album.
Track 2, One More Night in Brooklyn, is still not my most favorite from this collection. But, the storyline is easy to embrace.
Track 3 is very traditional Americana (if there is such a thing) – an upbeat tune. It’s OK.
Track 4 is one of the better, if not best, tunes from this collection – love the story and love the presentation. Same with Track 5.
Track 6 is a great slow-dance melancholy tune. It is getting under my skin.. in a great way.
Track 7? Intimate, strong, GREAT story. Love this one, alot.
Track 8 through 10 are fine tunes and certainly up on my list of “most-liked”. The reprise on Track 11 is a great arrangement. Love tunes reprised this way.
Tell me, what tracks are YOUR favorites? Why?