Music of the month

April 2nd, 2007 | Comments (0) | Trackbacks (0) |

I suppose it should really be “Music of the last few months”, but whatever. Here you are.

Andy Davis, Fine China: I wrote about Andy Davis a couple of years ago in the first, pre-deletion iteration of this website. His first album showcased a unique songwriting style and his proficiency on multiple instruments (guitar and piano, among others). Fine China, a five song EP, is absolutely phenomenal. Andy’s talents shine even more than his previous album and it’s nice to hear a full band backing him up on several tracks. The second song, “Earth and Venus” is so catchy and well-written I can hardly stand it. You can listen to the entire EP on Andy’s Virb page. Favorite tracks: Earth and Venus, Fine China

Anberlin, Cities: Anberlin brings out the closet punk-rocker in me. Their music is well-crafted; every song is meticulously planned. A big selling point for any band is the voice of the lead singer and Anberlin’s vocalist has an incredible voice. Favorite tracks: Adelaide, Alexithymia, *fin

Ernie Halter, Congress Hotel: When I first heard Ernie Halter’s “Whisper” (on YouTube), I really had high hopes. I thought he might even be the next Matt Wertz in my life. Although Congress Hotel doesn’t completely disappoint, I think that it doesn’t completely showcase Ernie’s talent and songwriting capabilities. The album comes across as over-produced at times and under-produced at others. I pre-ordered the album, salivating at the thought of “Whisper” performed with a drum kit and a rhodes, but he just kept it acoustic. Oh well. I think he is going to go places, and there are several songs on Congress Hotel that really do shine. Favorite tracks: Melissa, Whisper, Better

The Alternate Routes, Good and Reckless and True: Get this album immediately. I covet the lead singer’s voice and their songs are pop/rock gold. Seriously. Check ‘em out… now. Favorite tracks: Ordinary, Aftermath, Time Is A Runaway

Radiant, We Hope You Win: It’s been a long time since these wannabe Brit-rockers from Texas have released anything, and it was worth the wait. Even though about half of the tracks are re-recorded songs from their debut EP The Sound of Splitting Atoms, the album was still worth the money. Their music has mostly a mellow feel; it’s great music to have on in the background yet you could really rock out to it if you wanted. Favorite tracks: That Girl, Oceans, Way You Make Me Feel