I have to (well- should) come up with the best five releases from the latter half of this year. I’m open to, scratch that, GAGGING for suggestions. Please, no “best ofs”, “greatest hits”, compilations of any sort, singles, re-issues or anything on my disinterest list, which is remarkably set in stone… for the most part. There’ve been some things I’ve liked so far but not much to get me really worked up as in every previous issue of “Amoeba’s Music We Like“
Here’s what I’ve been listening to so far:
David Cross – Shut Up You Fucking Baby! I thought it was rather funny… too many of the jokes are like shooting caged animals though, if you know what I mean.
Comet Gain – Réalistes: Mod-revival? I don’t hear it. Sometimes compelling but overall too Britpop for my tastes, I fear. Still giving it a shot on account of a glowing recommendation…
Interpol – Turn On the Bright Lights: Yeah, yeah, yeah- they sound like a Joy Division cover band… but Joy Division only mined that rich vein for two albums before Ian’s death, right? 25 years ago though… oh yeah
The Libertines – Up the Bracket– After a few listens, I’m quite liking it. Good lyrics and melody. A bit familiar but then, everything is right now, isn’t it?
Sleater-Kinney – One Beat: One of the more immediately catchy and appealing albums I’ve heard so far this year. Too early to tell though.
John Squire – Time Changes Everything: I’m not as impressed as I’d like to be by the world’s most talented guitarist. Sounds like he still does a lot of coke and lives in the 70s.
The Streets – Original Pirate Material: 2 Step/Speed Garage isn’t normally my bag but this has an undeniable charm… that sadly seems to be wearing off with repeated listens.
and those I haven’t given a listen to yet:
St. Etienne – Finisterre: One recommendation and nary another peep about it.
McAlmont & Butler –Bring It Back: Some have called it the most underrated album of the year. Others have called it rehash of the previous album. AMG gave it better marks.
The Numbers – Numbers Life: Compared to every Mod group ever. From San Francisco. Why does that scare me? Raff and Kat like it though. And I remember it sounding rather like Gang of Four… which is always a smart choice for a band to be derivative of in any year.
Missy Elliot – Under Construction: First single is a banger
Simian – Bad review, good review. Never heard ’em.
Paul Weller – Illumination. I don’t know, the geezer’s getting so old? Could he still churn out a classic?
Eric Brightwell 