Alabama Shakes – Alabama Shakes EP
From Athens, Georgia, the home of country rock and roll, come the mighty Alabama Shakes. These four tracks blend the best elements of soul, country and rock to create a sound rich in nostalgia and emotion. Singer Brittany Howard has a classic soul voice with huge range and versatility that combines superbly with the powerhouse band. Opener “Hold On” is a southern rock gem while the magnificent “You Ain’t Alone” is a vintage work of soulful yearning. One of the years best releases.
Red Berry Plum – Moon Owl / Seaweed & A Feather
Just two tracks here from Melbourne’s Red Berry Plum but they are both stellar pieces of indie pop. The smooth vocals and gorgeous guitar riffing on “Moon Owl” make for a terrific pop song, reminiscent of the great Sea and Cake. “Seaweed & A Feather” is similarly joyous, though somewhat more soulful. Silly lyrics, a sexy falsetto and the delightful bubblegum chorus make this an impossibly funky song, evoking Beck at his most raunchy.
Nerves Junior – As Bright As Your Night Light
On their debut album, Nerves Junior have produced an intriguing collection of songs that suggest excellent potential. The young Loiusville band have a deceivingly simplistic rock sound that’s laced with just the right amount of psychedlica. Electronic effects and reverb add great sonic depth and texture to these nine songs, at times recalling the the sound of recent Radiohead albums. High praise, but thoroughly deserved.
