Cinematics, the debut full-length from Tampa-based theatrical pop rockers Set It Off, may be one of the most diverse albums of the year. Having wanted to go for a more orchestral feel, listeners can expect a dramatic sound filled with perfected musical craftsmanship in each track.
[imgfull] [/imgfull] This week Josh shares some independent film suggestions along with music from Strange Talk, Generationals, Lord Huron, and more.
With his debut LP It’s Not An Excuse, It’s A Reason, Marcio Novelli proves that great music isn’t written with intentions to impress the masses, but as a personal anecdote by the musician. Recorded in just two weeks and produced by Jim Wirt (Incubus, Jack’s Mannequin), Novelli’s debut is a revival of simple pop rock with meaning, the kind that has been fading out since 2005.
The first challenge of properly absorbing Benjamin Gibbard’s first solo album Former Lives: separating the Death Cab For Cutie and Postal Service versions of Gibbard from the solo one. The new album is more gritty and acoustic than his former beloved gentle indie catalogue, true, but Former Lives needs to be experienced in its own right without any shackles of the past.
Cone, the accomplished bassist of Sum 41, brings his wealth of experience to the airwaves with “Cone’s Cave.” As Sum 41 prepares to conclude their remarkable journey as a band, Cone’s new radio show promises to be a testament to the band’s legacy and an exciting new venture for their dedicated fanbase.
Filled with expletives and breakdowns, The Acacia Strain bring a full course meal to the table that the masses will gobble up. It’s the most complete album from them to date, filled with both power and finesse.
Please Remain Calm stands as an anthem for a lost generation. In a time of questions and heartache, Hostage Calm rises to the occasion to capture the story of the youth in a dwindling nation.
[imgfull] [/imgfull] Josh has been staying in the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston, rooming with Frankie, and eating good food this week and it’s clearly inspired even more good tunes. Hear Foxtrot, Tegan and Sara, and King Fantastic on the latest episode.
Full of anger and personal regrets, Handguns use their debut full-length to get everything off their chests. With creative punk thrills and pop punk driven chord progressions, Angst is sure to make pop punk fans everywhere happy.
The xx’s second album Coexist feels a bit like floating aimlessly through space with no propulsion of energy in any particular direction. While some of the songs manage to maintain a simmering sensuality with Romy Madley Croft’s sweet voice delivering honest lyrics and enough repetition to elicit the feelings through heartfelt laments, most of the songs seem to remain unadorned and flat or build up to only thin air and the feeling that you’ve just barely missed out on the point.
