**Dan Weiss - Starebaby (Pi Recordings)**
Dan Weiss continues to be one of the most original imaginative drummer/bandleaders in contemporary improvised music, drawing from a wide range of material and from different musical cultures. Starebaby, inspired by David Lynch and Twin Peaks, is a triumphant, agitating, disruptive work fusing jazz, metal and progressive rock, as reliant on its brilliant ensemble (including keyboard players Craig Taborn and Matt Mitchell, guitarist Ben Monder and bassist Trevor Dunn) as it is by Weiss' spidery compositions. There is no other music quite like this.
Daniel Avery - Song For Alpha (Mute)
Avery has described this album as exploring 'the moments in a club when the outside world becomes a little more than an inconsequential thought in the back of your head'. It's electronic music as an accompaniment and complement to the world, rather than an escape from it and it is beautifully realised.
**Daniel Bachman - The Morning Star (Three Lobed)**
A patient and meditative counterbalance to personal transition and political chaos, The Morning Star is one of the year's more demanding and uncompromising albums, but also one of the most rewarding. This is music that transports the listener outside time.
Daniel Blumberg - Minus (Mute)
Daniel Blumberg's journey from the teenage energy of Cajun Dance Party and the murky alt rock of Yuck towards much more personal, distinctive and outsider concerns has been fascinating. Minus brilliantly combines purposefully repetitive and minimal melodies with bursts of creative improvisation. This music is interested in the possibilities of sound, space and texture. Blumberg also uses his voice dynamically and powerfully, and the unpredictable twists and turns create an appropriately uneasy environment.
Daughters - You Won't Get What You Want (Ipecac)
Tense, stark, sometimes industrial sounding brutalist rock.
Dave Holland - Uncharted Territories (Dare2)
If it has sometimes felt as if Dave Holland's compositional voice has become so familiar as to be perhaps comforting, here is an album that places him somewhere very different. Working with the great saxophonist Evan Parker, pianist Craig Taborn, and percussionist Ches Smith, Uncharted Territories is a dense double set of thoughtful, empathetic improvisations in different configurations.
David Byrne - American Utopia (Nonesuch)
The accompanying tour has to go down as one of the greatest live events of the decade, as a result of which perhaps the actual album seemed slightly overlooked. Nevertheless, it's an impressive, typically urbane and quixotic examination of modern culture.
David Crosby - Here If You Listen (BMG)
At 77, Crosby is proving to be more restless and creative than ever, and is currently in the midst of a quite remarkable late career run. Here If You Listen finds him collaborating again with Michael League from Snarky Puppy and the excellent singer-songwriters Becca Stevens and Michelle Willis. Sometimes this music has an hallucinatory or hypnotic quality and sometimes it is more earthy, but it never feels as if Crosby is settling for anything comfortable (even when revisiting Woodstock).
Dead Can Dance - Dionysus (PIAS)
A welcome return with more fusions of traditions with modernism, this time inspired by the Greek God of wine.
Dedekind Cut - Tahoe (Kranky)
One of the finest albums of the year - drones with longing as well as creeping unease.
Demdike Stare - Passion (Modern Love)
Clearest and most atavistic Demdike Stare album for a while.
Dinosaur - Wonder Trail (Edition)
The second long player from Laura Jurd's Mercury nominated band veers away from the Miles Davis fusion era inspirations towards playful experimentation with synths and angular rhythmic phrasing. It sounds like everyone had tremendous fun making this and it's equally exciting to engage with as a listener.
**Dirty Projectors - Lamp Lit Prose (Domino)**
In which Dave Longstreth deftly combines some of the musical concerns that first brought Dirty Projectors to a wider audience circa Rise Above and Bitte Orca with some of the more solipsistic production trickery he has been exploring more recently. The combination is urgent and effective. An impressive roster of guests including Amber Mark, Syd, Empress Of and Robin Pecknold also leave their mark.
**Domenico Lancelloti - The Good Is A Big God (Luaka Bop)**
Great, reflective album of contemporary samba influenced songs, with co-production and arrangement duties from Sean O'Hagen of The High Llamas.
Don't Problem - Don't Problem (Don't Problem)
Striking EP of original music from 8 piece South London based brass band. Heavy grooves, thrilling arrangements - maximum excitement.
Doug Paisley - Starter Home (No Quarter)
Stripped back, clear and deceptively simple country songs.
Dylan Carlson - Conquistador (Sargent House)
Typically slow, doom-laden, epically distorted, heavy tread solo excursions from the Earth guitarist.
Earl Sweatshirt - Some Rap Songs (Tan Cressida/Columbia)
Fragmented, warped, laconic and woozy hip hop.
**Eiko Ishibashi - The Dream My Bones Dream (Drag City)**
One of the year's most distinctive, ambitious and ultimately glorious works, very much occupying its own space in an exciting hinterland between modern composition, avant garde pop and improvisation.
Eleanor Friedberger - Rebound (Frenchkiss)
Unassuming but effective glossy, keyboard-heavy, outsider pop from the former Fiery Furnaces singer-songwriter.
Elephant Micah - Genericana (Western Vinyl)
Recorded with 'discarded or devalued' equipment, Genericana finds Joe O'Connell's ensemble forging a new relationship between the analogue and digital worlds, crafting some patiently unfolding, quietly stirring experimental rock along the way. Reference points - Songs: Ohia, Will Oldham.
Eli Keszler - Stadium (Shelter Press)
An abundance of rapid fire ideas but also somehow teflective and absorbing ninth solo album from the drummer-composer, someone I discovered this year thanks to his work with Laurel Halo. This is Keszler's ninth solo album, so there is plenty more to investigate.
Elliot Galvin - The Influencing Machine (Edition)
Quirky, fidgety contemporary jazz from the pianist (also a member of Dinosaur).
Elvis Costello and The Imposters - Look Now (Concord)
This first new Elvis Costello in aeons draws largely from discarded collaborations, including some further songs written with Burt Bacharach. It's a rich, polished set musically, but also comes with characteristic observational bite.
Elysia Crampton - Elysia Crampton (Break World)
Dazzling, detailed EP from the Brazilian sound collagist. Its liberal, scattershot approach to cultures and genres and cultures helps explore migration, travel and personal history.
Enemy - Enemy (Edition)
This trio of Kit Downes, James Maddren and Petter Eldh makes exceedingly complex, very modern music feel natural and effortless. More ways to refract and reshape the conventional piano trio.
Eric Chenaux - Slowly Paradise (Constellation)
I continued to find Eric Chenaux's warped and disorientating songscapes, reminiscent of some of Arthur Russell's work, a curious source of solace, and Slowly Paradise is one of his strongest.
Erik Friedlander - Thoroughbreds OST (Back Lot Music)
Friedlander's brilliant soundtrack to Thoroughbreds is percussive, driving and combative.
Erland Cooper - Solan Goose (Phases)
Orkney, birds and a majestic, sustained and swooning romanticism.
Espen Eriksen Trio with Andy Sheppard - Perfectly Unhappy (Rune Gramofon)
Very melodic, European chamber jazz.
Ezra Feinberg - Pentimento and Others (Related States)
Gently cascading solo debut from the former Citay member that slowly exerts a magnetic pull.
Fabled - Short Stories (Pictor)
Saxophonist Sam Rapley's band is something of a who's who of contemporary London based jazz - with pianist Matt Robinson, guitarist Alex Munk (who also leads Flying Machines), Conor Chaplin (Dinosaur, also Flying Machines) on bass and the superb Will Glaser on drums. It's a creative hybrid music, drawing from a range of sources to expound on literary themes and it journeys through a range of moods and sensations.
**Fatoumata Diawara - Fenfo (Republic of Music)**
Excellent, outward reaching second album from the Malian singer that also manages to engage fully with contemporary cultural issues (one song calls for an end to the ban on marriages between different ethnic groups).
**Field Music - Open Here (Memphis Industries)**
Peter and David Brewis continue to hone their tradmark sound, blending classic pop melodies with arty, angular grooves and, on this particularly impressive album, intriguing string arrangements. Open Here might be their strongest work to date and it's one from relatively early in the year that I keep returning to again and again.
**Flying Machines - New Life (Ubuntu)**
The much hyped 'new jazz explosion' may have dominated most of the column inches when it came to UK jazz this year, but this is a major contender for my favourite UK jazz album of the year. In working with producer Sonny Johns, Alex Munk's band have crafted an album dominated by improvisation but which still succeeds in using the recording studio as a creative resource. There's an impressive dynamic and textural range here, and the music draws from rock, classical and folk forms too.
Fofoulah - Daega Rek (Glitterbeat)
A greater emphasis on both vocals and electronics makes this second album from the London based group even more adventurous and open minded than their first, drawing as much from dub and club music as from West African rhythms.
Gang Gang Dance - Kazuashita (4AD)
Great to have GGD back after seven years. As ever, it's a heady and genre bending concotion. There's an interesting piece where Brian DeGraw talks about some of the influences on this album here:
https://www.factmag.com/2018/09/15/7-things-that-influenced-gang-gang-dances-triumphant-album-kazuashita/
Garcia Peoples - Cosmic Cash (Beyond Beyond is Beyond)
For all your expansive psych pop needs.
GAS - Rausch (Kompakt)
Another powerful, dark journey from Wolfgang Voigt, creating dense layers of sound until they become overwhelming.
Gaye Su Akol - Istikrarli Hayal Hakikattir (Glitterbeat)
Exploratory contemporary Anatolian rock from the Turkish singer on her second international release.
Gazelle Twin - Pastoral (Anti Ghost Moon Ray)
A very 'of the moment' record in that it uses notions and ideas from English folklore to create something sinister and apocalyptic.
Gemini Sisters - Gemini Sisters (Psychic Troubles Tapes)
John Kolodji of High Aura'd and Matt Christensen collaborate on this reflective, sensory guitar music.
Georgia Anne Muldrow - Overload (Brainfeeder)
Intricate, surreal and evocative neo soul.
Grouper - Grid of Points (Kranky)
Liz Harris returned after a relative hiatus with this mercilessly concise but breathtakingly beautiful, pure sounding set of haunting miniatures.
Gruff Rhys - Babelsberg (Rough Trade)
An experiment in lush, Jimmy Webb-ish country pop from the Super Furry Animals frontman.
Guided By Voices - Space Gun (Guided By Voices Inc.)
Bob Pollard keeps on going with more of the artful same. It's unlikely to win any new converts at this stage but the faithful can only be delighted,
**Gwenifer Raymond - You Were Never Much Of A Dancer (Tompkins Square)**
Radical folk music with common ground with artists such as Laura Cannell. This music feels traditional and inhabited, but it is mostly a set of remarkable originals from Raymond.
Gyan Riley - Sprig (National Sawdust Tracks)
The great Terry Riley's son is an impressive musician in his own right and Sprig is a fine and warm recording of his guitar compositions.
**H.C. McEntire - Lionheart (Merge)**
H.C. McEntire's set of affecting, graceful country rock songs from a queer perspective is triumphant. Also features a stirling set of special guests including Mary Lattimore, Tift Merritt, William Tyler and the ubiquitous Phil Cook.
Hailu Mergia - Layla Blu (Awesome Tapes From Africa)
A new release from the excellent Awesome Tapes From Africa, this captures the unusual accordion-lead jazz of Washington DC based Ethiopian bandleader Hailu Mergia. Tony Buck from The Necks plays drums.
Haley Hendrickx - I Need To Start A Garden (Mama Bird)
A stark and captivating album of songs celebrating small details and emotional nuances. Hendrickx manages to sound both in touch with folk traditions and remarkably resonant and contemporary at the same time. It's also a great example of reverb being used to bring songs into sharper relief rather than to obfuscate.
Hannah Read - Way Out I'll Wander (Hudson)
Beautiful modern day folk songs from the Scottish singer-songwriter now residing in New York City, sometimes reminiscent of Anais Mitchell or Gillian Welch.
**Harmony Rockets with Peter Walker - Lachesis/Clotho/Atropos (Tompkins Square)**
An all star line-up featuring the great rediscovered Woodstock guitarist Peter Walker, the robust former Sonic Youth drummer Steve Shelley, avant garde guitarist and Wilco member Nels Cline, Jonathan and Grasshopper from Mercury Rev, Jesse Chandler and Martin Keith. It's every bit as majestic and resplendent as you'd expect such a collaboration to be.
Harriet Tubman - The Terror End of Beauty (Sunnyside/Early Future)
I'm slightly ashamed to admit that this is the first time I've heard the progressive jazz trio Harriet Tubman, but I'll definitely be investigating more from their 20 year career on this basis. This is fiery and urgent jazz rock.
Heather Leigh - Throne (Editions Mego)
Heather Leigh and Peter Brotzmann - Sparrow Nights (Trost)
Dramatic, excoriating songs with theatrical vocals and pedal steel.
Leigh's collaboration with the legendary Peter Brotzmann certainly has its predictably unsettling moments, but it also has moments of surprising romanticism and stateliness.
Helena Deland - 'Altogether Unaccompanied' Series (Vols I-IV) (Luminelle)
Not intended as an album, but more a collection of songs that live on their own - they vary from the stripped bare and unadorned to unexpected experiments with electronics, but always in service to Deland's intrepid melodies.
Helena Hauff - Qualm (Ninja Tune)
One of the year's best titled albums (Qualm means smoke or fog in German, or a sense of uneasiness in English). Qualm is one of the year's more abrasive and radical electronic albums.
Helena Kay's KIM Trio - Moon Palace (Ubuntu)
The award winning saxophonist's trio neatly blends a rich understanding of the jazz tradition with more turbulent contemporary forms. The music is melodic, thoughtful and compelling. NB: Misha Mullov-Abbado plays bass in the video below but Ferg Ireland plays on the recording.
Henri Texier - Sand Woman (Label Bleu)
Thanks must go to Peter Slavid for pointing me in the direction of this one - an open and expressive example of great European jazz.
Henry Lowther's Still Waters - Can't Believe, Won't Believe (Village Life)
A slight conflict of interest should be declared here as trumpeter Henry Lowther's justly acclaimed album is currently available exclusively from Jazz CDs, where I work for part of the week. Nevertheless, it's essential to recognise that Henry remains one of the UK's most significant musicians - adaptable to a wide range of contexts, and his compositions here are calmly authoritative.
http://www.jazzcds.co.uk/artist_id_113/cd_id_2090
**Henry Threadgill 14 or 15 Kestra: Agg - Dirt...and More Dirt (Pi Recordings)**
Two typically questing, cerebral and ambitious long form works from the pioneering saxophonist, flautist and composer.
**Hieroglyphic Being - The Red Notes (Soul Jazz)**
In a year that seemed to amplify and highlight the musical lineage and innovation of Chicago, Jamal Moss' latest album for Soul Jazz made a substantial contribution, drawing from both acid house and experimental and improvised music. Comfortably some of the best dance music of 2018.
High Aura'd - If I'm Walking In The Dark - I'm Whispering
High Aura'd and Asama - Oil Pourer (Noble Rot)
John Kolodji can lay some claim to being 2018's most prolific and consistent artists - I enjoyed three of his project this year (see also Gemini Sisters).
Hilary Woods - Colt (Sacred Bones)
The former JJ72 bassist explores entirely different, unexpected and more intimate concerns on this excellent album of meditative ambient, atmospheric, ethereal folk pop.
Hop Along - Bark Your Head Off, Dog (Saddle Creek)
Excellent, dynamic, rhythmically driving self produced third album from the alt-rock band with little respect for genre boundaries. Also thematically timely in its exploration of 'man's misuse of power'.
How To Dress Well - The Anteroom (Fat Cat)
Designed to play as a single piece, Tom Krell's fifth album of manipulated electro soul is his most ambitious and elaborate to date.
Ian William Craig - Thresholder (Fat Cat)
A collection of material spanning the period of Vancouver singer/composer Ian William Craig's first three albums and typically aching, haunting and magical.
Idris Ackamoor and The Pyramids - An Angel Fell (Strut)
Improvised music that is both in the moment and transcendent, powerfully addressing necessary contemporary themes.
**Ingrid Laubrock - Contemporary Chaos Practices - Two Works For Orchestra With Soloists (Intakt)**
This new work from the saxophonist and composer is both dramatic and cerebral and feels like a major artistic statement.
Imarhan - Temet (City Slang)
Very strong, rhythmically driving second album from the Tuareg band from Algeria.
Insecure Men - Insecure Men (Fat Possum)
Sleazy low budget electro pop.
Israel Nash - Lifted (Loose)
A widescreen, shimmering take on country rock.
Itasca - Morning Flower (Dove Cove)
Excellent, contemplative cassette only release from Kayla Cohen.
**Ivo Neame - Moksha (Edition)**
At times Ivo Neame's grooviest and most immediate music, but also characteristically willing to explore musical ideas in great depth - an entirely irresistible recording.
Monday, December 24, 2018
Saturday, December 22, 2018
2018 In New Music Part 1
Again, with so much new music being released, I cannot really face the minutiae of a numbered list this year. I plan to conclude what will be a multi-part feature covering over 300 new releases by selecting an album of the year, and I will also mark out any release I think is particularly significant with additional asterisks for those scrolling through quickly. Please view this as a personal overview of the year's most interesting music rather than a definitive 'best of' list. It's also designed more to guide people to interesting music than to highlight my writing. I've also included EPs where appropriate this year.
AAL (Against All Logic) - 2012-2017 (Other People)
Nicolas Jaar's latest project offered some playful and nuanced refractions of funk and soul samples. Often fun, this set is also tinged with a lingering sense of melancholy.
Adrianne Lenker - abyskiss (Saddle Creek)
Stark and raw solo work from the Big Thief singer. Unkempt, uncompromising and proudly vulnerable.
Aidan O'Rourke with Kit Downes - 365 vol. 1 (Reveal)
Merely the beginning of a very substantial project (with which this blog feels some obvious empathy), Lau's Aidan O'Rourke set out to write a piece of music a day in response to James Robertson's collection of stories, one for each day of the year. These duo pieces (with Kit Downes sometimes playing piano and sometimes harmonium) are beautiful, lyrical miniatures.
Aisha Burns - Argonauta (Western Vinyl)
A deeply personal and carefully drawn song cycle navigating the contrasts between experiencing grief and a burgeoning relationship. The songs are evocative, textured and compelling.
Aisha Devi - DNA Feelings (Houndstooth)
Challenging and imaginative sound collage, manipulating vocals to disorientating and absorbing effect.
AKA Moon - Now (Outhere)
Exuberant and thrilling cutting edge contemporary jazz from Belgium, highlighting brilliant rhythmic interplay and clever motivic writing and improvising.
Alasdair Roberts/Amble Skuse/David McGuinness - What News? (Drag City)
A new set of traditional ballads from the great Alasdair Roberts, this time recorded in collaboration with pianist David McGuinness and with Amble Skuse's electronics adding a discreet contemporary edge. It's particularly pleasing to finally have a recording of The Fair Flower of Northumberland.
Alela Diane - Cusp (All Points)
I can't help but feel this album has been somewhat overlooked this year - it's such a mature, engaging set of songs, with Diane writing about motherhood and transformation in a rich, poetic and vibrant language, composing suitably lavish melodies to match. Piano plays a greater role in the arrangements here. Yet the delivery, as ever with Diane, is so pure and understated.
Alex Zhang Hungtai - Divine Weight (NON)
The former Dirty Beaches composer and producer digitally disguises saxophones to generate new textures and sensations. Haunting and sometimes abrasive.
Alexander Tucker - Don't Look Away (Thrill Jockey)
Tucker views this as the slightly belated third part of a trilogy following Dorwytch (2011) and Third Mouth (2012). Together, their juxtaposing of traditional song craft with creative arrangements and synaesthetic sound worlds certainly represent a consistently maintained high standard. Drum programming is effectively integrated here too.
Alexis Taylor - Beautiful Thing (Domino)
Certainly the closest Alexis has come to resembling the Hot Chip sound in his solo work, Beautiful Thing was recorded with Tim Goldsworthy of DFA Recordings. It neatly integrates Taylor's love of classic pop harmony, melody and form (particularly Paul McCartney here) with a sort of post-club romantic haze. I particularly like the fractured dub of Roll On Blank Tapes.
Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Adrian Yonge - The Midnight Hour (Linear Labs)
An expansive, cinematic and richly imagined work combining Ali Shaheed Muhammad (A Tribe Called Quest), Adrian Younge, an excellent rhythm section and an orchestra. It puts me in mind of David Axelrod or Harry Whitaker's Black Renaissance at times.
Alva Noto - Unieqav (NOTON)
I'm really only just beginning to explore the music of Alva Noto, something I should have explored more fully much earlier. This is the third part of a trilogy of works beginning with the 'UNI' prefix and is more open to rhythm and beats than the collaboration with Sakamoto.
Alva Noto and Ryuichi Sakamoto - Glass (NOTON)
A thoroughly designed long form performance recorded at Philip Johnson's Glass House in Connecticut. An ingenious examination of the relationship between sound and space, the piece is pervaded by a haunting eeriness.
Ambrose Akinmusire - Origami Harvest (Blue Note)
An immensely ambitious and brilliantly realised work, with the trumpeter, bandleader and composer collaborating with both the Mivos String Quartet and the rapper Kool AD to integrate vivid, technically impressive writing with fervent, urgent contemporary hip hop and the interaction of great improvisers.
Amen Dunes - Freedom (Sacred Bones)
I haven't paid much attention to Amen Dunes before now, but this elaborate, precisely crafted record utilises the production skills of Chris Coady of Beach House to create something that somehow sounds both lived in and dreamlike. I particularly admire the way it looks back to formative electronic influences but also makes such great use of Parker Kindred's very naturalistic acoustic drum sound.
AMOR - Sinking Into A Miracle (Night School)
Patiently unfolding, flexible dance music from the Glasgow quartet - an impressive debut.
Andrew Cyrille, Wadada Leo Smith, Bill Frisell - Lebroba (ECM)
ECM had an impressive slate this year (more to come later in this overview), and this was one of the label's finest releases. It's a wonderfully airy and magical concoction, brimming with sensitive execution of some beautiful ideas. It's incredible to hear these three superb musicians together (the title is a contraction of Leland, Brooklyn and Baltimore, the three musicians' respective birthplaces). A particular highlight is Wadada Leo Smith's exquisite, thoughtful dedication to Alice Coltrane.
Andy Jenkins - Sweet Bunch (Spacebomb)
Another excellent combination of songcraft and deep grooves from the Spacebomb collective (with help from Phil Cook) - sometimes reminiscent of the late Tony Joe White.
Anenon - Tongue (Friend Of Friends)
Lovely pastoral sounds mixing saxophones, synths, electronics and field recordings, recorded in the spectacular environment of Tuscany.
Angelique Kidjo - Remain In Light (Kravenworks)
This excellent album makes a strong case for a complete cover of an existing album to become more of an accepted art form (and why shouldn't it be - compositions get re-performed and reworked constantly). It's fascinating to hear David Byrne's great take on West African rhythms being embraced by the great Beninese singer, and her enthusiasm and commitment to the project is obvious in her delivery. The great Tony Allen plays drums and Kidjo also draws from an intriguing pool of contemporary rock talent as well. The result is a less intellectual sounding, more immediately powerful interpretation.
Anna and Elizabeth - The Invisible Comes To Us (Smithsonian Folkways)
Outstanding re-interpretations of traditional folk ballads, meticulously arranged and thoroughly transporting.
Anna St Louis - If Only There Was A Mirror (Woodsist/Mare)
Working with Kyle Thomas and Kevin Morby as producers, Anna St Louis has crafted a wonderfully spacious and enriching set of songs. Sometimes gentle, sometimes soulful, the whole set is always rich in tone and beautifully communicated.
Anteloper - Kudu (International Anthem)
Entrancing duo project from trumpeter Jaimie Branch (also of Fly Or Die) and drummer Jason Nazary. The use of synthesisers helps create varied and unpredictable textures.
Anthony Joseph - People Of The Sun
Continuing to collaborate with saxophonist and producer Jason Yarde and bassist Andrew John but also assembling a great team of local musicians in the Trinidad capital, the poet and vocalist has crafted an insightful, passionate paen to Trinidadian music and culture.
**Anton Hunter - Article XI (Efpi)**
Premiered at the 2014 Manchester Jazz Festival but only getting its recorded release earlier in 2018, this suite of music from guitarist and composer Anton Hunter is a caustic and thrilling work celebrating Article XI of the UN Declaration on Human Rights. This continues to be a prescient theme in light of the Conservative government's repeated (so far largely failed) attempts to reform human rights in the UK. Featuring some of the most enterprising and dynamic improvisers currently working in the UK (including Cath Roberts on baritone, Nick Walters on trumpet and Johnny Hunter on drums). This is one of those works dealing in effects, textures, gestures and high impact transitions - it's often hard to determine what precisely is improvised and what is written.
Aphex Twin - Collapse EP (Warp)
Where Aphex Twin's music was once skittering and radical, it now feels oddly familiar and comforting - but perhaps this is an inevitable progression.
Aqueduct Ensemble - Improvisations On An Apricot (Last Resort)
ECM-inspired improvisations recorded over two summers. Drifts languidly and gently searches for new vistas.
Arctic Monkeys - Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino (Domino)
This one seemed to polarise social media, but I admired its bold change of approach, resulting in more cinematic and atmospheric arrangements, and a less rockist mentality. It's a dense and curious work, with Alex Turner revelling in the moods and spaces provided for his cascade of words. In many ways, it's their most interesting album. Don't @ me!
Armand Hammer - Paraffin (Backwoodz Studios)
I always feel hip hop has become quite conspicuous by its absence from my lists (I tried a bit with the Pusha T record but couldn't quite get on with it). This, however, with its twisted soundscapes and force of delivery, is very much my thing (and reminds me a little of Cannibal Ox's brutalist classic The Cold Vein).
Arp - Zebra (Kemado)
There are hints of Jon Hassell in this intelligently arranged, contemplative music that makes brilliant use of unusual instrument combinations.
Arve Henriksen - The Height Of The Reeds (Rune Grammofon)
If Arve Henriksen might initially seem like a curious choice for a commissioned piece celebrating the history of Hull, the fact that this piece commemorates the longstanding seafaring relationship between Hull and Scandinavia makes things clearer. Originally designed as an accompaniment for a 'sound walk' across the Humber bridge, the music is both meditative and inspiring, achieving a blissful serenity in subtle sonic details.
Baloji - 137 Avenue Kaniama (Bella Union)
Triumphant, lengthy, and consistently thrilling fusion of modernised Afrobeat and hip hop from the Congolese musician.
Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness (BCUC) - Emakhosini (Buda Musique)
One of the best African albums of the year, the South African group not only stretch out brilliantly over long pieces, but also draw on a range of traditions to create something potent and unique.
Beast - Ens (Thrill Jockey)
Brilliantly minimal and hypnotic work from Koen Holtkamp (also one half of Mountains). 'Ens' involved the creation of a 'virtual ensemble' and was recorded and written within the context of the birth of Holtkamp's first child. Despite mostly being recorded at odd hours of the night, the music feels luminous.
Bell's Roar - We Carry Us (Sean Desiree)
This is an album that really deserved wider attention this year - an impressive, well produced, lush sounding solo debut from non binary, queer identifying artist Sean Desiree that aimed to support the QTPOC artist community.
Belly - Dove (Belly Touring)
Bizarrely, the initial excitement over Belly's reunion seemed to have somewhat dissipated when it came to them actually releasing new music (why has this album been completely absent from end of year lists?) - but Dove is a timely reminder not just of Tanya Donnelly's songwriting gifts (never in doubt of course) but of the powerful, focused sound that this trio creates.
**Ben LaMar Gay - Downtown Castles Can Never Block The Sun (International Anthem)**
One of the year's most breathtakingly madcap and esoteric works, this collects tracks from seven different albums now being released by International Anthem and offers an effective, intelligently sequenced introduction to the wide ranging, restless and innovative work of the Chicago composer.
Ben Vince - Assimilation (Where To Now?)
Known for his solo saxophone work, Ben Vince here embraces collaboration with other musicians, brilliantly exploring dissonance and attack. The work with vocalists is particularly effective.
Ben Walker - The Fox On The Downs (Folkroom)
Concise EP of nimble, agile folk from Brighton based guitarist.
Ben Wendel - The Seasons (Motema)
Suite of substantial music inspired by the seasons and by Tchaikovsky from the adventurous saxophonist and composer. The Seasons also features an all star ensemble including pianist Aaron Parks and drummer Eric Harland.
Big Red Machine - Big Red Machine
Given that I've had my reservations about more recent Bon Iver and I have never really been able to connect with The National, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this assured, melodic and intriguing collaboration between Justin Vernon and Aaron Dessner. In some ways it continues some of the sonic preoccupations of '22, A Million', but the manipulated vocals and electronic elements seem more deftly woven into a coherent musical fabric.
Bill Frisell - Music IS (Okeh)
Resonant, beautiful solo interpretations of previously released compositions from the great guitarist, still able to deftly tie together strands from jazz and other American folk music.
Binker and Moses - Alive In The East? (Gearbox)
Fiery, blistering recording from London's Total Refreshment Centre that captures the dexterous, liberated duo at their bravest and augmented by guests Yussef Dayes, Tori Handsley, Evan Parker and Byron Wallen.
Bixiga 70 - Quebra-Cabeca (Glitterbeat)
Fourth album of righteous groove and horn-driven music from the Brazilian ten piece group.
Bjorn Torske - Byen (Smalltown Supersound)
Aquatic, dubby house music meets reflective, ambient soundscapes on the first solo album in eight years from the Norwegian producer.
Blake Mills - Look (Verve)
A somewhat unexpected left turn into ambient atmospherics from the singer-songwriter and producer.
Blawan - Wet Will Always Dry (Ternesc)
A debut full length on which the revered techno producer shares a notably softer, less atavistic side of his musical personality.
Boygenius (Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus) (Matador)
Resplendent collaboration between three excellent singer-songwriters.
Brad Mehldau Trio - Seymour Reads The Constitution! (Nonesuch)
Astonishingly, Brad Mehldau has now released 35 albums. This latest recording with his longstanding trio combines three spiky originals with interpretations ranging from Brian Wilson to Sam Rivers.
**Brigid Mae Power - The Two World (Tompkins Square)**
At once stately and defiant, this is one of the most significant recordings from a singer-songwriter in 2018.
Bruce Springsteen - Springsteen On Broadway (Columbia)
Audio document to complement Thom Zimny's excellent film version of the long running show for Netflix, in which Springsteen expounds on his life with a blend of unabashed emotion and self aware humour. The performance is a bold new experiment, emphasising Springsteen's longstanding qualities as a storyteller. If at times it does border on the hokey, this is probably forgivable.
Buddy - Harlan and Alondra (Cool Lil/RCA)
Excellent, super relaxed but multi-faceted hip hop tour of LA.
Calexico - The Thread That Keeps Us (City Slang)
Calexico are one of those bands who have worked for so long and so consistently now that it's easy to take them for granted, but The Thread That Keeps Us is another rewarding set, sometimes emphasising their more insistent, rockier side. With the bonus tracks, it's also very long.
Candi Staton - Unstoppable (Beracah)
Impressive Mark Nevers-produced set that foregrounds Staton's grittier side, blending personal and political defiance. Includes a great interpretation of Patti Smith's People Have The Power.
Cat Power - Wanderer (Domino)
The presence of Lana Del Rey as a guest here emphasises the extent to which Chan Marshall's influence has now infiltrated the mainstream. These are elegant, nuanced and subtle torch songs, sometimes reminiscent of kd lang's Ingenue.
**Cath and Phil Tyler - The Ox and the Ax (Thread Recordings)**
First album in eight years from the tremendous transatlantic folk duo, highly focused and compellingly realising harsh and unforgiving stories and reimagining musical traditions.
**Cave - Allways (Drag City)**
Loosely groovy, initially insidious, ultimately irresistible set from the great jam band.
Cavern Of Anti-Matter - Hormone Lemonade (Duophonic)
Richly imagined, sonically impressive third album from Tim Gane's no longer post-Stereolab project, demonstrating a genuine love for great analogue synths and old school drum machines.
Charalambides - Charalambides: Tom and Christina Carter (Drawing Room)
Two sessions, no overdubs, thoroughly haunting and beautiful music.
Charles Bradley - Black Velvet (Daptone)
Fourth and sadly final album of invigorating classic soul from the great vocalist.
Charles Lloyd and The Marvels - Vanished Gardens (Blue Note)
Includes intriguing and effective song interpretations in collaboration with a stirring Lucinda Williams, both new versions of her own songs and those of others.
Chris Corsano and Bill Orcutt - Brace Up!
Drummer Chris Corsano and guitarist Bill Orcutt have been improvising together for a number of years now but this is their first studio recording. It delivers on turbulence and interaction in abundance.
Christina Vantzou - No. 4 (Kranky)
Eerie and unsettling ambient soundscapes.
**Christine and the Queens - Chris (Because)**
Artful pop music of real distinction - high concept, irresistible top lines and intricate productions and arrangements. Chris brings style and substance in equal measure.
Colin Stetson - Hereditary OST (Milan)
Colin Stetson - The First OST (Record Collection)
Stetson's buzzing, swirling and whirring soundtrack for Hereditary ended up being far more unsettling than the actual film, also making brilliant use of silence and space. A highlight in what has been an excellent year for original film scores.
Stetson also provided a crystalline soundtrack for the series The First, full of awe and wonder.
Container - LP (Spectrum Spools)
This has been my introduction to Ren Schofield's LP series for Spectrum Spools, neatly balancing abrasive, rapid fire techno with softer, more melodic elements.
**Cory Smythe - Circulate Susanna** (Pyroclastic)
One of the year's most impressive compositional works, a collection of songs inspired by Stephen Foster and George Washington Dixon but refracted through a decidedly contemporary and innovative lens. A modern day Escalator On The Hill.
Courtney Barnett - Tell Me How You Really Feel (Marathon Artists)
Barnett's crunchiest and clearest work to date.
**Courtney Marie Andrews - May Your Kindness Remain (Loose)**
One of my favourite discoveries of the year - a superb, imposing, lingering, vocal presence. Brilliantly executed soulful country rock unafraid of sudden dynamic shifts. Lovely reverb-laden guitar sounds throughout too.
Cowboy Junkies - All That Reckoning (Latent Recordings)
A most welcome return - slow building storms demonstrating that the personal is political and vice versa.
Cypress Hill - Elephants On Acid (BMG)
It always feels lazy to use the term 'return to form', but then Muggs is back and here we are.
AAL (Against All Logic) - 2012-2017 (Other People)
Nicolas Jaar's latest project offered some playful and nuanced refractions of funk and soul samples. Often fun, this set is also tinged with a lingering sense of melancholy.
Adrianne Lenker - abyskiss (Saddle Creek)
Stark and raw solo work from the Big Thief singer. Unkempt, uncompromising and proudly vulnerable.
Aidan O'Rourke with Kit Downes - 365 vol. 1 (Reveal)
Merely the beginning of a very substantial project (with which this blog feels some obvious empathy), Lau's Aidan O'Rourke set out to write a piece of music a day in response to James Robertson's collection of stories, one for each day of the year. These duo pieces (with Kit Downes sometimes playing piano and sometimes harmonium) are beautiful, lyrical miniatures.
Aisha Burns - Argonauta (Western Vinyl)
A deeply personal and carefully drawn song cycle navigating the contrasts between experiencing grief and a burgeoning relationship. The songs are evocative, textured and compelling.
Aisha Devi - DNA Feelings (Houndstooth)
Challenging and imaginative sound collage, manipulating vocals to disorientating and absorbing effect.
AKA Moon - Now (Outhere)
Exuberant and thrilling cutting edge contemporary jazz from Belgium, highlighting brilliant rhythmic interplay and clever motivic writing and improvising.
Alasdair Roberts/Amble Skuse/David McGuinness - What News? (Drag City)
A new set of traditional ballads from the great Alasdair Roberts, this time recorded in collaboration with pianist David McGuinness and with Amble Skuse's electronics adding a discreet contemporary edge. It's particularly pleasing to finally have a recording of The Fair Flower of Northumberland.
Alela Diane - Cusp (All Points)
I can't help but feel this album has been somewhat overlooked this year - it's such a mature, engaging set of songs, with Diane writing about motherhood and transformation in a rich, poetic and vibrant language, composing suitably lavish melodies to match. Piano plays a greater role in the arrangements here. Yet the delivery, as ever with Diane, is so pure and understated.
Alex Zhang Hungtai - Divine Weight (NON)
The former Dirty Beaches composer and producer digitally disguises saxophones to generate new textures and sensations. Haunting and sometimes abrasive.
Alexander Tucker - Don't Look Away (Thrill Jockey)
Tucker views this as the slightly belated third part of a trilogy following Dorwytch (2011) and Third Mouth (2012). Together, their juxtaposing of traditional song craft with creative arrangements and synaesthetic sound worlds certainly represent a consistently maintained high standard. Drum programming is effectively integrated here too.
Alexis Taylor - Beautiful Thing (Domino)
Certainly the closest Alexis has come to resembling the Hot Chip sound in his solo work, Beautiful Thing was recorded with Tim Goldsworthy of DFA Recordings. It neatly integrates Taylor's love of classic pop harmony, melody and form (particularly Paul McCartney here) with a sort of post-club romantic haze. I particularly like the fractured dub of Roll On Blank Tapes.
Ali Shaheed Muhammad and Adrian Yonge - The Midnight Hour (Linear Labs)
An expansive, cinematic and richly imagined work combining Ali Shaheed Muhammad (A Tribe Called Quest), Adrian Younge, an excellent rhythm section and an orchestra. It puts me in mind of David Axelrod or Harry Whitaker's Black Renaissance at times.
Alva Noto - Unieqav (NOTON)
I'm really only just beginning to explore the music of Alva Noto, something I should have explored more fully much earlier. This is the third part of a trilogy of works beginning with the 'UNI' prefix and is more open to rhythm and beats than the collaboration with Sakamoto.
Alva Noto and Ryuichi Sakamoto - Glass (NOTON)
A thoroughly designed long form performance recorded at Philip Johnson's Glass House in Connecticut. An ingenious examination of the relationship between sound and space, the piece is pervaded by a haunting eeriness.
Ambrose Akinmusire - Origami Harvest (Blue Note)
An immensely ambitious and brilliantly realised work, with the trumpeter, bandleader and composer collaborating with both the Mivos String Quartet and the rapper Kool AD to integrate vivid, technically impressive writing with fervent, urgent contemporary hip hop and the interaction of great improvisers.
Amen Dunes - Freedom (Sacred Bones)
I haven't paid much attention to Amen Dunes before now, but this elaborate, precisely crafted record utilises the production skills of Chris Coady of Beach House to create something that somehow sounds both lived in and dreamlike. I particularly admire the way it looks back to formative electronic influences but also makes such great use of Parker Kindred's very naturalistic acoustic drum sound.
AMOR - Sinking Into A Miracle (Night School)
Patiently unfolding, flexible dance music from the Glasgow quartet - an impressive debut.
Andrew Cyrille, Wadada Leo Smith, Bill Frisell - Lebroba (ECM)
ECM had an impressive slate this year (more to come later in this overview), and this was one of the label's finest releases. It's a wonderfully airy and magical concoction, brimming with sensitive execution of some beautiful ideas. It's incredible to hear these three superb musicians together (the title is a contraction of Leland, Brooklyn and Baltimore, the three musicians' respective birthplaces). A particular highlight is Wadada Leo Smith's exquisite, thoughtful dedication to Alice Coltrane.
Andy Jenkins - Sweet Bunch (Spacebomb)
Another excellent combination of songcraft and deep grooves from the Spacebomb collective (with help from Phil Cook) - sometimes reminiscent of the late Tony Joe White.
Anenon - Tongue (Friend Of Friends)
Lovely pastoral sounds mixing saxophones, synths, electronics and field recordings, recorded in the spectacular environment of Tuscany.
Angelique Kidjo - Remain In Light (Kravenworks)
This excellent album makes a strong case for a complete cover of an existing album to become more of an accepted art form (and why shouldn't it be - compositions get re-performed and reworked constantly). It's fascinating to hear David Byrne's great take on West African rhythms being embraced by the great Beninese singer, and her enthusiasm and commitment to the project is obvious in her delivery. The great Tony Allen plays drums and Kidjo also draws from an intriguing pool of contemporary rock talent as well. The result is a less intellectual sounding, more immediately powerful interpretation.
Anna and Elizabeth - The Invisible Comes To Us (Smithsonian Folkways)
Outstanding re-interpretations of traditional folk ballads, meticulously arranged and thoroughly transporting.
Anna St Louis - If Only There Was A Mirror (Woodsist/Mare)
Working with Kyle Thomas and Kevin Morby as producers, Anna St Louis has crafted a wonderfully spacious and enriching set of songs. Sometimes gentle, sometimes soulful, the whole set is always rich in tone and beautifully communicated.
Anteloper - Kudu (International Anthem)
Entrancing duo project from trumpeter Jaimie Branch (also of Fly Or Die) and drummer Jason Nazary. The use of synthesisers helps create varied and unpredictable textures.
Anthony Joseph - People Of The Sun
Continuing to collaborate with saxophonist and producer Jason Yarde and bassist Andrew John but also assembling a great team of local musicians in the Trinidad capital, the poet and vocalist has crafted an insightful, passionate paen to Trinidadian music and culture.
**Anton Hunter - Article XI (Efpi)**
Premiered at the 2014 Manchester Jazz Festival but only getting its recorded release earlier in 2018, this suite of music from guitarist and composer Anton Hunter is a caustic and thrilling work celebrating Article XI of the UN Declaration on Human Rights. This continues to be a prescient theme in light of the Conservative government's repeated (so far largely failed) attempts to reform human rights in the UK. Featuring some of the most enterprising and dynamic improvisers currently working in the UK (including Cath Roberts on baritone, Nick Walters on trumpet and Johnny Hunter on drums). This is one of those works dealing in effects, textures, gestures and high impact transitions - it's often hard to determine what precisely is improvised and what is written.
Aphex Twin - Collapse EP (Warp)
Where Aphex Twin's music was once skittering and radical, it now feels oddly familiar and comforting - but perhaps this is an inevitable progression.
Aqueduct Ensemble - Improvisations On An Apricot (Last Resort)
ECM-inspired improvisations recorded over two summers. Drifts languidly and gently searches for new vistas.
Arctic Monkeys - Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino (Domino)
This one seemed to polarise social media, but I admired its bold change of approach, resulting in more cinematic and atmospheric arrangements, and a less rockist mentality. It's a dense and curious work, with Alex Turner revelling in the moods and spaces provided for his cascade of words. In many ways, it's their most interesting album. Don't @ me!
Armand Hammer - Paraffin (Backwoodz Studios)
I always feel hip hop has become quite conspicuous by its absence from my lists (I tried a bit with the Pusha T record but couldn't quite get on with it). This, however, with its twisted soundscapes and force of delivery, is very much my thing (and reminds me a little of Cannibal Ox's brutalist classic The Cold Vein).
Arp - Zebra (Kemado)
There are hints of Jon Hassell in this intelligently arranged, contemplative music that makes brilliant use of unusual instrument combinations.
Arve Henriksen - The Height Of The Reeds (Rune Grammofon)
If Arve Henriksen might initially seem like a curious choice for a commissioned piece celebrating the history of Hull, the fact that this piece commemorates the longstanding seafaring relationship between Hull and Scandinavia makes things clearer. Originally designed as an accompaniment for a 'sound walk' across the Humber bridge, the music is both meditative and inspiring, achieving a blissful serenity in subtle sonic details.
Baloji - 137 Avenue Kaniama (Bella Union)
Triumphant, lengthy, and consistently thrilling fusion of modernised Afrobeat and hip hop from the Congolese musician.
Bantu Continua Uhuru Consciousness (BCUC) - Emakhosini (Buda Musique)
One of the best African albums of the year, the South African group not only stretch out brilliantly over long pieces, but also draw on a range of traditions to create something potent and unique.
Beast - Ens (Thrill Jockey)
Brilliantly minimal and hypnotic work from Koen Holtkamp (also one half of Mountains). 'Ens' involved the creation of a 'virtual ensemble' and was recorded and written within the context of the birth of Holtkamp's first child. Despite mostly being recorded at odd hours of the night, the music feels luminous.
Bell's Roar - We Carry Us (Sean Desiree)
This is an album that really deserved wider attention this year - an impressive, well produced, lush sounding solo debut from non binary, queer identifying artist Sean Desiree that aimed to support the QTPOC artist community.
Belly - Dove (Belly Touring)
Bizarrely, the initial excitement over Belly's reunion seemed to have somewhat dissipated when it came to them actually releasing new music (why has this album been completely absent from end of year lists?) - but Dove is a timely reminder not just of Tanya Donnelly's songwriting gifts (never in doubt of course) but of the powerful, focused sound that this trio creates.
**Ben LaMar Gay - Downtown Castles Can Never Block The Sun (International Anthem)**
One of the year's most breathtakingly madcap and esoteric works, this collects tracks from seven different albums now being released by International Anthem and offers an effective, intelligently sequenced introduction to the wide ranging, restless and innovative work of the Chicago composer.
Ben Vince - Assimilation (Where To Now?)
Known for his solo saxophone work, Ben Vince here embraces collaboration with other musicians, brilliantly exploring dissonance and attack. The work with vocalists is particularly effective.
Ben Walker - The Fox On The Downs (Folkroom)
Concise EP of nimble, agile folk from Brighton based guitarist.
Ben Wendel - The Seasons (Motema)
Suite of substantial music inspired by the seasons and by Tchaikovsky from the adventurous saxophonist and composer. The Seasons also features an all star ensemble including pianist Aaron Parks and drummer Eric Harland.
Big Red Machine - Big Red Machine
Given that I've had my reservations about more recent Bon Iver and I have never really been able to connect with The National, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this assured, melodic and intriguing collaboration between Justin Vernon and Aaron Dessner. In some ways it continues some of the sonic preoccupations of '22, A Million', but the manipulated vocals and electronic elements seem more deftly woven into a coherent musical fabric.
Bill Frisell - Music IS (Okeh)
Resonant, beautiful solo interpretations of previously released compositions from the great guitarist, still able to deftly tie together strands from jazz and other American folk music.
Binker and Moses - Alive In The East? (Gearbox)
Fiery, blistering recording from London's Total Refreshment Centre that captures the dexterous, liberated duo at their bravest and augmented by guests Yussef Dayes, Tori Handsley, Evan Parker and Byron Wallen.
Bixiga 70 - Quebra-Cabeca (Glitterbeat)
Fourth album of righteous groove and horn-driven music from the Brazilian ten piece group.
Bjorn Torske - Byen (Smalltown Supersound)
Aquatic, dubby house music meets reflective, ambient soundscapes on the first solo album in eight years from the Norwegian producer.
Blake Mills - Look (Verve)
A somewhat unexpected left turn into ambient atmospherics from the singer-songwriter and producer.
Blawan - Wet Will Always Dry (Ternesc)
A debut full length on which the revered techno producer shares a notably softer, less atavistic side of his musical personality.
Boygenius (Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus) (Matador)
Resplendent collaboration between three excellent singer-songwriters.
Brad Mehldau Trio - Seymour Reads The Constitution! (Nonesuch)
Astonishingly, Brad Mehldau has now released 35 albums. This latest recording with his longstanding trio combines three spiky originals with interpretations ranging from Brian Wilson to Sam Rivers.
**Brigid Mae Power - The Two World (Tompkins Square)**
At once stately and defiant, this is one of the most significant recordings from a singer-songwriter in 2018.
Bruce Springsteen - Springsteen On Broadway (Columbia)
Audio document to complement Thom Zimny's excellent film version of the long running show for Netflix, in which Springsteen expounds on his life with a blend of unabashed emotion and self aware humour. The performance is a bold new experiment, emphasising Springsteen's longstanding qualities as a storyteller. If at times it does border on the hokey, this is probably forgivable.
Buddy - Harlan and Alondra (Cool Lil/RCA)
Excellent, super relaxed but multi-faceted hip hop tour of LA.
Calexico - The Thread That Keeps Us (City Slang)
Calexico are one of those bands who have worked for so long and so consistently now that it's easy to take them for granted, but The Thread That Keeps Us is another rewarding set, sometimes emphasising their more insistent, rockier side. With the bonus tracks, it's also very long.
Candi Staton - Unstoppable (Beracah)
Impressive Mark Nevers-produced set that foregrounds Staton's grittier side, blending personal and political defiance. Includes a great interpretation of Patti Smith's People Have The Power.
Cat Power - Wanderer (Domino)
The presence of Lana Del Rey as a guest here emphasises the extent to which Chan Marshall's influence has now infiltrated the mainstream. These are elegant, nuanced and subtle torch songs, sometimes reminiscent of kd lang's Ingenue.
**Cath and Phil Tyler - The Ox and the Ax (Thread Recordings)**
First album in eight years from the tremendous transatlantic folk duo, highly focused and compellingly realising harsh and unforgiving stories and reimagining musical traditions.
**Cave - Allways (Drag City)**
Loosely groovy, initially insidious, ultimately irresistible set from the great jam band.
Cavern Of Anti-Matter - Hormone Lemonade (Duophonic)
Richly imagined, sonically impressive third album from Tim Gane's no longer post-Stereolab project, demonstrating a genuine love for great analogue synths and old school drum machines.
Charalambides - Charalambides: Tom and Christina Carter (Drawing Room)
Two sessions, no overdubs, thoroughly haunting and beautiful music.
Charles Bradley - Black Velvet (Daptone)
Fourth and sadly final album of invigorating classic soul from the great vocalist.
Charles Lloyd and The Marvels - Vanished Gardens (Blue Note)
Includes intriguing and effective song interpretations in collaboration with a stirring Lucinda Williams, both new versions of her own songs and those of others.
Chris Corsano and Bill Orcutt - Brace Up!
Drummer Chris Corsano and guitarist Bill Orcutt have been improvising together for a number of years now but this is their first studio recording. It delivers on turbulence and interaction in abundance.
Christina Vantzou - No. 4 (Kranky)
Eerie and unsettling ambient soundscapes.
**Christine and the Queens - Chris (Because)**
Artful pop music of real distinction - high concept, irresistible top lines and intricate productions and arrangements. Chris brings style and substance in equal measure.
Colin Stetson - Hereditary OST (Milan)
Colin Stetson - The First OST (Record Collection)
Stetson's buzzing, swirling and whirring soundtrack for Hereditary ended up being far more unsettling than the actual film, also making brilliant use of silence and space. A highlight in what has been an excellent year for original film scores.
Stetson also provided a crystalline soundtrack for the series The First, full of awe and wonder.
Container - LP (Spectrum Spools)
This has been my introduction to Ren Schofield's LP series for Spectrum Spools, neatly balancing abrasive, rapid fire techno with softer, more melodic elements.
**Cory Smythe - Circulate Susanna** (Pyroclastic)
One of the year's most impressive compositional works, a collection of songs inspired by Stephen Foster and George Washington Dixon but refracted through a decidedly contemporary and innovative lens. A modern day Escalator On The Hill.
Courtney Barnett - Tell Me How You Really Feel (Marathon Artists)
Barnett's crunchiest and clearest work to date.
**Courtney Marie Andrews - May Your Kindness Remain (Loose)**
One of my favourite discoveries of the year - a superb, imposing, lingering, vocal presence. Brilliantly executed soulful country rock unafraid of sudden dynamic shifts. Lovely reverb-laden guitar sounds throughout too.
Cowboy Junkies - All That Reckoning (Latent Recordings)
A most welcome return - slow building storms demonstrating that the personal is political and vice versa.
Cypress Hill - Elephants On Acid (BMG)
It always feels lazy to use the term 'return to form', but then Muggs is back and here we are.
Sunday, December 16, 2018
2018 In Music Part 1: Reissues, Compilations, Virtual Crate-Digging
One of the more positive aspects of the proliferation of online music distribution and streaming services is the sheer volume of older, rediscovered music that is easily searchable and digestible. Even given the inflated prices generated by a growing commercial business in luxury vinyl (some examples included here, but I have to say this is a process that doesn't hugely interest me), much of this music can be accessed very easily and at minimal cost. 2018 has been another great year for reissues and compilations - there's plenty here in which to get lost.
Abu Obaida Hasan - Abu Obaida Hasan and his Tambour: The Shagiya Sound Of Sudan (Ostinato)
Outstanding, mesmeric music from northern Sudan, played on a modified Tambour with an additional string, with additional percussion and vocals. A thrilling discovery.
Alan Braufman - Valley Of Search (Valley Of Search)
Intense and powerful spiritual free improvisation. With Cooper Moore, Cecil McBee, David Lee and Ralph Williams.
Alela Diane - The Pirate's Gospel Deluxe Edition (AllPoints)
It's been a bumper year for Alela Diane fans with an outstanding new album 'Cusp' (somewhat overlooked by many) and this new reissue of the album that made her name. Beautiful songs delivered with subtlety and nuance.
Alice Coltrane - Spiritual Eternal: The Complete Warner Bros. Recordings (Real Gone)
The continued reassessment of Alice Coltrane's musical and cultural legacy is a necessary enterprise. This set covers her brief stint on Warner Bros.
Aretha Franklin - Atlantic Records 1960s Collection/The Atlantic Singles Collection 1967-1970 (Rhino)
Peerless, vital music delivered with steadfast verve and elan - either in depth or the commercial highlights.
Art Ensemble Of Chicago - Art Ensemble of Chicago and Associated Ensembles (ECM)
A substantial box set collating the Art Ensemble of Chicago's ECM output and some equally essential but less widely recognised work from associated acts - including Jack De Johnette's New Directions and Roscoe Mitchell's collaboration with Evan Parker on the masterful Boustrophedon.
Art Of Noise - In No Sense? Nonsense! (Warner Music UK)
Another instalment in this excellent expanded reissue series of the 8os sonic experimentalists' work. The sounds have inevitably dated, but there's still something appealing about their madcap cut and paste quirkiness.
Basa Basa - Homowo (Vintage Voudou)
Superb rescued Highlife from Ghana.
Betty Davis - Nasty Gal (Light In The Attic)
Supremely dirty 1975 album from the gritty, defiant and erotically charged funk singer once married to Miles Davis, reissued on vinyl by the great Light In The Attic label. "I just can't seem to keep my tongue in my mouth...That's all folks!"
Bitchin Bajas - Rebajas (Drag City)
Tantric meditation in drone musical form. Pretty much all the Bitchin Bajas you need.
Bob Dylan - More Blood, More Tracks (Columbia)
Terrible title, but I guess it does what it says on the tin. If you have unlimited disposable income and you really need multiple takes of Up To Me (and maybe you do), it's worth investing in this now as Columbia are apparently deleting it. It can't help but feel that the Bootleg Series has lost its original spirit and become somewhat exploitative as well as exhaustive though.
Bob Seger and The Last Heard - Heavy Music: The Complete Cameo Recordings 1966-67 (ABKCO)
Enjoyable compilation of sturdy early work from the recently retired rocker.
Bobbie Gentry - Girl From Chickasaw County: The Complete Capitol Masters (Capitol)
Incredible box set that establishes Gentry as an underrated and richly creative artist - as weird and wonderful as her best known song is, there is so much here beyond Ode To Billy Joe.
Brian Eno - Vinyl Remasters/Music For Installations (Universal)
Peak ambient
Bronski Beat - The Age Of Consent (London Music Stream)
One of the most important albums of the 80s is expanded with bonus BBC Sessions.
Bruce Springsteen - The Album Collection Vol 2 (Columbia)
To many, this won't be considered Springsteen's golden era (and this set has been a bit neglected in light of the Broadway show), but it's worth keeping in mind that is move towards more reflective, sometimes even introspective songwriting included some of his very best songs. Lucky Town is particularly worthy of reassessment.
Buzzcocks - Another Music In A Different Kitchen/Love Bites 40th Anniversary (Domino)
The recent loss of Pete Shelley puts these anniversary vinyl reissues from Domino in a more poignant light. Incisive, radical lyrics meet biting, mercilessly economical music.
Carl Stone - Electronic Music From The 80s and 90s (Unseen Worlds)
For losing track of time...
Catherine Ribeiro + Alpes - No. 2/Ame Debout/Paix (Universal)
First three albums of uncompromising, defiant weird folk music from the inventive, imposing singer, beloved of Kim Gordon and Jim O'Rourke.
Charles Mingus - Jazz In Detroit/Strata Concert/46 Selden (BBE)
This radio broadcast constitutes a major treasure trove of Mingus' wild frontier.
Cocteau Twins - Treasure Hiding: The Fontana Years (Mercury)
Some revisionism of the Cocteau Twins on Fontana seems necessary - rather than terminal decline into commercialised blandness, much of this music feels like a gentle refinement.
David Axelrod - Earth Rot (Now-Again for Record Store Day)
Major suite of music from the producer and composer - arguably second only to the Songs of Innocence and Experience sets in his catalogue.
David Bowie - Glastonbury 2000 (Warner Music)
I don't actually remember this set being all that fondly received at the time, given there was a general scepticism about Bowie's embrace of various electronic music and a predictable huffiness about his tendency to radically rework his older material.
David Sylvian - Dead Bees On A Cake Deluxe Vinyl (Universal)
David Sylvian and Holger Czukay - Plight and Premonition/Flux and Mutability (Groenland)
Unfortunately, David Sylvian continues to be somewhat AWOL from contemporary music following the cancellation of planned live performances a few years ago. These reissues constitute some of his most searching, texturally rich and imaginative work, particularly the excellent, absorbing collaborations with Czukay.
Deben Bhattacharya - Paris To Calcutta: Men and Music on the Desert Road (Sublime Frequencies)
An extraordinary, deeply fascinating sonic document of field recordist Bhattacharya's journey from France to India in 1955. Archive, history, cultural memory.
Digable Planets - Reachin' (A New Refutation of Time and Space) (Light In The Attic)
Supremely relaxed, philosophical, jazz-infused hip hop from 1993. Think Arrested Development, Dream Warriors etc.
Don Rendell/Ian Carr Quintet - Lansdowne Series Reissues (Decca)
Pioneering, melodically authoritative British jazz ensemble. Rendell and Carr gave their names to the group, but pianist Michael Garrick was an equally crucial compositional voice.
Erasmo Carlos - E Os Tremendoes/Carlos, Erasmo (Light In The Attic)
Two excellent albums from the relaxed Brazilian singer-songwriter reissued by Light In The Attic.
Felt - Vinyl Remasters (Cherry Red)
Including some of the peaks of 80s alternative guitar pop, not least Forever Breathes The Lonely Word.
Flaming Lips - Greatest Hits Vol 1 (Warner Music)
In some ways this compilation doesn't veer too far off the beaten track (as its title might suggest) but it's worth noting that it does contain mixed down versions of a couple of tracks from their grand folly Zaireeka. It also charts one of the more extraordinary evolutions in modern music - from very unassuming, scuzzy and ramshackle beginnings to the vaunting ambition and widescreen splendour of The Soft Bulletin and Yoshimi.
Fleetwood Mac - 50 Years Don't Stop (Warner Music)
Neat, punchy 3CD set collating the obvious highlights of all incarnations of Fleetwood Mac.
Frank Sinatra - Only The Lonely 60th Anniversary Edition (UMC - Virgin International)
Maybe the greatest Frank album?
Gene Clark - Gene Clark Sings For You (Omnivore Recordings)
Great to see more of Gene Clark's solo work being made available - this set is ramshackle but typically affecting.
Graham Nash - Over The Years (Rhino)
30 track anthology bringing together solo work, CSN(Y) material and a couple of tracks from the albums with David Crosby. Second disc features demo versions.
Haruomi Hosono - Hosono House/Cochin Moon (Light In The Attic)
Two excellent albums from one of the major, most experimental figures in Japanese popular music.
https://lightintheattic.net/releases/4101-cochin-moon
Hiroshi Sato - Orient (Wewantsounds)
Originally released in 1979 in Japan, Orient is a masterpiece of textured synthesiser pop. Available on CD and vinyl.
https://wewantsounds.bandcamp.com/merch/hiroshi-sato-orient-cd-edition
Hiss Golden Messenger - Devotion: Songs About Rivers and Spirits and Children (Merge)
Box set collecting the largely solo Bad Debt, and the first Hiss Golden Messenger ensemble albums Poor Moon and Haw plus an additional disc Virgo Fool, gathering rarities (some drawn from the Lord I Love The Rain mini-album). Songs that manage to be earthy and spiritual at the same time.
Hollywood Beyond - If (Expanded) (Warner Music UK)
A relative obscurity now, this first (and only?) work from Mark Rogers generated one memorable hit in 1986 (What's The Colour Of Money?). Nothing else is quite as melodically insistent, but it's a solid example of sophisticated, artful 80s pop.
Japan - Gentlemen Take Polaroids/Tin Drum (UMC)
Some of the strangest, most blissfully disorientating pop music ever to have hit the upper reaches of the UK Top 40. Reissued on vinyl.
Jess Sah Bi and Peter One - Our Garden Needs Its Flowers (Awesome Tapes From Africa)
One of the most popular acts in West Africa in the 90s, this is a fascinating, beguiling and ultimately uplifting fusion of traditional songs, West African rhythms and western folk music.
John Coltrane - Both Directions At Once: The Lost Album (Impulse!)
One of the year's most significant releases in any genre and a worthy addition to the Coltrane canon.
Joseph Spence - Bahaman Folk Guitar (Smithsonian Folkways)
Remarkably unique - rhythmic and driving solo guitar work.
Kate Bush - Remastered (PLG UK Catalog)
Vinyl and CD box sets of the entire catalogue of one of the great English eccentric artists, lovingly remastered (including, it has to be noted, the removal of a certain disgraced individual from Aerial). The Other Sides collates B Sides and offers a reminder of Kate's implausible (and weirdly faithful) cover of Sexual Healing.
Kath Bloom and Loren Conners - Restless Faithful Desperate (Chapter Music)
A beautiful avant-folk masterpiece.
Ken Boothe - Freedom Street (Real Gone)
Very limited vinyl run of this classic from the great reggae vocalist.
Kimiko Kasai and Herbie Hancock - Butterfly (Sony Music)
Great spacey fusion collaboration between Herbie Hancock and the Headhunters and Japanese vocalist Kasai, recorded in Tokyo in 1979. Contains a number of well known Herbie Hancock compositions. Some naturally absorb Kasai's vocal, others (such as Maiden Voyage) are majestically reworked. Concludes with a disco-tactic take on Stevie Wonder's As.
Lindsey Buckingham - Solo Anthology (Rhino)
Buckingham's farcical and unfortunate departure from Fleetwood Mac offers a welcome opportunity to revisit his underrated solo work and extraordinary guitar playing.
Liz Phair - Girly Sound To Guyville: The 25th Anniversary Box Set (Matador)
Combines Liz Phair's highly acclaimed debut album with the earlier tapes she circulated under the Girly-Sound moniker.
Love - Forever Changes 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe (Rhino)
Not sure anyone needs another edition of this, but the original album continues to endure.
Mansun - Attack Of The Grey Lantern (KScope)
A massive expanded reissue of the 90s grand folly. It's still rather fun, from Bond theme parody to exuberant, camp English pop via the inevitable Beatles rip.
Massive Attack - Mezzanine (UMC)
Anniversary reissue of Massive Attack's dark and introspective classic.
Miles Davis and John Coltrane - The Final Tour: The Bootleg Series Vol. 6 (Sony)
The Miles bootleg series continues to offer remarkable and rewarding riches, even if this must by now have reached the 'completists only' stage. I love the contrast between Coltrane's intelligent fieriness and Miles' use of space, but both play with a melodic approach even when stretching out.
Morrison Kincannon - Beneath The Redwoods (Spacetalk)
Rare, bucolic music from previously undiscovered Californian duo.
Neil Young - Roxy: Tonight's The Night Live (Warner Music)
Neil Young - Songs For Judy (Warner Music)
Two gems from Neil's archive this year (and his work rate on both old and new material shows little sign of slowing). The Tonight's The Night show at the Roxy is typically wayward, excoriating and thrilling, whilst Songs For Judy offers solo performances.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark - Architecture and Morality (UMC)
Vinyl reissue of OMD's finest album. Artful, cerebral synth pop.
Orchestre Abass - De Bassari Togo (Analog Africa)
Resplendent groove music from Togo. Tragically, the leader of Orchestre Abass, Malam Issa Abass, was killed by a grenade thrown into his room in 1993.
Ornette Coleman - The Atlantic Years (Rhino)
This is a simply peerless ten disc set. Ornette's relatively brief period on Atlantic generated some of the most divisive and important music ever recorded.
Pablo's Eye - Spring Break/Bardo For Pablo (Stroom)
The first two instalments of Stroom's trilogy of reissues from this malleable Belgian collective. The third part is out in January 2019.
Pat Ament - Songs (Grapefruit/Ba Da Bing)
Originally released in 1971 in a very limited run for friends and local shops, the internet now enables this charming, affecting set of songs to be distributed in a far wider manner than ever intended.
Pet Shop Boys - Further Listening Reissues (PLG UK)
Superb expanded reissue series - essential for those of us who only ever owned these albums on cassette! Introspective, Behaviour, Very, Bilingual.
Peter Zummo - Frame Loop (Foom)
Vinyl pressing and digital re-release of excellent work from composer, trombonist and Arthur Russell collaborator (Russell plays cello here). Also features marimba and congas.
Prince - Piano and A Microphone 1983 (Rhino)
The Prince estate seems to be dealing with the catalogue in ways that are unexpected (not least putting the music back on streaming services). But if they continue to uncover pure gems like this, where Prince's gift for capturing emotion through song is communicated without filter or enhancement, then this is a very welcome development. The recordings include occasional interjections from Prince ('turn the voice down a little'), but even this can't diminish the impact of his isolated talent.
Professor Rhythm - Professor 3 (Awesome Tapes From Africa)
The dance sound of attempted unity at the end of the Apartheid era in South Africa. Hugely joyful and uplifting.
R.E.M. - At The BBC (UMC)
Essential for me due to the inclusion of the 1995 Milton Keynes Bowl concert I attended as a teenager (a memorable formative live music experience, with Automatic For The People songs controversially rocked up) - but also a reminder of how inventive post-Bill Berry R.E.M. were at their best too, the performances in this set particularly emphasising the bold experimentalism of the Up era. There's also a great 1984 show from Nottingham Rock City (although the sound quality here is less impressive and the mix is poor).
Roxy Music - Roxy Music Deluxe (UMC)
Deluxe version of the ever impressive debut.
Songs: Ohia - Love and Work: The Lioness Sessions (Secretly Canadian)
A key transitional work from the much missed Jason Molina - mysterious, eerie and compelling.
Stereolab - Switched On Vols 1-3 (Duophonic)
4CD Box Set that gathers remastered versions of the legendary Stereolab compilations. In the end, it transpires that this was presaging new shows and new music next year.
Sun Ra - Of Abstract Dreams (Strut)
Given the vastness of the existing Sun Ra catalogue, it's hardly surprising that the vaults are also proving to be substantial. This is a previously unreleased radio session from 1974-5.
Super Furry Animals - At The BBC (Strangetown)
Radio sessions and live recordings from across the band's career - neatly charting their evolution from quirky power pop to broader pastures.
Teenage Fanclub - Bandwagonesque/Thirteen/Grand Prix/Songs From Northern Britain/Howdy! (Sony)
Vinyl reissues of the most essential albums made by our most essential songwriters. Teenage Fanclub are probably too modest and unassuming to be canonised, but these albums should by now be established classics. It's also interesting to listen to them in sequence and observe their transition from slightly wayward fuzzy grunge to chiming Byrdsian power pop. All the albums come with a bonus 7" containing choice B sides. Songs From Northern Britain arguably remains their masterpiece. Sadly, now a poignant opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the substantial contribution of the departing Gerard Love.
Terry Callier - The New Folk Sound Of Terry Callier Deluxe Edition (Craft Recordings)
Welcome reissue of a crucial recording. Includes additional takes.
The Band - Music From Big Pink Super Deluxe (Commercial Marketing)
Another one probably not really in need of another repackaging - but the album itself remains essential.
The Beatles - The White Album 50th Anniversary (UMC)
Genuinely one of the superior products in the endless Beatles legacy series.
The Beta Band - The Three EPs 20th Anniversary Remaster (Because)
Has it really been 20 years? It's pleasing to report that this still feels goofy, loose and idiosyncratic.
The Gladiators - Serious Thing (Warner)
Strong 1984 roots set from the reggae trio.
The Handsome Family - Through The Trees 20th Anniversary (Loose)
Anniversary vinyl edition of The Handsome Family's most evocative, romantic and richly poetic work - the best of their stark, gothic Americana. Includes one of my all time favourite songs, The Giant of Illinois.
This Heat - Repeat/Metal/Live 80-81/Made Available (Light In The Attic)
Later set of This Heat reissues.
This Mortal Coil - Deluxe Reissues (4AD)
Vinyl reissues of 'It'll End In Tears', 'Blood' and 'Filigree and Shadow' - still the epitome of the 4AD aesthetic.
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers - An American Treasure (Warner Bros.)
Superb box set offering choice outtakes and rarities from across Petty's career. Includes unreleased songs, demos, alternate takes and live recordings.
Various Artists - African Scream Contest 2 - Benin 1963-80 (Analog Africa)
Good to see a second instalment of this excellent compilation, this time focusing on under appreciated Afro-funk music from Benin.
Various Artists - Basement Beehive: The Girl Group Underground (Numero Group)
Superb compilation of girl group sounds, pretty much all of this previously unknown to me.
Various Artists - Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs Present Paris In The Spring (Ace)
Various Artists - Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs Present State Of The Union: The American Dream In Crisis 1967-1973 (Ace)
Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs' compilations are jewels in Ace Records' crown and these two are particularly strong. State Of The Union, in particular, is one of the essential releases of the year, not least for including Roy Orbison's magisterial South Jericho Parkway.
Various Artists - Gumba Fire: Bubblegum Soul and Synth Boogie in 1980s South Africa (Soundway)
Great 90s minimal synth disco from South Africa. The extent to which the Survivals song below resembles Ed Sheeran's Shape Of You is probably coincidental.
Various Artists - Listen All Around: The Golden Age of Central and East African Music (Dust to Digital)
Another gargantuan, comprehensive and hugely informative compilation from Dust To Digital.
Various Artists - Mother's Garden: The Funk Sound Of Female Africa 1975-1984 (Africa Seven)
Excellent celebration of female artistry in African popular music.
Various Artists - Kafundo Vol. 6: Afrobeat Brazil (Kafundo)
High energy compilation of Afrobeat in Brazil. Includes the excellent Bixiga 70 amongst others.
Various Artists - Pop Ambient 2019 (Kompakt)
Various Artists - We Out Here (Brownswood)
Two compilations that could justifiably belong in my new releases list - celebrating the European ambient sound (and 25 years of the Kompakt label) and the much vaunted and well promoted end of the UK jazz scene respectively.
Various Artists - Silk To Dry The Tears (100% Silk)
Gathers together affiliates and alumni of the 100% Silk label and helps to sustain Oakland's creative communities following the devastating warehouse fire of 2016.
Various Artists - Quare Groove vol. 1 (Allchival)
Surprising and stimulating sounds from the Irish musical underground of the 1970s and 80s.
Various Artists - When The Day Is Done: The Orchestrations of Robert Kirby (Ace)
Entirely essential selection of arrangements from the great Robert Kirby, from the by now well known (Nick Drake, Vashti Bunyan) to more off-the-beaten-track choices (Shelagh McDonald, Audience).
Various Artists - Uneven Paths: Deviant Pop From Europe 1980 - 1991 (Music From Memory)
The second multi-artist compilation on Music From Memory (following last year's outstanding 'Outro Tempo' set of electronic music from Brazil) is another gem, introducing us to a whole world of previously unknown quirky electronica from Europe.
Various Artists - Levanta Poreia: Afro-Brazilian Music and Rhythms 1976-2016 (Jazz and Milk)
Another label collates Afrobeat inspired music from Brazil, with similarly thrilling results.
Various Artists - Paradise: The Sound Of Ivor Raymonde (Bella Union)
Simon Raymonde's Bella Union celebrates the impressive work of his father Ivor, a songwriter, arranger and orchestra leader.
Various Artists - Trojan Records 50th Anniversary Box Set (Wholesale)
All the great reggae hits now in one place.
Various Artists - Running The Voodoo Down Vol. 2: Explorations in psychfunksouljazz 1965-77 (TAD)
Superb second instalment of the out-there funk, fusion and psychedelic soul compilation. This one includes Chairmen Of The Board's Life and Death in G and A suite and Sonny Sharrock's Black Woman - two of the greatest pieces of recorded music of all time.
Various Artists - Soul Jazz Presents Black Man's Pride 2 (Soul Jazz)
Another superb Studio One compilation from Soul Jazz.
Various Artists - Soul of a Nation: Jazz is the Teacher, Funk is the Preacher - Afro-Centric Jazz,
Street Funk and the Roots of Rap in The Black Power Era 1969-75 (Soul Jazz)
Pretty irresistible and open minded fusions of various forms of black music.
Various Artists - Switched-On Eugene (Numero Group)
The Eugene Electronic Music Collective and associates in Oregon. All new to me.
Various Artists - The Wrecking Crew (Wienerworld)
It's impossible to go wrong with any compilation of tracks featuring the crucial session band.
Various Artists - Voices of Mississippi - Artists and Musicians Documented By William Ferris (Dust To Digital)
Substantial three disc set of uncovered blues delights.
Wings - Wild Life/Red Rose Speedway (UMC)
The band The Beatles could have been.
XTC - Skylarking/Apple Venus Vol. 1/Apple Venus Vol. 2 Wasp Star (Ape House - Panegyric)
It's particularly good to have the excellent Apple Venus Vol 1 available again. Skylarking of course remains a pastoral psychedelic classic.
Yazoo - Four Pieces (Mute)
Comprehensive and enjoyable box set from the irresistibly melodic electronic pop duo.
Zuider Zee - Zeenith (Light In The Attic)
Unfairly neglected 70s glam folk psychedelia.
Abu Obaida Hasan - Abu Obaida Hasan and his Tambour: The Shagiya Sound Of Sudan (Ostinato)
Outstanding, mesmeric music from northern Sudan, played on a modified Tambour with an additional string, with additional percussion and vocals. A thrilling discovery.
Alan Braufman - Valley Of Search (Valley Of Search)
Intense and powerful spiritual free improvisation. With Cooper Moore, Cecil McBee, David Lee and Ralph Williams.
Alela Diane - The Pirate's Gospel Deluxe Edition (AllPoints)
It's been a bumper year for Alela Diane fans with an outstanding new album 'Cusp' (somewhat overlooked by many) and this new reissue of the album that made her name. Beautiful songs delivered with subtlety and nuance.
Alice Coltrane - Spiritual Eternal: The Complete Warner Bros. Recordings (Real Gone)
The continued reassessment of Alice Coltrane's musical and cultural legacy is a necessary enterprise. This set covers her brief stint on Warner Bros.
Aretha Franklin - Atlantic Records 1960s Collection/The Atlantic Singles Collection 1967-1970 (Rhino)
Peerless, vital music delivered with steadfast verve and elan - either in depth or the commercial highlights.
Art Ensemble Of Chicago - Art Ensemble of Chicago and Associated Ensembles (ECM)
A substantial box set collating the Art Ensemble of Chicago's ECM output and some equally essential but less widely recognised work from associated acts - including Jack De Johnette's New Directions and Roscoe Mitchell's collaboration with Evan Parker on the masterful Boustrophedon.
Art Of Noise - In No Sense? Nonsense! (Warner Music UK)
Another instalment in this excellent expanded reissue series of the 8os sonic experimentalists' work. The sounds have inevitably dated, but there's still something appealing about their madcap cut and paste quirkiness.
Basa Basa - Homowo (Vintage Voudou)
Superb rescued Highlife from Ghana.
Betty Davis - Nasty Gal (Light In The Attic)
Supremely dirty 1975 album from the gritty, defiant and erotically charged funk singer once married to Miles Davis, reissued on vinyl by the great Light In The Attic label. "I just can't seem to keep my tongue in my mouth...That's all folks!"
Bitchin Bajas - Rebajas (Drag City)
Tantric meditation in drone musical form. Pretty much all the Bitchin Bajas you need.
Bob Dylan - More Blood, More Tracks (Columbia)
Terrible title, but I guess it does what it says on the tin. If you have unlimited disposable income and you really need multiple takes of Up To Me (and maybe you do), it's worth investing in this now as Columbia are apparently deleting it. It can't help but feel that the Bootleg Series has lost its original spirit and become somewhat exploitative as well as exhaustive though.
Bob Seger and The Last Heard - Heavy Music: The Complete Cameo Recordings 1966-67 (ABKCO)
Enjoyable compilation of sturdy early work from the recently retired rocker.
Bobbie Gentry - Girl From Chickasaw County: The Complete Capitol Masters (Capitol)
Incredible box set that establishes Gentry as an underrated and richly creative artist - as weird and wonderful as her best known song is, there is so much here beyond Ode To Billy Joe.
Brian Eno - Vinyl Remasters/Music For Installations (Universal)
Peak ambient
Bronski Beat - The Age Of Consent (London Music Stream)
One of the most important albums of the 80s is expanded with bonus BBC Sessions.
Bruce Springsteen - The Album Collection Vol 2 (Columbia)
To many, this won't be considered Springsteen's golden era (and this set has been a bit neglected in light of the Broadway show), but it's worth keeping in mind that is move towards more reflective, sometimes even introspective songwriting included some of his very best songs. Lucky Town is particularly worthy of reassessment.
Buzzcocks - Another Music In A Different Kitchen/Love Bites 40th Anniversary (Domino)
The recent loss of Pete Shelley puts these anniversary vinyl reissues from Domino in a more poignant light. Incisive, radical lyrics meet biting, mercilessly economical music.
Carl Stone - Electronic Music From The 80s and 90s (Unseen Worlds)
For losing track of time...
Catherine Ribeiro + Alpes - No. 2/Ame Debout/Paix (Universal)
First three albums of uncompromising, defiant weird folk music from the inventive, imposing singer, beloved of Kim Gordon and Jim O'Rourke.
Charles Mingus - Jazz In Detroit/Strata Concert/46 Selden (BBE)
This radio broadcast constitutes a major treasure trove of Mingus' wild frontier.
Cocteau Twins - Treasure Hiding: The Fontana Years (Mercury)
Some revisionism of the Cocteau Twins on Fontana seems necessary - rather than terminal decline into commercialised blandness, much of this music feels like a gentle refinement.
David Axelrod - Earth Rot (Now-Again for Record Store Day)
Major suite of music from the producer and composer - arguably second only to the Songs of Innocence and Experience sets in his catalogue.
David Bowie - Glastonbury 2000 (Warner Music)
I don't actually remember this set being all that fondly received at the time, given there was a general scepticism about Bowie's embrace of various electronic music and a predictable huffiness about his tendency to radically rework his older material.
David Sylvian - Dead Bees On A Cake Deluxe Vinyl (Universal)
David Sylvian and Holger Czukay - Plight and Premonition/Flux and Mutability (Groenland)
Unfortunately, David Sylvian continues to be somewhat AWOL from contemporary music following the cancellation of planned live performances a few years ago. These reissues constitute some of his most searching, texturally rich and imaginative work, particularly the excellent, absorbing collaborations with Czukay.
Deben Bhattacharya - Paris To Calcutta: Men and Music on the Desert Road (Sublime Frequencies)
An extraordinary, deeply fascinating sonic document of field recordist Bhattacharya's journey from France to India in 1955. Archive, history, cultural memory.
Digable Planets - Reachin' (A New Refutation of Time and Space) (Light In The Attic)
Supremely relaxed, philosophical, jazz-infused hip hop from 1993. Think Arrested Development, Dream Warriors etc.
Don Rendell/Ian Carr Quintet - Lansdowne Series Reissues (Decca)
Pioneering, melodically authoritative British jazz ensemble. Rendell and Carr gave their names to the group, but pianist Michael Garrick was an equally crucial compositional voice.
Erasmo Carlos - E Os Tremendoes/Carlos, Erasmo (Light In The Attic)
Two excellent albums from the relaxed Brazilian singer-songwriter reissued by Light In The Attic.
Felt - Vinyl Remasters (Cherry Red)
Including some of the peaks of 80s alternative guitar pop, not least Forever Breathes The Lonely Word.
Flaming Lips - Greatest Hits Vol 1 (Warner Music)
In some ways this compilation doesn't veer too far off the beaten track (as its title might suggest) but it's worth noting that it does contain mixed down versions of a couple of tracks from their grand folly Zaireeka. It also charts one of the more extraordinary evolutions in modern music - from very unassuming, scuzzy and ramshackle beginnings to the vaunting ambition and widescreen splendour of The Soft Bulletin and Yoshimi.
Fleetwood Mac - 50 Years Don't Stop (Warner Music)
Neat, punchy 3CD set collating the obvious highlights of all incarnations of Fleetwood Mac.
Frank Sinatra - Only The Lonely 60th Anniversary Edition (UMC - Virgin International)
Maybe the greatest Frank album?
Gene Clark - Gene Clark Sings For You (Omnivore Recordings)
Great to see more of Gene Clark's solo work being made available - this set is ramshackle but typically affecting.
Graham Nash - Over The Years (Rhino)
30 track anthology bringing together solo work, CSN(Y) material and a couple of tracks from the albums with David Crosby. Second disc features demo versions.
Haruomi Hosono - Hosono House/Cochin Moon (Light In The Attic)
Two excellent albums from one of the major, most experimental figures in Japanese popular music.
https://lightintheattic.net/releases/4101-cochin-moon
Hiroshi Sato - Orient (Wewantsounds)
Originally released in 1979 in Japan, Orient is a masterpiece of textured synthesiser pop. Available on CD and vinyl.
https://wewantsounds.bandcamp.com/merch/hiroshi-sato-orient-cd-edition
Hiss Golden Messenger - Devotion: Songs About Rivers and Spirits and Children (Merge)
Box set collecting the largely solo Bad Debt, and the first Hiss Golden Messenger ensemble albums Poor Moon and Haw plus an additional disc Virgo Fool, gathering rarities (some drawn from the Lord I Love The Rain mini-album). Songs that manage to be earthy and spiritual at the same time.
Hollywood Beyond - If (Expanded) (Warner Music UK)
A relative obscurity now, this first (and only?) work from Mark Rogers generated one memorable hit in 1986 (What's The Colour Of Money?). Nothing else is quite as melodically insistent, but it's a solid example of sophisticated, artful 80s pop.
Japan - Gentlemen Take Polaroids/Tin Drum (UMC)
Some of the strangest, most blissfully disorientating pop music ever to have hit the upper reaches of the UK Top 40. Reissued on vinyl.
Jess Sah Bi and Peter One - Our Garden Needs Its Flowers (Awesome Tapes From Africa)
One of the most popular acts in West Africa in the 90s, this is a fascinating, beguiling and ultimately uplifting fusion of traditional songs, West African rhythms and western folk music.
John Coltrane - Both Directions At Once: The Lost Album (Impulse!)
One of the year's most significant releases in any genre and a worthy addition to the Coltrane canon.
Joseph Spence - Bahaman Folk Guitar (Smithsonian Folkways)
Remarkably unique - rhythmic and driving solo guitar work.
Kate Bush - Remastered (PLG UK Catalog)
Vinyl and CD box sets of the entire catalogue of one of the great English eccentric artists, lovingly remastered (including, it has to be noted, the removal of a certain disgraced individual from Aerial). The Other Sides collates B Sides and offers a reminder of Kate's implausible (and weirdly faithful) cover of Sexual Healing.
Kath Bloom and Loren Conners - Restless Faithful Desperate (Chapter Music)
A beautiful avant-folk masterpiece.
Ken Boothe - Freedom Street (Real Gone)
Very limited vinyl run of this classic from the great reggae vocalist.
Kimiko Kasai and Herbie Hancock - Butterfly (Sony Music)
Great spacey fusion collaboration between Herbie Hancock and the Headhunters and Japanese vocalist Kasai, recorded in Tokyo in 1979. Contains a number of well known Herbie Hancock compositions. Some naturally absorb Kasai's vocal, others (such as Maiden Voyage) are majestically reworked. Concludes with a disco-tactic take on Stevie Wonder's As.
Lindsey Buckingham - Solo Anthology (Rhino)
Buckingham's farcical and unfortunate departure from Fleetwood Mac offers a welcome opportunity to revisit his underrated solo work and extraordinary guitar playing.
Liz Phair - Girly Sound To Guyville: The 25th Anniversary Box Set (Matador)
Combines Liz Phair's highly acclaimed debut album with the earlier tapes she circulated under the Girly-Sound moniker.
Love - Forever Changes 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe (Rhino)
Not sure anyone needs another edition of this, but the original album continues to endure.
Mansun - Attack Of The Grey Lantern (KScope)
A massive expanded reissue of the 90s grand folly. It's still rather fun, from Bond theme parody to exuberant, camp English pop via the inevitable Beatles rip.
Massive Attack - Mezzanine (UMC)
Anniversary reissue of Massive Attack's dark and introspective classic.
Miles Davis and John Coltrane - The Final Tour: The Bootleg Series Vol. 6 (Sony)
The Miles bootleg series continues to offer remarkable and rewarding riches, even if this must by now have reached the 'completists only' stage. I love the contrast between Coltrane's intelligent fieriness and Miles' use of space, but both play with a melodic approach even when stretching out.
Morrison Kincannon - Beneath The Redwoods (Spacetalk)
Rare, bucolic music from previously undiscovered Californian duo.
Neil Young - Roxy: Tonight's The Night Live (Warner Music)
Neil Young - Songs For Judy (Warner Music)
Two gems from Neil's archive this year (and his work rate on both old and new material shows little sign of slowing). The Tonight's The Night show at the Roxy is typically wayward, excoriating and thrilling, whilst Songs For Judy offers solo performances.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark - Architecture and Morality (UMC)
Vinyl reissue of OMD's finest album. Artful, cerebral synth pop.
Orchestre Abass - De Bassari Togo (Analog Africa)
Resplendent groove music from Togo. Tragically, the leader of Orchestre Abass, Malam Issa Abass, was killed by a grenade thrown into his room in 1993.
Ornette Coleman - The Atlantic Years (Rhino)
This is a simply peerless ten disc set. Ornette's relatively brief period on Atlantic generated some of the most divisive and important music ever recorded.
Pablo's Eye - Spring Break/Bardo For Pablo (Stroom)
The first two instalments of Stroom's trilogy of reissues from this malleable Belgian collective. The third part is out in January 2019.
Pat Ament - Songs (Grapefruit/Ba Da Bing)
Originally released in 1971 in a very limited run for friends and local shops, the internet now enables this charming, affecting set of songs to be distributed in a far wider manner than ever intended.
Pet Shop Boys - Further Listening Reissues (PLG UK)
Superb expanded reissue series - essential for those of us who only ever owned these albums on cassette! Introspective, Behaviour, Very, Bilingual.
Peter Zummo - Frame Loop (Foom)
Vinyl pressing and digital re-release of excellent work from composer, trombonist and Arthur Russell collaborator (Russell plays cello here). Also features marimba and congas.
Prince - Piano and A Microphone 1983 (Rhino)
The Prince estate seems to be dealing with the catalogue in ways that are unexpected (not least putting the music back on streaming services). But if they continue to uncover pure gems like this, where Prince's gift for capturing emotion through song is communicated without filter or enhancement, then this is a very welcome development. The recordings include occasional interjections from Prince ('turn the voice down a little'), but even this can't diminish the impact of his isolated talent.
Professor Rhythm - Professor 3 (Awesome Tapes From Africa)
The dance sound of attempted unity at the end of the Apartheid era in South Africa. Hugely joyful and uplifting.
R.E.M. - At The BBC (UMC)
Essential for me due to the inclusion of the 1995 Milton Keynes Bowl concert I attended as a teenager (a memorable formative live music experience, with Automatic For The People songs controversially rocked up) - but also a reminder of how inventive post-Bill Berry R.E.M. were at their best too, the performances in this set particularly emphasising the bold experimentalism of the Up era. There's also a great 1984 show from Nottingham Rock City (although the sound quality here is less impressive and the mix is poor).
Roxy Music - Roxy Music Deluxe (UMC)
Deluxe version of the ever impressive debut.
Songs: Ohia - Love and Work: The Lioness Sessions (Secretly Canadian)
A key transitional work from the much missed Jason Molina - mysterious, eerie and compelling.
Stereolab - Switched On Vols 1-3 (Duophonic)
4CD Box Set that gathers remastered versions of the legendary Stereolab compilations. In the end, it transpires that this was presaging new shows and new music next year.
Sun Ra - Of Abstract Dreams (Strut)
Given the vastness of the existing Sun Ra catalogue, it's hardly surprising that the vaults are also proving to be substantial. This is a previously unreleased radio session from 1974-5.
Super Furry Animals - At The BBC (Strangetown)
Radio sessions and live recordings from across the band's career - neatly charting their evolution from quirky power pop to broader pastures.
Teenage Fanclub - Bandwagonesque/Thirteen/Grand Prix/Songs From Northern Britain/Howdy! (Sony)
Vinyl reissues of the most essential albums made by our most essential songwriters. Teenage Fanclub are probably too modest and unassuming to be canonised, but these albums should by now be established classics. It's also interesting to listen to them in sequence and observe their transition from slightly wayward fuzzy grunge to chiming Byrdsian power pop. All the albums come with a bonus 7" containing choice B sides. Songs From Northern Britain arguably remains their masterpiece. Sadly, now a poignant opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the substantial contribution of the departing Gerard Love.
Terry Callier - The New Folk Sound Of Terry Callier Deluxe Edition (Craft Recordings)
Welcome reissue of a crucial recording. Includes additional takes.
The Band - Music From Big Pink Super Deluxe (Commercial Marketing)
Another one probably not really in need of another repackaging - but the album itself remains essential.
The Beatles - The White Album 50th Anniversary (UMC)
Genuinely one of the superior products in the endless Beatles legacy series.
The Beta Band - The Three EPs 20th Anniversary Remaster (Because)
Has it really been 20 years? It's pleasing to report that this still feels goofy, loose and idiosyncratic.
The Gladiators - Serious Thing (Warner)
Strong 1984 roots set from the reggae trio.
The Handsome Family - Through The Trees 20th Anniversary (Loose)
Anniversary vinyl edition of The Handsome Family's most evocative, romantic and richly poetic work - the best of their stark, gothic Americana. Includes one of my all time favourite songs, The Giant of Illinois.
This Heat - Repeat/Metal/Live 80-81/Made Available (Light In The Attic)
Later set of This Heat reissues.
This Mortal Coil - Deluxe Reissues (4AD)
Vinyl reissues of 'It'll End In Tears', 'Blood' and 'Filigree and Shadow' - still the epitome of the 4AD aesthetic.
Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers - An American Treasure (Warner Bros.)
Superb box set offering choice outtakes and rarities from across Petty's career. Includes unreleased songs, demos, alternate takes and live recordings.
Various Artists - African Scream Contest 2 - Benin 1963-80 (Analog Africa)
Good to see a second instalment of this excellent compilation, this time focusing on under appreciated Afro-funk music from Benin.
Various Artists - Basement Beehive: The Girl Group Underground (Numero Group)
Superb compilation of girl group sounds, pretty much all of this previously unknown to me.
Various Artists - Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs Present Paris In The Spring (Ace)
Various Artists - Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs Present State Of The Union: The American Dream In Crisis 1967-1973 (Ace)
Bob Stanley and Pete Wiggs' compilations are jewels in Ace Records' crown and these two are particularly strong. State Of The Union, in particular, is one of the essential releases of the year, not least for including Roy Orbison's magisterial South Jericho Parkway.
Various Artists - Gumba Fire: Bubblegum Soul and Synth Boogie in 1980s South Africa (Soundway)
Great 90s minimal synth disco from South Africa. The extent to which the Survivals song below resembles Ed Sheeran's Shape Of You is probably coincidental.
Various Artists - Listen All Around: The Golden Age of Central and East African Music (Dust to Digital)
Another gargantuan, comprehensive and hugely informative compilation from Dust To Digital.
Various Artists - Mother's Garden: The Funk Sound Of Female Africa 1975-1984 (Africa Seven)
Excellent celebration of female artistry in African popular music.
Various Artists - Kafundo Vol. 6: Afrobeat Brazil (Kafundo)
High energy compilation of Afrobeat in Brazil. Includes the excellent Bixiga 70 amongst others.
Various Artists - Pop Ambient 2019 (Kompakt)
Various Artists - We Out Here (Brownswood)
Two compilations that could justifiably belong in my new releases list - celebrating the European ambient sound (and 25 years of the Kompakt label) and the much vaunted and well promoted end of the UK jazz scene respectively.
Various Artists - Silk To Dry The Tears (100% Silk)
Gathers together affiliates and alumni of the 100% Silk label and helps to sustain Oakland's creative communities following the devastating warehouse fire of 2016.
Various Artists - Quare Groove vol. 1 (Allchival)
Surprising and stimulating sounds from the Irish musical underground of the 1970s and 80s.
Various Artists - When The Day Is Done: The Orchestrations of Robert Kirby (Ace)
Entirely essential selection of arrangements from the great Robert Kirby, from the by now well known (Nick Drake, Vashti Bunyan) to more off-the-beaten-track choices (Shelagh McDonald, Audience).
Various Artists - Uneven Paths: Deviant Pop From Europe 1980 - 1991 (Music From Memory)
The second multi-artist compilation on Music From Memory (following last year's outstanding 'Outro Tempo' set of electronic music from Brazil) is another gem, introducing us to a whole world of previously unknown quirky electronica from Europe.
Various Artists - Levanta Poreia: Afro-Brazilian Music and Rhythms 1976-2016 (Jazz and Milk)
Another label collates Afrobeat inspired music from Brazil, with similarly thrilling results.
Various Artists - Paradise: The Sound Of Ivor Raymonde (Bella Union)
Simon Raymonde's Bella Union celebrates the impressive work of his father Ivor, a songwriter, arranger and orchestra leader.
Various Artists - Trojan Records 50th Anniversary Box Set (Wholesale)
All the great reggae hits now in one place.
Various Artists - Running The Voodoo Down Vol. 2: Explorations in psychfunksouljazz 1965-77 (TAD)
Superb second instalment of the out-there funk, fusion and psychedelic soul compilation. This one includes Chairmen Of The Board's Life and Death in G and A suite and Sonny Sharrock's Black Woman - two of the greatest pieces of recorded music of all time.
Various Artists - Soul Jazz Presents Black Man's Pride 2 (Soul Jazz)
Another superb Studio One compilation from Soul Jazz.
Various Artists - Soul of a Nation: Jazz is the Teacher, Funk is the Preacher - Afro-Centric Jazz,
Street Funk and the Roots of Rap in The Black Power Era 1969-75 (Soul Jazz)
Pretty irresistible and open minded fusions of various forms of black music.
Various Artists - Switched-On Eugene (Numero Group)
The Eugene Electronic Music Collective and associates in Oregon. All new to me.
Various Artists - The Wrecking Crew (Wienerworld)
It's impossible to go wrong with any compilation of tracks featuring the crucial session band.
Various Artists - Voices of Mississippi - Artists and Musicians Documented By William Ferris (Dust To Digital)
Substantial three disc set of uncovered blues delights.
Wings - Wild Life/Red Rose Speedway (UMC)
The band The Beatles could have been.
XTC - Skylarking/Apple Venus Vol. 1/Apple Venus Vol. 2 Wasp Star (Ape House - Panegyric)
It's particularly good to have the excellent Apple Venus Vol 1 available again. Skylarking of course remains a pastoral psychedelic classic.
Yazoo - Four Pieces (Mute)
Comprehensive and enjoyable box set from the irresistibly melodic electronic pop duo.
Zuider Zee - Zeenith (Light In The Attic)
Unfairly neglected 70s glam folk psychedelia.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)