- PREMIERE: Eloah Jones – “Under the Bridge” - November 18, 2021
- PREMIERE: Highbeams – “Campfires” - November 10, 2021
- Tali Azerad Shines on New Album - November 5, 2021
A while back, I posted my Top 10 Albums of 2013. While I still feel I selected 10 excellent albums, there are always some that slip through the cracks or I simply discover late. The following three 2013 albums are releases that I’d like to shine a quick spotlight on that didn’t end up on my list for one of the previous reasons.
CHVRCHES – The Bones Of What You Believe
I had no excuse for letting this one slip by. I even put “Gun” and “The Mother We Share” in my Top 50 Songs of 2013 post. It was right in front of my face and for whatever reason, I didn’t include it. The Scottish trio released a fantastic album. It was fun and entertaining sonically, while provoking thought and intrigue lyrically. You’ll find yourself bobbing your head and saying “Wait, what did she just say?” The lyrics pull no punches. This isn’t some run of the mill synth-pop outfit, this is CHVRCHES, and they have something to say. The band created quite a bit of buzz with this album, and I don’t see them slowing down any time soon.
The Front Bottoms – Talon Of The Hawk
While I included this in my post (but not in the top 10), I feel like this should have definitely made the top 10. What an interesting album. It’s some indie-punk hybrid with unique vocals and stark and honest lyrics…and it’s an absolute gem. They possess a unique ability to be completely loose and casual one second, and introspective and challenging the next. Allow yourself to get pulled into this album, you’ll find yourself belting out the lyrics in no time.
Deaf Havana – Old Souls
Didn’t even know this band existed until a few weeks ago. What a pleasant surprise. Pop-infused rock from the English countryside. Imagine if The Fray picked up a couple guitars and started rocking out a bit. It’d sound similar to Deaf Havana. Emotive and powerful, this is what rock in this day and age should strive to be. One of the more consistent albums of the year from a young and promising band—quality songs from start to finish.
