Still with me on this? Another Monday rolls round and I have a bunch of great music that really demands your attention, but don’t take my word for it – click the links to listen to clips on Amazon before you make a purchase of these fine albums to expand your music collection.
- Strict Joy by The Swell Season – there are few sounds as compelling to listen to as Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova – the stars of the lovely film ‘Once’ and now (seemingly) a proper duo on this their third album. A little more upbeat than their previous but still hauntingly beautiful. Miss this wonderful album at your peril.
- Nightbook by Ludivico Einaudi – the follow up to Devenire, contemporary classical music at its finest. This album adds a little bit more electronic soundscape to the mixture. Gentle, ethereal and slightly melancholy – this is beautiful music to relax to, and a great accompaniment to work.
- Swords by Morrissey – at the time of writing, Morrissey has been taken ill during a concert – so I hope he recovered quickly. This isn’t new material – but a collection of b-sides from his solo career. Contains one of my personal favourites ‘Don’t make Fun of Daddy’s Voice’.
What are you listening to? What should I be checking out to build my collection?
Not sure if you’re familiar with Fink. They’re essentially former DJ turned singer/songwriter, Fin Greenall, and a couple of tasteful support guys – signed to Ninja Tune. “Sort of Revolution” was released earlier this year, but 2007’s “Distance and Time” is a great place to start. Also really like Brooklyn-based folkie Grey Reverend. “A Startled Wish” is a few years old now but well worth the download (or borrow from me). Toying with the idea of seeing Andrew Bird at the Union Chapel in November – really like his latest stuff. Finally, if you haven’t heard Dangermouse & Sparklehorse’s “Dark Soul Of The Night” project with David Lynch, try and track it down. Great fun and brings the best out of a diverse bunch of guest vocalists (Julian Casablancas, Suzanne Vega, Jason Lyttle, Flaming Lips, Iggy Pop etc).
Thanks Nigel, some good recommendations – I know I can trust you…
I love Fink! I thought I might be the only one as I never see much press, specifically love the ‘Pills in my Pocket’ track.
Grey Reverend I hadn’t heard of, will put them on my list to checkout.
Andrew Bird – I bought an album a while back and it left me a bit cold, I might have to revisit though.
And Dangermouse’s stuff is awesom – I love that project and also the album he produced for Jokers Daughter, tough to listen to in places – but a good find.