If It's Too Loud...

Artist : TEKE::TEKE Album : Shirushi Quick Thoughts : A while back I mentioned El Michels Affair , which sent me down a rabbit hole of international music. Among the finds was TEKE::TEKE, a Montreal-based band that merges 1960s-70s psych folk with traditional Japanese instrumentation and songwriting. Some songs, like "Kaminari," sound almost cinematic, while "Yoru Ni" feels like a more direct rock song. I am so, so glad I tripped up on TEKE::TEKE - my musical life is so much better with them in it. Songs of Note : "Yoru Ni," "Barbara," "Kaminari" Artist : Lightning Bug Album : A Color of the Sky Quick Thoughts : This is such a nice, subtle album. I loved so much of this record, and I hated that I missed it so early on. It's got a serene quality to it that counters some really complicated songwriting and gorgeous vocals. I wish I had more to say about this one, because it's truly a record that shouldn't be missed,...

Artist : Samantha Crain Album : A Small Death Quick Description : Latest from the folkie. Why You Should Listen : Crain has established herself as one of the best... Overall Thoughts : ...I just don't know why she isn't huge on the scene. She has such a great tone, and she's settled into a really great spot where she churns out better and better records, but I don't hear her name out and about a lot. This is more than worth your time, and is absolutely one of the better folk records of late and the best one this week. Dive in, then go into her back catalog - if you're not on the bandwagon, you're missing out. Recommendation : Mandatory listen this week. Artist : Illuminati Hotties Album : FREE I.H.: This is Not the One You've Been Waiting For Quick Description : New micro-album from an indie favorite. Why You Should Listen : In terms of quarantine content, this is good. Overall Thoughts : If we're being true to ourselves, this is a bit of...