If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Bob Vylan Album : Humble as the Sun Quick Thoughts : Lather, rinse, repeat: I listen to a Bob Vylan album, I'm blown away, I kick myself for not listening to more Bob Vylan. This album continues the duo's undefeated streak of socially-conscious party-style bangers, with winner after winner after winner. Great samples, great lyricism, great everything - "Reign" feels so different from "Right Here," but somehow still feels absolutely distinctly Bob Vylan. Do not miss this. Songs of Note : "Reign," "GYAG (Get Yourself a Gun)," "Right Here," "He's a Man," "Ring the Alarm" Artist : Soft Loft Album : The Party and The Mess Quick Thoughts : One from earlier this year, this has a really fascinating sound reminiscent of Bear Glass and Noble Dust in a folk-rockish lane. Songs like "Little Less" feel like they could fall apart and break at any moment, but the album holds itself together...

Artist : Bob Vylan Album : Bob Vylan Presents The Price of Life Quick Thoughts : As I play a little long weekend catch-up, I tripped up on Bob Vylan and had my mind blown away. This British duo gives a real Public Enemy by way of Rage Against the Machine fronted by Dizzie Rascal sort of thing, and it comes together as loud, angry, and unapologetic. You don't have to agree with them to enjoy what's here, but the whole package from lyrics to presentation demands real attention. I don't see how this won't end up one of my favorites of the year, because it's that good. Drop whatever it is you're doing and listen to this album. Songs of Note : "Big Man," "He Sold Guns," "Wicked & Bad," "Pretty Songs," "Whatchugonnado?" Artist : Georgia Harmer Album : Stay in Touch Quick Thoughts : It's tricky to take Canadian singer-songwriters and not simply compare them to their predecessors, and it's difficul...