If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Lucy Dacus Album : Forever is a Feeling Quick Thoughts : We love the whole boygenius Cinematic Universe here, having been on the Lucy Dacus bandwagon as early as "Night Shift." Her third album is her first with a major label, and where it might be a little more ostentatious at times in ways that it doesn't need to be, it more than makes up for it with some of the most brutal and memorable lyrics happening at present. There are so many moments here that just make you mutter curse words under your breath because they hit so hard, and I'm an almost 44-year-old straight married white man. She's something special, and I'm glad the world is getting to know her music more. Songs of Note : "Ankles," "Limerence," "Modigliani," "For Keeps," "Forever is a Feeling," "Best Guess," "Bullseye," "Most Wanted Man" Artist : Gloin Album : All of your anger is actually shame (and I be...

Artist : Soccer Mommy Album : Sometimes, Forever Quick Thoughts : Soccer Mommy continues to get better with every release she puts out. The fidelity is higher, but the songwriting is such a significant step forward that this demands attention. I love love love this album and I'm definitely looking forward to getting back to it. Songs of Note : "Bones," "With U," "Shotgun," "Don't Ask Me," "Fire in the Driveway," "Feel It All the Time" Artist : Boy Jr. Album : Pay Attention to Meee Quick Thoughts : Boy Jr. has, somewhat suddenly, started killing it on TikTok, and while those words might be incomprehensible to a lot of our readers, it's a big deal. Her previous EP, Starter Pack , has a few of my favorites from her, but this album shows that she's capable of a lot of interesting songwriting. "Meet Me In the Middle" in particular highlights her unique songwriting abilities in perhaps the best w...

Artist : Ben Kweller Album : Circuit Boredom Quick Description : New album from the indie stalwart. Why You Should Listen : Feels like a nice back-to-basics indie record. Overall Thoughts : I think we all loved Ben Kweller when he started out, and I know I felt like I was losing touch with his music as I got older. This new album, though? A very solid listen that feels like the Weezer-esque indie rock we all fell in love with 20 years ago, but with some modern, mature overtones. As one of the first releases of the new year, it's a pretty great way to kick things off. Recommendation : Give this a listen. Artist : Fantasy Non Fiction Album : Fantasy Non Fiction Quick Description : Lovely genre-hopping indie rock. Why You Should Listen : A number of these songs could easily become favorites. Overall Thoughts : Ken sent this one over not long before the end of the year, and I think I was wholly and fully blown away by the second song. There's something truly special her...