If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Social Distortion Album : Born to Kill Quick Thoughts : Often, when an old or longtime wrestler comes out and does well, the crowd starts a "you still got it!" chant. While I don't know if that implies Social Distortion ever lost it, never mind needing to qualify "it" with "still," the reality is that Born to Kill is exactly what I wanted from a Social Distortion album in 2026. We're coming up on 50 years of Social Distortion and they're still consistent and interesting, and still unafraid to drop an unexpected cover song. Sure, it took 15 years to get here, but Born to Kill was ultimately worth the wait for me. Songs of Note : "No Way Out," "Tonight," "Wicked Game," "Never Goin' Back Again" Artist : India Ramey Album : Villain Era Quick Thoughts : There are plenty of women doing the classic country thing, and some are more successful than others. I place India Ramey fully...

Artist : Carla J Easton Album : WEIRDO Quick Description : An instant favorite serving of indie pop. Why You Should Listen : This is weird enough to be outside of the mainstream, but poppy enough to have broad appeal. Overall Thoughts : This one came out of nowhere and shot directly to the top of my list for 2020. There's so much to love about this entire thing - it feels like a long lost 80s pop record sometimes, others it's like a strange modern indie piece. All of it is wonderful, and it's something I absolutely adored. Don't miss out. Recommendation : One of the best of the year. Artist : The Avett Brothers Album : The Third Gleam Quick Description : A new short album by the alt-country act in their Gleam series. Why You Should Listen : If you're typically more down with their introspective folk side, the Gleam records deliver. Overall Thoughts : The last Avetts album was hit-or-miss in a lot of ways, but seeing a new Gleam release brought it ...