If It's Too Loud...

Another surprise listen for this year launches itself into my best-of list. I missed this when it first came out in April, and on my initial listen in the fall, found it to be super compelling; unique in its presentation of folk-style storytelling, while also showcasing Jackson's distinctive voice. Still, I feel like I slept on it a bit. Every time I listened, I found something more to love, and something that kept me coming back for more. What I love most about this album is how well Kara Jackson jumps between confession and humor, from stark and quiet to more lush and chaotic. "no fun/party" and "rat" couldn't be more different in many ways, but both are awesome. "dickhead blues" and "free" lamenting the state of one's love life in two very disparate approaches. The album is full of these little contradictions of sorts, and ends up being one of the more memorable listens of 2023. Songs of Note: ...

Artist : PJ Harvey Album : I Inside the Old Year Dying Quick Thoughts : PJ Harvey could rightfully claim an elder statesman status given her importance to the alternative rock landscape of the 1990s and 2000s, but instead, she keeps putting out albums that demonstrate her interest in creating compelling music instead of chasing any particular popularity. This latest album is a very artful effort, equal parts disquieting and attention-grabbing, and showcases a singer and songwriter comfortable in her place. I really loved this album - both as a musical endeavor and as a statement. A mandatory listen this week. Songs of Note : "Autumn Term," "Seem an I," "I Inside the Old I Dying" Artist : billy woods and Kenny Segal Album : Maps Quick Thoughts : Of some of the albums we missed from the first half of the year is this effort, which is a rap effort that isn't what you expect. The off-kilter start of "Kenwood Speakers" and "Soft Lan...