If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Sam Jr. Album : Sam Jr. Quick Thoughts : As mini-albums go, Sam Jr.'s self-titled effort here is part Dandy Warhols, part Kurt Vile, part Washed Out, part Morphine, but it all works. There's a grime to these songs that just makes sense, and the grungy, sticky bar floor these songs sound like they come from is just perfect. It's loud, it's brash, and it's great. Songs of Note : "You Lock the Door I Broke the Window," "Sweet Face," "Keep It Buried" Artist : Eades Album : Delusion Spree Quick Thoughts : Eades is definitely doing the alt-rock thing well, and I think what impresses me most about Delusion Spree is that the songs that hit well hit REALLY WELL. I tripped up on "I'm Holding Back Your Hair" and checked out the album only to find song after song that just work. It's a great listen and has a lot going for it, so give it a spin. Songs of Note : "I'm Holding Back Your Hair," "A...

Artist : Kalen and Aslyn Album : Back of Our Minds Quick Description : Gorgeous rootsy folk. Why You Should Listen : One of many male/female folk duos, but they're the real deal. Overall Thoughts : Ken sent this over to me, and I'm glad he did, because this was super beautiful in so many ways. The songs are fairly straightforward, but the production value feels just right and the tone of this so surprisingly pleasant. We've had a few winners as of late with these folk duos, and I'm glad this hit my radar. Recommendation : Absolutely worth the time. Artist : TJO/Tara Jane O'Neil Album : Songs for Peacock Quick Description : A minimalist electronic mixtape. Why You Should Listen : Tara Jane O'Neil has done a lot of great music so far. Overall Thoughts : Her first big release under the TJO moniker, this is a covers album with a lot of interesting... everything. As musically compelling as it is compelling in terms of the song choices being made, this...