If It's Too Loud...

Artist : The Wolff Sisters Album : Dark River Quick Thoughts : The biggest flaw of this album is that it's only seven tracks long. Dark River shows us a band that is really, really good at what they do, with some of the best songwriting from start to finish you're likely to hear this fall. We've been fans for a while, and this album just solidifies why. Awesome listen. Songs of Note : "Boston Town," "Where I Got Lost," "Roll Me Mama" Artist : Emperor X Album : The Lakes of Zones B and C Quick Thoughts : I didn't want to lose sight of what is probably the most interesting record of the week. Emperor X defies all logic and description, but still provides some of the hookiest indie rock you'll find. Plenty of room on the bandwagon, so don't miss out. Songs of Note : "False Metal," "Stars" Artist : Kate Dressed Up Album : In Another Lifetime Quick Thoughts : Kate Dressed Up makes me feel how I felt whe...

For his first album in seven years, Rocky Votolato has written a concept album with each song written for a member of his family. The album took on a deeper meaning after losing his child in a car accident in December 2021. The latest single from that album, "Little Black Diamond," is a catchy indie folk song. It's bordering on the mainstream side of indie folk and reminds me of Mary Lou Lord or a more rootsy version of Elliott Smith. The song has an intensely intimate feel, but not in the way that you're overhearing someone's secrets. Instead, "Little Black Diamond" has a warmth to it, much more like you've been invited in as a trusted compatriot.  You can listen to "Little Black Diamond" below. Wild Roots is due out September 9 on Spartan Records in the US and Thirty Something Records in Europe. The album can be pre-ordered here . For more on Rocky Votolato, check out the artist's website .