If It's Too Loud...

Another slow week with the holiday, but there's some great stuff. But why isn't the new Avalanches on Spotify yet?!?!?: Album of the Week : Artist : Lauren Mann Album : Dearestly Quick Description : Much-anticipated surprise release by the Canadian folkish singer-songwriter. Why You Should Listen : If you knew her previous album and how good it was, you'll likely love this. Overall Thoughts : Lauren Mann has been hinting at this album for some time now, and while the last few years have been slow due to illness and what have you, a surprise release on Friday was welcome for this album, and the fact that it's also really, really good doesn't hurt. Mann has a very distinct, recognizable style for me, and it comes clear in songs like "New Beginning" and "Make Smooth." For a year where there have been a lot of highly anticipated releases that didn't quite meet the expectations, it's great to hear an album that exceeds them. For a...