If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Sofia Talvik Album : Center of the Universe Quick Thoughts : We can't be objective about Sofia Talvik in these parts, but the good news is that we don't have to be. Center of the Universe is the latest album in a series of great, reliable folk records, and songs like "Too Many Churches" and "Two Thirds" present some of her best individual songs in a while. You can't go wrong with Sofia Talvik, and this is as great an entrypoint for her work as it is a wonderful addition to her already stellar catalog. Make sure you find time for it. Songs of Note : "Center of the Universe," "Two Thirds," "Meanwhile in Winnsboro," "Too Many Churches," "Broken" Artist : Beth Bombara Album : It All Goes Up Quick Thoughts : I hadn't heard of Beth Bombara before this August, and I need to say that this album was one of a few that blew my mind this month. There's a raw energy and sharp edge to this ro...

A very interesting week. This will be quicker than normal, though. Album of the Week : Artist : Rayland Baxter Album : Imaginary Man Quick Description : Well-crafted Americana/folk music. Why You Should Listen : When Ken praised two of the songs on this album, he wasn't kidding - the rest of the album is just as good. Overall Thoughts : Seriously, I can't say enough good things about this album. Whether it's an album of the year candidate remains to be seen, but it's a pretty perfect piece of work and I've listened to a lot of folk music this year. Recommendation : If you listen to one album this week, make it this one. Artist : FKA Twigs Album : M3LL155X Quick Description : New EP by strange off-center artist FKA Twigs Why You Should Listen : You liked her previous album; you enjoy challenging music. Overall Thoughts : I mean, it's an FKA Twigs EP, so you know what you're getting. It's weird and different and it deserves a lot of tim...