If It's Too Loud...

Artist : NewDad Album : Altar Quick Thoughts : This latest album from NewDad feels like a coming out party in a lot of ways: the production and performances are sharp and polished, and the songs are winners almost across the board. I was hooked within the first song, but tunes like "Misery" and "Everything I Wanted" changed this from a great listen to one of my favorites of the week. Perfect for fans of Mother Mother. Songs of Note : "Other Side," "Pretty," "Misery," "Everything I Wanted," "Vertigo" Artist : The Barbaras Album : Rollercoasters Quick Thoughts : The Barbaras, the indie duo of blog favorites Sallie and Weezy Ford, are back with a great little roots-influenced record that does exactly what one might expect it to do. It's been a few years since we heard from Sallie Ford, so anything new is more than welcome, but this new album is a good reminder of how well the two sisters are able to cra...

Artist : Courting Album : Guitar Music Quick Thoughts : The name of this album came across to me as either super earnest or super sarcastic, but it turns out it's neither. Instead, it's a pretty impressive indie record with hints of post-punk that had impressive song after impressive song. This is one that really shouldn't be missed in a week full of good stuff, so make time. Songs of Note : "Cosplay / Twin Cities," "Tennis," "Crass (Redux)," "Jumper" Artist : The Barbaras Album : Oh My God Barbara Quick Thoughts : It's been a little while since we've heard from any of the Ford sisters, and The Barbaras (Sallie and Weezy) provide a welcome return. It's definitely country-fried fun throughout, and I think part of the record's charm is that it's a serious album without taking itself too seriously. I knew I'd like this, but songs like "Walk of Shame" just ensured that I'd love it. Songs of...