If It's Too Loud...

I'm a sucker for a good family band. I hadn't heard of The Mastersons prior to this year. A married duo who are part of Steve Earle's backing band, The Dukes, they put together absolutely beautiful folk/country music with some serious heart. The two know each other so well on this latest effort that the melodies, the harmonies, the songwriting - everything is in perfect sync. The album feels cohesive and whole in a way few albums do, and whether it's a song like the title track opener or "King of the Castle" (one of my favorite songs of the year), there's so much to love here in this total package. Songs of note: "No Time for Love Songs," "There is a Song to Sing," "King of the Castle"

Artist : Phantogram Album : Ceremony Quick Description : First new music in a while from the alt-electro act. Why You Should Listen : Phantogram is always great, and this is no different. Overall Thoughts : It’s been a minute since we heard from Phantogram, but I’ll say this much – if what they put out is this high in quality every time they take this long to put out new music? Sign me up. It’s modern, it’s odd, it’s challenging without losing its accessibility, and it’s an unexpected yet welcome evolution from an act that has always been good-to-great. Recommendation : One of the best of the week. Artist : Georgia Album : Seeking Thrills Quick Description : Great mainstream pop from an indie artist. Why You Should Listen : There's a lot to love about this listen, and not just how danceable the whole thing is. Overall Thoughts : Mainstream pop has always been a little weird, sure, and even though Katy Perry is cosplaying our May Queen and Lady Gaga looks like she mig...