If It's Too Loud...

Artist : Tujiko Noriko Album : PON Quick Thoughts : I try to give the first impressions of music with this type of post, but I find Tujiko Noriko to be difficult to describe in comparison to others. It's not quite experimental, but it's not ambient, either. There's a lot going on here, and all I know is that I keep coming back to it and finding something new to love. Worth your time, if only to see if it's your thing. Songs of Note : "Only on Love," "Knife of Yondr," "Boku Wa Obake," "Kareki Ni Hana," "Quarz Rework," "Kazeyo Pon," "Kikoeru Pon" Artist : Pussy Riot Album : CYKA Quick Thoughts : Yes, this is a proper album, and the first full-length from the Russian protest group, and it's great. It has the anger and rage you'd expect, but is also sonically interesting, with hints of electroclash and hyperpop mixed in. Given that Putin is still kicking around, Pussy Riot remains ...

Artist : Margo Price Album : Strays Quick Thoughts : I don't know if I ever expected Margo Price to be the constant and steady hand at the till, but here we are. Strays is another Price album full of great songs and the sort of consistency you expect from artists well beyond her tenure. This is a really great album, and a great way to start the new year off. Songs of Note : "Been To The Mountain," "Light Me Up" Artist : The Bombadils Album : Dear Friend Quick Thoughts : Ken sent this one over and it was easily the most pleasant surprise of the week. A roots-influenced folk duo, the married couple have a lovely little record here with some memorable tracks and just a feel-good mood across the board. I was repeatedly surprised throughout the whole runtime, and the musicianship is as good as the songwriting. Definitely looking forward to digging into their back catalog. Songs of Note : "Through and Through," "Records and Rent," ...