It’s been a fantastic week in New Music! I’m so pleased that we live in a time that music is so accessible. We just have to remember to pay the musicians that we love!
I have nine titles to recommend for your pretty faces, so let’s get it!
I’ve been a big fan of Bristol-based band Portishead since their debut thirty years ago. In that time, they have only released three albums and a handful of singles, but I’m still waiting against all hope for more. In the meantime, lead singer Beth Gibbons is on the verge of releasing her second solo album. Lives Outgrown comes out in May, and she’s released the first teaser, Floating On A Moment. With sparse instrumentation, Beth’s evocative voice is as strong as ever. She’s supported by a young child on background vocals, which gives the track an ethereal glow.
Kate Stables is based in Paris, France and has been recording and performing as This Is The Kit for over a decade. Her latest single, Sensations In The Dark. showcases her lovely voice, delicately double-tracked backed by acoustic guitar, percussion and recorder. Pretty melody.
A split-EP from a Punk label out of Italy has Billiam sharing wax with fellow Aussie REVV. Billie continues his frenetic weirdo pace on Split whilst REVV serves up a one-two punch of confident riff-Rock.
Sensei Bonus is a duo based in Los Angeles that has just released their debut album. One Punch Eraser combines Modern Rock sonics with Prog Jazz sensibilities. Microtonal harmonies make this a special journey through challenging Time Signatures and Production mastery.
Across the pond in London there is a quartet of Artists that have come together to get their groove on. Champagne Dub is Betamax on drums and percussion, Ruth Goller on bass, Mr. Noodles taking the vocals and Ed Briggs on “DIY Electronics and Lazer Bagpipes.” Their latest is Rainbow Ambience and Soulful Dub beats offer a trance-inducing experience.
In Leeds, in the north of England, there is a trio of musicians who toil in Ethiopian-inspired Jazz. The Sorcerers third album, I Too Am A Stranger has a funky, 70s Blaxploitation feel to it through its nine tracks. Dancefloor ready!
Brittany Howard has been on steady rotation at my house since she came up with the R&B combo Alabama Shakes. Her debut solo album Jaime was a glorious departure that combined Electronic and Dance elements. It’s been nearly four years, but Howard has finally followed it up. What Now has Brittany bringing her powerful voice to Motown grooves, Drum & Bass, and beyond. Skewed harmonies and warm production make this a confident and winning sophomore effort.
Jason Butler hails from Austin, Texas and records and performs as Thee Conductor. He often collaborates with Bonnie Prince Billy, and on his new album Ennoia, Billy is tasked with lead vocals on the eight tracks. Folky and captivating, with tasteful production.
My Feature Pick for this week comes from an Ecuadorian-American based in Brooklyn. Helado Negro sings in both English and Spanish on PHASOR. Sneaky Pop aesthetics combine with wobbly bass and Latin rhythms. Plenty of ear candy.
Thanks for tuning in…hope to see you again soon.
Take care of yourself!
New Music Jason’s Picks 