I Probably played this album 1,000 times this year. So many amazing songs that really speak to you. The record really cements Courtney as one of the best new songwriters around.
2. Joan Of Arc "1984"
One of the bands best yet. Songs like "Real Punk Kid" and "Tiny Baby" combine experimental elements with traditional songwriting in the finest way possible.
3. Body/Head "The Switch"
This album is full of amazing hypnotic, mind bending noise and I can't get enough. The tracks really take you to another place with each and every listen.
4. Merzbow "Exoking"
Another masterpiece from the king of noise. Amazing tones and beautiful packaging as always.
5. Alles Club "Décollage"
This album is truly EPIC. I really can't say enough great things about it. Highly original and inspiring.
6. Statue "Casper"
Amazing guitar and drum tones fill this album alongside incredible musicianship and song arrangements. Top notch across the board.
7. Guided By Voices "Space Gun"
Another stellar album from the most prolific band in the world. Lead singles "Space Gun" and "See My Field" are instant GBV classics.
8. Frankie Teardrop Dead "All You Need Is Love And Fucking Peace"
One of the most colorful and uplifting psychedelic records of the year. Can't get enough of this one.
9. Netherlands "Black Gia"
Another skull crushing release from this NYC metal/sci-fi unit. Intense and menacing with a twist of new wave energy.
10. Casino Garden "Ride"
A brilliant blend of shoegaze and psychedelia. One of the most beautiful albums of 2018.
This reformed line up of The Dead Boys has been tearing it up all over the world for the last few years and I've been happy to get to see them play a couple of times. This show was no exception as lead singer Jake Hout channeled the spirit of Stiv Bators in grand fashion while Cheetah Chrome blasted through the blistering riffs that make this band amazing. Can't wait to catch them again in 2019.
2. Desert Daze Festival (My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, Mercury Rev, Kevin Morby and more) - Lake Perris California -10/12-10/14 2018
There are a lot of Festivals that offer unbelievable line ups these days but none were quite like this years Desert Daze Festival in Lake Perris California. Yes this festival was truly "STACKED" with performances from My Bloody Valentine, Sowdive, Mercury Rev, Kevin Morby, Earth and many many more. I must add that this festival had one of the most laid back feels to it which can be rare these days. Everyone was really respectful and watching the bands was comfortable while the sound and lighting were top notch.
3. Joan Of Arc - Elsewhere - NYC - 10/3/18
This show was a last minute surprise. I had not seen Joan Of Arc in about a year and a half and their latest album "1984" was one of my favorites of the year. I realized the morning of the show they were opening for mewithoutyou. Joan Of Arc performed as a three piece and the set included some amazing new material alongside some of my favorites from recent LP's. This was a really fun set to see.
Hospital Fest was a tremendous event and I could go on and on about all of the acts that performed but I ain't gonna lie I was there to see Merzbow as I've been a fan for roughly 25 years and had never seen him perform before. His hour long set was intense, colorful and incredibly mind bending. Other highlights from his event included Jesu, Final (Justin Broadrick), and the Prurient/Power Trip collaboration.
Incredible tribute evening to Alan Vega and Suicide which featured performances from Bob Bert, Cynthia Ross, Kid Congo Powers and more. The highlight for me was when The Car's Ric Ocasek joined Martin Rev for a performance of "Dream Baby Dream". A great evening indeed.
6. Turkish Delight (Reunion) - The Middle East - Cambridge MA - 7/20/18
It's not everyday that your favorite band gets back together to do a show after a 20 year hiatus but on July 20th 2018 Turkish Delight took the stage at the legendary Middle East in Cambridge MA. The band played tracks from their two albums "Tommy Bell" and "Howcha Magowcha" as well as a stunning rendition of "Damaged Goods" by Gang Of Four. They even let me join them onstage for a ripping rendition of their classic cut "Go Baby" which was a a real honor and thrill. Such an awesome time.
7. Nine Inch Nails, Jesus And Mary Chain - Kings Theater - Brooklyn NY - 10/16/18
First off Kings Theater might be the most beautiful venue in Brooklyn and one of the best places to see a large scale show. Jesus And Mary Chain put on a solid set of some of their most well known songs which was certainly an amazing way to start the evening. Then Nine Inch Nails put on one of the most breathtaking performances you will see and hear anywhere in the universe. I'm by no means a NIN fanatic but this show really floored me. The stage production, musicianship, sound an overall presentation where definitely next level.
8. Ministry - Irving Plaza - NYC - 12/6/18
Ministry put on a tremendous performance at Irving Plaza in NYC. It was amazing to hear "Stigmata", "N.W.O.", "So What" and "Just One Fix" in a live setting again. The crowd was super into it and the band played the tracks with "pinpoint accuracy". Menacing to say the least.
9. Netherlands - Brooklyn Bazaar - Brooklyn NY - 10/20/18
Simply put this band DESTROY everything in their path. The crushing guitar sound and sci-fi-psych vocals of Timo Ellis are relentless and this performance was one of the most intense I came across all year.
10. Men I Trust - Charlies American Cafe - Norfolk Virginia - 3/19/18
It was great to see Men I Trust in one of my favorite intimate venues. The band played a lot of songs from their recent album "Headroom" and their infectious bass lines and in the pocket drumming had the crowd dancing along while Emma's vocals sounded as beautiful as you can imagine.
This year was full of some truly incredible songs from new up and coming artists as well as established bands we already know and love . It was hard to narrow this down but here are 18 of my favorite songs from 2018.
1. Joan Of Arc "Real Punk Kid"
A true anthem. One of the most heartfelt and uplifting songs I've heard in years. Vibrant, intense and powerful.
2. Courtney Barnett "Charity"
Such a catchy track with some of the best lyrics I heard all year. Very uplifting yet melancholy at the same time. My favorite track from Courtney's latest album "Tell Me How You Really Feel".
3. Spiritualized "I'm Your Man"
Incredible dynamics, lyrics that hit home and one of the best guitar solos you will ever hear.
4. Witch Watch "Seconds"
A down right infectious song from this Minneapolis based band. Don't be surprised if you find yourself humming along to this halfway through the first listen. Golden.
5. Superchunk "Eraser"
What a hook. This band just gets better and better with age. Probably sang along to this 1,000 times this year. Sooooo good.
6. Guide By Voices "Space Gun"
Another classic from the most prolific band in rock n roll. Amazing video directed by the incredibly talented Hunter Christy.
7. Mayflower Madame "Premonition"
Another dark, mysterious and truly hypnotic number from Noway's premier psych/goth unit.
8. Jon Spencer "Do The Trash Can"
Pure rock n roll madness. What more would you expect from this garage rock mastermind.
9. Frankie Teardrop Dead "Joy In Division"
Psychedelic, uplifting, mind bending bliss from this London based Psychedelic rock unit. One of the many highlights from their album "All You Need Is Love And Fucking Peace".
10. Valita "Vines"
Powerfully haunting in the most amazing way possible.
11. Casino Garden "Ride"
This song radiates with a unique power and energy like no other. Can't wait to hear what this band does next.
12. Wet Dreams "Bad Boy"
It doesn't get much more rock n roll than this. Do yourself a favor and annihilate your speakers with this one
13. Body/Head "You Don't Need"
A droning, mind bending masterpiece from this experimental guitar duo made up of Kim Gordon and Bill Nace.
14. Deaf Wish "FFS"
So much energy. Killer guitar tones and tons of swagger. Play loudly.
15. Jess Williamson "I See The White"
One of the most well crafted and well performed tracks of 2018. Delightful in every way.
16. Cushing "Snow Angel"
Cushing bring the menace once again with this cagey dirty track from their latest release "Blood Of Cushing".
17. Forth Wanderers "Nevermine"
I love the pace and cadence of this song. A stunning vocal performance that stands over brilliant layers of melodic guitars.
18. Statue "E"
Amazing fuzz guitar sounds, great arrangement and energy. A true gem from the bands latest album "Casper".
At nearly 45 years old I think I've finally realized what life is most about to me and that's moments. Yes I am the type that does enjoy what many may consider the "mundane" aspects of life but I now consider those mundane periods to be preparations and build ups to the "moments" and experiences we will never forget. Joan Of Arc's new album "1984" seems to be one of these major moments for a band that has constantly been evolving over the last 20 plus years as founding member Tim Kinsella is joined by an incredible line up of musicians including Bobby Burg, Theo Katsaounis, Melina Ausikaitis and Jeremy Boyle. Opening piece "Tiny Baby" is a stunning combination of comfort, warmth and subliminal stimulation as the group combine elements of minimalist composition, ambient swells and mysterious sonic textures alongside Ausikaitis charming storytelling. This type of experimentation continues throughout "Vertigo" as long droning tones loom over layers of looped and delayed vocal treatments. All of this builds up into "Real Punk Kid" which carries a very anthem like feel to it. It's ominous piano sounds and pulsating bass line set the foundation for yet another incredible performance from Ausikaitis. This song works like a photo album in my mind. It will make you think back to your most fondest memories and some of the greatest hurdles you may have ever had to overcome. It's a true inspiration that radiates an energy I can fully get behind and seems to say "you are not alone". "People Pleaser" adds orchestral aspects to the mix and at this point the vocals move into an even more passionate and free form headspace. You get the feeling that Ausikaitis really enjoyed every minute of the making of this intensely cathartic track. The albums final piece is the spacey, dream like "Forever Jung" which is deeply psychedelic, meditative and insightful. It's beautifully lulling and closes out the album in grand fashion. Such an incredible moment for one of the most innovative bands of our time.
"Violent therapy", the latest release from French goth/post punk duo My Great Blue Cadillac is a thunderous blast of emotional intensity. The bass driven attack of "Falling To You" echoes the spirits of Rozz Williams era Christian Death and is an absolutely relentless piece of music. The melodic but stern approach of "Possessed" shows off the tremendous song writing abilities of the pair while "Rebirth" is a dirge based wall of sonic mayhem that's as primal as it is experimental. The experimentation continues during the infectious cadence of "Hope". It's underlying industrial tones and nontraditional structure make it one of the albums most intense tracks of all. "Pain In Love" teeters on the edge of post punk and metal as it really melts elements of both together in the perfect way. Overall "Violent Therapy" is a phenomenal collection of some of the darkest material I've heard in a long time. Get into it.
Greenville South Carolina's Pure Ghost offer a brilliant balance of heavy riffs and captivating atmospherics throughout "There's No Heaven Left In Me". Opening number "Grey Type" is full of ethereal tones that sway around it's pounding beat and radiant vocals. It's the perfect blend of shoegaze and post hardcore that also shows off their incredible musicianship. The high energy of "Violet Rot" keeps things moving along in fine form while "To Disappear" showcases some of the most inspiring guitar work you will hear anywhere. At last we come to the impeccably well put together title track, as swells of colorful sound rain down everywhere offering the perfect balance of darkness and light. A highly recommended release from one of my favorite new bands.
Boston singer songwriter Savannah Lee impresses on her debut full length LP "Spectroscope Of Sanity". One thing is clear about Lee's performance throughout the album...She sings from the heart and plays from the heart. Everything is about feel and passion and being in the moment. Songs like "Theater" and "Seahaven" combine her strong, confident vocal presence with mysterious and atmospheric twists and turns that are quite introspective. "Lilac Smoke" has a lush elegance to it while "Dist. from Being" balances traditional folk with more spacey elements. Other stand out pieces include the wandering flair of "Blinders", cinematic presence of "To Say" and the psychedelic traces that flow throughout "What Would You Say". Overall a remarkable effort that showcases an up and coming artist in their truest form.
It must be something about the incredibly beautiful scenery that brings out the best in bands from Oslo, Norway. This is the first release I've heard from Swean and the rich, looming soundscapes that make up this latest E.P. made me an instant fan.
The other worldly tones that make up "Drift Aside" are inspiring to say the least. It's layers of modulated guitar leads and tight, in the pocket drumming set the foundation for it's dream driven vocals. "Point Of Reference" sounds even more epic and emotional and adds a slight touch of mid 90's emo to the mix, as underlying seas of noise create a sonic frenzy that's absolutely stunning. I can't wait to hear more from this powerfully engaging band.
From the first few seconds I heard "Seconds" I was hooked on Witch Watch. This is the first single from the Minneapolis based indie pop units upcoming album "Underground/Overground" and it's an incredibly catchy song that will have you singing along in no time. It's swinging beat, rumbling bass line and delicate guitar leads blend perfectly with Anna Neighbors soothing vocals. The best part about this digital single is that it includes 3 bonus tracks that are also top notch. "Feral Fountains" is a rich dreamy number full of beautiful atmospherics. "Blood Orange Curfew" and "Discarded Rituals" are also very appealing acoustic based pieces that infuse the stunning ambient elements that make this band great. Highly recommended.
A brilliant song that's as comforting as it is beautiful. Melina Ausikaitis voice is truly unique while founding member Tim Kinsella and the the rest of the band continue to explore new territories throughout the track. Absolutely inspiring.
Seattle shoegaze/post rock unit Reveries offer up one of the most promising E.P.'s of 2018 as their self titled debut release is full of huge sounding guitars, underlying pop melodies and relentless drumming. Lead track "Existential Anxiety" is absolutely punishing and breathtaking.
This band never disappoint when it comes to creating dark and eerie music that is very reflective of the settings in their native Norway. "Premonition" continues down that dark path adding in layers of new nuances and curiosities.
An amazing new track from this raging noise rock trio from Portland Maine. Their sound absolutely huge and the level of musicianship is off the charts.
8. Body Head "You Don't Need" (Matador)
Angular, menacing and dirge driven "You Don't Need" is pretty spectacular. Kim Gordan and Bill Nance create a haunted yet colorful dual guitar attack that's enhanced even more by the incredible production work of Justin Pizzoferrato.
9. Spiritualized "I'm Your Man" (Fat Possum)
This track is pretty much perfect. Can't wait to take in the entire new album.
I've loved listening to all the Today Junior tracks that they have been releasing recently but this one is my favorite. Fun, catchy, uplifting and warm.
Canadian husband and wife duo Whisper Suite offer up this glowing track that showcases their incredible song writing abilities and rich vocal delivery and I've kept this one on repeat the last few months.
13. Get Up Kids "Maybe" (Polyvinyl)
Get Up Kids are back. Enough said haha
14. Forth Wanderers Nevermine" (Sub Pop)
Been loving on this band for a minute. So into this new record. Delicate, soothing and a little bit grey.
15. Guided By Voices "See My Field" (GBV Inc)
Another brilliant cut from their latest album "Space Gun". Incredible video too.
Spanish singer songwriter Daniel Ruiz is back with yet another impressive single. "I Can't Believe My Luck" is fueled by a cinematic piano sound and Ruiz own charming vocal delivery which makes me think what it be like if Tom Waits and members of Morphine joined the Beatles for a late night jam session at Abbey Road sometime in the late 60's. There's also a very "in the moment" kind of feel to everything that I really enjoy. It's cabaret, it's circus like and it's overflowing with an honesty and warmth that creates a sound that's truly all it's own.
June 1st Joan Of Arc will release their new album "1984" on Joyful Noise Recordings. They recently unveiled this clip for the track "Punk Kid". I actually heard them perform a version of this back in January of 2017 at The Satellite in L.A. and was absolutely floored by vocalist Melina Ausikaitis's performance. When describing the video a recent press release stated-"Directed by Mike Gibisser, the part live performance, part collaborative art video finds heroism in the everyday lives of the band's family and friends: real punk kids. The video also features singer Melina Ausikaitis playing The Fake Guitar, a prototype from Versus Guitars in Chicago, which started as a prop and has since developed into a drum machine of sorts using a contact mic." The band start a U.S. tour July 5th at The Monocle in St Louis.
Washington State based post rock/shoegaze unit Reveries hit a home run on their debut self titled E.P. Opening number "Hits My Eyes" is full of rich atmospherics and powerful dynamics that create an elegant yet crushing sound. The driving feel of "Existential Anxiety" keep things moving along well as it's textured guitars and thunderous bass line radiate throughout the track while the slower paced "When Your Dreams" moves like an avalanche of hypnotic sound. Other highlights include the high energy stance of "Here With You" and the swirling drone of "Passing" which closes out the record like a cinematic sunset. Highly recommended.
SPILLS are the brainchild of Chicago musician Brandon Papanicolas. His debut album "Aura" is made up of 10 inspiring tracks that range from uplifting jangle pop to colorful washes of experimental sound. Stand out numbers like the quick paced "Glasshouse" and swagger filled "Wound Up" mesh perfectly with the intricate guitar based "Flipper" and bouncy feel of "Slump". Everything has a colorful dreamy element to it that stirs up a bit of psychedelia around it all and invites a realm of mystery to the mix. Overall "Aura" is a promising work of art and I can't wait to hear what comes next from this inspiring new songwriter.
Excited to have come across this incredible E.P. from Cambria California's The Ruined Map. The band blend a rugged relentless attack with well crafted rock and roll song structures that at times echoe the spirits of Yo La Tengo, Slint and Sonic Youth. "Forest Number" is full of angular guitars that are backed by an infectious shuffling beat while "Red King" utilize tension and melody in fine form. "The Dance" is another stand out piece that's got a really uplifting bass line that sounds amazing and I really love the dirge-like riffs that work their way throughout the track as the band make great use of some really menacing tones. I really can't say enough good things about this release. Do yourself a favor and GET INTO IT.
True Vulture create a stunning mix of garage rock, art rock and post punk on their debut album. The Melbourne, Australia based group start off with the grooved out rocker "Fever Dreams" which has a real Roxy Music quality to it. Emma Jessop's heavy bass line really carries "Floodlight Ghosts" as bright guitars and Jake Savins stunning vocal delivery put the track over the top. "Bloodletting" is much darker and slower and channels eerie feelings throughout while "Micro Girls" is a faster paced piece that incorporates top notch musicianship showing just how good this unit is at their instruments. Other favorites include the blistering sounds of "Deep Sea Blues" and the traces of glam that surface during "Bronze Medal". A really spectacular release that's deserving of attention from around the globe.
The new offering from indie rock super group Sweet Apple is unreal good. All the songwriting is top notch and full of rocking riffs that never let up. I've probably listened to "Summers Gone" and "World I'm Gonna Leave You" a thousand times. What more could you expect from members of Cobra Verde and Dinosaur JR alongside guest appearances from Mark Lanegan and Robert Pollard.
2. The Psychotic Monks "Silence Slowly and Madly Shines"
"Silence Slowly and Madly Shines" is one of the most menacing albums you will hear anywhere. It's dark, mysterious, psychedelic vibe draws you in and never lets you go. This Paris based unit are absolutely crushing and this album is full of non stop mayhem.
3. Washed Out "Mr. Mellow"
Subliminal, hypnotic and totally inspiring. Washed Out literally out did themselves on this release. It's infectious beats and highly textured layers of sound radiate with beauty and the accompanying visuals are nothing short of stellar.
4. Joan Of Arc "He's Got The Whole This Land is Your Land in His Hands"
Always evolving, always innovating Joan Of Arc continue to impress after 20 years of making albums and relentless touring. "This Must Be The Placenta" is nothing short of a modern day anthem. Their show at The Satellite in LA this past February was also one of my favorites of the year.
5. Meatbodies "Alice"
Amazing songs, great vocals and frantic guitar tones fill this album from beginning to end. It's got such a "Cosmic" feel to it that brings to mind the likes of T Rex and Donovan mixed with a slight nod to Mercury Rev and early Flaming Lips. After countless listens this just gets better and better to me and certainly helps stimulate a good mood.
6. Ty Segall "Ty Segall"
One of the most proficient musicians in the game hits a home run here. "Break A Guitar" was pretty much the anthem of 2017 and I see no signs of this guy letting up any time soon.
7. Lee Ranaldo "Electric Trim"
Former Sonic Youth guitarist/vocalist channels his inner Beatles and Beach Boys spirit with this astonishingly beautiful album. It shows off a different side of Ranaldo and you also get the feeling he had an amazing time writing and recording these songs alongside a host of so many other amazing musicians.
8. Animal Youth "Animal"
An incredible blast of post punk bliss. Noise driven guitars and infectious melodies that drive you to dance. Simply put I've got nothing but LOVE for this record.
9. Thurston Moore "Rock N Roll Consciousness"
Thurston Moore delves into stories of his time in New York and draws you into his world of "Rock N Roll Consciousness". His signature guitar tones and lulling vocals have a very comforting feel throughout the album. Theirs a brilliant balance of tension and ambiance that really brings everything together and of coarse the drumming of Moore's longtime Sonic Youth bandmate Steve Shelly is always great to hear.
10. Palehound "A Place I'll Always Go"
Ellen Kempner is an amazing songwriter and her raspy voice and the catchy hooks that fill this album get me every single time. If you have not checkd out Palehound yet do yourself a favor and pick this album up.
11. CITE S/T
OK so this is an E.P. and not a full album but damn it's so good I had to include it on here. There's big, dangerous sounding guitars here and a thriving energy that's abrasive and mean. All the tracks are total barn burners. Can't wait to hear what's next from this Oakland based rock n roll machine.
12. Jesus And Mary Chain "Damage And Joy"
The bands first album in ages and it stands up well next to the bands previous releases. Some of the songs are retakes on tracks that had been released by Sister Vanilla or as lo-key solo tracks. All the trademark JAMC moments are here and I hope this record is the first of many more to come.
13. The Replacements "Replacements For Sale : Live At Maxwells".
What can ya say. One of the best bands of all time blasting through a raging set in as fine of form as four drunken idiots can. The first thing that comes to mind is just how amazing Bob Stinson sounds throughout this record. His playing is truly relentless and gives me chills every time I hear it. Excellent recording quality throughout that captures the raw energy of the performance without taking anything away from the grit. Highlights include classic Mat's standards like "I Will Dare", "Bastards Of Young" and "Takin A Ride" alongside covers of Kiss. T Rex, The Beatles and more. Essential from beginning to end.
14. Boss Hog "Brood X"
A no frills rock n roll record that's packed with bad ass song after bad ass song. There's some real ass shakers on here and tons of sick sounding guitar tones. Can't get enough.
15. Matthew Sweet "Tomorrow Forever"
Matthew Sweet is back with this brand new album "Tomorrow Forever" and it's full of all the key ingredients that make up an amazing Matthew Sweet record. Catchy hooks, melodic guitars and Sweet's signature vocal delivery. So fun to sing along to.
16. Guided By Voices "August By Cake"
Few musicians actually make it to their 5th album much less their 10th but there is a very minuscule group who can say they have made 100 albums. Off the top of my head I can think of maybe James Brown, Hawkwind and Merzbow. "August By Cake" is GBV founder Robert Pollard's 100th album and is also the bands first double album. Packed with amazing anthems like "Dr. Feelgood Falls Off The Ocean" and "5° Degrees On The Inside" the album marks the return of longtime guitarist Doug Gillard and first appearance by new acquisition Bobby Bare Jr. both of whom make their presence felt in full effect.
17. Unsane "Sterilize"
Unsane's latest album "Sterilize" counldn't have come at a better time. Chris Spencer's trademark salty snarl and crushing guitar riffs ring out in FULL EAR BLEEDING FASHION while the pin point precision of bassist Dave Curran and drummer Vincent Signorelli show why they are one of the most punishing rhythm sections of all time.
