This week brought us new releases from The Hold Steady, Broken Social Scene, The New Pornographers, and Josh Ritter. That’s a VERY solid week, and from what I’ve heard so far, they are all very solid releases. May is going to be an absolute embarrasment of riches for music fans. The most anticipated of this week for me was “Heaven Is Whenever” by The Hold Steady. I wasn’t a huge fan of their last release, and while it did have very strong moments (Sequestered In Memphis), it didn’t feel as cohesive as a “Separation Sunday” or “Boys and Girls In America”. I’m liking the new one more on each listen which is always a good sign that this one will stick with me for a while. They seem to embracing the classic rock vibe more than ever on this. Here’s a couple from their performance on the Interface.
This discussion currently has 3 responses.
May 6, 2010
Ha, I picked up both Broken Social Scene and The New Pornographers yesterday, but I’m not as big a fan of The Hold Steady so I’m glad you mentioned them. I’ll try to get something BSS and New Pornos soon, but I want a few more times through the albums first. I did see BSS live on Tuesday and that was AWESOME. Highly recommended, should you get the opportunity.
May 7, 2010
Ahhh.. but I have seen BSS. Very excellent. Where did you see them? It’s been mostly Hold Steady week here, but I need to spend some more time with the new BSS. I haven’t even listened to the new Josh Ritter or the new Minus the Bear. too much coming out too fast!
May 10, 2010
They played a free set at Amoeba in Hollywood, the day after a sold-out show in town. I didn’t figure out that I could afford the regular show until after it was sold out, but when I heard they were going to be at Amoeba, I was all over that. And they played for 70 minutes, mixing new and old songs…it was really great. Most bands playing free sets don’t play that long or only do their new stuff. Kevin said they’re coming back through here in the fall, so I’ll make sure I get tickets in time for that.