Memoryland by CFCF
I don’t know how to review electronic music from a technical standpoint. All I know how to say is “these beeps, bloops, and vocal samples really hit!!” or “these beeps, bloops, and vocal samples aren’t doing anything for me.” Anyway, this album? Closer to the latter than the former, but that’s fine. I’ll just chalk this one up to “not for me” and move about my business.
2.75 stars out of 5.
It’s Not How It Sounds by Clairmont the Second
The synths are almost spooky (?) on this album, and I mean that in a good way. The drum loops and chord progressions are catchy, the production is tight. And it’s only 25 minutes long, so listening to this was a breeze. Not sure if this is something I’ll ever revisit because hip hop’s not my primary genre, but it was fun while it lasted.
Highlight: “Mad Selfish.”
3.25 stars out of 5.
Someone New by Helena Deland
I love this album! Sonically interesting indie pop tunes about dissatisfying relationships and millennial ennui are right up my damn alley. Since Godspeed You! Black Emperor can’t win the Polaris Prize this year, I hope Helena Deland does.
Once again, I have run out of things to say about an album less than a paragraph into my review. Not sure how I’m going to get through another 30 of these without repeating myself into oblivion.
Highlights: “Truth Nugget,” “Pale,” “Comfort, Edge.”
4.5 stars out of 5.
Head Above the Waters by DijahSB
Soft, lilting keys and (quickly Googles synonym for “catchy”) snappy drum loops accompany upbeat lyrics about perseverance and personal growth. Now that’s nice. Another breezy listen under half-an-hour.
Highlight: “Moving with the Tides.”
3.5 stars out of 5.
Total Freedom by Kathleen Edwards
After an eight-year hiatus, Kathleen Edwards makes her return with 10 slow-to-mid-tempo melodic country rock tracks with almost enough reverb on the vocals to make one think you’re listening to the album in a big, wide-open field. Pleasant stuff.
Highlights: “Glenfern,” “Hard on Everyone.”
3.25 stars out of 5.
Well, that’s all I got for today. This post wasn’t very good. Sorry about that! Maybe I’ll do a better job tomorrow.
ruminations of a sad oaf. 