THE ALBUM OF THE MONTH:
Six Black Birds, by Nathan Hamilton
Although his roots are in folk and country, Austin’s Nathan Hamilton delivers a rock album extraordinaire. “Sooner or Later,” the opening track, sets a clear tone for the record. Over biting guitars and an angry backbeat Hamilton confesses, “I’ve never seen the wisdom in a bottle, I’ve yet to find the mystery of a drink but I’ve seen my fair share of sad eyes and trouble.” Like many of his peers, Hamilton is clearly troubled by current affairs of state and society. He expresses his frustrations vividly on tracks like “Burn,” where he declares “I’m gonna light a fire, I’m gonna watch it burn.” And burn it does.
THE PLAYLIST:
The Picture, Son Volt (from the Legacy Recordings release The Search)
Jay Farrar stays true to form with angular lyrics that reflect on the society around him. His lyrics reward those who delve into their meaning, but he’s sharp enough to package them in an upbeat melody punctuated by horns to increase his appeal to the broader masses.
Soul Shoes, Graham Parker and the Figgs (from the Bloodshot Records release 103 Degrees in June)
What do you get when you cross one of England’s finest pub rockers with one of America’s best bar bands? You get this glorious bar-room blast of classic rock and roll.
Bag of Bones, The Bittersweets (from the Virt Records release The Life You Always Wanted)
San Francisco’s Bittersweets hit the mark with this captivating ballad. Singer Hannah Prater’s voice forms the centerpiece of the song, a voice fragile yet confident.
Black-Haired Girl, Jesse Malin (from the Adeline Records release Glitter in the Gutter)
Call this an alternative love song, “Wanna go for a ride just like Bonnie & Clyde around the world, I can never resist my little anarchist Black haired girl.”
Crime Scene Ribbon, Minibar (from the Minibar Music release Desert After Rain)
If this track is any evidence, the the members of Minibar have acclimated to Los Angeles well since relocating from London. Singer-songwriter Simon Petty’s raspy vocals fit well with this brooding track that recalls Tom Petty.
Mary, Quincy Coleman (from the House Fire Come Closer)
You’ll find yourself snapping your fingers to the beat of this cabaret-style song. In the end, the diverse instrumentation (including clarinet, trumpet and banjo) plays second fiddle to Coleman’s gorgeous vocals.
Leave Your Mixed Message at the Tone, Jake Brennan (from the limited edition ep This is Not My Record, This is Hardcore Folk)
“I’m sorry I’m not home, leave your mixed message at the tone.” Brilliant.
Bumblebee, Band of Heathens (from the Fat Caddy Records release Live at Momo’s)
The Heathens were one of the most enjoyable discoveries at this year’s SXSW. The warm and soulful sound of this track, complete with refreshing multi-part harmonies is the perfect antidote for a stressful day.
Cities on the Plain, Grand Champeen (from the In Music We Trust release Dial T for This)
The Champeen sound has matured a bit on their latest release. While the songs still pack a punch, they’re more focused and less frenetic than earlier releases. Either way, this is a band that’s best experienced live.
The World Stops Turning, Ted Leo (from the Touch & Go release Living with the Living)
It has been three years since his last album, but Leo hasn’t lost his ability to combine biting lyrics with the power of a punk-rock trio. Leo is oft-compared to Clash; this politically-tinged track would do Joe Strummer proud.
Weathervane, Emily Grogan (from the One Way Productions release At Sea)
Boston-based Grogan writes moody rockers that typically build to soaring anthem-like choruses. “And the memories that haunt you still, don’t let them get the best of you.”
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.