This has been a great year for music in Boston and throughout New England. Here, in no particular order, are some favorites 2015 releases from area artists.
What started as an informal gathering of friends playing primarily cover songs has blossomed into a remarkable musical collective. The group’s latest release is chock full of wonderful originals — songs both somber and amusing — that showcase the band’s effervescent personality.
Additional Twangville coverage of Session Americana: Session Americana “Pack Up the Circus” and Photos that ROCK! Dynamic Duo: Session Americana & Sarah Borges at TCAN.
The Suitcase Junket is a one-man band that doesn’t sound like a one-man band. The homemade percussion that one would expect is certainly prominent, but it’s his harmonious guitar and gentle voice that give the music tremendous depth. The songs are something special, a magical mix of melody and melancholy.
Additional Twangville coverage of The Suitcase Junket: Hazy Shade of Winter – A Special Boston Playlist and Kiss Off – A Special Twangville Playlist, Part 6.
It’s no surprise that the Boston bluegrass quintet incorporate an exclamation point into their band name and album titles. Their music, whether live or recorded, overflows with charisma and unbridled enthusiasm. Their latest release finds the boys in fine form, rollicking through a collection of originals and choice covers (The Hold Steady’s “Sequestered in Memphis” and the Faces’ “Stay With Me” to name just two).
Additional Twangville coverage of Barnstar!: Hazy Shade of Winter – A Special Boston Playlist and Photos that ROCK! Barnstar! in the studio.
This newly formed duo – they amazingly met in person for the first time the night before then entered the studio – was a splendid 2015 discovery. Their five-song ep is devastatingly beautiful, replete with songs that are tender yet emotionally charged.
Additional Twangville coverage of INFJ: Hazy Shade of Winter – A Special Boston Playlist.
Blacker’s latest is a glistening pop record that is as charming as it is pristine. The singer-songwriter paints enticing musical landscapes as she moves effortlessly from dreamy waltzes to upbeat sing-alongs to spirited rockers.
Additional Twangville coverage of Sarah Blacker: Route 128 on a Dark and Lonely Night – A Special Boston Playlist.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.