I have started to emerge from the doldrums of the last few months. It has been a rough patch, but I am still here. Music, of course, has still provided a great outlet for me. This year has already seen amazing releases from some great long lasting bands. I have also been introduced to some great up-and-coming acts.
1. “Nobody’s Empire” by Belle & Sebastian
The new album is actually really great. I had a chance to see them this week and they were fucking amazing. This song is their set opener and the first track on their new album.
2. “Stabbed to Death Outside San Juan” by the Mountain Goats
Off of the new album, Beat the Champ, this song tells a very famous wrestling murder. Like most MG songs, it’s not that straight forward. I am really digging the new album.
3. “Modern Girl” by Sleater-Kinney
Just a month until I get to see them again. I have been listening to The Woods a lot lately and this song has quickly become a favorite.
4. “Cool Slut” by Chastity Belt
A Seattle band that’s getting a lot of attention, Chastity Belt should be a P-Mag official band. They have everything we like. Their lyrics on this song promote healthy sex-positive feminism. They also wear some awesome ’80s inspired sweaters.
5. “They Say” by Common featuring John Legend and Kanye West
Off of Be, this is one of my favorite Common songs. It makes sense that he and Legend won an Oscar. They have been collaborating for years. The only thing missing from that Oscar win was their third partner, Mr. Kanye West. This song is a masterpiece of the three of them together.
6.”Air” by Waxahatchee
Waxahatchee just dropped their Merge Records debut and their third overall. I am in love with Katie’s voice and songwriting. The new album has definitely continued this trend.
7. “Anchorless” by Love Maul
Well, this is a cover by a new band in Australia. Love Maul will be famous soon enough and I cannot wait. I am not just saying that because I am good friends with the bass player, Stephanie, or maybe I am?
8. “Queen” by Perfume Genius
I had never listened to them until I saw them open for Belle & Sebastian. I realized they are kind of awesome. I am exploring their three albums now.
9. “Welcome to New York” by Taylor Swift
1989 keeps on marching through my playlists. This song is catchy and great. You can love who you want, boys and boys, girls and girls.
10. “Repeat” by Wimps
Wimps are another Seattle band that has recently come to my attention and I’m really digging their style. I hope to see them in concert soon.
I am hoping the number of shows I am going to in the next month and a half will continue to help me through hard times.
