electriFRIED bliss: Broken Bells and White Hinterland

If you’re feeling fried this late in the week, here are two soothing ways to alleviate your frazzled state of mind.

 

The self-titled debut from Broken Bells doesn’t provide much in the way of diversity, but I never found myself wanting to skip through a beat, even after repeat listens.

Each of the tracks emanates a cool radiance. That said, it’s still not the best work from either Dangermouse or James Mercer, but it’s definitely still quality music.

For a more innovative option, check out White Hinterland‘s Kairos.

The music shares some qualities with one of my favorites albums from last year, Dirty Projectors’ Bitte Orca, mainly in each of the off-kilter guitar riffs and dub-style bass.

Singer Casey Dienel‘s voice carries the tracks perfectly over glacial electronic tones complemented by often unexpected deep bass lines. This album definitely took repeat listens to fully appreciate (the best music often does), but the payoff is worth it.

Both albums are streamable on the right side of this blog. Otherwise, you can hear the the first two singles from Broken Bells at their Myspace; or you can check out a few tunes from Kairos at White Hinderland’s Myspace.

Feeling relieved?

Two Huge Previews: Broken Bells and Gorillaz

Saturday, you got a link to listen to Frightened Rabbit’s newest album before its official release.

Now you get the chance to listen to two of my most heavily anticipated albums in the same fashion.

You have to know who Broken Bells is by now. If by chance you still don’t, DangerMouse and Shins frontman James Mercer teamed up to make a self-titled album that subtly blends electronica with pop. One word: groovy.  Just try to stay upset while this music’s playing; I dare you.

Check out their album here. (Thanks NPR.)

Next, Gorillaz have made their upcoming album, Plastic Beach, available for listening as well. I have to admit, I wasn’t too impressed by the first single released (Stylo). But after hearing it in context of the album, I am completely back on the Gorillaz boat.

Needless to say, this LP is GREAT. Listen to Plastic Beach in its entirety here. I’m getting an ungodly urge listening to these tracks…

Are you as excited as I am? Leave a comment. Seriously, let’s get a conversation going on this blog. Everybody loves a bit of banter and debate. Right?

Seriously, Listen to This Already: Local Natives

It’s here!

Local Natives have officially released Gorilla Manor.

Last week, I posted a link to preview this album before it came out. After clicking that link about 10 times over the next few days, this album took a serious place in my heart. The songs were playing back in my head after only a few listens, causing me to literally crave another exposure to their infectious melodies.

Pitchfork slapped a Best New Music sticker on this album yesterday, and for good reason. In order to illustrate how much I love this album, I’m going to label it my first official “UNGODLY RELEASE.” (That’s a good thing.)

The LP has a relatively playful tone that’s filled with energy. Impressive three-part harmonies soar over a good portion of the songs, and jungle style drumming adds the perfect complement.

Now, if you haven’t gotten a chance to listen to Gorilla Manor, I’ve embedded the album over on the right- just give a simple tap on the mouse and open yourself to some great musical craftsmanship. If you’re not hip to Lala, you can preview some of the songs at their Myspace.

How much do you love this album? A lot? A whole lot?

Leave a comment.