PAWS "Your Church On My Bonfire (Ernest Jenning Record Co.)"
For a band that has never shied away from their emotions, Paws’ Your Church On My Bonfire (Ernest Jenning Record Co. ) is particularly emotive. The guys in the band have had some hard times in their lives, but they aren’t letting that hold them back. They are, however, gonna let you know how they feel. And more than ever, their vocals and lyrics are given the chance to shine here as producer Andy Monaghan of Frightened Rabbit has brought out a softer, gentler Paws, one that has less distorted guitars, and way more string arrangements. This record is a revelation–exposing Paws for what their fans knew they were all along. Sensitive lads who can write a great song. Check out “Honoured To Be Honest.”
Reigning Sound "Abdication…For Your Love (Reissue) (Merge)"
You love the Reigning Sound, right? Of course you do. Memphis’s king of garage rock – what is not to love. Originally “released” in 2011 as a promo only giveaway (huh?), and co-produced by that one guy from the Black Keys, Abdication…For Your Love is a killer collection of killer tunes with some of the most fun guitar/keyboard work I’ve heard since the Specials debut (not that it sounds like that but…..). Wanna rock? Check out “Watching My Baby”.
Andrew Cashen "Back In Texas (Nine Mile Records)"
If you don’t know Andrew Cashen by name, you still know him… I mean, unless you don’t know who A Giant Dog or Sweet Spirit are. If that’s the case, then this blurb isn’t gonna be able to help you out, you have a lot of work in front of you. So besides those stellar bands, he also has this solo record out now. Here we find him as an early rock and roll crooner. A little soulful, a little tongue in cheek, and a lot of fun. Check out the very danceable title track “Back In Texas.”
Tallest Man On Earth "I Love You. It’s A Fever Dream"
In times of trouble (like the constant brain tsunami everyone is suffering these days) there are few sounds more calming than that of The Tallest Man On Earth, who manages to make the world sound beautiful, small, intimate, and not the worst. Strapping on his acoustic guitar and cape (of course) Kristian Matsson is here to save your brain/planet. Gorgeous songs with a voice that should make Bruce Hornsby retire (do we really need a new record by Bruce Hornsby?), or get Thanos to finally bring back all of the Avengers. Being the Tallest Man is truly an unstoppable super power that will make you forget that the world is melting. Be saved by Tallest Man with “The Running Styles Of New York”.