Janek Schaefer [For Robert Wyatt] "What Light There Is Tells Us Nothing (Temporary Residence)"
In 2014, acclaimed sound artist Janek Schaefer was commissioned to create an auditory experience using elements from Robert Wyatt’s Cukooland album. Like any good artist with a commision backing a project, he did just what was asked, and then a bunch more. What Light There Is Tells Us Nothing (Temporary Residence) collects the piece he was originally commissioned to do, as well as an album’s worth of music that was inspired by his work on that piece. Ambient, looping, ethereal music accompanied by spoken word snippets and sound effects. This is just the kind of thing to listen to when you want to bliss out in a smart-sounding way. So put on your tweed jacket and check “Tree at the end of the world.”
Valley Lodge "Fog Machine (RTP)"
Hey Dave Hill, who said you can put your pop into the rock? I thought we left that to the masters such as Cheap Trick or The Raspberries. Huh, guess you didn’t get the memo! Or maybe we didn’t get the memo, because Valley Lodge is certainly sounding like the pop-rock masters here on Fog Machine. From the crashing album opener (and best use of sleigh bells) “The Stars Won’t Fall” to the full-on cowbell boogie of “Please Come To Bed” Fog Machine is 70’s power hits-top to bottom. Need something a little more sensitive? Go with “I’m Gone”, but why not break out that air guitar and crank out “Stand”.
Shida Shahabi "Homes (Fat Cat)"
If Erik Satie would have listened to more indie rock, his compositions would have likely sounded a lot like those of Iranian pianist/composer Shida Shahabi. Homes, her debut on FatCat’s classical imprint 130701 is absolutely stunning. Primarily piano with ethereal keyboard hints, each one of these emotive compositions sounds practically written for peak cable TV. Which makes sense, as she sites film composition as her main influence (that and all the My Bloody Valentine and Yo La Tengo she grew up listening to.) Check out the albums first song “Abisme.”
José González & The String Theory "Live In Europe (Mute)"
Oh, Jose Gonzalez! I didn’t know your songs could sound any more gorgeous! But sure, add a string section and you will find stunning versions of some of your best songs include “Every Age” and “Heartbeats”. Jose, you are a miracle worker and I want you focusing on such important projects as making chocolate and peanut butter better, and beer having even fewer calories. Doable? I guess in the meantime I will be basking in your masterstroke of genius with “Live In Europe”. Dig into “Down The Lone” today!