ShadowParty "ShadowParty (Mute)"
(takes headphones off) “What’s that? Oh, I’m listening to the debut record from ShadowParty. They’re sort of a supergroup. Who is in the bad? No big deal… just members of New Order, Devo, the Rentals, and appearances from members of The Verve and Primal Scream. Hmm? Sounds like your record collection come to life you say? Well then you are gonna love this self-titled album. Trust me. Say again? Oh, well I guess if you had to start somewhere, I’d suggest the single “Celebrate.””
The Special Pillow "Sleeping Weird"
Why am I sleeping weird if I have my Special Pillow? The man at the store said that the Special Pillow would eliminate all weird sleeping… Maybe only the band (or the pillow) knows, but in the meantime what IS special is the latest release by Hoboken’s Special Pillow. You like the Soft Boys, XTC, Fairport Convention, the Squeeze songs sung by Chris Difford-and yes Yo La Tengo (who covered Special Pillow on their previous album). So yeah this is the record for you. Is “Gilded Shrug” really about certain powerful people who aren’t held accountable for previous actions? Sorry the Steve Nieve “This Year’s Model” organ bridge has me obsessed with this jam. Anyway – wait for this: Special Pillow are a special band, and yup I wrote that-but never mind me you should listen to the R.E.M. sounds of “A Billion Years Ago”.
Liars "1/1 (OST) (Mute)"
In 2017 founding member Aaron Hemphill departed his band Liars amicably. Shortly after that, Angus Andrew released TFCF, the first Liars album featuring just him. However, the original duo has one more trick up their collective sleeves. After the recording of their 2014 LP Mess, the duo recorded a soundtrack for the film 1/1 and have now gifted that gorgeous, haunting work to the world. Check out the buzzy, stuttering “Liquorice.”
Bellini "Before The Day Is Gone (Temporary Residence)"
Who are Bellini? No, not the towel wearing, fish eating, “6th member” of the Kids In The Hall. However, if you ever wanted to know what Surgar or Helmet would have sounded like with female vocals then Bellini is the band for you. Produced by poker champion Steve Albini, the best sounding snare is up front as singer Giovanna Cacciola Exene (at times) like vocals lead the band as they charge through riff and time signature with the furry and anger that is missed from oh, 95% of the music made today. Crank up and air guitar to “Clementine Peel”, and “Promises” and take out those damn ear plugs-if you ain’t deaf yet, well this will do the trick (and is worth it).