On this self-titled album, Zeal and Ardor don't define their sound so much as water it down.
blues rock
Bob Dylan - Rough and Rowdy Ways
ReviewsCommentIf you're not already a fan of Bob Dylan's 21st century output, Rough and Rowdy Ways probably won't do much to change that.
The Raconteurs - Help Us Stranger
ReviewsCommentBombastic production isn't enough to save Help Us Stranger's often shabby songwriting.
Hozier - Nina Cried Power
ReviewsCommentWhile it's certainly pleasant and stands out in the current mainstream music landscape, Hozier's latest EP doesn't offer much that indie songwriters and folk artists haven't done better in the past couple of decades.
Lucinda Williams - The Ghosts of Highway 20
ReviewsCommentLucinda wears her experience and age on her sleeve with this latest record.
Action Bronson - Mr. Wonderful
ReviewsNY rapper Action Bronson comes through with his glitziest album yet, loaded with classy piano instrumentals and over-the-top lyrics. It's the mountains of filler after the first third of the LP that kills it, tho.
The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion- "Black Mold"
New TracksCommentIn a year when newcomers like Ty Segall and The Men are making cutting, aggressive garage rock records, it can be easy to forget about the band who led that revivalist charge in the first place. As if acutely aware of the current garage rock trends, the legendary Jon Spencer Blues Explosion have returned with their first new material in eight years, spearheaded by a gritty new single called "Black Mold."
Like all the best Jon Spencer tracks, "Black Mold" has a timeless, familiar quality that also feels thoroughly unique. Spencer's distorted vocals are as engaging and emotive as ever, while the backing band provides some throbbing bluesy grooves and eerie reverb-laden backing vocals. Although this band is clearly tight and obviously experienced, this track maintains a feeling of uneasy steadiness, as if it could fall apart at any moment. Of course it doesn't, and by the time the disorienting sample kicks in at the end, the listener realizes what a cathartic ordeal he or she has just been through -- A blues explosion indeed.
Stream "Black Mold" above, and pick up the new record Meat And Bone from Mom + Pop on September 18th.
The Strange Boys- Live Music
Reviews2 CommentsOn their latest album, the Strange Boys leave most of their garage rock elements behind in favor of a style that's got more in common with blues rock and alternative country. Surprisingly, it's a smooth transition.