Denison Witmer: Safe Away

Originally released in 2000, Safe Away has seen various forms including a re-release in 2006.  This debut album from Denison Witmer has been on my playlist since I first heard it in 2002 from my friends Josh.  Incidentally, he actually first discovered Denison at a Cornerstone Music Festival in southern Illinois.  Just one of the many ways we discover new music.

Safe Away is a very simple album.  And by simple I do not mean that the quality is simple, but that most songs are guitar and voice alone.  If you are into the singer/songwriter scene, Denison is a solid performer worth listening to.  His lyrics often times tell a story that brings your mind to another place.  Below is a live performance of the second track, ‘Breathe In This Life.’  Enjoy.

Rating: 5/5
5 Records

2009
06/25
CATEGORY
Singer/Songwriter
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Cloud Cult: Feel Good Ghosts

What to say?  This album has some interesting vocals.  The music is a bit different, so I’m throwing this in the experimental genre, though it is not really the best fit.  The best way to describe this would be to picture yourself in a musical… dancing… oh, ya.

I will say that it is a fun listen.  It’s dark, but definitely keeps some high energy.  If you enjoy the following video, you may very well be a fan of Cloud Cult.


I do very much think this video is great.  Simple, yet entertaining.

Rating: 3/5
3 Records

2009
06/24
CATEGORY
Indie Rock
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Radiohead: In Rainbows

 

The way the band builds on dynamics and makes the entire album flow smoothly makes In Rainbows not only enjoyable, but easy to play while concentrating on other things (like blogging). No particular song has really set itself above the others, which is the case in their prior release; Hail to the Thief. With that being said, no particular song falls short of any expectations. Solid album, hands down.

For some time it seemed as if Radiohead was finished as a band. Thom Yorke released The Eraser in 2006, which solidified my skepticism even more. I was wrong. With this album originally being an optional donation download, Radiohead let the world know that not only another album was complete, but they were going about it in a totally different way than ever before.

Rating: 4/5
4 Records

2009
06/20
CATEGORY
Alternative
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1 comment

Bat For Lashes: Fur and Gold

 

I can honestly say that there was no way I could have known what was to be heard in Fur and Gold.  Judging from the cover (and we are taught never to judge a book by it’s cover, does that go for albums as well?)  I knew it was going to be something interesting.

With Natasha Kahn’s accent and some quasi-haunting music, Bat For Lashes makes for a unique yet very enjoyable listen.  Turn on a couple lava lamps and light some candles before you listen, it will make the experience very enjoyable.

Thank you Ricky for pointing me towards Bat for Lashes.

Why make big budget music videos when you can be just as creative in a DIY sense?

‘What’s a Girl To Do?’ is a fun and enjoyable video.  Though I must admit the bikers with masks are a bit creepy. 

Rating: 4/5
4 Records

2009
06/20
CATEGORY
Alternative
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Elvis Perkins: Ash Wednesday

Very few albums win me over instantly.  After a couple of plays the songs start to catch and become more familiar, and then it becomes something I regularly enjoy.  Ash Wednesday, however, won me over the moment that need touched the vinyl.

The opening track, ‘While You Were Sleeping,’ sees instruments such as a double bass,  the sweet sounds of Perkins’ acoustic guitar, and ‘uh oh’ sayers.  And as the track unfold you are welcomed with a kettle, moog, harmonica, and more.

Perkins’ songwriting skills and musicianship are solid through this entire album, making Ash Wednesday a debut album that could be put up against the likes of Damien Rice’s O. Elvis Perkins is a must have for any music lover’s library.

Rating: 5/5
5 Records

2009
06/19
CATEGORY
Modern Folk
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