Weekly Release Spotlight
That one perfect album that we (and you) almost missed.
Manning Fireworks by MJ Lenderman
MJ Lenderman: the only artist truly deserving of the title of “America’s Sweetheart.” Far from his first musical release, the North Carolina multi-instrumentalist has solidified himself as a charming songwriter and outstanding live performer. On this album, Lenderman embraces surreal storytelling that perfectly evokes the intended emotion. Writing about losers, scumbags, and spiritually confused individuals, there’s a remarkable sense of relieving humor about trying to avoid the negative aspects of oneself. Especially on the closing track, the central fear of this album shines through with lines “You’re in on my bit / You’re sick of the schtick,” citing that a lover (perhaps the audience as well) is over his antics. This self-reflecting, yet goofy album paints a picture of a life not fully realized and emotions not yet processed. What’s more real than that?
Home in Another Life by Enumclaw
Enumclaw’s ‘Home in Another Life’ cuts through the noise of alternative rock and makes its mark as a cohesive album that’s clear in its message. Opening with the brutally honest song “I’m Scared I’ll End Up All Alone,” ‘Home in Another Life’ is reflective and expressive of anxieties. With instrumentation inspired by Pacific Northwest greats of the 1990s, this album is at once nostalgic and forward-thinking. Enumclaw doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable themes, like shame, sex, and seasonal depression, again making for a refreshingly candid lyricism. Even in mundane moments, like “Grocery Store” Enumclaw digs deep into the underlying emotions beyond those moments. Especially for the beginning of Fall, this album shines bright and highlights all the complex emotions that can come with this season.
Colossal by Scrunchies
The latest album from Minneapolis’s own “post-everything” group, Scrunchies, hits the mark on just about everything. Recorded and mastered by Steve Albini via analog tape, Colossal sounds beautifully straight out of 1990. The influences on Colossal come from all over–vocals akin to Babes in Toyland’s Kat Bjelland or Bikini Kill’s Kathleen Hanna, all with unique lyrical surrealism. The album begs for the listener to turn inward and explore within themselves, which makes for a captivating listening experience, especially for those local to the Twin Cities.
Disaster Trick - Horse Jumper of Love
For a band whose origins have much to attest to existential dread, this record brings a strangely hopeful feeling to the group’s discography. Horse Jumper of Love’s ‘Disaster Trick’ highlights the group’s evolution and maturation since their 2017 debut, especially in regards to their songwriting. Though still as melancholy-sounding as ever, HJOL opens their hearts up on this record. The opening track, “Snow Angel” sets forth the mood of the album perfectly; beginning with goodbyes to loved ones and reflections upon what could’ve been done differently. ‘Disaster Trick’ hits a strikingly emotional tone with a chest-lifting, indescribable hopefulness brought by distorted, fuzzy instrumentals.
Street View by Google Earth
First album from electronic collaborators James Riotto and John Vanderslice, recording under the name “Google Earth” proves to be a wide-ranged exploration of sound. This record packs in everything from a bubbly, atmospheric underwater feel to vast, orchestral moments, and does it in a way that completely makes sense, somehow. Vanderslice’s take on electronic is so fresh, ironically stemming from the fact that he produced strictly analog up until the mid-2000s. With this newfound sound and technique, as well as a collaboration with an electronic producer, “Street View” is a unique album with textural and beautiful sounds.
Mood Booster by Yndling
Debut album of Norwegian artist, Yndling, comes highly anticipated after several promising singles and an EP. From the underwater-sounding chords of the titular track, to the fuzzy Atomic Blue feature on “Easily Confused,” this album hits an expansive, wide range of dreamy sounds. ‘Mood Booster’ evokes a feeling of deep, warm nostalgia, reminiscent of early 2010s dream pop, but in an updated, more raw and refreshing perspective. Each track is highly detailed and takes you on an enjoyable, often dizzying, journey that ultimately leaves on a beautifully light note.