Voxtrot – Berlin Without Return
Comment: This Austin-based group may have earned a reputation as a one-trick pony by adopting a sound that conjures memories of the Manchester music scene that includes the likes of The Smiths. This brand-new single features a beautiful, resonating vocal accompanied by 90s style drumbeats and keyboard synths. Perhaps getting lost in nostalgia can be a worthwhile treat now and again. Grade: B+
Thom Yorke ¬– All For The Best
Comment: Yorke’s solo material can be described as more experimental and synth-oriented than his Radiohead discography. This track is probably more mainstream stream than his other material as it begins with computerized bleeps before giving way to Neil Young folk-style vocal and distorted guitar riffs. Let’s hope this bodes well for the next Radiohead album.
Grade: A
The Chipmunk – Oopsy Daisy
Commment:This new UK hip-hop sensation is back with a gorgeous tune complemented by the breathtaking vocal styling’s of female lead singer Tanya Lacey. The lyrics are catchy yet heart-wrenching as they chronicle the singer’s troubled love relationships. It won’t be long before the U.S. hip-hop fandom separates these Chipmunks from the overexposed cartoon characters.
Grade: A-
Julian Plenti-Game For Days
Comment:Frontman Paul Banks of Interpol fame releases this new pop ditty that conjures up memories of Ian Curtis from Joy Division. Unfortunately, there is a key ingredient missing – one that made his gothic rock material special while performing with his bandmates. This new tune will have to suffice as we eagerly anticipate new material from his New York-based indie band.
Grade: B
Jack Penate – Pull My Heart Away
Comment: This awesome new single by the singer/songwriter has dazzled fans in the UK with the artist’s heartfelt lyrics about withdrawing from a relationship. By incorporating retro-style synths and a killer catchy tune, this could be the millennium's new Embrace UK. The sound seems too ordinary without the monumental menacing guitar riffs from either Daniel Kessler or Sam Fogarino’s jarring percussion. This song, overall, is purely sublime. Indie fans stateside will be hearing more from this band in months to come.
Grade: A+
Posted 8/27/09
