Autumn 2023

A prime example of contrasting musicians making stronger music together than on their own. This album has all the fun and drive of power-pop but with the sensibilities of other musical genres bursting from the seams. Neko Case and Kathryn Calder singing in harmony is my ASMR. Track recommendation: Whiteout Conditions

My favorite Phoenix album to revisit. I have to admit that it is one of those albums I've listened to so frequently that all my objectivity is lost and its sounds live in my bones now. Track recommendation: Entertainment

I enjoy pretty much every Hybrid album and this one is no exception. Their albums are soundtracks, even when they don't actually have a media property attached, full of epic soundscapes for me to imagine my own plots. (I'm someone who ignores lyrics as much as possible.) Track recommendation: Seven Days

The yearning vocals and driving synth on the opening track instantly grabbed the undying teenager inside of me and pulled him along a whirlwind of hormones and self-doubt. This album is a year of high school translated into music. Track recommendation: So Special

Soft 90's synths and the courage to mix instrumental and vocal tracks into the same album. It has become a chill and happy weekend companion for me. Track recommendation: Hearts

It's no surprise that I love this album as Andrew Bird was part of making the Squirrel Nut Zippers, easily my favorite band of all time, a success. An intoxicating mix or jazz, folk, and pure joy. Track recommendation: Glass Figurine

One of my favorite things about shoegaze is not having to pay attention to words. The sounds of this album are a big, warm hug like traveling through a foreign country where you don't know the language. The impression is more important than the text. Track recommendation: Catch The Sun

I'm usually shy about remix albums but there is so much great artistry at work here. If you're struggling with unhappy emotions, Shara Nova's beautiful voice will travel with you through the dark. Track recommendation: Golden Star - Alias

These are the sounds of life's unstoppable movements changing everything around you. You can't stop them so turn to face them as bravely as you can and stand fast in your refusal to be crushed. Track recommendation: 2 Lines