This week’s release schedule is dominated by Christmas and holiday material as well as a bunch of country songs. There are, however, a few rock gems buried on the list.
Singles
1. Black Keys, I’m with the Band (feat. Beck) (Nonesuch)
With a new edition of the band’s Ohio Players album (originally released back in April; updated version–the “Trophy Edition”–due next Friday), Dan and Patrick of the Black Keys have a new single featuring Beck. Some gnarly guitar sounds here.
2. LCD Soundsystem, x-ray eyes (DFA/Columbia)
A couple of weeks back, there was a rumour that James Murphy was preparing a brand-new LCD Soundsystem album. Those stories have been walked back a little–a fifth album is in the works but doesn’t have a release date–but at least we have this new song.
3. Soup, Kids (Windsurfer Records)
Fans of The Strumbellas will know Simon Ward as a founding member and lead singer. After reaching a crossroads, he decided to leave the band to sort out his head. Now that’s done, he’s got a new project that allows him to focus more on songwriting with his brother Tod, nephew Dexter, childhood best friend Luc Sanderson, brother-in-law Brian Pickett, and new found friend Stephen (Greg) Perry. An album is in the works.
Albums
1. Primal Scream, Come Ahead (BMG)
We first started hearing about Primal Scream’s first album in eight years back in the summer. It’s now here and where is the band’s head at? Funk. After psych, country, rock, and a few other detours, Primal Scream is now a funk band. Yes, that might have you scratching your head, but don’t turn away. A couple of reviewers have called this the album of the year. Thoughts?
2. Julian Taylor, Pathways (Howling Turtle)
Toronto’s Juno Award-winning Americana/roots rocker Julian Taylor is up to his ninth album. It’s great to see that after years of slugging it out, he’s now getting the attention he deserves. Colin Linden helps out on this record.
3. King Stingray, For the Dreams (Cooking Vinyl Australia)
Finally, let’s take a chance on the second album by an Aussie surf rock (well, sometime surf rock) band. Originally from the Northern Territories, the group sings both in English and Yolŋu, a language spoken by the indigenous people of northeast Australia.
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