Title: The Floating World (independent)
You might like if you enjoy: Andrew Gold, Crowded House, George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass"
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter Rob Laufer can be forgiven for not having released a full-length album in nine years leading up to his new masterwork The Floating World. An acclaimed producer, musical sideman and songwriter-for-hire, his list of bona fide credits includes working with the illustrious likes of Sir George Martin, Johnny Cash, Cheap Trick, Shawn Colvin and Fiona Apple. Additionally, Laufer serves as music director and band leader for the fabled Wild Honey Orchestra tribute concerts, an on-going Los Angeles-benefit series (this year's tribute to the Kinks' Village Green Preservation Society album included members of The Cars, R.E.M., Blur and Pugwash). The tracks enthrall across the aptly-titled "The Floating World" including the dreamy "Avalanche," luxurious "Highway Machine," magnificent Beatlesque "Floating World," baroque pop ballad "Fence" and inspired "This River." An breathtaking album that resonates more with each listen. Information: www.roblaufermusic.com/.
Title: Caretakers (Shelly Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Jason Falkner, Beck, Big Star
Tell me more: Across Pete Yorn's wonderful new album Caretakers it's clear that the acclaimed singer-songwriter's considerable artistry is on display at every turn. On Yorn's seventh solo full-length effort there are quiet moments of reflection ("Caretakers," "Friends," "Do You Want to Love Again?"), wistful celebration (the folk rocker "I Wanna Be The One," the infectious "POV") and a determined quest to translate this crazy thing we call life into song (the dreamy "Calm Down," the shimmering "Can't Stop You," "Opal") that add up to an outstanding return from Yorn. Information: www.PeteYorn.com.
Title: The Motivator (Blue Elan Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Joan Jett, Fanny, The Runaways
Tell me more: Cherie Currie and Brie Darling have voices that blend magically across their new full-length collaboration The Motivator. Currie (front woman of the Runaways) and Darling (singer-drummer of Fanny) have unveiled a joyful tribute to many of the songs and artists who influenced them, and in the process sound as if they are having a blast. In addition to three newly-penned originals (including the infectious "This Is Our Time" and confessional blues rocker "Too Bruised"), the disc is filled with artful covers of classics from some of the most groundbreaking artists of the late 1960s and early '70s. The selection of material was likely focused on the strength of songs but it's amazing how powerfully the cuts' lyrics resonate with the world events of 2019. This writer's favorite tracks on the LP include the duo's version of the Rolling Stones' "Gimme Shelter," John Lennon's "Gimme Some Truth," The Youngbloods' "Get Together," Stephen Stills' stellar "For What It's Worth," and a particularly effective amped-up take on Stevie Wonder's "Higher Ground." Information: blueelan.com.
Title: Burn (Mad Monkey Records)
You might like if you enjoy: First Aid Kit, Jenny Lewis, Grace Potter
Tell me more: It's not easy to blend Americana and pop convincingly but that's exactly what Los Angeles songstress Arielle Paul does on her new EP Burn. Across the disc's six solid tracks she proves to be a talented musical chameleon. The title track finds her providing a fresh coat of sonic paint to contemporary Americana; "This Way" and "Epically In Love" magically blend contemporary pop with authentic sweeps of psychedelia. The acoustic "Sometimes" is a confessional and beautiful foray, her emotive voice showcased amidst a soundscape that artfully builds from start to finish. The uptempo "Go" recalls some of the best work of Grace Potter, a rousing blend of rock, soul and R&B stylings. Information: AriellePaul.com.
Robert Kinsler
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