Title: Hyperspace (Capitol Records)
Tell me more: With modern rock no longer a major force in the mainstream, Beck has continued his transformation into the future with his genres-blending fourteenth studio album Hyperspace. Indeed, this is an album that sounds as if it was beamed back in time, dreamt up and recorded years from now. Beck's 2017 LP Colors was a commercial success, but lacked the far-reaching experimental and art rock flourishes that have marked so much of the Los Angeles-based artist's creative output dating back to the early 1990s. The 11-track Hyperspace is a move back in the right direction, thanks to the notable contributions of principal collaborator Pharrell Williams (who co-wrote and co-produced seven tracks on the disc), singer Sky Ferreira (heard on "Die Waiting"), guitar master Jason Falkner, keyboardist-singer Roger Manning, Jr., Coldplay singer Chris Martin (heard on the wonderful "Stratosphere"), and a cast of others. The majority of songs mine probing moodscapes with musical dexterity and emotional depth. The highlight on the album is the Americana-tinged disc closer "Everlasting Nothing," but the future of the sonic-sphere is heard more forcefully on the dreamy "See Through," luxurious "Chemical," blues/electronica/rap mashup "Saw Lightning," confessional "Dark Places" and undeniable single "Uneventful Days." Information: beck.com.
Title: The Red Wheelbarrow (Kiss My Squirrel Music)
Tell me more: In addition to his role in the Fallen Stars, Bobbo Byrnes is a prolific and leading voice on the independent Americana scene. That will come as little surprise after getting a listen to his new solo effort The Red Wheelbarrow. The clever "Part Time Cowboy" is a probing look at a musician finely tuned into the musical tapestry of country music even he doesn't "wear a cowboy hat…(or is not) built to wear a nudie suit." Able to deliver winning songs amidst detailed storytelling, Byrnes paints vivid musical soundscapes across the 10-song disc. The melodic nugget "Look For It," introspective "Looking At The World Thru a Windshield," countrified winner "Lovers" and freewheeling "Sally Starr" and "January" excel with equal doses of excellent song craft and rousing studio performance. Byrnes' poignant songs are brought to rich life via a cast of wonderful musicians including his wife Tracy Byrnes (bass guitar, backing vocals) and famed keyboardist Rami Jaffee (of Wallflowers fame). Information: songsandwhispers.com or bobbobyrnes.com.
Title: Everyday Life (Atlantic/Parlophone)
You might like if you enjoy: Coldplay, U2, Doves
Tell me more: As seems to be the case every time Coldplay releases a new album, there has been plenty of dissension and debate among fans about whether the British band's long-awaited album Everyday Life merits its ambitions. This is one music lover who firmly believes the 16-track album delivers on the four-year wait (Coldplay's previous studio LP A Head Full of Dreams was released back in December 2015). Although Coldplay's eighth studio disc Everyday Life qualifies as a concept album and is comprised of two fully-developed parts (the first half is dubbed "Sunrise" while the last half is "Sunset") it does play out over a single audio CD disc. The musically-diverse field of songs find the band (singer-keyboardist Chris Martin, guitarist Jonny Buckland, bassist Guy Berryman, drummer Will Champion) looking at the joy and beauty of life, as well as the ugliness and challenges of everyday life across the 53+ minutes of music. The expansive soundscape extends from the instrumental opener "Sunrise," inspired "Church," intimate "Daddy" and gospel-adorned "BrokEn" to driving horn section-bolstered "Arabesque" help propel the first half of the record. The rage-filled "Guns," meditative "Èkó," gentle "Old Friends" and resplendent "Champion of the World" are among the impressive tracks on the last half of the LP. The band's daring arrangements, nuanced performances and use of guest players and singers only escalate the magic of Everyday Life. lnformation: Coldplay.com.
Title: In the End (BMG)
Tell me more: When Cranberries lead singer-songwriter Dolores O'Riordan died on January 15, 2018 it silenced one of the greatest voices in modern rock. But the Irish singer's final recordings with band mates Noel Hogan (guitar, synths), Mike Hogan (bass) and Fergal Lawler (drums) were subsequently completed in the studio and have been released as the aptly-titled In the End. The 11-song masterwork somehow blends sonic beauty, sweeping melancholy and gleaming alt rock song craft in a majestic mix that celebrates everything that has always made the Cranberries so special. The songs here range from the anthemic and soaring likes of "All Over Now" and "Wake Me When It's Over" to the wistful dreamscapes of "Catch Me If You Can" and "Got It." Every song on the album is bolstered by O'Riordan's amazing soprano. Information: Cranberries.com.
Title: Giants Of All Sizes (Polydor/The Verve Label Group)
Tell me more: Since I discovered elbow at Coachella in April 2011, I've continued to be impressed and dazzled by the Manchester, England-based band that blends the best of alternative and progressive rock styles into a sound that is their own. elbow – led by singer-songwriter Guy Garvey – has made a deeply personal and poignant album (the newly-issued Giants Of All Sizes) in tune with this moment in time. The luxurious and adventuresome seven-minute lead track "Dexter & Sinister" finds Garvey singing powerfully amidst middle age and mortality: "Loss is a part of life this long / But Dexter & Sinister / I've the heaviest heart jackhammering inside me / And I don't know Jesus anymore." The disc's second track, the beguiling "Seven Veils," takes aim at romantic disintegration: "There's no roses in this garden / No sun melting in the sea." Elsewhere, there is a wake for civilization via the soaring "Empires," a pulsating rock meets symphonic moodscape lures the listener across "White Noise White Heat," while "My Trouble" explores romantic loss with naked command. The dynamic and musically rich arrangements and use of diverse instrumentation make for an involving and rewarding listen throughout Giants Of All Sizes. Information: www.elbow.co.uk.
Title: The Help Machine (33 1/3 Records)
Tell me more: One of the year's best new albums, Fastball's The Help Machine exudes a sonic landscape created with melodic song craft, nuanced arrangements, artful vocal harmonies and the talents of the band's all original lineup of Tony Scalzo (lead vocals, bass, guitar, keyboards), Miles Zuniga (lead vocals, guitar), and Joey Shuffield(drums, percussion). Anyone who loved the trio's seminal 1998 album All the Pain Money Can Buy (which featured the Grammy-nominated hit "The Way") will find plenty to love across the Austin, Texas-based band's seventh album. The ambitious genre-defying title track, elegant "Friend or Foe," rootsy "The Devil's Hand," gospel-tinged blues of "Redeemed" infectious confessional rocker "All Gone Fuzzy" and forceful "Doesn't It Make You Feel Small" are among the far-flung tracks that shine on The Help Machine. Information: FastballTheBand.com.
Title: Resurrection (Echo Hill Records)
Tell me more: Texas-based singer-songwriter Kinky Friedman has released a profound album of original songs that serve as a bona fide reminder of the power of music and song craft. Resurrection is an album that shines a welcome light on Friedman, 73, who is writing and crafting songs that draw on his life experiences along with his ever-keen observations at the world around him. The songs have an authentic and timeless feel to be sure, from the utterly beautiful moodscape he paints on "I Love You When It Rains" and acoustic tapestry of "The Bridge That Wouldn't Burn" to the Latin-flavored "Al! Mariachi," countrified blues of the Kris Kristofferson-flavored "Resurrection" and Texas-styled ballad that looks at a beloved pet ("A Dog in the Sky"). Friedman's deep baritone is the perfect instrument to lead the charge when unleashing his songs, and the album is bolstered by the production talents of Larry Campbell and guest vocals from Willie Nelson on the title track. This is one of 2019's outstanding new albums, one that will resonate as deeply generations from now as it does today. Information: KinkyFriedman.com.
Title: Okie (MCA Nashville)
You might like if you enjoy: Vince Gill, The Eagles, Bruce Springsteen's "Western Stars"
Tell me more: Vince Gill's Okie is an album that fully captures the Oklahoma native's towering talents as singer, songwriter and master guitarist. The songs here exude the authentic spirit of real people immersed in the day-to-day struggles and joys of real life, and to be sure the songs (all written or co-written by Gill) have a uniform depth wonderfully at odds with the majority of contemporary country music hitmakers. There are gorgeous ballads ("What Choice Will You Make," "When My Amy Prays"), as well as probing gems with lovely choruses ("Black And White," "The Red Words"). From the album's incredible opening song "I Don't Wanna Ride The Rails No More" to the disc-closing tribute to Merle Haggard ("A World Without Haggard"), Okie astounds. On "An Honest Man" Gill's voice echoes the enduring themes captured across Okie as he sings "Come put your arms around me / Put your heart in my hand / Let them cowboys be the heroes / I'm still an honest man." Information: VinceGill.com.
Title: Morning Sun (Forty Below Records)
Tell me more: Shimmering songwriting and top-tier vocals take center stage on Morning Sun, the brilliant debut from the HawtThorns. Featuring the talented husband and wife duo of singer-acoustic guitarist KP Hawthorn and singer-guitarist Johnny Hawthorn, the HawtThorns somehow blend the best of the Laurel Canyon California sound, modern Americana and melodic rock without missing a beat across 11 winning tracks. The luxurious melodic gems "Shaking" and "Morning Sun," tender countrified ballad "The 405," ambitious dream pop of "Come Back From The Stars," and amped up folk rockers "All I Know" and "Steady Fire" are among the terrific songs on the disc. Information: TheHawtThorns.com.
Title: From Out of Nowhere (Columbia)
Tell me more: Listening to The latest album from Jeff Lynne's ELO, From Out of Nowhere, is to be immersed in the rich and Beatlesque warmth of the summer sun. The intoxicating title track, Traveling Wilburys-flavored "Help Yourself" and driving "Down Came the Rain" are among my favorites on the dazzling LP. There are some genuine surprises including the radiant "All My Love" that is anchored by a hypnotic guitar line and graceful lead vocals, the wistful "Losing You," and the disc closing "Songbird" that features some of Lynne's most memorable and affecting vocals of his long career. From Out of Nowhere is an even stronger effort than Lynne's 2015 LP Alone in the Universe. Information: JeffLynnesELO.com.
Title: Cause and Effect (Island)
Tell me more: Keane explores both familiar and new territory on the band's fifth full-length album Cause and Effect, the quartet's first new album since 2012's Strangeland. On Keane's eagerly-awaited return the beautiful "I'm Not Leaving," "Love Too Much," "Chase the Night Away" and "Phases" recall the signature anthemic modern rock that introduced the beloved British band to the world courtesy of 2004's "Hopes and Fears," there are flourishes of contemporary pop and electronica via "Stupid Things" and "Put The Radio On." The intimate "Strange Room," enticing "Thread" and joyful "The Way I Feel" are among the other standouts on the album. But to be sure, "Cause and Effect" is a wonderful return for singer-guitarist Tom Chaplin, keyboardist Tim Rice-Oxley, drummer Richard Hughes and bassist Jesse Quin. Note: the deluxe edition of this album (available at Barnes and Noble) includes five bonus tracks – a total of 16 new tracks. Information: KeaneMusic.com.
Title: The Floating World (independent)
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 2019 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: Play the Hits (Mono Mundo Recordings)
Tell me more: Thirty years into their singular career blending neotraditional country, Americana, rockabilly and Tex-Mex styles, the Mavericks have come full circle offering up their signature sound on 11 reworked covers on Play the Hits. The track listing features specific classics that influenced and inspired the Miami-spawned troupe; it is a project that works masterfully in the talented hands of the Mavericks. The opening selection is "Swingin'," a uptempo and infectious take on John Anderson's 1983 hit. This version shines through the Mavericks' strong dance groove, Raul Malo's stellar vocals and super cool saxophone work from Max Abrams. The Mavericks are masters at honoring the spirit and power of the original versions while simultaneously making them decidedly their own. Waylon Jennings' "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way" has all the assurance and power of the original even while this rendition has a sonic stamp that stands on its own. The beautiful retro-mining "Don't You Ever Get Tired (Of Hurting Me)" showcases Malo's shining tenor, as well as the artful textures of his musical companions on a particularly affecting arrangement. This is truly a tribute that never falters; interpretations ranging from a New Orleans rhythm and blues take on Bruce Springsteen's "Hungry Heart," the buoyant "Once Upon A Time" (featuring guest vocals from Martina McBride) and sumptuous version of the Elvis Presley hit "Don't Be Cruel" are among the other terrific takes on this winning set. Information: TheMavericksBand.com.
Title: Sitting on Top of the Blues (Deep Rush Records / Thirty Tigers)
Tell me more: Bluesman Bobby Rush's aptly-pegged Sitting on Top of the Blues is filled with infectious tracks that recall the past while propelling the genre into the future. Launching things with the explosive "Hey Hey Bobby Rush," stylish lead guitar, a driving rhythm and R&B-flavored horns help bolster the winning track. A dance between blues harp and lead guitar introduces "Good Stuff" before Rush uses his powerful baritone to enthrall listeners the rest of the way. The songs on the disc powerfully fuse blues, soul, funk, and R&B in artful perfection. Other highlights on the Grammy Award winning artist's disc include the joyful "You Got the Goods on You," the nimble blues harp-anchored instrumental "Bobby Rush Shuffle," the acoustic Delta-drenched "Recipe for Love" and funked out "Shake Til' You Get Enough." Information: BobbyRushBluesman.com.
Title: Reckless & Me (BMG)
You might like if you enjoy: Merle Haggard, Michael Ubaldini, Johnny Cash
Tell me more: Although Kiefer Sutherland's outstanding Jude Cole-produced debut Down in a Hole was among my favorite albums of 2016, I somehow missed the release of the famed actor-musician's sophomore album when it was released back in April 2019 (I'll blame it on my Coachella-related duties). Well, in December 2019 I finally had a chance to listen to Reckless & Me and I'm kicking myself that I didn't wrap my ears around this 10-track LP sooner. All the honest real life tales and authentic traditional country music elements that made Sutherland's debut a thrill are firmly in place this time around as well with the raspy-voiced singer demonstrating even more confidence with his signature vocals. Take "Saskatchewan," whose stirring arc includes an otherworldly musical intro, beautifully-delivered spoken word and sung sections as well as poignant literate verses worthy of the genre's greatest icons. The honky tonk gem "This is How It's Done," Leon Russell-flavored romp "Run to Him," evocative "Song for a Daughter," enthralling "Open Road," genre-busting "Agave" and countrified rock take on the 1993 Patty Loveless hit "Blame It On Your Heart" are as artistically rich as they are unquestionably listenable. One of the year's best. Information: KieferSutherland.net.
Title: Into The Blue (Rebelle Road Records)
Tell me more: Alice Wallace's Into the Blue was one of the first masterworks of 2019. An album that combines the best of contemporary Americana and country music styles, the 10-track album should further introduce the emerging artist to a wider audience. Wallace has an emotive and dazzling soprano voice to be sure (just listen to her voice soar in the final moments of "Desert Rose" and artfully again in "Top of the World") but it is the way she wraps her musical talents around persuasive songs often directed at issues of female empowerment and life in Southern California that elevate the soaring soundscapes even higher. Every song on Into The Blue is a great one with the tracks resonating with each listen; indeed residents of wildfire-ravaged Southern California will relate to the timely "Santa Ana Winds" while everyone will appreciate universal themes explored in "The Lonely Talking," "The Same Old Song" and "Top of the World." Information: AliceWallaceMusic.com.
Title: Where The Action Is (Cooking Vinyl)
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter Mike Scott and his outstanding group known as the Waterboys have returned with another must-hear album (Where the Action Is) of literate and lusty rock. Since forming the band in Scotland in the early 1980s, Scott has written and recorded heartfelt original material tinged with classic rock, folk, Celtic and alternative styles to give his material a diverse and enchanting sweep. Few songwriters tap into the day-to-day experience of living life itself like Scott, whose lyrics resonate with the power of rock's all-time greats; listen to the tear-inducing folk rocker "In My Time On Earth" and lyrics-driven "Ladbroke Grove Symphony" to get an instant feel of Scott's brilliance. Ever the sonic explorer, Scott dips back to the poetry of Robert Burns (1759-1796) for the Celtic "Then She Made the Lasses O," and even offers up a full-on rap selection via "Take Me There I Will Follow You" and seemingly proves nothing is out of reach. Information: MikeScottWaterboys.com.
Title: WHO (Interscope)
Tell me more: Anyone fearing that 2006's less-than-perfect album Endless Wire might be The Who's final full-length artistic statement needs to hear the band's eponymous 12th studio album released in early December. WHO is the band's best album since 1982's It's Hard, and is remarkable on every level – in fact it is one of the best albums of 2019. Roger Daltrey's lead vocals sound fantastic and the tracks explode musically in support of the inspired arrangements and sharp lyrics; guitarist-singer Pete Townshend, drummer Zak Starkey, and other musicians on the disc (notably keyboardist Benmont Tench who guests on three tracks) are locked in everywhere. This being a Who album, there are plenty of fiery rockers and reflective turns. "All This Music Must Fade," "Detour," "Rockin' In Rage," and the mid-tempo "Hero Ground Zero" explode with every listen; the soul-searching "Beads On One String" the lush "Street Song" and sweeping "Break The News" are absolutely beautiful. The jazz-tinged "She Rocked My World" is among the more experimental material on the disc. A deluxe edition of the album available at Target stores includes three must-hear bonus tracks ("This Gun Will Misfire," "Got Nothing to Prove," "Danny and My Ponies") that augment an already-brilliant release. Information: TheWho.com.
Title: Caretakers (Shelly Music)
Tell me more: Across Pete Yorn's wonderful 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.
Honorable Mention
Title: No Holiday (Omnivore Recordings)
Tell me more: When Kim Shattuck passed away from complications from ALS – commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease – on Oct. 2, 2019, it silenced one of Southern California's most dynamic and original musical voices. However, the good news for fans of the celebrated singer-songwriter/guitarist is she had recently completed work on the Muffs' latest album No Holiday. The ambitious 18-track album – featuring songs the Los Angeles native had written between 1991 and 2017 – is a fitting tribute to Shattuck who also produced the disc. Along with her talented band mates (bassist Ronnie Barnett and drummer Roy McDonald), the Muffs' first new release in five years, No Holiday reigns in the sonic moodscape located midway between power pop and pop punk. The songs charge ahead with the melodic firepower brandished on the band's past classics. "Down Down Down," "Late And Sorry," "Pollyanna" and "On My Own" are among the tuneful rockers; "No Holiday," "A Lovely Day Boo Hoo" and "Happier Just Being With You" are more wistful and melodic. All the material on No Holiday gloriously showcases the range of the Muffs. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.
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