Count Greg Felden, Cage The Elephant, Jenny Lewis albums as 2019 essentials

The forthcoming full-length debut from singer-songwriter Greg Felden, as well as wonderful new albums from Cage The Elephant and Jenny Lewis are among the strongest releases this writer has discovered this year.

Artist: Greg Felden
Title: Made of Strings (New Neighborhood)
You might like if you enjoy: Ted Russell Kamp, The Jayhawks
Tell me more: Greg Felden's Made of Strings is such a deep and poignant album that it astounds that this is the Eugene, Oregon native's first full-length release. The material's soundscape ranges from folk and rock to alt country and roots material, all delivered with a master's touch. There isn't a weak cut on the 10-song album; my favorites include the undeniably-melodic "Every Time," Jayhawks-styled "When the Change Comes" and driving Americana rocker "Tell Me What's Broken." The album was recorded while Felden's girlfriend Samantha Morris was battling cancer (sadly she passed away prior to the release of "Made of Strings"); there is a sense that the power of these songs and the recordings owe much to her enduring spirit. With his stirring vocals and the backing of a fantastic group of musicians, Felden's Made of Strings is an inspired and impressive introduction. Made of Strings is set for release on June 14, 2019. Information: gregfelden.com.

Artist: Cage The Elephant
Title: Social Cues (RCA)
You might like if you enjoy: Beck, Foster the People, A R I Z O N A
Tell me more: The hyper-electronic, post-DEVO flavored "Broken Boy" opens Cage The Elephant's excellent 2019 album Social Cues but the Kentucky-spawned six-man band's artistic reach quickly extends to dance pop (the catchy single "Ready To Let Go" and equally-strong "Black Madonna"), indie rock ("Skin and Bones," "Dance Dance," "The War is Over") and far afield styles (notably the chamber pop foray "House of Glass" and Neo-psychedelia caper "What I'm Becoming"). Another highlight on this welcome return is the swirling indietronica slice "Night Running" featuring Beck. Cage The Elephant will co-headline with Beck this summer on a highly-anticipated tour; the two artists will perform throughout the U.S. in July and August . Information: CageTheElephant.com.

Artist: Jenny Lewis
Title: On The Line (Warner Bros. Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Rilo Kiley, Aimee Mann, Carole King
Tell me more: One of today's most talented and independent voices, Jenny Lewis' fourth solo studio album (On The Line) finds the songstress chronicling loss via an uplifting '70s sheen that is both inspired and authentic. With a cast of true legends contributing to the musical proceedings (including Ringo Starr, Beck, Don Was, Jim Keltner, Jason Falkner and Benmont Tench), Lewis has delivered a flawless and enthralling set of original songcraft-centered tracks that has met with widespread acclaim. The reflective rocker "Wasted Youth," uptempo melodic gem "Red Bull & Hennessy" (featuring the dual drumming of Starr and Keltner), ambitious "Dogwood" and irresistible "Rabbit Hole" are among my favorite songs on a stellar collection. "Little White Dove" is a song that details Lewis' emotions as she spent time with her mother in the hospital prior to her death from liver cancer; that track has a compelling funk-rock vibe that defies cliche and is bolstered by some of Lewis' most striking vocals in memory. Information: JennyLewis.com. 

Robert Kinsler

Wide range of artists shine bright on new albums

In addition to welcoming the continent-hopping collective Riddle & The Stars to the burgeoning Americana genre via their terrific debut, a strong field of artists have returned with noteworthy new releases.

Artist: Riddle & The Stars

Title: This Is Happening (independent release)

You might like if you enjoy: Gram Parsons & Emmylou Harris, Fleet Foxes, Johnnyswim

Tell me more: Few movements in modern music have been as rewarding as the explosion of Americana over the past decade. Extending the sonic soundscape first established by the likes of Neil Young, Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris, modern-day heroes like Mumford & Sons, Trampled by Turtles and Johnnyswim have extended the reach of the genre in new and exciting directions. So too now have Australian singer-songwriter Ben Riddle and Huntington Beach, California-based outfit The Fallen Stars on the newly-issued collaboration This Is Happening. The sterling 12-track collection of authentic songs are enriched by a blend indie folk, alt country and roots music as Riddle and the Stars' talented tandem of Bobbo and Tracy Barnes each get to sing lead vocals while elsewhere they combine forces for some crafty harmonies (notably on the stirring title track).  Highlights include the haunting "Favourite Photograph," reflective "Massachusetts," lovely "Stronger Than Steel" (inspired by the Kaylee Frye character on the cult sci-fi show Firefly) and epic "Dam." Note: This Is Happening isn't scheduled to be released until August 2014, but you can get the first single "Chance" via the link listed below. Information: thefallenstars.com. 

Get the single "Chance" here

Artist: Jenny Lewis

Title: The Voyager (Warner Bros.)

You might like if you enjoy: The Watson Twins' 2006 album "Rabbit Fur Coat," Jenny and Johnny, Rilo Kiley

Tell me more: Rarely is an album as interesting or confessional as California singer-songwriter Jenny Lewis' The Voyager. The former singer of Rilo Kiley, Lewis is not afraid to explore and share the deepest reaches of her soul as evidenced by a range of songs offered in different musical styles with lyrics that clearly reflect her own experiences with a rich honesty that is never less than inspired. The evocative "She's Not Me," bouncy New Wave-tinged "Head Underwater" and baroque pop gem "Late Bloomer" are among the wonderful songs on this outstanding album. Information: jennylewis.com. The Voyager is set to be released on Tuesday, July 29, 2014.

Pre-order "The Voyager" now

Artist: Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

Title: Hypnotic Eye (Warner Bros.)

You might like if you enjoy: Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Mudcrutch

Tell me more: Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers' 13th album Hypnotic Eye not only rocks with abandon but mostly recaptures the youthful spirit of the Florida-spawned ensemble's best '70s and '80s efforts. From the mighty opener "American Dream Plan B" and sparse "Full Grown Boy" to the rollicking "All You Carry" (you have to love Mike Campbell's guitar work in this one) and similarly fierce "Forgotten Man," there is a vibrancy and power that defies the group's "classic rock" moniker. What's more, the edgy "Fault Lines" could have fit in as a track on the Beatles' "White Album," with its savage John Lennon-styled guitar licks and confessional core. Information: tompetty.com. Hypnotic Eye is set for release on Tuesday, July 29, 2014.

Pre-order "Hypnotic Eye" now!

Artist: Marillion

Title: A Sunday Night Above the Rain (earMUSIC / Eagle Rock Entertainment)

You might like if you enjoy: Peter Gabriel, Porcupine Tree, Radiohead

Tell me more: While British rock artists such as The Beatles and Rolling Stones have achieved widespread acclaim in the U.S., outstanding U.K.'s exports including Blur, Keane and Porcupine Tree have been mostly overlooked here. Add to that essential-listening list the pioneering Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire legend Marillion. The band's newly-released double-album A Sunday Night Above the Rain features the stellar neo-progressive alt rock troupe captured in action in the Netherlands on March 10, 2013 playing all eight songs from their 2012 studio disc Sounds That Can't Be Made as well as long-time favorites including "Garden Party" and "This Strange Engine." Information: Marillion.com. 

Buy "A Sunday Night Above The Rain" here

Artist: First Aid Kit

Title: Stay Gold (Columbia Records)

You might like if you enjoy: Emmylou Harris, Puss n Boots, Fleet Foxes

Tell me more: Anyone questioning the foundation First Aid Kit — Swedish sisters Klara and Johanna Söderberg -— set on their 2012 debut, need listen no further than their aptly-titled sophomore effort Stay Gold. The Stockholm-based sisters continue to blend artful and melodic song craft with voices that harmonize in infinite magical ways that haunt and soar simultaneously. There is a slightly edgier approach this time around, both in the lyrics and music making that will further excite the faithful. Standouts on the 10-track disc include the sorrowful "Cedar Lane," the probing "The Bell" and mournful romantic epic "A Long Time Ago." Information: thisisfirstaidkit.com.

Purchase "Stay Gold" here

Artist: Michael Lington

Title: Soul Appeal (Copenhagen Music)

You might like if you enjoy: Mindi Abair, Richard Elliot

Tell me more: As modern as it it retro, Michael Lington's Soul Appeal boasts 11 accessible and grooving tracks that blend Memphis soul, funk and R&B. A skilled threat on alto and tenor sax player, Lington shines every step of the way without stepping on the talented cast of players around him. Most of the disc shines with instrumental tracks, although the '70s-mining romantic song "Gonna Love You Tonight" features Kenny Lattimore; "Leave Me You" (co-written and sung by Ryan Shaw) is one of those kind of timeless ballads that Sam Cooke could have hit out of the park half a century ago. Information: MichaelLington.com.

Buy "Soul Appeal" today

Inbox Update: Doheny Blues Fest update, OMD, She & Him

Here is the latest roundup of releases to land in my magical inbox...Jimmie Vaughan, OMD, She & Him - plenty of new music to look forward to for sure!

Doheny Blues Fest 2013: Jimmie Vaughan and
The Tilt-A-Whirl Band Featuring Lou Ann Barton

Jimmie & Lou Ann return to Doheny Blues after 10 years!

Jimmie Vaughan provides a vital link between contemporary music and its proud heritage, as well as being a longtime avatar of retro cool. In a career spanning more than 5 decades, Vaughan has won multiple Grammy Awards, appeared in several films and released 6 critically acclaimed solo albums. Not to mention, he was a founding member of The Fabulous Thunderbirds.

Joining Vaughan in his Tilt-A-Whirl Band will be Texas female vocalist Lou Ann Barton. Barton is one of the finest purveyors of raw, unadulterated roadhouse blues and can belt out a lyric with poise and confidence. 

For more details on everything related to the upcoming festival, visit the new Doheny Blues Web site at dohenybluesfestival.com.

OMD REVEAL THEIR NEW ALBUM ARTWORK;

ENGLISH ELECTRIC OUT APRIL 9^TH ON BMG;

NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES CONFIRMED

  

BMG is excited to reveal the artwork for the soon-to-be-released OMD album, English Electric. Throughout their storied career, the band's cover art has always been an extension of their sound and they put a great deal of care into it; the new album's cover was designed by Tom Skipp and the band's creative director, the legendary Peter Saville.

OMD will perform at Coachella 2013

OMD's Andy McCluskey says: "It feels appropriate that the sleeve of English Electric is a contemporary distillation of traditional hazard signals."

Peter Saville says: "English Electric is best described as brutally simple dynamic energy...Briefed by OMD to be as reductive as possible, the cover captures but barely contains the hi-tension of an industrial legend."

English Electric is out April 9^th on BMG. A 12-track letter to technology, space and love, it's a grand return to form, the follow-up to 2010's LP History of Modern and comes in a variety of formats:

* Standard CD - jewel case
* Deluxe edition - limited edition media book, CD + Bonus DVD includes a studio interview with Andy and Paul, 3 Henning M Lederer animated videos and unseen tour photos

* Vinyl LP - limited edition, Die Cut sleeve, heavy weight vinyl, includes album on CD

* Boxset - ultimate collectors format, limited and signed by Andy and Paul on an English Electric certificate of authenticity. The tin, with embossed OMD logo and artwork print, includes an exclusive 7" with un-released b-side, 16 page lyric booklet, DVD, Demo CD, Album CD, 3 artwork prints, a photo of Andy and Paul, and all pre order via the website include 2 metal enamel badges.

OMD have confirmed North American Tour dates, beginning April 4 in Vancouver, BC, and ending on the second weekend of Coachella on April 21. The band will return in July. The complete list of tour dates is below:

April

5 - Commodore Ballroom - Vancouver, BC

6 - The Showbox - Seattle, WA

7 - Wonder Ballroom - Portland, OR

10 - The Depot - Salt Lake City, UT

12 - Regency Ballroom - San Francisco, CA

14 - Coachella Festival - Indio, CA

18 - Metropolitan Theatre - Mexico City, MX

21 - Coachella Festival - Indio, CA

July

8 - Varsity Theatre - Minneapolis, MN

9 - Metro - Chicago, IL

11 - Danforth Music Hall - Toronto, ON

12 - Union Transfer - Philadelphia, PA

13 - 9:30 Club - Washington, DC

15 - Paradise - Boston, MA

17 - Terminal 5 - New York, NY

http://www.omd.uk.com/

She & Him amping up for 2013 with new album and summertime tour

Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward – will release their third album of original material, Volume 3, on Merge Records on May 7 and the following week in UK/Europe. The duo hit the road for a month-long tour this summer (see the full list of tour dates below).

 

With 14 songs – 11 Deschanel originals and three covers (including U2) – Volume 3 was produced by Wardand features guest contributions from NRBQ’s Joey Spampinato, Mike Watt, Tilly and the Wall, Pierre de Reeder from Rilo Kiley, and Tom Hagerman from Devotchka.

Since the release of the band’s album Volume Two in 2010, Deschanel's TV show New Girlmade her a sitcom star as she continued to hone her songwriting skills, pend the show's theme song and got nominated for a Grammy for Best Original Song for the movie Winnie the Pooh.

 

She wrote songs for Volume 3 during downtime while filming New Girl, as Ward toured behind his latest solo CD, A Wasteland Companion, released to critical acclaim last year. Together and separately, the duo has sold over a million albums domestically.

 

Track listing for Volume 3:

1. I’ve Got Your Number, Son
2. Never Wanted Your Love
3. Baby
4. I Could’ve Been Your Girl
5. Turn to White
6. Somebody Sweet to Talk To
7. Something’s Haunting You
8. Together
9. Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me
10. Snow Queen
11. Sunday Girl
12. London
13. Shadow of Love
14. Reprise (I Could’ve Been Your Girl)

Tour dates:

6/13/13 Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
6/15/13 Grand Prairie, TX @ Verizon Theater at Grand Prairie
6/16/13 Austin, TX @ ACL Live at the Moody Theatre
6/18/13 Phoenix, AZ @ Comerica Theater
6/19/13 Las Vegas, NV @ The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
6/21/13 San Diego, CA @ SDSU Open Air Theatre
6/22/13 Berkeley, CA @ Greek Theatre *
6/23/13 Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl *
6/25/13 Salt Lake City, UT @ Red Butte Gardens
6/27/13 Council Bluffs, IA @ Hurrah’s Stir Cove
6/29/13 Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom #
7/1/13 Ann Arbor, MI @ Hill Auditorium #
7/3/13 Montreal, QUE @ Montreal Jazz Festival – Symphony Hall #
7/4/13 Toronto, ON @ Toronto Urban Roots Festival #
7/6/13 New York, NY @ Central Park Summerstage #
7/9/13 Philadelphia, PA @ Mann Center for Performing Arts #
7/10/13 Boston, MA @ Bank of America Pavilion #
7/11/13 Vienna, VA @ Filene Center at Wolf Trap #

* with Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell
# with Camera Obscura