The Old Ceremony Walk On Thin Air – Indie records are like Pixar films – they take a lot of labor and love, and every step has to be deliberate to avoid a misuse of funds or wasting time. And in the end you get a wonderful piece of art to enjoy for many years to come. I include The Old Ceremony in this. This band has the ability to take a dozen or so musical genres and form them together in a unique hybrid. Their third album starts out with “Til My Voice Is Gone,” a wonderful song of affirmation that is made even better by Django Haskins’ lovely, lovely voice. (It makes me melt.) My personal favorite is turning out to be “The Disappear” because of it’s smoky jazz club feel. Dig it. And “Same Difference” struck me as a dark-tinged rocker, very bass heavy. The boys of The Old Ceremony have gone from great to better in the span of their few years, and it’s a relief to know that is still possible to do that these days. The album is aurally delicious and I look forward to its official release in February!
Cary Ann Hearst & Michael Trent Shovels & Rope – So far, the best description I’ve heard for this album is from the Charleston City Paper: “just right for vampires who wear wifebeaters and down PBR.” This is the kind of music I have developed a real taste for in the last few years. Not only does it have personal significance for me as I’ve known these two musicians for a number of years, but it’s the right kind of musical darkness I thrive on. Miss Cary Ann has developed so much as a singer, performer, and writer over the last five years I’ve been following her career, it’s actually quite astounding. The song “Can’t Hardly Stand It” has me floored. It reminded me of the first time I consciously heard Clapton’s “Layla” and was basically paralyzed for a short period of time. And the cover of Jay Clifford’s “Mexico” is one gorgeous piece of work to pull on the heartstrings. Music like this makes me wanna strap on my boots from the Recycled Cowboy and break some po’ boy’s heart.
The Welcome Wagon Welcome to the Welcome Wagon – In a change of demeanor from the above album, Brooklyn pastor and wife duo Welcome Wagon also have some dark themes to tackle, but in a twee and sweet manner. And I can’t get enough of it. The record was produced by Sufjan Stevens, and for those of us who are anxiously awaiting a new Soof record, this is a great placesetter until that time. The sound is very much like his, but more Jesus thrown in. That plus Velvet Underground and Smiths covers. “Sold! To the Nice Rich Man” is one of the standouts for it’s particular Sufjan feel, but each track is a winner. It’s excellent music for the church-going hipster (*ahem*), or for anyone who likes a touch of kitsch, doesn’t mind a little gospel preaching, and some Southern gothic lyrics for the sweet ‘n’ sour effect. Very highly recommended.
