I am a little late to the ball game on “first half of the
year, favorite records thus far” lists, but one came out this week that really
made me want to throw something together. This of course is not even a drop in the barrel of the great music I have heard so far, but a collection of 5 records that I listened to and really cannot seem to put down since that first spin...so, without further adieu, here is my list of
5 favorite (and most diverse) records of 2013 so far.
1)
Chris Thile’s Bach: Sonatas and Partitas Vol. 1
OK, my review wasn’t exactly a review, but the more
and more I listen to music, the more and more I find it difficult to find music
that really and truly excites the shit out of me. Chris Thile’s music is
exciting. Even when taking what may be a standard classical piece, he somehow imposes
new vivacity and soul into it. There is something so emotionally stimulating
about his playing that even when it’s a recording, you can see how excited he
is about the music. The translation of his own energy and enthusiasm shines
through even when you cannot see him playing. I have said it once, and will
said it over and over again…Chris Thile is the greatest and most exciting
musician I think I will ever see in my lifetime.
2)
Ian Fitzgerald: No Time To Be Tender
It could become awkward when one of your friend’s
records becomes one of your favorites and they become one of your favorite
songwriters…but (earmuff warning for anyone who may be offended) Ian’s
songwriting is so fucking good that it’s just impossible to not love this
record. He somehow manages to take an audible work and make it so visual and
visceral with the imagery that he uses that you feel like you are in the room
where the story is taking place. He has a dry sense of humor and wit that
complements his storytelling and vocal so perfectly (and the harmonies ala
Courtney Gallagher are gorgeous). Everything about this album is great, the
songs are full of compassion, the musical performances are tight, it’s just
excellent and I can’t stop listening to it.
3)
Jason Isbell : Southeastern
This record has everything. Rock n’ roll tunes,
heartfelt songs that make me sob like a 4 year old girl, and everything in
between. Isbell is a hell of a guitar player, and an even more convincing
songwriter. I haven’t stopped playing this record at least daily since I got my
hands on it. Bottom line: A flawless record.
4)
Sarah Borrello: Exit
This record has balls….which is funny because it’s
from a female musician. I believe the term I used over and over again was….sexy.
Yeah, it still is. Little Janis Joplin, a little Fiona Apple, a little Robert
Johnson…well, she has an appreciation for the genre. Bluesy, soulful, and
sultry…plus it just plain rocks. Sarah’s voice is one of the strongest I have
heard in a long while, it cuts down deep and tears your heart out. This gal is
going to break out in a big way after this release and into the rest of 2013, I
just have a feeling. Be sure to keep her on your radar.
5)
Glenn Yoder and the Western States: Javelina
You never forget your first. Yoder’s record was
catchy, the band was clean and prime, everything about this just screamed “guess
what, I am going to be stuck in your head for the rest of the week”…and it still
is. Plus, he is a hell of a guy and the band was giving it away for free. It has great
balance between folky ballads and rocking, swampy tunes. Something for
everyone, so if you haven’t, then go check that out right now.
After thought: Mr. Yoder, being the class act that he is, reminded me that this is a BAND record, not a Glenn Yoder solo show. These guys are pretty incredible live (the rest of the band being Cilla, Jeff, Brooks and Chris). Just needed to get that in there! Sorry G!
After thought: Mr. Yoder, being the class act that he is, reminded me that this is a BAND record, not a Glenn Yoder solo show. These guys are pretty incredible live (the rest of the band being Cilla, Jeff, Brooks and Chris). Just needed to get that in there! Sorry G!
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