Helmet, Cat Power, & Dirty Three
The Week in New Music & Dig Me Out Podcast
The New Releases & Critical Consensus
Helmet - LEFT
"Helmet, known for influencing the noise rock and alt-metal scene since the early '90s, has seen commercial success and influenced countless post-hardcore bands. "Left" is their ninth studio album, released after a significant hiatus, with Page Hamilton being the only original member left. The album reflects their long-standing sound but shows signs of experimentation and diversification, albeit with a mixed reception.
What Critics Are Saying:
The consensus rating for Helmet's album "Left" leans towards a "Better EP," indicating that while the album has its strengths, it could benefit from refinement and more consistent quality throughout.
Scream - DC Special
Scream, a seminal band in the punk scene, marks a monumental return with "Scream - DC Special," their first new album in three decades. This release is deeply rooted in their historic journey, recorded in the significant setting of Don Zientara's Inner Ear Studios, which was on the verge of eviction. This album captures a critical moment in D.C.'s music history. It features collaborations with prominent figures like Dave Grohl and Ian MacKaye, highlighting Scream's influential role and capacity to evolve while honoring their essence.
What Critics Are Saying:
The consensus among critics is that "Scream - DC Special" is a "Worthy Album." This rating reflects the album's successful blend of musical diversity, collaborative spirit, and homage to the band's roots and late drummer Kent Stax. While the album's diverse range and numerous guest appearances add to its richness, some critics noted a lack of cohesion, suggesting that the variety of styles, though ambitious, occasionally impacts the album's overall narrative coherence.
Cat Power - Cat Power Sings Dylan: The 1966 Royal Albert Hall Concert
In November 2022, Cat Power, alias Chan Marshall, recreated Bob Dylan's iconic 1966 concert at London's Royal Albert Hall, originally held at the Manchester Free Trade Hall. This historic performance, known for Dylan's genre-defining shift from acoustic to electric, deeply influenced rock-and-roll. Marshall's rendition, captured in the live album "Cat Power Sings Dylan: The 1966 Royal Albert Hall Concert," is both a tribute and a reinterpretation. She infused the songs with a unique blend of conviction, grace, and luminous joy, reinvigorating Dylan's revered compositions with her distinct artistic perspective while honoring the original's transformative spirit.
What Critics Are Saying:
The consensus for "Cat Power Sings Dylan: The 1966 Royal Albert Hall Concert" leans towards a "Worthy Album." This rating reflects the album's high quality and consistency, showcasing Chan Marshall's reverence for Bob Dylan's work and her ability to infuse her unique style into these classic songs.
Todd Snider - Crank It, We're Doomed
Todd Snider, an American singer-songwriter blending folk, rock, blues, alt-country, and funk, released "Crank It, We're Doomed" after a significant delay. Initially recorded in 2007, this album marks a creative high point in Snider's career, displaying his versatility and depth as a songwriter. Influenced by his experiences in the music scenes of Texas and Memphis and his collaborations with legends like John Prine, the album's eclectic mix of genres has garnered praise from Americana Highways and No Depression, earning a "Worthy Album" rating. Critics laud its musical diversity and storytelling, though the delayed release may affect its cohesion.
What Critics Are Saying:
Todd Snider's "Crank It, We're Doomed" is viewed as a "Worthy Album" by Americana Highways and No Depression. The album showcases Snider's strengths as a versatile and insightful songwriter, blending folk, country, talking blues, rock, and garage-rock elements. Critics praise its diverse musical styles, lyrical depth, storytelling, and notable collaborations with artists like Loretta Lynn and Kris Kristofferson. However, the long shelving period and the reassembly of tracks over the years may have impacted the album's overall cohesion.
Mike Mangini - Invisible Signs
Mike Mangini, acclaimed for his Grammy-winning drumming and record-setting speed, released his solo album "Invisible Signs." Known for his unique technique and collaborations with renowned artists, Mangini's album reflects his vast experience and contributions to music education. "Invisible Signs," recorded in a diverse musical landscape, showcases his innovation and versatility.
What Critics Are Saying:
The consensus for "Invisible Signs" is a "Worthy Album." The album is praised for its unexpected, distinctive elements like its mix, keyboard/midi work, and efficient songwriting. Vocal performances, particularly in tracks like "Deep Inside," were highlighted for quality. However, critiques include odd creative choices and a perceived over-commerciality in certain tracks like "So Alive" and unconventional subject matters in songs such as "Glamorous Shades."
