Sheryl Crow, Ride, Dredg, & Majesty Crush
The Week in New Music & Dig Me Out Podcast
New Release Reviews 🤔
Sheryl Crow - Evolution
"Evolution" brings a mix of reflection, humor, and commentary on modern life. Notable collaborations include contributions from Peter Gabriel, Wendy Melvoin, and Tom Morello, adding depth and diversity to the album's sound. Produced by Mike Elizondo, "Evolution" is described as a mix of adult alternative pop/rock, alternative/indie rock, contemporary pop/rock, American trad rock, and contemporary singer/songwriter styles. Crow's involvement in the album extends beyond vocals, playing acoustic guitar, Wurlitzer electric piano, harp, and piano on various tracks, emphasizing her multifaceted talent .
"Evolution" also reflects on the complexities of modern life, including the impacts of artificial intelligence, as well as the importance of mindfulness and gratitude. It stands as a reminder of Crow's ability to evolve with the times while maintaining a connection to her roots and core musical identity.
Mario Lalli & The Rubber Snake Charmers - Folklore From The Other Desert Cities
'Folklore From The Other Desert Cities' introduces a supergroup of desert rock pioneers including Mario Lalli, Brant Bjork, Sean Wheeler, and Ryan Güt. This project, recorded live in Australia, encapsulates the essence of desert rock through a blend of heavy bass lines, intuitive guitar, and exploratory percussion, layered with Wheeler's poignant desert poetry. The album, a vivid narrative journey through Southern California's Mojave Desert, marks a significant addition to the genre, showcasing the seamless improvisation and unique synergy between the band members. It's described as offering a shamanic experience akin to a heavy psych version of The Doors, making it a profound auditory exploration of desert life and landscapes".
Rage - Afterlifelines
"Afterlifelines" is a monumental double album that marks a significant milestone for the German metal band, celebrating 40 years of their contribution to the metal genre. This ambitious project consists of 21 tracks, including an intro, interlude, and outro, showcasing a blend of traditional and experimental musical approaches. The first disc, "Afterlife," features songs recorded as a trio, emphasizing the band's foundational metal sound. The second disc, "Lifelines," explores new territory with classical orchestral arrangements, adding a symphonic layer to their well-established heavy metal roots. The album, crafted by the trio of Peavy Wagner, Jean Bormann, and Vassilios “Lucky” Maniatopoulos, spans over 94 minutes, culminating in a "20-minute grand finale" that Wagner describes with excitement. Alongside the album release, Rage has announced an extensive 2024 world tour covering Canada, Japan, and several European countries, further celebrating their four-decade legacy.
The High Llamas - Hey Panda
Released via Drag City, this album showcases a refreshing direction for the band, deeply influenced by the avant-pop sensibilities that have characterized their music since their formation in London in 1992. Hey Panda promises a blend of alternative, pop, and avant-garde styles, encapsulating the creative evolution of Sean O’Hagan and the band. O'Hagan, drawing inspiration from diverse sources including his appreciation for TikTok and the influential work of J Dilla, aims to bridge various musical legacies from soul to lo-fi indie, creating a hybrid sound that resonates with generous creativity and non-judgmental musical expression. The album includes collaborations with notable artists such as Rae Morris and Bonnie "Prince" Billy, adding to its eclectic appeal.
Jim White - All Hits: Memories
Jim White's solo debut, All Hits: Memories, emerges as a reflective and unique exploration into the Australian drummer's expansive musical voyage. Released by Drag City on March 29, 2024, this album is distinguished by its nocturnal and introspective quality, setting it apart from conventional drumming records. Described by Bill Callahan, the album is a sonic canvas painted with prehistoric breaths and memories, allowing time itself to "frolic, graze, and remember." Through tracks like "Names Make The Name," White delves into emotional landscapes with a delicate touch, often opting for brushes over sticks, crafting soundscapes that are at once thoughtful and occasionally sinister. The collaboration with Guy Picciotto on production adds layers of atmospheric sound, inviting listeners into White's intimate world of recollection and expression.
Snodgrass + Buddies - Barge At Will
"Barge At Will" not only marks Snodgrass's mastery in blending punk, indie rock, and folk punk but also showcases the collaborative genius of notable artists like Chris Wollard and Chris Cresswell from Hot Water Music, Peter “JR” Wasilewski from Less Than Jake, and Scott Reynolds from ALL, with Bill Stevenson laying the foundation on drums and bass. Recorded at The Blasting Room in Fort Collins, CO, "Barge At Will" is celebrated for its autobiographical storytelling and engaging narratives, highlighted by the lead single "Crunchin’ The Numbers".
Puscifer, A Perfect Circle, and Primus - Sessanta E.P.P.P.
The "Sessanta E.P.P.P." is a unique three-song EP by Puscifer, A Perfect Circle, and Primus, just ahead of their "Sessanta" tour beginning April 2. This collaborative project will feature one new track from each band, with all songs co-written by Maynard James Keenan. The EP is a blend of the distinctive styles of each band, marking a notable release in the rock and alternative music scene. It will be available digitally and on vinyl, with special editions including a glow-in-the-dark vinyl and an autographed tour-exclusive variant limited to 75 copies per show night.
Darius Rucker - Life's Too Short: A Memoir
The memoir promises to deliver a raw, candid look at Rucker's journey from his upbringing in Charleston, South Carolina, through his rise to fame and his encounters with music legends. Through stories centered around twenty-three significant songs, Rucker reflects on his experiences, both the highs and the challenges, sharing insights into the music that has shaped his career and life.
New 90s Rock Podcasts ✨
Dredg - Leitmotif | 90s Rock Album Review
Majesty Crush | 90s Artist Interview
80s Metal Album Tournament 🏟️
Let's crank it up! We've shortlisted four 80s Metal albums from your suggestions. Which one's your jam? Vote now!
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