Peddlin Dreams – Maria McKee: You could say this one is High Dive Part 2 since it feels like a continuation her 2003 release and maybe it was the leftovers. I personally enjoy the album but I think most people will find this one gloomier since her songs are more pessimistic and desperate such as “People in the Way.” There are couple of happier moments too, “Season of the Fair” at the opening yet that’s not the overall mood one walks away with when the CD ends.
Similarities: Cary Caitlin, Roseanne Cash, Lone Justice, Lyle Lovett, Beth Wood.
Recommendation: For Maria McKee fans, grows on you with strong reservations.
Paper Tigers – Caesars: This one has been out for a while, I’ve just been slow reviewing it. I would have to say that it’s definitely one of my top ten favorites this year which I found surprising because their previous album wasn’t memorable yet I only bought this being the completist I am with music collecting. The only downside is the re-issuing of “Jerk it out” on this album. My personal guess is to take advantage of the buzz they received from being used for an iPod commercial. Putting the recycling aside, this release is much stronger and polished. My favorite song is “We Gotta’ Leave” which is so catchy, especially at the chorus. Definitely one of the best singles of the year and actually the remainder of CD is excellent. So excellent that it was hard to decide which singles to add to my stream which is always a great dilemma.
Similarities: ? and the Mysterions, Sahara Hotnights, Sloan.
Recommendation: Worth Buying.
X&Y – Coldplay: As I’ve grown older, I’ve become less of an elitist with my music. Popularity is no longer a disqualifier for purchasing (or adding to my stream). However, Coldplay is definitely a band that has arrived in musical circles. What I mean by that word is they have a level of popularity near U2 levels, most people buy their albums, they’re on most radio stations and they sell tickets to large venues pretty easily. Time will tell if it is sustainable. In addition, for me, Coldplay is in the same boat as U2, REM and the Cure. They’re staples of a genre of music I like but I don’t get that excited about them. They do songs I dislike yet they do other songs that I do enjoy (quick apology to my friend Mark who’s a big Cure fan). So how’s the album? Really good despite all my quantifiers. I think it lives up to the hype built up to its arrival so don’t dismiss it just over “Speed of Sound” being played to death.
Similarities: U2, Catherine Wheel, Travis.
Recommendation: Worth Buying.