Arcade Fire "Reflektor"

Released 10/28/2013

This is a band you never know what to expect from.  Constantly evolving, they take the listener on a journey that can be rewarding and, at times, somewhat scary.  Early viewing of some of the tunes from “Reflektor” done live had me wondering about the actual album.  The Caribbean influence seemed strong and the structure of the tunes a bit erratic. No fear.  Now that the album is here I can strongly say it’s one of the better albums I’ve heard all year.  Co-produced by James Murphy of the former LCD Soundsystem, the production is crisp and current.  Recorded first in Louisiana, moved  to Jamaica they then joined Murphy in the studio creating additional electronic influences and beats.

The result of all this is an album much different than what they’ve done before yet still retaining that “Arcade Fire thang”.  Never content to stay too static…Arcade Fire gives us another first rate album (double at that).

Now that they are an arena headlining band, I wonder where they are going next with their music?  For sure it will be interesting and I want to be along for the ride...no matter how bumpy.

     

Kings Of Leon "Mechanical Bull"

Released 09/20/2013

The word on this album was that the Kings were doing shorter, harder rock songs and less of the longer rock anthems they are known for.  A quick listen dispelled that notion.  The tracks are generally shorter (and tighter) and each one knocked me out.  I can hear “anthem” with most of the songs, especially imagining them played live.  Kings of Leon are doing what they do best and once again they deliver. 

      Kings of Leon are one of the major rock groups operating today.

Bob Dylan "Another Self Portrait"

Released 08/23/2013

Possibly the most important album listed here.  As disappointing as the original “Self Portrait” was, this one is just as satisfying.  There is way enough unreleased material here to qualify it for this list.  This is 1969 – 1971 Dylan output that you mostly haven’t heard.  Makes you realize what a good album the original could have been and makes the question as to why he released what he did more relevant than ever.

      An elusive and important artist.  Essential.

John Fogerty "Wrote A Song For Everyone"

Released 02/03/2013

Vampire Weekend "Modern Vampires Of The City"

Released 05/13/2013

If you felt that Vampire Weekend's previous releases were a bit too, well, precious and gimmicky, check out "Modern Vampires of the City".  The sonics open up a bit and it's quite a clever listen.  These are still some college grad-u-ates showing off their "arty farty" side but there's more of a feeling of sincerity and understanding of their sound, song construction and lyrical intent.  This is a much smarter album and not in a smarmy showy way.

They have come into their own with this album and are a major band worthy of consideration.  Without dooming the record, this is a smart album for smart people.

Oh, and I forgot to mention: "Modern Vampires of the City" is also a fun listen.  Cult following written all over it.

Mayer Hawthorne "Where Does This Door Go"

Released 07/16/2013

 Ok, another Mayer Hawthorne album and another listing on the best cd list.  Retro respect for classic soul. Yawn?  Not really, Mayer boosts up a notch here with improved production, singing and, yes, more contemporary sounding songs.  The classic sound is still there but bringing in current top pop, hip-hop, R&B producers Pharrell Williams (N.E.R.D, Madonna, Strokes), Greg Wells (Adele, Katy Perry, OneRepublic), Jack Splash (Alicia Keys, Cee-Lo Green, Jennifer Hudson) and Oak (of Pop & Oak: Nicki Minaj, Alicia Keys) seemed to push Mayer forward a bit without losing his basic roots.

If you’re a fan of his work, everything you’ve enjoyed is still there but somehow…better.

      You know, I think this guy has a future in this business.

Iggy & The Stooges "Ready To Die"

Released 04/30/2013

In 2006 Iggy reformed the Stooges with guitarist Ron Asheton, recorded 4 tracks and started appearing live for the first time since 1974.  In 2007 they recorded an album of new songs.  I wanted so badly to be knocked out by “The Weirdness” but, alas, it wasn’t that strong an album. The gigs were good though.  In early 2009 Ron Asheton passed away.  Sigh.

Later in 2009 Iggy got together and reformed Iggy & the Stooges (“Raw Power”) with guitarist James Williamson and started doing live shows.  Forward to 2013 and they recorded a new album “Ready To Die”.  This was the album I expected in 2007.  Produced by Williamson it doesn’t try to burden itself being another “Raw Power”.  It’s a good rock band that’s played together long enough to present us with a tight album doing what they do best…having fun (both musically and lyrically).  The spirit of the earlier Stooges albums (and the best of Iggy’s solo work) is there in spades.  The only miss for me is “Unfriendly World” with Iggy’s Leonard Cohen voice he’s used unsuccessfully in the past. 

      This album rocks out.