Best of August
Sorry this is a few days late, I've been extremely busy watching college football's opening weekend, preparing for my fantasy football drafts (yeah, more than one), and praying that my Detroit Tigers don't collapse over the last month of the season. But, there was some great music this month as well, so here it is: the shortlist of my favorite stuff of August.
- Joanna Newsom's Ys
Album of the month for sure, and possibly my album of the year. And the 30-page gold-lined lyric book absolutely has to be seen. I can't wait to get this thing on vinyl: (click for larger image)
- White Denim Wet Sand mp3
I probably listened to White Denim's 9-song demo more than anything else this month, so take that for what it's worth. Look for more from these guys in the near future.
- Jracula Carpopolis mp3
- Deer Tick Diamond Rings 2006 mp3
Jracula's Jana Hunter will be touring with Deer Tick next month, so be sure to go see them if you get the chance.
- Grizzly Bear Knife mp3
You've no doubt heard this by now, but Yellow House finally comes out Tuesday, so do yourself a favor and get it.
- The Polyphonic Spree Sonic Bloom mp3
The Spree's Wait EP also comes out on Tuesday, and I can't recommend it enough. The band worked with the great Jon Brion on the 3 cover songs, and the 2 new songs are a good preview of the band's upcoming The Fragile Army LP. By the way, Tim Delaughter is going to be on my radio show this week, so if you're a fan, be sure to check it out.
Also recommended from August:
Pitchfork's The 200 Greatest Songs of the 1960s, the Pet Sounds reissue, the Ethiopiques comps, the "Cowbell" remix, Sound Team's new b-side, Austin LaRoche's Hipster Test, Justin Timberlake's new record, and the Texas Kashmere Stage Band.