Listening to an Album a Day and Writing About Them (FEB 19- 25)

Caroline Polachek — Desire, I Want to Turn Into You

When I threw this on, I knew the production would be the highlight. For me, Polachek’s production has always separated her from other pop artists. Her songwriting shined on this mightily, however. I was in awe listening to “Sunset.” Her vocal has so much dexterity and that distinct howl of hers has become her signature by now. “I Believe” is a transient dance record that will get replays throughout the year. It honestly should have been a single.

Many may still label her as an indie pop artist making indie pop music. I believe by now she has removed herself from that label.

Tems — For Broken Ears

This is technically an EP, but whatever. I’ve been holding off on afro beats since the genre has become increasingly massive. This will continue to change as the year goes on. Tems’ voice is stellar. The level of clarity that comes with it is a godsend. Most tracks are laid back but she does a great job fueling the energy. I’m looking forward to her full-length project.

midwxst — better luck next time.

Man, I’m getting old. There is interesting and exciting energy on this EP. He knows how to write a captivating hook and his production choices vary enough for me. Pretty much all of it is trap-embellished hyperpop which seems to be getting popular these days. I didn't care much for midwxst’s approach to auto on the initial listen but I should get used to it with more listens.

Kaytranada — BUBBA

Because I have so much respect for Kaytranada, I was surprised to be slightly dissatisfied with how samey this album can be at times. It's good enjoyable music that you can just throw old, but nothing really made me get up out of my chair. A good amount of the guest features have similar approaches to Kaytranadas production, which makes it feel like one long song.

shame — Food for Worms

Rambunctious and dynamic. This post-punk album by shame has an impeccably fun vibe. I’m definitely going to blast this down some freeway. The subject matter was the last thing I was concerned with this time around. The instrumentation was enough to convince me that will be playing this slot in the future. The buildup and climax on “Adderall” was the highlight of the LP for me.

The Strokes — Is This It?

This still sounds as fresh as ever. This wasn’t my first time listening to the album. The guitar is still great. The hooks are supremely catchy. You can definitely hear how there music changed the field of alt rock to this day.

Nick Hakim — Green Twins

Haven’t ventured much into psychedelics soul, unless Thundercat qualifies. Hakim has a very distinct voice that I really like. I adore how he has the habit of taking things slow. He was successful in the psychedelic aspect as “Needy Bees” really took me somewhere.