Music at its core is just sound waves, and it is up to each individual to interpret and conceptualize something invisible into emotion and feeling. Music is the heartbeat of life and some great albums were released this past month, many of which I enjoyed. This is not a ranking, but purely three albums that I enjoyed, and hopefully you will too.
“The Alexander Technique” – Rex Orange County
This 53 minute 16 song project was released on Sept. 6 and was led by the singles 2008, The Table, Alexander and Guitar Song. This album is very mellow and very easygoing, yet simultaneously full of color through instrumentation and Rex Orange County’s distinctive voice.
Rex plays through some different genres with his spoken-style vocals jazz band arrangement and some bossa nova percussion, making for some very opulent harmonies. For better or for worse this could easily be considered a “sad” album. If you are looking for vibrant dance music, look somewhere else. If you want to wind down after a long day, or as you’re going through your nightly routine, give this album a go.
Similar Artists: Mac DeMarco, Declan McKenna
My Top 3: Guitar Song, 2008, Much Too Much
“Flood” – Hippo Campus
Released on Sept. 20, I had this album release circled on my calendar for multiple months. This record is very stereotypical indie rock, and is very pleasing on the ears and all in all is a very easy listen. Jake Luppen, the lead singer, is an opera trained vocalist and you can certainly tell the part. The harmonies are hypnotic and I thoroughly enjoyed the live instrumentation used on these tracks. Perfect for walking to class or on the drive home for fall break, I highly recommend this album.
Similar Artists: Vacations, flipturn, Sure Sure
My Top 3: Paranoid, Brand New, Slipping Away
“I’m Not Afraid of Music Anymore” – COIN
COIN has driven and pushed the boundaries of indie rock over the past decade and they delivered another beautiful album this month. With extremely catchy lead melodies and guitar dubs that interlock like a puzzle it is a very satisfying listen throughout. Compared to the previously mentioned records, this is a generally more upbeat album and you will find yourself bobbing your head subconsciously throughout the listen.
Similar Artists: Colony House, Saint Motel, Bad Suns
My Top 3: It’s Hard to Care About Everything, Blueberry Smoothie, 222
