Music March!

So, I haven't updated this blog in a while, mainly because of school work and what-not. So, I think from now on I'll be updating this less frequently, but I'll still be listening to as much music as possible.
Let's see, what's released this month...

* Sisterworld - Liars
* Plastic Beach - Gorillaz
* Tomorrow, In a Year - The Knife
* A Sufi and a Killer - Gonjasufi
* Oversteps - Autechre
* Head First - Goldfrapp
* Fang Island - Fang Island
* Broken Bells - Broken Bells
* Fire Like This - Blood Red Shoes

First of all, I've already reivewed The Knife, Liars, and Gorillaz' release, so putting those aside, I've discovered a real treat in Fang Island's self-titled debut album. Virtually unknown before Pitchfork reivewed their album, this is a really good listen. Described as "high-five" music, it's impossible not to smile when you're listening to their album. Oversteps is a confusing listen at first, but if you keep listening to it, decyphering all the noises heard, it becomes a rewarding album. Head First shows Goldfrapp back to their pop roots. It's not spectacular, but a solid effort nontheless. Then there's the psychedelic tendecies of Gonjasufi's A Sufi and a Killer; I personally like it a lot, but I know of others who hate it.

Broken Bell's self-titled is another good listen (more of a background music-type of album, but not in a bad way), so was Fire Like This (they reminded me of a "mellower" Death Form Above 1979). I think I've discovered so many new bands this month, it's hard to keep up-to-date with everything!

On the news of leaks, MGMT's Congratulations has leaked (haven't heard it yet), Jonsi's beautiful album Go has too. The one I have my eye on is Flying Lotus' Cosmogramma. I can't wait to hear it! (it's unclear whether the genuine or fake copy has leaked, but we'll find out soon)

Hmm...expect another post 2 weeks down the line with more round-ups!

Gorillaz - Plastic Beach

Much was expected from this animated band. Their debut wielded some great tracks, but the band really gained ground with the 2005 hit album Demon Days - a great album which managed to worm in many influences and bizarre melodies; it was these kinds of touches that made the album a classic for the noughties, so it was natural that the music community got altogether excited when they announced details of their third album.

As you get washed away by the lush string arrangements of the opening track (appropriately titled Orchestral Intro of course) you get greeted by Snoop Dog; love or hate him, there's something ridiculously cool in Snoop saying "Welcome to the world of Plastic Beach". It's as if he's personally welcoming you onto the album itself.
The next seven run of tracks is one of the best I've heard; Rhinestone Eyes drips of synthetic sweetness, while Stylo will make you want to strut for the rest of your life. Superfast Jellyfish is a perfect pop treat, and Glitter Freeze takes you on a Dr. Who style-trip, whilst Mark E. Smith asks "Where's north from 'ere?" as your brain gets fried.

After this terrific run of songs, it loses is slightly with Some Kind of Nature, but nothing to take away from this terrific album. The rest of the album will have you dancing on your butt-cheeks until the very end. It's consistent, exciting, and certainly one of the best albums I've heard this year.
The collaborators add their own take on their songs, but don't take away that essential Gorillaz vibe. Little Dragon, Bobby Womack, and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble are my favourites; they really add that something extra.

This is an album that everyone MUST listen to. This time, the hype is justified.
It's not quite a masterpiece, but it's pretty damn close to being one.

Rating: 4.5/5
Released 8th March

What's coming up...March

Another month gone, and there's at least one big artist releasing an album this month!

First off is Gorillaz's highly anticipated album Plastic Beach which will be released on the 8th of March. It's leaked already if you haven't heard it (it's *spoiler* quite different, but great at the same time!) Oversteps by Autechre is released, along with Sisterworld by Liars (I've already reviewed it, I thought it was released in january!)

I'm sure there's more though, I'll keep listening and reviewing some hidden gems I might find.

The Knife - Tomorrow, In a Year

I think I should clear the air first by explaining that this is not like an ordinary album - far from it in fact. Simply put; it's an opera, but don't let that put you off. It's one of the most bizarre listens I've ever encountered; it's distressing, but incredibly organic at the same time.

It's certainly not Silent Shout II; if you were expecting more pitch-shifted vocals, dizzy synths or pounding rhythm, forget about it. As someone who's a big fan of SS, this was quite a dramatic shift.
At first, it's incredibly off-putting, but if you take it in - not as a "normal" album - but as an audio film-like experience, it makes perfect sense. It's difficult to put it into words, and it's not something you can enjoy straight away (if at all) It's a very difficult - but rewarding - album to listen to.

Everytime I listened to this album, it's like I'm walking on Earth when it took its baby steps. Everything is so detailed and atmospheric. If you do listen to it, good luck to you! You may need it first time!

Rating: 4/5
Released 1st March