A quick preview of five album releases in January 2013 that you should know about!
reviews by / LOGAN BRENDT
WIDOWSPEAK /ALMANAC
Captured Tracks
release date: January 22, 2013
Brooklyn rock band Widowspeak shows promise for the long haul with their sophomore album Almanac. The sultry sweet vocals from frontwoman Molly Hamilton allures the listener to discover the band’s strong guitar presence and charming heavy-hearted tone. Even though this ultra cool vibe and sound can at times be reminiscent of both Mazzy Star and The Cardigans (primarily vocally), Widowspeak has something special that’s all their own.
Widowspeak – “Thick As Thieves”
THE JOY FORMIDABLE / WOLF’S LAW
Atlantic Records
release date: January 22, 2013
After going on tour with Muse at the end of last year, The Joy Formidable are about to make an even bigger name for themselves with the release of their second album Wolf’s Law. Singer and guitarist Ritzy Bryan draws the focus to her guitar riffs that echo those of 90s emo bands like Sunny Day Real Estate. So don’t let the lengthy keyboard intro on “This Ladder Is Ours”, the opening track, throw you off. The entire album is instead instrumentally pounding and straight to the point.
The Joy Formidable – “This Ladder Is Ours”
TORO Y MOI / ANYTHING IN RETURN
Carpark Records
release date: January 22, 2013
Chazwick Bundick, otherwise known as his stage name Toro Y Moi draws from trip hop and chillwave on his third studio album, but intentionally comes off as more pop. The beats, ear pleasing melodies and ambiance are the focal point of Anything In Return which mostly provides a relaxing atmosphere but can also leave a sexy impression at times. Top tracks include “Say That”, “Cola” and “How’s It Wrong”.
Toro Y Moi – “Say That”
SNOWDEN / NO ONE IN CONTROL
Serpents & Snakes Records
release date: January 22, 2013
Led by vocalist and guitarist Jordan Jeffares, Snowden follows up their debut with No One In Control. Containing many hazy rock gems which include some attractive ballads, they demonstrate what they do best on their livelier tracks like “Hiss”, “Not Good Enough” and their current single “The Beat Comes”. Notably, the album will be released on the label formed by Kings of Leon, a band that Snowden has toured with in the past.
Snowden – “The Beat Comes”
TRIXIE WHITLEY / FOURTH CORNER
Strong Blood Records
release date: January 29, 2013
Trixie Whitley, the Belgian-born songstress with New York roots has an impressive musical past. Not only is she the daughter of blues/rock musician Chris Whitley, but she has also worked with legends like Robert Plant and Marianne Faithfull, and was the vocalist for Black Dub, the project from acclaimed producer Daniel Lanois. Now with her debut album Fourth Corner, Whitley continues to showcase her stunningly powerful voice through extraordinary rock-influenced soul.
Trixie Whitley – “Breathe You In My Dreams”