Featured Crucial Releases (Aug 30 thru Sep 20)
Another bulk load of good albums for you to check out. Almost a whole month’s worth, actually. I now realize the reason why I get off track – when there’s a week I don’t hear anything I love, I immediately get off routine of writing these posts. Not the end of the world, but just know it’s not because I forgot about you.
Anyway, let’s dig in… a lot of good releases to cover!
September 6
Manning Fireworks by MJ Lenderman (Listen)
I love, love, love Wednesday (Lenderman is a member) so I naturally had to check out his solo work too. I have Boat Songs on vinyl and it was my favorite of his until this release. Lenderman plays indie folk crossed with roots rock, from an off-kilter perspective that fans of Wednesday will appreciate. Between his solo releases, Wednesday, and his work Indigo de Souza and Waxahatchee, Lenderman’s profile is on the rise (he’s only 25!) and it’s well deserved.
Favorite tracks: Joker Lips, Wristwatch, She’s Leaving You
September 13
My Method Actor by Nilufer Yanya (Listen)
This album was so anticipated. I didn’t even listen to any of the singles, in order to give the full album it’s due. Her last record, Painless, was my #1 album of 2022 so I had high hopes and high expectations. And she lived up to them. A glorious record that builds off her previous work and adds new layers, like heavier guitars. Honestly she has one of the most unique and original sounds going right now, like a mix of international pop, R&B, Bon Iver, and even grungy, fuzzy alternative. Highly recommended.
Favorite tracks: Like I Say (I runaway), Method Actor, Mutations, Binding
my anti-aircraft friend by Julie (Listen)
The award for biggest surprise goes to Julie. This album is so good, I can’t believe I’ve never heard of this band until release day. Cross shoegaze, Sonic Youth, and I even hear some Sunny Day Real Estate melodies in there. Highly recommended if any of that even sounds remotely interesting.
Favorite tracks: Catalogue, Very Little Effort, Clairborne Practice
September 20
Love (the) Ominous World by Blu + Exile (Listen)
Blu + Exile’s 2020 album Miles was one of my favorite hip hop albums of that year (and all time) and I expect this record to end up on my 2024 end of year list as well. Blu’s everyday story bars, crossed with Exile’s J Dilla/Pete Rock inspired beats is a perfect combo and everything I love about hip hop.
Favorite tracks: Undisputed, Love is Blu, Suga & Buttaz, Precipitation
