Featured Crucial Releases for October 25
I had a lot of releases on my watch list for this week. As usual, some didn't live up to what I had in mind and a few ones I didn't have on my radar caught my ear. Records from Pixies and Better Lovers fell into the disappointment category, though I may give them another listen just to make sure.
The top record this week was Evergreen by Soccer Mommy (Listen). Soccer Mommy is the stage name of Sophie Allison and she's one of the top bedroom/indie pop songwriters going right now. Fans of artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, beabadobee, and Clairo will definitely like this record. Though I imagine most fans of those three are already familiar with her work.
Soccer Mommy has been a fave of mine since 2018's Clean and she definitely did not disappoint with this record, as I think it's one of her best. It's certainly her most intimate, as she tackles songs about grief, loss, and change. Musically the songs range from lush, orchestral numbers complete with strings and flute, to acoustic driven folk, and of course the super catchy grungy riffs she's known for...
Favorite Tracks: "Driver", "M", "Abigail", "Thinking of You", and "Salt in Wound"
Honorable Mentions
Heavy Glory by Elias Rønnenfelt (Listen)
Solo album from the singer of Iceage. Wasn't sure to expect with this, but since I like Iceage I gave it a chance. Super surprised at the quality of the songwriting, given the switch of genres. Stripped back and raw, raucous even... along with Rønnenfelt's usual lyrical poetry. Highly recommended.
Patterns in Repeat by Laura Marling (Listen)
Been a fan of hers since Short Movie, her fifth album. Her latest is #10 and it's one of her best. Sweet ethereal melodies accompanying her beautiful vocals.
Big Hand by Squint (Listen)
Bright, punk influenced hardcore from this St. Louis band. Their debut full length, so definitely a band to keep an eye on!
Chameleon by Trauma Ray (Listen)
Another debut album! A solid entry into the heavy shoegaze movement.
Scheduled Explosions by 2nd Grade (Listen)
Super catchy, fuzzy power pop. 23 tracks of ear worms.
