With new releases from Matthew Dear, Neneh Cherry, Moses Sumney, Ben Khan, and Dam-Funk just to name a few, we have been absolutely spoiled this month! Even though today is the 31st, August has decided not to take a day off. Here are a few new releases that I’m really excited for you to check out.
Blood Orange – Negro Swan
Dev Hynes, better known as Blood Orange, is a multi-talented artist who shows no lack of range. He has gone by several aliases over the years, and has written for everyone from Florence and the Machine to Solange to Buscabulla. Hynes’ talents are on full display with his latest album, Negro Swan. Following in the tradition of creating albums rooted in self-reflection & social awareness, he says that this album “is an exploration into my own and many types of black depression, an honest look at the corners of black existence, and the ongoing anxieties of queer/people of color.” All of these are exhibited in “Charcoal Baby” & “Jewelry,” the first two singles from Negro Swan, which is out now. Check out the visuals for both
White Denim – Performance
Two years after their highly-successful and critically-acclaimed full length, Stiff, this Austin band is back with their 7th album. Performance is nine tracks long, and was recorded in an “old general store” in Austin. When talking about the band’s approach to this project, Denim frontman James Petralli says, “it remains unchanged from the beginning – which is to just make interesting, uptempo rock & roll.” And that they did. Take a look at the video for “It Might Get Dark”.
Young Gun Silver Fox – AM Waves
A couple of years ago the insanely talented Shawn Lee and Andy Platts joined forces to create Young Gun Silver Fox. Their first album, West End Coast, made my top ten of 2016, is a nostalgic throwback to late 70s pop, rock & roll. If you’re a fan of Steely Dan, Michael McDonald, Hall & Oates and the like, then you’ll dig Young Gun Silver Fox. Well their latest record, AM Waves, continues in that same tradition. Think Fleetwood Mac mixed with Philly soul. Sounds good, right!? It’s the perfect soundtrack to a summer’s day. I must admit this album came out in April, but I only discovered it a couple of weeks ago, and I definitely think it’s worth sharing. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Check out the video for “Take It Or Leave It”.