guest post | new music ahead!

I've mentioned before that I think Larry should write regularly about music and he's always ignored me. But several of my readers have mentioned the same, and so Larry has honored this request. There's some exciting music coming out in 2013 - Larry and I are really looking forward to these albums and to seeing my musical crush, Josh Ritter, in concert for the fifth time this May!

--Rachel

Rachel recently posted my favorite music of 2012 list. We’re not too far into 2013 – and I’m already seeing some structure to my list for 2013, since some favorites are going to be releasing new stuff early this year. For instance…

On my twitter feed the other day, I was happy to see that Frightened Rabbit is streaming their new album, Pedestrian Verse, over on The Guardian, and has released the first video "The Woodpile" on YouTube. I’m absolutely in love with FR’s The Midnight Organ Fight and The Winter of Mixed Drinks albums. After a few times through, I think this one is just as good. So go ahead and listen for yourself - the album will be available for purchase in just a few days on February 5th.

Another long time favorite, Josh Ritter is releasing his new album, The Beast in Its Tracks, in March. From the advance press, it seems that this album is Josh’s response to the crumbling of his marriage. The first available song, “Joy to You Baby”, tackles that subject with such heart-felt grace that it stuns. This song has been available for a while, but that doesn’t make it any less of a MUST listen.

Josh has also released the song “New Lover” from The Beast in Its Tracks. No less of a stunner.  Anyone who’s had a break-up can surely relate – though probably can’t make the points so eloquently.

The best English folk-punk artist going right now is also releasing a new album in early 2013. Frank Turner’s Tape Deck Heart is hitting our shores in April. Judging by his new song “Four Simple Words”, Frank continues his streak of life-affirming and thought-provoking songs. I dare you not to smile/dance/yell when this one is on. If you like it, there’s still time to enjoy his previous Poetry of the Deed and England Keep My Bones before the new one is released.

Also appearing in April is a new album from Iron and Wine, Ghost on Ghost. You may recall that the last Iron and Wine Kiss Each Other Clean appeared on my favorite of 2011 list. I'm usually on board with whatever direction Sam Beam and his band head toward, but the first song released, "Lovers' Revolution", has me a little stymied. The jazz rock backing beats are new to the Iron and Wine experience, but the song writing is still as strong as usual. I think it will be a grower though.

Check them out and let Rachel and I know what you think.  Or, if anyone wants to catch any of these folks when they come through the area, even better.  We're always up for catching a great live show.

--Larry