Tag Archives: rock

Boys & Girls by Alabama Shakes (2012)

Suzy,

One of the most talked about the albums of the year, the debut Boys and Girls by the Alabama Shakes does not disappoint. On this powerful soul record, Brittany Howard’s vocals are reminiscent of Janis Joplin and Otis Redding.

After hearing the band interviewed on the radio program Sound Opinions, I was struck by the band’s story and how they struggled to get this record made. The song “Hold On” has an infectious rhythm and will get you dancing no matter where you are.

Adele: Live at the Royal Albert Hall (2011)

Jennifer, , ,

The worldwide phenomenon dazzles in this live concert at the Royal Albert Hall in her hometown of London, England. Recorded on September 22, 2011, Adele shares stories of her childhood and recent life, discusses the origins of her songs, and flat out entertains the crowd.

You’ll also see behind-the-scenes footage of Adele throughout the day leading up to the concert. Adele has an amazing voice and it is apparent here during the concert as she sings the best of her two albums plus covers a few songs. I especially enjoyed “Rumour Has It,” “Someone Like You,” and “Rolling in the Deep.” And her tribute to Amy Winehouse with Bob Dylan’s “Make You Feel My Love” was beautiful.

Find the DVD Adele: Live at the Royal Albert Hall at the library (it includes a CD of her live performances). You can also check out her CDs at the library.

Want more Adele? Tune into NBC on June 5 for an hour-long interview and concert special with Adele and Matt Lauer. Billboard.com previews the event.

Costello Music by The Fratellis

Jennifer,

Costello Music by The Fratellis (2007)
Hockey fans will recognize “Chelsea Dagger” (every time the Blackhawks score a goal, the opening strains of the song blast through the United Center — which is why the Canucks don’t like it). That’s how I discovered this album.

This entertaining debut album from a British rock group is a bit goofy and mildly addictive. AllMusic.com describes the mood of Costello Music as boisterous, exuberant, and witty, among others. If you’re looking for some music to put you in a good mood (and to celebrate the start of another hockey season), give this one a shot.

And for a review that explains the music in better terms than I can, check out IGN Entertainment.

21 by Adele

Shirley, ,

21 by Adele (2011)
IMHO, this young British singer/songwriter outdoes her debut album with this new effort. Powerful yet nuanced, hard-hearted yet tender, raw yet refined, “in-your-face” yet intimate, she blows me away with her evocative vocals.

I have heard her studio as well as unplugged versions of a couple of these tunes, and she gets air play on alternative, contemporary, and soft rock stations. This woman’s talent has wide-ranging appeal; I can’t avoid a clichéd comment: a-ma-zing.

Lungs by Florence + the Machine

Suzy, ,

Lungs by Florence + the Machine (2009)
This debut album from the eccentric British pop singer Florence Welch is not only mesmerizing but it is also a lot of fun.  Welsh’s elegant voice stands out on this record amid the building crescendos of frenzied percussion. With tracks like “You’ve Got the Love” and the “Dog Days are Over,” you won’t be able to resist dancing. This is a perfect album for the summer.

Check out a review of the album.

Brand New Eyes by Paramore

Dave,

Brand New Eyes by Paramore (2009)
Great CD! Great beats, catchy songs, and Hayley’s voice rocks. Singles include “Ignorance,” “Brick by Boring Brick,” “The Only Exception,” and “Careful.”

Check out reviews from Spin and Billboard. Last week, Paramore won the People’s Choice Award for favorite rock band. And after the group recently announced some personnel changes, they spoke with MTV about the subject of most of the songs on Brand New Eyes.

Volume One by She & Him

Jennifer, ,

Volume One by She & Him (2008)
The multidimensional Zooey Deschanel impresses once again at the “She” half of this duo (“Him” is M. Ward). Perhaps better known as an actress from films including (500) Days of Summer and Elf, Deschanel showcases her songwriting and singing abilities on Volume One. Likened to early 1960s pop, this indie rock album is a delight to listen to in the car or on a lazy afternoon. Check out “I was made for you,” “Black Hole,” “Sweet Darlin’,” and “Why do you let me stay here?” (see video below).

Check out the duo’s website for news, music and more. Wait! There’s more — Volume Two was released earlier this year.