Open Door Policy is here and it’s another winner from The Hold Steady. I’m not sure I can think of a band that is as consistently awesome as The Hold Steady clearly works hard to be. They are wholly unique, both approachable and wonky at the same time and they never, ever disappoint. In fact, they seem to be getting better over time? Is that even possible?
Ah, in any case, check out “Unpleasant Breakfast” it’s fantastic, as is the rest of the album.
Emperor X is all over the place. /SMH
“Sad React” is the latest from witty and enigmatic singer Chad Matheny and it’s a terrific example of what he does best; blending clever lyrics with extremely catchy, minimal yet complicated pop vibes. The subject this time is social media and the trials and tribulations of our reactions to it. It also has a giant fuck you ending, so be warned. Give it a listen, and if you’re hooked, as I was when I first discovered him, give some of his older stuff a listen. I particularly love “Allahu Akbar” (no it’s not a trap), “Erica Western Teleport” and the low-key epic “€30,000”.
As Days Get Dark is the latest from Arab Strap and it’s a bit of a throw-back. Which is kind of a ridiculous statement as it’s the first album from the Scottish duo in about fifteen years. To my ears, it sounds as if this could have followed hot on the footsteps of 2005’s The Last Romance. Very cool and, if anything, As Days Get Dark feels like it’s got more youthful energy than their previous efforts, but maybe that’s just my mood listening to it.
