This blog probably owes Alicia Merz (aka Birds of Passage) an apology, after featuring her stunning work no less than five times in 2011, I've not featured her here since. Let's blame the sheer volume of artists to feature and lack of time for that. The return here is catapulted by the news of her third album This Kindly Slumber recently released (and available to order) via Denovali.
The first track I heard from the release "Belle Du Jour" is instantly familiar as Alicia embraces the chilly air of sparse, haunting atmosphere, slowly reveling itself amongst layers of droning instrumentation and poetic whispers. "Yesterday's Stains" is one of the darker moments on the album (and that's on a release with tracks called "Ashes to Ashes", "Take My Breath" and "Lonesome Tame") with stark piano chords and reverb dreched echoes brooding slowly like a sombre funeral march. It's "Take My Breath" that stays with me the longest though, Alicia's vocal a little more central in the mix sweetly serenading around gentle guitars and a hazy dreamlike landscape.
Overall though it's an album that should be enjoyed a whole experience and not a set of individual tracks, This Kindly Slumber transports you into a heartbreakingly beautiful world as for 40 minutes you're lifted into a cocoon of minimalistic and natural wonder. If you're late on the boat, you are in for something special (Birds of Passage's entire discography is available here).
This time last year I did a post where I basically talk (write) aloud to myself about the albums I put as my favourite of the year 12 months ago and what I think about that now, invariably you’re late in discovering a few albums and you’re tastes change over time. My list of albums from 2009 changed quite a lot when I redid it in 2010 (check here). Though, after saying all, that, I've decided my list of 25 albums for 2010 (which can be found here) is actually still highly reflective of what I think now, so I'm not going to do this and instead will launch straight into my twenty five favourite / top / best (whatever you want to call it) albums released in 2011 (UK release) which I'll share with you over the next few days.
Depending on what time of the day it is the ordering presented here would vary, at the end of the day I had to give each and every one a number (I guess I could have ignored the numeric side of things) but in reality there is very little that separates some of the albums (especially numbers 17-3) and a few that aren't included here I like just as much as some that are (when I post a digest of the albums I'll include my full shortlist of forty albums that have primarily been the soundtrack to my year). Without further rambling, my 25 albums of the year:
Montreal based four piece Braids weave arguably the most complex, luscious melodies I've had the privilege of seeing live this year, combining dreamy vocal harmonies with multi layered instrumentation to hypnotic effects led by Raphaelle Standell-Preston's sweeter than sweet voice. Their debut LP 'Native Speaker' came out way back in January (April in the UK) and it sees (just) seven tracks seamlessly flow with the most magical, complex textures and free-flowing vocal acrobatics.
"Lemonade" is the stand-out, a seven minute masterpiece which pushes the boundaries of mainstream psych-pop, swirling, tropical soundscapes and bubbling ambient electronics give the perfect platform for Raphaelle's delicately soft vocals (which hide somewhat of a dirty mouth). Then there's "Plath Heart" the most immediate track on the LP, it's similarly stunning (and arguably the only track capable of a single release without seeing some of its length on the cutting floor).
Other highlights include the sumptuous "Glass Dears", even longer at over eight minutes with looping synths, hazy guitars and drawn-out meandering melodies, the title track "Native Speaker" which see's similarly potty mouth lyrics sit on top of chilly piano strokes, echoey electronics and absolutely stunning harmonies and "Lammicken" a darker, mysterious track that pays more homage to Fever Ray than the usual Animal Collective observations with its throbbing propulsive beat.
Overall, 'Native Speaker' is a dreamy, gorgeous debut from a band that I can't wait to hear more from.
'Without The World' is Bird of Passage's (Alicia Merz) debut release received a much welcomed re-pressing by the wonderful Denovali and came out early this year. It's an intoxicating work of art that is truly heartbreaking and beautiful, combining dark, haunting soundscapes with the delicate whispers of a siren.
Many artists use excessive instrumentation to create atmosphere or mood, 'Without the World' is a master-class of minimalism and experimental song craft, Alicia equally happy to use natural sounds to complement her instruments, on "Whisper a Word" we can hear an organ complimented by leaves rustling in the while Alicia's hushed vocal blend in perfectly delivering a sense of undoubted optimism. There are more traditional lo-fi / folk moments on the more relaxed "Fantastic Frown", straight forward acoustic guitar and twinkling glockenspiel offer one the albums most immediate moments.
The titles of "Prey For A Sunny Day", "Skeletons" and "Those Blackest Winter Nights" give no secrets to the bleak, chilly feeling created by the use of drone, delay and echoey electronics, throughout the album is emotive and touching, recreating the feeling of emptiness during those cold, lonely winter's nights.
'Without the World' is something to immerse yourself in, its hazy, mesmerizing beauty is a perfect antidote to the hectic lives we lead and makes for one of this years essential releases.
I'm an absolute sucker for the sort of music that Seapony have so effortlessly created throughout their debut LP 'Go With Me', original perhaps it's not but the simple approach to syrupy indie-pop is so infectious and luscious that I can't help but be smitten. Catchy lyrics, drum machine beat, syrupy vocals and fuzzed-out, jangly guitars are the staple formula that make 'Go With Me' equal parts bounce and blissfully charming.
"Dreaming", the bands initial introduction to so many of us is still brilliant now, saccharine sweet (and unashamedly so), repetitive (there must be only about six lines of lyrics) and utterly, utterly infectious. I've read some reviews where the sameness of the record has clearly grated with the reviewer but in my opinion the forty minutes (included exceptional b-side "Emma's House") is a wistful, beautiful listen where I can escape to a simple, carefree world without too many other concerns.
Highlights appear throughout, "With You" is a lovable song that's particularly melodic and pleasing, "Into The Sea" is probably the heaviest with track on the album with precise drum and hooky guitar riffs while "I Never Would's" fluttery melody and "Blue Star's" melancholic haze are equally delicious. Though, perhaps my highlight is "Where We Go", Jen Weidl’s vocals are airy and dreamy whilst breezy melodies float beautifully over a wash of drum machine beats and reverb.
Charming (tick), loveable (tick), me a fan (tick).
Widowspeak are another purveyor of laid-back, wistful memories; equal parts melancholic haze and dreamy, inviting warm and blissful thoughts. Their self-titled debut is a slight departure in sound for the label, Captured Tracks, in sound, not in quality for 'Widowspeak' is a beautiful created, lazy afternoon / late night album to immerse yourself fully in.
The drums are downbeat and hollow throughout, the guitar textures remain subtle, intricate and extremely competent (I can vouch for the talent of Rob after catching them live last month) while Molly Hamilton's secondary guitar jangles fill in the trio's sound. Her vocals are arguably their strongest instrument, her sultry, soft purr is so incredibly luscious and seductive throughout.
The punchy, foot-stomping "Puritan" kicks off the album led by a purposeful drum beat and lively guitar solos that blend dark country with rock perfectly, the slow pacing and moody melody of "Harsh Realm" equally stands out, shimmering guitars over Molly's smoky, longing vocals repeated cries of "I always think about you". Dreamy.
The one/two of "Gun Shy" and "Hard Times" bring arguably the albums strongest moments, "Gun Shy's" dry and dusty twangy guitar rhythm bring instant memories of Western movies gone by while the heavenly drawl soothes and lulls. "Hard Times" is beautifully melodic and is another gem in an album where honestly seven or eight of its tracks could easily be singles.
The debut album by The Chapman Family was a long time coming, after first releasing a (bright pink) 7" single in 2007 it took until March 2011 to finally see the first full length from the north-east quartet (although since the album recording the line-up has seen numerous changes and is now a five piece with just two original members), despite gathering a glowing reputation as a fine live act (they are - I've seen them seven or eight times) but you do have to wonder what took them quite so long (especially when a few of the old singles re-appear, though granted "Virgins" is as far removed from the original as possible). Was the wait worth it? Simple answer, yes, yes it was.
The album, the aptly titled ‘Burn Your Town’ kicks off with "A Certain Degree" which purposefully, slowly builds up atmosphere for what is to follow; an album of miserable, dark, post-punk / rock. Singles "All Fall" and "Anxiety" are the closest the Chapman's come to offering pop singles, big thunderous choruses, epic and energetic guitars and well delivered vocals, the polished production makes them clear, immediate and huge.
In my opinion the high points though come with two new songs "She Didn't Know" is a monster, a dark, brooding atmosphere throughout that makes for the most compelling song on the album and "Something I Can't Get Out", quicker in pace and more aggressive, the rhythm section particularly impressive, huge driving beats, wailing guitars, "Kids" is as full of angst as they come, screaming, passionate and certainly doesn't disappoint.
Live favourite "A Million Dollars" takes the record to new depths, an explosive cacophony of noise where thunderbolt drums drive the song whilst a wall of anguished guitars and Kingley's intense vocals create n incredibly chaotic, fierce and unsettling tone... a song that's often introduced on stage as being about murdering kids shouldn't sound so fucking incredible.
Do make sure you find the abrasive assault of "All That's Left to Break", I've no idea why it's not on the album, it really, really should be, it's arguably the best track they've recorded to date.
Back in April I shared a video for a live version of an absolutely stunning live track by Alicia Merz whose recordings under the name Birds of Passage have reduced me to stunned silence numerous times this past year, now I'm pretty happy to mention that the track, "Highwaymen in Midnight Masks" is to be released on wax.
The outstanding Denovali Records will release a limited three track 10" led by the unbelievable eight and a half minute title track on December 17th (pre-orders open 29th Nov here) and to help pass the time until that release you can download the title-track for free (click on the soundcloud link below).
You should all do that now, the track is simply beautiful, a slowly revealed dark-pop fairytale where Alicia's softly spoken, fragile vocals gracefully guide you through sparse instrumentation, minimalist-drone washes and echo-laden glacial chills that create an intoxicating, dreamlike state that is incredibly evocative and comforting.
If that wasn't enough, there is also the news that Alicia has an another album due later this year, following from March's re-issue of her debut 'Without The World' and October's 'Dear and Familiar' (which completely escaped my attention until I was writing this and has quickly been added to my to listen to list), 'Winter Lady' is also released by Denovali on December 17th, I'll no doubt bring more on that when I hear it! If you haven't got 'Without The World' you can order it in their store now. Three albums in one year, I'd call that prolific!
Late November / December is the perfect time for it's release, Birds of Passage music for me is an incredibly private one, you're not going to use Alicia's music to soundtrack your party but if you're feeling melancholic, weary or tired then grab a blanket, a nice drink and let this incredible artist lull your worries away:
Order the exquisite album 'Without The World' here (read my original review) and catch her live whilst you still can over the next ten days or so in mainline Europe with the equally amazing Her Name is Calla - I'm gutted their wasn't a London show with Alicia on this tour - next time.
I first introduced Birds of Passage a month ago and briefly mentioned an album would be out via Denovali, it's now been announced for March 25th, in true Denovali fashion it's available in an exquisite array of packages (gatefold vinyl / 36 page poetry book / cd) - see for yourself and pre-order here.
'Without The World' is Alicia Merz's debut release, getting a much needed re-pressing. It's an intoxicating work of art that is truly touching, heartbreaking and beautiful, combining dark, haunting soundscapes with the voice of a siren singing you to a dreamy sleep.
Many artists use excessive instrumentation to create atmosphere or mood, 'Without the World' is a master-class of minimalist and experimental song craft. Alicia beautifully uses natural sounds to complement instruments.
On "Whisper a Word" we can here an organ and the sound of wind rustling leaves whilst the breathy ethereal vocal delivery creates a sense of undoubted optimism. There are more traditional lo-fi folk moments on the more relaxed "Fantastic Frown" with acoustic guitar, "Skeletons" breathy vocals, cool ambience and reverbed instrumentation is a touching, emotive highlight.
The titles of "Prey For A Sunny Day" and "Those Blackest Winter Nights" give no secrets to the gloomy, chilly feeling created by the use of drone, waves and electronica, faithfully recreating the feeling of emptiness during those cold, lonely winter's nights.
You've got just two days left to contribute to Alicia's European Tour (end of March / April) and receive some exclusive material in return - for more information on that head here. For the dates (supporting the wonderful Her Name is Calla and beginning March 27th in Leeds head here).
'Without the World' is something to immerse yourself in, its hazy mesmerizing beauty is a perfect antidote to the hectic lives we lead. Enjoy some of the tracks yourself below:
I've got Sophie from Her Name is Calla to thank for the discovery of Birds of Passage after she posted the above SoundCloud link on the bands twitter page. The two will be on tour together in April (hopefully - see below) in what could be that will be rather a special tour.
Birds of Passage is Alicia Merz from New Zealand, who like the aforementioned Calla produces some of the most stunning and beautiful music you'll ever hear. An introspective, minimalist approach throughout creating a hazy, dreamlike mood through Alicia's perfect hushed yet ethereal vocals.
There are sixteen tracks on her soundcloud page so we really have been spoiled. I'll pick just a few below to help you to fall for her just as I did:
"The Monster Inside You" highlights Alicia's ability to create ambient soundscapes with just her voice and the gentle instrumentation: the monster inside you (demo) by birds of passage
One more, otherwise I'll be posting about them all and running out of adjectives! "I have My Heart" a little darker than the others above with an eerie, brooding atmosphere, equally sublime: i have my heart (demo) by birds of passage
In a project similar to Pledge Music which some UK artists have recently used Alicia is fundraising via Indie Go Go: http://www.indiegogo.com/birdsofpassagetour - Birds of Passage are trying to raise $3,000 to fund the European tour I mentioned. Listen, enjoy and then give whatever is in your means on the link above.
I've put my money where my mouth is and donated already and I'll encourage you and your friends to do the same. I was already looking forward to the Calla London date (well it's TBA at the minute), the chance for Birds of Passage as well truly is icing on the cake. I hope some of the tracks on the SoundCloud are involved with this project - would love them on my mp3 player.
An album is also due on the Denovali label - I'll be keeping an eye out for that!
