A Note About These Blogs: Since I’m not attending as many shows the first few months of the year, blogs are going to be sparse, focusing mainly on new music. Also, teaching is keeping me busy. Things will pick up as we get closer to Coachella. Cheers!

New Music Spinning…

The Slow Rush – Tame Impala // After almost five years, Kevin Parker gives us the best possible Valentine’s Day gift: a full-length album. Following on the synth trend of 2015’s “Currents,” this album digs deeper. While I still prefer the singles released beforehand, this is a great album all around. Contender for album of the year, and it’s only February. If you can get tix, see them in March in LA: Tame Impala Tickets

No Time To Die – Billie Eilish // Riding high on a career year, Billie Eilish is the latest in a long line of singers to step in and sing a James Bond anthem. I grew up loving James Bond movies (and songs), so I was looking forward to this. After a listen, the song didn’t stick. I’m not in love with it, even compared to her other work. But maybe you’ll like it?

Glassed Over – Emma Cole // The new single from Emma Cole is catchy, and I’ve been listening to it on repeat. It’s also a great showcase for that big voice of hers. She’s playing at Pappy and Harriet’s tonight, with Lauren Ruth Ward.

Swimmer – Tennis // Another great indie album out today. Still listening through, but liking what I’m hearing.

Cut Me – Moses Sumney // The legend in our time known as Moses Sumney has new music coming out, and I’m here for it. Here are four cuts on his new single, “Cut Me.” Also, he started a residency this last Wednesday at The Bootleg, that continues over the next three weeks (next date is Wednesday 2/19). There aren’t any tickets, so you have to get there early. You’ll need to; these dates will fill up fast. Here’s the write up from buzzbands.la:  Moses Sumney at Bootleg.

Also, here’s a clip from his recent appearance on late-night television:

Be Afraid – Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit // Jason Isbell is giving us a glimpse into his upcoming album with his latest cut. He continues to show us why he’s one of the best songwriters out there, across genres. I’m going to watch him and Billy Strings in Santa Barbara in late-July. Here’s the link to ticket info: Ticket Info

Texas Sun – Khruangbin, Leon Bridges // This four- song set is bliss for fans of both of these Texas-based artists. Only complaint? I wish it were longer.

IRL – Molly Moore // This latest track from Molly Moore (one of the artists I said to watch out for this year), initially reminded me of a song Dua Lipa could have released. But this song is catchy in its own right.

Dance Of The Clairvoyants – Pearl Jam // This track came out a few weeks ago, sounding a bit like Talking Heads. Fans were split over this new direction, but I’m digging it more now. They’ve got a tour coming up also.

 

Other Music Happenings…

Yola at the Troubadour // Next weekend (2/22), I’ll be catching British artist Yola at the Troubadour, for a sold-out show (ticket courtesy of my friend, Doug). I’ve been wanting to catch her live since she gained attention for her album last year (the Dan Auerbach-produced “Walk Through Fire.” Give it a listen – she does a fantastic cover of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” She’s also guested with the Highwomen. Below is her Tiny Desk Concert.

Alexandra Savior and Pearl Charles, at Pico Union Project // Another show I might head to tomorrow night (if I’m not being a loaf) is this great set from artists, Alexandra Savior and Pearl Charles. Here’s the ticket info: Ticket Info

 

Here’s an ongoing playlist of what I’m listening to throughout the year.