Thursday, September 03, 2009

New Music From The Garage (And The Library)

The inbox has filled up with new music in the past week or so. And much of the best possesses the raw-boned thrum that made us love rock and roll in the first place.

The Black Hollies would sound right at home on a Nuggets compilation, tucked neatly between The Seeds and The Barbarians. The single “Run With Me Run” is chock-a-block with grimy guitar and organ topped by heavenly harmonies. Those of you in Philly can catch the band on Sunday (Sept. 6) at Johnny Brenda’s.

The Black Hollies, “Run With Me Run”

Speaking of Philly, the city’s own Nixon’s Head has just unveiled the new album Enemies List. The whole thing’s a treat, combining Mitch Ryder-style Detroit muscle with Merseybeat melodicism. Locals can catch them on September 11 at Puck in Doylestown, PA. “Done Dealing” is the lead track to the album. A keeper.

Nixon’s Head, “Done Dealing”

Birdmonster is back with its own brand of revved-up, snarling Americana. The album (out Sept. 22) is Blood Memory, and “I Might Have Guessed (Mean Version)” got under my skin before the verse even kicked in.

Birdmonster, “I Might Have Guessed (Mean Version)”

The Library may be the most appropriately named band in rock and roll history. They make a whisper-quiet music reminiscent of The Clientele or Elliott Smith (minus the despair). The Life and Times of Rosa Lee is a winning collection of songs perfect for bringing the curtain down on a long day.

The Library, “TomKat”

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