Today, new records are out from Bright Eyes, and the distinctly non-folk Arcade Fire. Spring will also bring new releases from Ryan Adams, Tori Amos, and Feist.
Ahoy, folk fans. We are slowly making our way towards spring, and as we move along, one thing has become clear: 2007 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for music fans.
A whole slew of highly-anticipated discs have either just dropped or will be out in the coming months.
So, we thought everyone could benefit from a few of our picks. Here we go…
First, we want to expand your folk horizons with an album that is distinctly not folk music. But the new album from indie-rock darlings (and my fellow Montrealers), Arcade Fire hits the streets today.
I know this is a bit outside of my usual domain, but as folkies, we are not close-minded people, are we? I thought not.
The record is called Neon Bible and it’s great. The band deserves your support, so run out there and get yourself a copy. Don’t believe me? Check out what the critics are saying, here and here.
Still in a slightly indie vein, but much more folky, is our friend and yours Bright Eyes. We blogged before about his new EP and full-length discs that are due out in the coming months. Well, the former finds its way onto record store shelves today, and is called Four Winds. Also, be sure to check back, because we’ll be posting our own review soon.
Next is another Folk101 favorite, Ryan Adams. This alt-country, all-around rock star superhero will be unleashing his 9th studio album, Easy, Tiger on June 5. Check out the unfinished track list here.
Also, there are two sexy, singing ladies with new works on the way.
First, there is my lifelong crush, Tori Amos, who will be releasing her American Doll Posse on May 1. It promises to be more beautiful piano, more abstract lyrics and more angst than you can shake a 13-year-old wannabe poet at.
Word has it, however, that this one also sees Tori venturing into a more country-feel on some tracks. Should be good.
Finally, there is Calgary-born, Paris-living Feist. She will be releasing the much-anticipated follow-up to her smash hit, Let It Die on May 1 as well. The record is called The Reminder, and a tour will be accompanying its release.
So that’s the brief round-up. As always, feel free to let me know if there is a record that you are particularly looking forward to hearing this spring. Otherwise, keep strummin’. We’ll shout at you soon.
