Technically Summer comes in on June 21st and lingers into September, but let's be real, the season really begins Memorial Day Weekend and says goodbye on Labor Day with a final cookout or beach trip. Along the way this year, there has been some notable music:
Album of the Summer:
A Deeper Understanding The War On Drugs
The big label release for these indie rock Gods from Philly, delivers consistently on each track for providing the perfect score for driving late at night, contemplating the next phase in your life, or just getting lost in a masterful guitar solo. The sound is consistent throughout and is a cross between Blood on the Tracks Dylan and 80's synth focused arrangements. Both forces feel at home with one another. More importantly, the band feels at home with their sound and have become masters of their craft. They are poised to "break through" with this album and I predict a SNL performance come the Fall/ early Winter. The only thing that may inhibit some music fans from giving themselves to these songs is the length of them. But that is half the fun. Key songs: "Pain", "Thinking of a Place", "Holding On", "Nothing to Find".
Honorable Mention:
Waiting On A Song Dan Auerbach
Taking a break from producing indie and rock stars alike to throughly enjoy life in Nashville, The Black Keys lead singer and guitar player brings in as many music friends as he can find and I am sure made some more along the way. It can be best described as an instant sing-along and each song is unapologetic in having a chorus enlarged by what seems like harmonies from whomever was in the studio at the time. Less blues and more American rock n roll in sound, it will be interesting to see how any of this is incorporated into the next Keys album. For now, we can just enjoy and sing along. Key songs: "Waiting On A Song", "Shine On Me", "Cherry Bomb", and "Show Me"
Song of the Summer:
"Everything Now" Arcade Fire
If there was ever a phrase to capture the typical attitude toward the summer, it is "everything now". Arcade Fire are back and bring along some ABBA 70's disco for this both catchy and artistic title-track. You can hear the whole band, all six of them, with even more instruments contributing the all-around sound that you feel a part of almost instantly and quickly learn the lyrics. The group's two leaders, Win Butler and Régine Chassagne shine as always. After listening, you will want the album now.
Honorable Mention: "Baseball Diamond" Beach House
Both a song title and band name perfect for the summer, this new song included on a release of B-sides and rare songs, welcomes you in typical Beach House fashion. That is not to say it does not sound new or original, just familiar and comforting. Lead singer Victoria Legrand sings just above a whisper and seems slightly excited by what she has to sing. The keyboards and shoegaze swirl and create a world around you. There is a chord progression reminiscent of an ice cream truck jingle. Instant indie nostalgia and immediate re-listen.
