Well the first month of 2018 saw the sad passing of two alternative rock singers Dolores O'Riordan of The Cranberries and Mark E. Smith of The Fall. For obituaries look elsewhere but life is short so enjoy it and fill it with wonderful music. Here's my monthly recommendations...
1) Miami (Parrot and Cocker Too Remix) by Baxter Dury
Dirty sweary music from the son of Ian Dury remixed by Jarvis Cocker is the recommended antidote. It's big and it's clever. The album Prince of Tears is worth exploring unless you're a precious little snowflake.
2) Severed by The Decemberists
This new song is synth heavy and the most interesting thing they have released since 2009's The Hazards of Love. They have rediscovered their mojo.
3) Better by Mallrat
The first of many female artists who feature on this mixtape.
4) Fool's Gold by Jack River
She's another one to watch - this Australian musician is bloody awesome.
5) It's Easy (like Walking) by The Sadies featuring Kurt Vile
A new discovery for myself but The Sadies have been huge in Canada for two decades and here they are joined by a personal favourite Kurt Vile who sounds like a slacker but obviously has a great work ethic by his continuous output.
6) In The Ghetto by The Cranberries
R.I.P. Dolores O'Riordan (1971-2018) This is their version of the Elvis classic.
7) The Deconstruction by The Eels
This is a very interesting record and I am looking forward to more from The Eels in 2018.
8) Kapow! by 485c
London band still playing chiming swirling indie rock and honing their trade.
9) Cornflakes by Belle & Sebastian
B&S have released their second of three new EPs and are experimenting in bizarre musical directions - this track is perhaps the the safest of the new tracks. I'm looking forward to watching the Scottish Monsters of Twee for the fourth time when they return to Australia later this year.
10) It's A Shame by First Aid Kit
They are ten years into their recording career and have just released Ruins their fifth album to much popular acclaim by those who like folky country rock sung by Swedish sisters.
11) Before Sunrise by Gengahr
Gengahr are dropping new songs all over the place which indicates they are close to releasing a follow up to their excellent A Dream Outside debut. I can confirm the new album is due in early March.
12) Solid Gold by Elk Road featuring Julia Stone
Julia Stone turns up on providing her husky vocals on this catchy pop tune.
13) Lost In Music by The Fall
R.I.P. Mark E. Smith (1958-2018) who fronted and was The Fall through all 40 years of their existence. A post punk Manchester legend. This track is obviously a cover of the disco classic by Sister Sledge.
14) The Deepest Sighs, the Frankest Shadows by Gang of Youths
Gang of Youths hail from Sydney and have become one of the most popular Aussie indie rock bands of the year. Dominating Triple J's Hottest 100 with three separate tracks reaching the top 10 of the alternative national poll.
15) Lemon To A Knife Fight by The Wombats
Liverpool band who deserve a mention for the lyrics "Intoxicated - Higher than the ISS".
16) 21 Grams by Thundamentals featuring Hilltop Hoods
Thundamentals and Hilltop Hoods representing Australian Skip Hop.
17) Bus Stop by Graham Coxon
Graham recorded his first TV soundtrack for the amazing dark comedy TV show The End Of The F***ing World. Check it out for your twisted pleasure.
18) Chasin' by Club Sport
A sweet love song from the Aussie indie popsters.
19) Electric Feel by Tash Sultana
Tash Sultana recorded an epic eight minute version of MGMT's 2009 hit Electric Feel for Australian radio station Triple J.
20) In This Modern Land by City Calm Down
Melbourne band who obviously like the sounds of Joy Division.
