The Watson Twins - Fire Songs (released June 24)
These gals most recently teamed up in 2006 with Jenny Lewis of the group Rilo Kiley on her first solo project, Rabbit Fur Coat. The LP had a decisively alt-country sound, not out of the range of Jenny Lewis, who Rilo Kiley fans know can spin a mean country lyric. The backing vocals provided by identical twin sisters, Chandra and Leigh Watson, on that disc lead them into producing an EP of their own later that year titled, Southern Manners.
The girls spent the remainder of 2006 and the beginning of 2007 touring festivals and and concerts around the world. They settled in to record Fire Songs in September of last year. (www.thewatsontwins.com)
The indie feel of these sisters hits home on their full length disc with open
ing track, "How Am I To Be", a groovy guitar riffed, xylophone riddled diddy. Sweet, but rich voices carry the track along the message that these girls can fend for themselves. Other standouts on the album include the reflective ballad, "Fall", a sing a-long foot tapper in "Bar Woman Blues, and a cover version of The Cure classic "Just Like Heaven" . . . hold your judgement until you hear it. Expectantly it sounds like a slowed down country-edged take on the goth alternative bouncy dance track Robert Smith and the boys put together, but isn't that what cover songs are for? Any way you look at The Watson Twins, they present an album worthy of a listen for both modern alt-country music fans and indie pop fans alike.
ing track, "How Am I To Be", a groovy guitar riffed, xylophone riddled diddy. Sweet, but rich voices carry the track along the message that these girls can fend for themselves. Other standouts on the album include the reflective ballad, "Fall", a sing a-long foot tapper in "Bar Woman Blues, and a cover version of The Cure classic "Just Like Heaven" . . . hold your judgement until you hear it. Expectantly it sounds like a slowed down country-edged take on the goth alternative bouncy dance track Robert Smith and the boys put together, but isn't that what cover songs are for? Any way you look at The Watson Twins, they present an album worthy of a listen for both modern alt-country music fans and indie pop fans alike.(Photo courtesy of http://www.myspace.com/thewatsontwins)
Jamie Lidell - Jim (released April 29)
A man of many interests, Jamie Lidell got his big break touring with Bjork and Beck in the late 90's and early 2000's, two acts known for their eclectic choices in both music and performances. His first album, Multiply, covered the gamut of electrodance and soul infused stylings. He even had the title track from that album featured on the medical romantic drama, "Grey's Anatomy", a strange connection he shares with The Watson Twins . . . not an intentional connection, btw.
The second album by this British born soul singer features Stevie Wonder-inspired stylings and clap happy songs worthy of use when a friend is down. Jim captures the funk, soul, electronica mess that is Jamie Lidell. Standouts include the harmonica spiced homage to Mr. Wonder, "Little Bit Of Feel Good" and the gospel singer backed, groove-fest that is "Another Day". Listeners should note that Jamie Lidell is singing his ass off as a British White man member of the soul brigade.(Photo courtesy of www.myspace.com/jamielidell)
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