Black Mountain: Wilderness Heart (Jagjaguwar)

Black Mountain: Wilderness Heart (Jagjaguwar) – The 3rd album from Vancouver space rockers Black Mountain distills the tracks into more focused statements. Amber Webber's roll is now balanced with fellow guitarist/vocalist Stephen McBean. Whether alternating or in harmony, their vocals shine amid moods of 70s rock. "Wilderness Heart" is a fresh and powerful blend of electric heaviness, acoustic fragility. Recommended. Play 1 2 3 4 6 8 10

Okkervil River: The Stand In (Jagjaguwar)

Okkervil River: The Stand In (Jagjaguwar) - The embroidered cover artwork by leader Will Schaff reveals there was something below the surface of amazing 2007 LP The Stage Names. [Look at both cover, you’ll get it.] In fact, the Austin ensemble had these songs at the time, yet felt they would make a stronger statement as a second offering. Right they were. Musically The Stand In is somewhat more ebullient, while lyrically the seafaring themes and metaphors remain awash in turbulent waters. Highly Recommended.