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The Whitefield Brothers


Earthology


Reviewed by Jon Rogers on January 26, 2012

World psych-funk masterpiece by some mega-tasteful funk experts from Munich, The Whitefield Brothers, who earned their cred on their 2001 debut, In The Raw. This group spent some years masquerading as "lost classic" funk, and it's easy to see how...

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overall ranking: 4.35

Wye Oak


Civilian


Reviewed by Jon Rogers on January 12, 2012

Dark and emotional third album by Baltimore duo Wye Oak features understated songwriting and excellent production. Quiet moments crash into gigantic bursts of sound, and the whole album stays pretty interesting. But in the end, the vinyl itself just doesn't...

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overall ranking: 3.15

Alex Chilton


Free Again: The 1970 Sessions


Reviewed by Jon Rogers on January 12, 2012

Recorded in the period between Chilton's work in The Box Tops and Big Star, this record is a rather inconsistent collection of Alex Chilton songs previously issued as "1970". This is doubtlessly a very special release for Chilton enthusiasts, and...

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overall ranking: 3.30

Middle Brother


Middle Brother


Reviewed by Jon Rogers on January 9, 2012

Outstanding debut album from this "super group" consisting of John McCauley (Deer Tick), Matthew Vasquez (Delta Spirit), and Taylor Goldsmith (Dawes). The songs are at least as strong as anything by the members' other projects, and the vinyl itself sounds...

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overall ranking: 4.00

Laura K Balke


Rumors & Legends


Reviewed by Jon Rogers on January 5, 2012

Third full-length album from this Indiana singer-songwriter, released Dec '11 in a stunning format: a bound-book with hand-drawn art. This is very pretty, dynamic music with a strong female voice as the focal point. Balke's knack for simplicity and emotional...

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overall ranking: 4.20

Television


Live At The Old Waldorf San Francisco, 6/29/1979


Reviewed by Jeb Banner on May 9, 2011

If you ever loved Television then this record is an essential. It captures them at their absolute best, putting many of their studio recordings to shame. Particularly the "Adventure" tracks. This record captures a very raw and tight band. The...

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overall ranking: 4.65

Fleet Foxes


Helplessness Blues


Reviewed by Jeb Banner on May 9, 2011

A highly recommended buy. Musically this is one of the best of the year and an improvement on their impressive debut. The lyrics are surprisingly thoughtful. The vinyl is bright, clear with lots of low end when needed. Wonderfully mastered,...

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overall ranking: 4.70

Memory Map


Holiday Band


Reviewed by Jeb Banner on May 8, 2011

A solid release from Joyful Noise. Definitely on the heavy rhythmic side of things as many releases on the label. The band, from Bloomington Indiana, features an all star Bton cast including producer/studio owner Mike Bridavsky who has been involved...

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overall ranking: 3.85

Sharks Come Cruisin


A Past We Forget The We Need To Remember


Reviewed by Jeb Banner on May 7, 2011

Musically not my thing but if you like pirate music then this band and record are for you. Well pressed on fun brown vinyl!

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overall ranking: 3.95

Lannie Flowers


Circles


Reviewed by Jeb Banner on February 8, 2011

A solid album of 70s era power pop with a sprinkle of country and Americana. The songwriting isn't always very original but fans of the Raspberries and Badfinger may find a lot to love.

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overall ranking: 3.50