Hamish Hawk was one of the discoveries of the last few years when he released two excellent albums. Today he is releasing his new album and after listening to it for the first time, it can be said that he has once again delivered an album that is far above the average for singer-songwriters. Hawk has always had a penchant for dark and personal songs and continues to do so, moving more into the indie-rock vein in some songs. He also doesn't shy away from the dance floor in Big Cat Tattoos, which reminds me of Heaven 17 from the 80's. All in all, an album that is varied and catchy at the same time and will definitely be on my year-end list.
Robyn Hitchcock surprised me in springtime with a new album. We know him well as one of the greatest singer/songwriter from the last decades but I never expected that he will release an instrumental album. It is a little masterpiece in quiet finger picked guitar and filled with really wonderful music.
I was introduced to the music and work by our dear friend JC and Heavy Elevators was a highlight in 2021. Now he released Angel Numbers this year and it shows again his ability of creating songs. This one is not accessible as his last one and you need time to see the beauty of his songs. But when you get into this music you won't be disappointed.
Another year, another output by Steve Mason. Brothers And Sisters is another example of how flexible he is. He's still able to make an album that will stand the test of time. Not his best one but another highlight in his discography.
Kerala Dust is a band featured at this pages for several times. It is a British band now living in Berlin and they released with Violet Drive on of the highlights of this year for me. Their sound could be described as European rock because it includes elements of blues, Americana and electronic beats as well but always with great guitars alongside.
Another band I followed for long times is Yo La Tengo. Torn between folk and guitar improvisations they released with This Stupid World an album that shows every facets of their sound. Lo-Fi guitars meets great voices is their simple trademark. Thank you for making music like this.
