Just a Pinch: Five February Releases
Because what’s a soup without ingredients, am I right?
Alright. I said in my intro post that I wasn’t going to review. I don’t particularly feel equipped to do that.
However I, like most people, hear things that I like from time to time. So here is just a pinch of review-like blurbs of some new releases.
I want to share a handful of releases that caught my ear over the past month, assembled through pitches (you can send releases to matthertendy@gmail.com !!), by artists I’ve been following for a while, or brought to my attention via word-of-mouth.
Enjoy!
Karneef - Cyber Criminal ft. Housefly
Montreal jazz freak Karneef brings us single “Cyber Criminal” with an accompanying video that captures the artists delightfully off-the-wall sensibilities and pure creative energy. The DIY spirit is alive and thriving in this release. An upcoming album, It’s How You Say It, comes out April 25.
Jason Doell & Naomi McCaroll-Butler - FOUR FORMER MYRRH FORMERS FORMED HER HORN FOR MURMURS
This album could seem intimidating with its mind-bending title, but for the adventurous, FFMFFHHFM is a very satisfying listen. Four lengthy arrangements take unexpected twists and turns, with everything coming to a satisfying crest 14 minutes(!!) into a humming, thrumiiiing circle spunnn / Holy Shimmer. Improvised and algorithmically composed this album is best experienced with patience, openness and willingness to send yourself along for the ride.
Fernie - Hopeless Dreams
Rising R&B songster Fernie has been connecting with Montreal heavyweights like Patrick Watson and Backxwash as of late. It’s no wonder so many are taking notice when you hear the incredible vocal performances and subtly devastating songwriting on Hopeless Dreams.
DVTR - Né pour flâner
After spending last year taking big swings at big issues, Montreal duo DVTR take a quick rip into positive territory avec Né pour flâner (Born to loiter). Loitering never looked or sounded so fun.
ZINNIA - Dollar Store Disco
The opening track “Try”, sets the tone by building on a simple phrase before spinning off into a kaleidoscope of heartbreak and love. Rachael Cardiello has poured everything into this one, and the result is glorious rollicking synth-soaked tracks from front to back.