Camera Obscura
Look to the East, Look to the West (2024), the new album by Camera Obscura, is a revelation. The Tracyanne Campbell-led outfit, reuniting with producer Jari Haapalainen (Let’s Get Out of This Country, My Maudlin Career), have crafted an album that simultaneously recalls why longtime fans have ferociously loved them for decades while also being their most sophisticated effort to date.
Camera Obscura are a Scottish indie pop group who became one of the most celebrated acts in the UK’s twee pop scene. Hailing from Glasgow, Camera Obscura were formed in 1996 by Tracyanne Campbell (vocals/guitar), John Henderson (percussion), and Gavin Dunbar (bass). They were frequently compared to Belle and Sebastian, and Stuart Murdoch produced their debut album, Biggest Bluest Hi-Fi (Andmoresound). The album earned praise from John Peel, who invited the group to record a session on his show.
In 2003, Camera Obscura released sophomore album Underachievers Please Try Harder (Elefant/Merge Records), followed by an international tour. The group’s third studio album, Let’s Get Out Of This Country, was released in June 2006 (Elefant/Merge), and features one of the band’s most popular tunes, Lloyd, I’m Ready To Be Heartbroken. In 2009, Camera Obscura released My Maudlin Career (4AD). The success of single French Navy helped push the album into the Top 50 of the UK charts, and the Top 100 of the US album surveys. In 2013, the band released their second album for 4AD, Desire Lines.
Nilüfer Yanya
Nilüfer Yanya is a versatile British singer/songwriter known for blending diverse genres like indie rock, jazz, and psychedelia with a strong electronic touch. Her musical journey began with a string of unique EPs and singles, including hits like “Small Crimes” and “Baby Luv,” which garnered widespread critical praise. In 2019, she made a splash with her debut album, Miss Universe, where she skillfully merged indie pop/rock with elements of soul, jazz, and psychedelia. This trend continued with her 2022 release, PAINLESS, showcasing her ability to weave together yearning melodies with various musical influences.
Hailing from West London, Nilüfer Yanya’s musical roots trace back to her early days playing classical piano in school, eventually transitioning to a passion for the electric guitar under the guidance of her mentor, Dave Okumu of The Invisible. Inspired by iconic bands like Pixies and The Cure, Yanya’s songwriting evolved to incorporate a soulful demeanor influenced by legends such as Jeff Buckley and Nina Simone. Her breakthrough came in 2016 with the EP Small Crimes, introducing audiences to her unique blend of dark guitar pop infused with jazzy undertones and ethereal vibes.
Having signed with ATO Records and then Universal, Nilüfer Yanya’s full-length debut, Miss Universe, marked a mysterious yet captivating chapter in her career, intertwining elements of a fictional self-care program within an hour-long album. Subsequent releases like Feeling Lucky? and the compilation Inside Out paved the way for her critically acclaimed album, PAINLESS, in 2022, solidifying her position in the indie music scene. Transitioning to Ninja Tune, her 2024 LP, My Method Actor, demonstrated further sonic experimentation and growth, reflecting her ongoing exploration of intimate and introspective themes.
XTC
XTC was one of the smartest and catchiest British pop bands to emerge from the punk and new wave explosion of the late ’70s. The music of XTC has always been driven by the hook-laden songwriting of guitarist Andy Partridge and bassist Colin Moulding, from the tense, jerky riffs of their early singles to the lushly arranged, meticulous pop of their later albums. Despite not achieving widespread commercial success in Britain and America, XTC has garnered a devoted cult following in both countries that remains loyal over two decades after their debut.
The band originally formed as Star Park in 1976 in Swindon, Wiltshire before evolving into XTC. With the addition of keyboardist Barry Andrews, XTC secured a record contract with Virgin and released their first EP, 3-D, in 1977. Over the years, the lineup changed, and the band continued to release successful albums like ‘Drums and Wires,’ ‘Black Sea,’ and ‘English Settlement.’ Despite facing challenges such as health issues and lineup changes, XTC’s discography is a testament to their musical prowess and timeless appeal, solidifying their position as one of the great pop bands in music history.
XTC’s bold and innovative sound, characterized by bright melodies and occasional melancholy, sets them apart from their contemporaries. Their refusal to conform to trends and their consistent musical evolution have contributed to their status as a unique and revered musical act. Even though their commercial success may have been limited, XTC’s legacy lies in their rich and diverse collection of albums, showcasing their undeniable talent and artistry. XTC may not have achieved mainstream fame, but they have undoubtedly earned a place as a significant and influential force in the world of pop music.
Allison Russell
Grammy-winning artist Allison Russell is a weaver of stories and tales through the medium of music. Since the release of her first solo album three years ago, the self-taught singer, songwriter, poet, activist, and multi-instrumentalist has redefined what artistry means in the 21st century. From her devastatingly moving celebration of survivors’ joy through Outside Child to the body-shaking, mind-expanding, soulful expression of Black liberation that is The Returner, Russell’s music exceeds all reasonable (and unreasonable) expectations and affirms her place among today’s most vital artists.
Various honors include her Grammy win for Best American Roots Performance for the powerful single ‘Eve Was Black’ alongside 7 additional nominations, the Juno Award for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year, the Americana Music Association’s 2023 Spirit of Americana Award & 2022 Album of the Year Award, two International Folk Music Awards, three Canadian Folk Music Awards, and four UK Americana Music Awards. Alongside the Rainbow Coalition Band – a talented ensemble of Black and POC, queer, and historically marginalized musicians from across the U.S. – Russell uses the power of music in order to spread her message of the “Beloved Community” and is dedicated to lifting others upwards as her own star climbs higher.
Tori Amos
American singer/songwriter Tori Amos emerged in the ’90s blending alternative rock with ’70s musical elements, striking a balance between Kate Bush’s orchestral style and Joni Mitchell’s raw poetics. Tori Amos revived the singer/songwriter traditions of the ’70s with her piano-centered compositions, notably showcased in her groundbreaking 1992 album, Little Earthquakes. Throughout her career, she explored various musical genres, from electronica to classical crossovers, consistently captivating audiences with her intimate and provocative songwriting.
Born as Myra Ellen Amos in North Carolina, Tori showed musical talent from a young age, earning a scholarship to Peabody Conservatory before transitioning to pop music in Los Angeles. Despite initial setbacks, Amos found her distinct voice by embracing confessional piano ballads that resonated with audiences worldwide. Her albums like Under the Pink and Boys for Pele solidified her place as a pioneer in the music industry, while subsequent releases like Night of Hunters and Unrepentant Geraldines showcased her evolution as an artist open to experimentation and reinvention.
Tori Amos’ musical journey reflects a blend of personal experiences and artistic exploration, from confronting personal hardships in her work to delving into classical music influences. With a discography spanning over three decades, Amos continues to captivate listeners with her deeply introspective lyrics and innovative musical arrangements. Her latest release, Ocean to Ocean, stands as a testament to her enduring creativity and unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries in music.
Lucinda Williams
Lucinda Williams, a celebrated singer/songwriter known for her fiercely independent spirit, has carved a unique path in the music industry. Born into a family of literary influence, with her father being a renowned poet, Williams inherited a love for language and storytelling that shines through her music. Drawing comparisons to Bob Dylan and Townes Van Zandt early in her career, Williams quickly established herself as a standout artist with an unparalleled blend of blues, folk, country, and rock influences. Her groundbreaking albums, particularly 1988’s ‘Lucinda Williams’ and 1998’s ‘Car Wheels on a Gravel Road,’ showcased her raw vocal style and powerful songwriting, earning her critical acclaim and commercial success.
From her early days performing folk songs in New Orleans to her later collaborations with esteemed musicians like Emmylou Harris and Tom Petty, Williams’ journey has been defined by artistic integrity and resilience. Despite facing challenges with record labels and production, she remained steadfast in her pursuit of creative freedom. Her discography, which includes albums like ‘World Without Tears’ and ‘Blessed,’ reflects her continuous exploration of personal experiences and musical influences. Notably, Williams’ foray into the independent music scene with her label, Highway 20 Records, marked a new chapter in her career, leading to the release of ambitious projects like ‘Down Where the Spirit Meets the Bone’ and ‘Good Souls Better Angels.’ Through the ‘Lu’s Jukebox’ series, she pays homage to iconic artists and genres while supporting independent music venues, showcasing her enduring passion for music and community.
The English Beat
One tempestuous weekend in March 1979 was not only the date of the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, but also, in Birmingham, England, the very first show by a nascent band known as The Beat. Introduced as “the hottest thing since the Pennsylvania meltdown”, the band had a sense that the next few years could well be explosive! The Beat hailed from working class, industrial Birmingham, England. When The Beat rushed on to the music scene in 1979, it was a time of social, political and musical upheaval. Into this storm came The Beat, trying to calm the waters with their simple message of love and unity set to a great dance beat.
The Beat were all about inclusion, and this showed in their personnel and their music influences. The band crossed over fluidly between soul, reggae, pop and punk, and from these they created an infectious dance rhythm. They became an overnight sensation and one of the most popular and influential bands of the British Two Tone Ska movement.
Consummate showman that he is, Dave Wakeling has continued to keep The Beat alive and strong. Dave continues to tour the world as The English Beat with an amazing all-star ska backing band playing all the hits of The Beat, General Public, and his new songs. You just can’t stop The Beat!
Sinéad O’Connor
Shuhada’ Sadaqat, formerly known as Sinéad Marie Bernadette O’Connor (shin-AYD), was a prominent Irish singer, songwriter, and activist. Her musical journey began with the release of her debut studio album, ‘The Lion and the Cobra,’ in 1987, which quickly gained international recognition and success. Following this, her album ‘I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got’ in 1990 became a massive hit, selling over seven million copies globally. The standout track from this album, ‘Nothing Compares 2 U,’ was acclaimed as the top world single of the year at the Billboard Music Awards, solidifying O’Connor’s place in music history.
Throughout her career, O’Connor continued to soar with albums like ‘Am I Not Your Girl?’ (1992), ‘Universal Mother’ (1994), and ‘Faith and Courage’ (2000), all of which achieved gold certifications in various countries. Her dedication to important causes was evident in her work, with songs for films, collaborations with fellow artists, and participation in charity concerts. In 2021, O’Connor shared her life story in the form of a deeply personal memoir titled ‘Rememberings,’ which resonated with readers worldwide. Known for her fearless advocacy, O’Connor fearlessly shed light on crucial issues like child abuse, human rights, racism, and women’s rights, paving the way for meaningful conversations and societal change. Her bold actions, including the infamous tearing of a photograph of Pope John Paul II during a 1992 live performance, sparked important dialogues and controversies, showcasing her unwavering commitment to her beliefs and causes. In 2018, O’Connor embraced Islam and adopted the name Shuhada’ Sadaqat, signifying a new chapter in her spiritual journey while maintaining her musical legacy under her original identity. As a testament to her enduring influence, O’Connor received a nomination for the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the music industry.
Kurt Vile
Back to Moon Beach (Verve Records) is an EP by no one’s definition but Kurt Vile’s. Clocking in at just shy of an hour, this would be a long full-length record by most any other artist’s yardstick, but for Kurt, the collection is an expression of just how deep his well of non-album material runs. Culled from various sessions over the last four years, and representing a wide swath of the inspirational musical community Kurt surrounds himself with, the core 4 songs of the record (tracks 1, 2, 3 and 6) were born in the fall of 2019 at Panoramic Studios in Stinson Beach, California alongside close musical partners Rob Laakso, Stella Mozgawa, Chris Cohen and with coproduction on tracks 1, 3 and 6 by Cate Le Bon. Later fleshed out with bandmate and producer / engineer Adam Langelotti, additional musical parts were played by “Farmer” Dave Scher and Mikel Patrick Avery.
Many other moments (including hella overdubs on the Stinson Beach material) are from intense sessions on planet Philly at Kurt’s studio: OKV Central. It’s been a heavy few years and plenty of excuses to get lost in outer space behind the microphones. Mant Sounds – KV’s go-to recording studio in Los Angeles – was a third and crucial launchpad to ram these sessions home… a familiar spaceship run by Rob Schnapf and often flown by Matt Schuessler as engineer.
JD McPherson
PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL is a legendary artist known for revolutionizing the music industry with their unparalleled talent and electrifying performances. With a career spanning decades, PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL has cemented their place as an iconic figure in rock history. Their unique style and powerful vocals have inspired countless musicians and continue to captivate audiences worldwide. PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL’s music is a blend of raw energy, authenticity, and passion that resonates with fans of all generations. From sold-out stadiums to intimate acoustic sessions, PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL’s stage presence is unmatched, leaving a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to witness their genius live.
Beyond their musical prowess, PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL is also recognized for their philanthropic efforts and activism. Using their platform for positive change, they have supported numerous charitable causes and advocated for social justice. PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL’s influence extends far beyond the music realm, making them a true icon of both artistic expression and humanitarianism. With a loyal fan base that spans the globe, PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL continues to inspire, empower, and connect people through the universal language of music. Their legacy is not just in their songs but in the hearts of those who have been touched by the power of PROPER ROCK N’ ROLL’s artistry.
Midnight Oil
Rob Hirst and Jim Moginie initiated their musical journey at school in 1972, ultimately forming Midnight Oil. The addition of Peter Garrett in 1975 and Martin Rotsey in the subsequent year solidified the band. Andrew James, the original bassist, was replaced by Peter Gifford until 1987, when Bones Hillman joined. Midnight Oil transcends the boundaries of a typical rock band, with their compelling narrative echoing through their music, as well as documented in various books and films. Their story intricately intertwines with the narrative of Australia and its role in the contemporary world.
Read MoreFeist
Leslie Feist, known by the moniker Feist, is a prominent Canadian indie pop singer-songwriter and guitarist. She has garnered widespread recognition for her musical talents, excelling both as a solo artist and as part of the renowned indie rock ensemble Broken Social Scene. Feist embarked on her solo music journey in 1999 with the debut of Monarch, marking the inception of a remarkable career.
Throughout her musical odyssey, Feist has released several studio albums that have left a lasting impact on the music industry. Her albums, including the critically acclaimed Let It Die in 2004 and The Reminder in 2007, have achieved significant commercial success, with over 2.5 million copies sold. The Reminder notably earned Feist four Grammy nominations, a testament to her exceptional artistry and musical prowess. Over the years, Feist has been the recipient of numerous accolades, including 11 Juno Awards, highlighting her influence and talent in the music realm.