Fucked Up - "Do They Know It's Christmas?"

Who is better equipped to give us a holiday song other than hardcore band Fucked Up? With their large, bearded singer they at least have the look. For this single, they collected quite the list (albeit pretty random) of artists to contribute a little bit of their holiday cheer. Although you cannot really tell when who is singing, the song is pretty catchy yet I don't think kids in the future will be begging their parents to "please play that Christmas song by Fucked Up, oh pretty please."

Sage Francis - "Gimme Dat"

Hands down, the best Rhode Island based Socialist rapper combining forces with the best Canadian DJ/Producer/Rapper/Lynch-fan on the scene? Yes, please. And classic cover art for this single from the always outspoken and unabashed Sage Francis.

Charlotte Gainsbourg - IRM

Charlotte Gainsbourg is a busy woman. Somehow during her acting career she has found the time to make albums of breezy french-inspired pop. However, for her third album she found a fellow busybody in musical chameleon Beck to help in putting together her latest effort IRM. And the differences are quite noticeable from the outset. The instrumentations found here are very similar to Beck's more recent efforts Modern Guilt and The Information. Stripped down recording practices in which live instruments are used; quite different from the late 90s Beck that brought him so much praise and popularity. The problem is that even though things click well between the two (most noticeably on the duet "Heaven Can Wait"), things never progress much further than that of a "pop album." Songs are brief and formulaic with few moments of "wow" occurring. Still, props have to be given to both to not only find the time to record this album but also produce something that may not blow minds but will, ultimately, satisfy.

3.5/5.0

Charlotte Gainsbourg - IRM

Kid Cudi - "Pursuit of Happiness"

Ever since the release of Cudi's excellent (if not confusing and depressing) debut earlier this year, there has been the wonder when "Pursuit of Happiness" will be made an official single. Cudi, with the help of indie-heroes-in-the-making MGMT and criminally underappreciated Ratatat, have made a great song. While it might not be typical "single" material it is an amazing song that stands up against anything at all recorded in 2009. While the video is nothing special it does make you want to find something supersweet to do for New Year's Eve (party-wise that is).

Blakroc - Blakroc

How was one supposed to react to the reports that Ohio's blues/rock duo the Black Keys were going to release a Damon Dash produced rap album? Perplexed was a common initial reaction. Then a tracklist appeared and high powered names were found across the board. All good signs yet the final result is much like the initial response: perplexed. It's obvious that Blakroc does not hold any of the Keys' better material (that is probably going to be used on their next album) so what were left with is very generic grimy garage rock with rappers delivering their verses half-assed and completely uninspired (the one exception is the track "Ain't Nothing Like You (Hoochie Coo)" which blends the genres nicely). Not sure what the Keys were attempting to accomplish with this release; that they can be edgy and step into realms beyond that of their comfort zone (which they are awesome in)? Blakroc is merely an interesting concept and, unfortunately, not all that interesting of an album.

2.7/5.0

Blakroc - Blakroc

Edan - Echo Party

After his excellent 2005 album Beauty and the Beat, Edan pretty much disappeared. But now, after years of laying low, he's back. Boston's unlikely hip-hop community member has released a 30 minutes long mixtape filled with his odd hip-hop/psychedelic fusion, however, his raps are, sadly, absent here. From his earlier releases it's obvious what his influences are (musically, lyrically) and on Echo Party he continues to pull from these sources. Old school rap samples run amok on this thing whereas his more trippy/stoney/psychedelic side takes a smaller role in the Echo Party final results (not to deny that there is far more here found than just about any other mixtape from the past two years). This is just a good example of what a mixtape sounded like circa 1985 (if they had better technology and a slight lean towards 60s/70s psychedelica).

Edan - Echo Party

Them Crooked Vultures - Them Crooked Vultures

Ah, the supergroup. As far back as Crosby and Stills meeting with Nash and deciding to do an album with Mr. Young, the supergroup album can be a great thing or a complete flop. Those seem to be the only options. 2009 saw a few supergroups but Them Crooked Vultures are a cut above the rest. Dave Grohl, John Paul Jones, and Josh Homme hinted at a collaboration years ago but it wasn't until now that it came to form. The self-titled debut comes off as a Queens of a Stone Age album with Jones holding down production duties. And this is a good thing. Last time Homme and Grohl teamed up for a Queens of the Stone Age album the result was the best QOTSA album in their catalogue (Songs For the Deaf). Here, Homme turns out crunchy riffs and Grohl seems to be thoroughly enjoying himself on the drums (he is a tops drummer regardless of his role in his world famous Foo Fighters), all the while Jones (now a producing master) keeps things hard, catchy, and rocking.

4.1/5.0

Them Crooked Vultures - Them Crooked Vultures

Chip Tha Ripper - The Cleveland Show

Seth MacFarlane reference aside, Cleveland's Chip has released a damn fine mixtape. With the help of Mick Boogie and Terry Urban (both of whom have released some excellent mixtapes in 2009), Chip rolls through 27 tracks of confidence-filled entertainment. While 27 tracks is a lot (there are very few interludes), the real mystery is when will this guy release a legitimate debut? His close pal Kid Cudi has been under the hype microscope for well over a year (since "Day 'N Nite") and released his excellent debut earlier this year (one of the year's best, but not on first listen, it grows on you). You would think that Cudi would pull his buddy along for the ride (there is talk of a collaboration album). Or maybe the fame and touring with Lady Gaga has gone to his head. Regardless, this is a great mixtape with some truly great single-worthy songs ("Get Down" is ridiculous).

Chip Tha Ripper - The Cleveland Show

Vampire Weekend - "Cousins"

The youngsters of Vampire Weekend exploded onto the scene in late 2007 and, subsequently, released their debut in January of 2008. The result was not only a superhype machine but also a pleasing album that met the (highly anticipated) expectations. Now, word has come down that the boys have completed a sophomore effort, Contra, which will hits shelves on January 11. In correlation with that news came a single/video for a track off the upcoming release entitled "Cousins." The song is frantic and all over the place with its afro-rhythms and the video compliments the song's energy. In the end, it's more Vampire Weekend-like music from Vampire Weekend.

The King Khan & BBQ Show - Invisible Girl

One thing can be said about the duo of King Khan and BBQ (Mark Sultan), they know how to have fun (just ask their manager who got busted the other week on tour with a sack of shrooms). Their latest collaborative effort Invisible Girl is more bare-bones garage rock spliced with doo-wop that doesn't wow but it doesn't disappoint either and at no point do they take themselves too seriously. Over simple rhythms and fairly generic lyrics (girls, partying) they have the ability to instill the fact that they are having fun and isn't that what it's all about? Ripping through a barrage of songs (just 12 actually), Invisible Girl manages to touch upon a number of styles (punk, doo-wop, straightforward rock, and general weirdness/offensiveness (ie., "Animal Party" "Tastebuds") while maintaining that "good times" vibe. Like it or hate it, you cannot deny their desire to embody the spirit of rock 'n roll.

3.5/5.0

The King Khan & BBQ Show - Invisible Girl

Why? - "These Hands/January Twenty Something"

When Why? (now a band and not just the moniker of lead singer Yoni Wolf) released Alopecia early last year, they not only released one of the year's better albums but also took themselves out of the underground rap/indie scene and into the, well, indie scene. The album perfectly blended Wolf's zany, tongue-in-cheek raps with a completely textbook indie background; and the results were great. So when September brought around the release of the followup, Eskimo Snow, expectations were somewhat high, and the results, although good, were not Alopecia good. Instead, Why? seemed to focus more of the rock/pop aspect. Here is a good example of the album as a whole with the video for the album's first two tracks "These Hands" and "January Twenty Something." The video starts out promising with a weird hero-like scenario but things transform into merely a "oh, that's what the band looks like" video. Good tracks and good album (even if it's not Alopecia good).

Yeasayer - "Ambling Alp"

Back in 2007, indie/experimental group Yeasayer made a great debut in All Hour Symbals. Now, with 2009 closing, the group has announced that in February of next year they will release their followup entitled Odd Blood. Along with that information came the first single "Ambling Alp" as well as a video. The song is fairly typical Yeasayer affair with a driving beat and rangey vocals. The video, however, is a somewhat untypical product. It features a lot of faceless individuals who (not too sure really what's going on but here we go) create a group of people out of some kind of ooze and spend the rest of the video naked and running (in slow-mo, female and (gulp) male) towards something. Then it ends. Great track though and a promising first taste of Odd Blood.

Real Estate - Real Estate

The funny thing about the debut from these Brooklynites is the time (November) in which it came out because everything about this album embodies an easy, summertime listen (don't mind the fact that one song is entitled "Snow Days"). Tracks here on this self-titled effort ooze a sublime feel by utilizing tinny guitars, lo-fi recording techniques, and simplistic instrumentations (including two instrumental tracks) that coexist with the echoey vocals/harmonies of main man Martin Courtney. While not breaking any grounds in a songwriting sense (lyrics, structure) Real Estate is a easy ride from start to finish all the while suggesting that perhaps less is more.

3.8/5.0

Real Estate - Real Estate

Wu Massacre Part 3

Completing the trilogy of trailers for the upcoming Meth/Ghostface/Raekwon collaboration album (now moved back until 2010) features yet another Seven-like setting which culminates in one of the members being the culprit and leaving a clue for the detectives. Although disappointing that the release date was pushed back (is anything released on time anymore?) the end product should still be more than satisfying.

Lupe Fiasco - Enemy of the State: A Love Story

Lupe Fiasco is arguably one of the best rappers of the moment. Although he has two excellent albums under his belt, it's been two years since The Cool. And apart from a guest appearance here and there, he has remained quiet while others absorb any spotlight they can muster (ahem, Lil Wayne). 2010 promises a third Lupe offereing with Lasers but until then Lupe has been nice enough to whet the appetite of the masses with a mixtape. While Enemy of the State: A Love Story pales in comparison to his previous mixtape work (the Farenheit 1st and 15th series in an a shining example of a mixtape that gathers attention), it still is nice to hear Lupe's flow and wit over some interesting samples (the lift of Radiohead is a definite standout).

Lupe Fiasco - Enemy of the State: A Love Story

Animal Collective - Be Kind Fall

As if releasing Merriweather Post Pavilion (further solidifying their position as a true "darling of the critics") wasn't enough for oddball group extrodinaire Animal Collective, they decided to throw in an EP to ensure that they would be talked about one way or another (LP or EP) in the upcoming Best of 2009 discussions. Fans of AC will know what to expect here as they harmonize and manipulate, well, anything they possibly can in an effort to create an experimental piece of audio art. That is to say, if you weren't a fan before, Be Kind Fall will do very little in order to change your opinion. This EP plays as a kind of DJ set as songs segue not only from track to track but also into themselves ("Graze" has some kind of weird wind instrument dominated coda). If looking for a conventional EP then investigate elsewhere, these guys have carved their niche in "pop" music and subsequently buried themselves deep into it.

3.4/5.0

Animal Collective - Fall Be Kind

Califone - All My Friends Are Funeral Singers

Experimental rock band Califone's latest album All My Friends Are Funeral Singers is not only another piece of odd/lo-fi music but also an accompanying piece to a film of the same name that will debut next year. But until then all fans/listeners have is this album. Among all the blips and weird song structures, Califone has not strayed far from their previous material. However, whereas those albums prior focused more (or so it seemed) on creating songs outside the box, here frontman Tim Rutili embraces his rootsy side to write some great songs ("Ape-Like" and the faux biographical "Bunuel") while still keeping things arty. Elsewhere, Califone dabbles in a realm outside their comfort zone (if that term can be used for a progressive band like this). "Giving Away the Bride" utilizes a kind of trip-hop beat and "Funeral Singers" sounds like it was written as proof that standard song structure is within Rutili's capabilities. In the end, Califone has created an accessible yet creative album to toss into the ring of top albums of 2009.

Califone - All My Friends Are Funeral Singers

The Wu Massacre (Part 2)

The second video leading up to the undoubtably killer (heh) Raek/Ghost/Meth collaboration album. This time around, the late-to-arrive cops are greeted by another corpse and another unknown message (of course we know what "Starks" refers to, right?). With one more video to be released the only thing left to look forward to that will be the album itself. December 22. December 22. 12/22/09.

Dirty Projectors - Temecula Sunrise

Bitte Orca was well-received by critics as well as fans and helped to expand the indie/experimental act Dirty Projectors' fanbase. This EP is little more than two tracks (including the self-titled "Temecula Sunrise") from Bitte Orca and two newer tracks. Temecula Sunrise is little more than a kind of continuation of their release from earlier this year. Nothing really new or groundbreaking from the Dirty Projectors camp (not saying that these new songs are disposable because they are not).

Dirty Projectors - Temecula Sunrise

LIl Wayne - No Ceilings

Last week, Lil Wayne's latest mixtape was leaked with an incomplete tracklist. Well, here is the full 21 track version. Enjoy as Wayne seems on his way to a T.I.-esque hiatus here soon thanks to him being, well, Lil Wayne.

Lil Wayne - No Ceilings

Clipse - "I'm Good (Remix)"

December 8: that's the date that the long-awaited Clipse album Till the Casket Drops drops. Although this (weaker) single was released some time ago, the boys of Clipse decided it necessary to not only remix it but produce a video along with it. And the special guest star: Rick Ross and his ridiculous beard (which looks like a prop from a cheesy B-movie about homeless people). While the song still suffers from it's radio friendly hook it still should not deter anticipation for this upcoming album.

No Age - "Losing Feeling"

The title track from the Cali two-piece's four song EP now has a video to accompany the great tune. And just in case you were wondering how these two came to be, well, this video has got your answer. Utilizing a lot of stop-action animation, the video chronicles a mouse's track through the city streets up to his arrival at a seemingly random apartment. A great song from a maturing band.

Bibio - The Apple and the Tooth

British music producer Bibio has been keeping himself seriously occupied in 2009. He has already released two albums (including the excellent Ambivalence Avenue) and here has released a third album/EP to keep his productive '09 going. The Apple and the Tooth is a twelve track album which contains all new material; however, eight of the songs are remixes of tracks from Ambivalence Avenue. The new tracks sound like leftovers from that recording session as the same dusty-sounding beats are used with dreamy pop vocals floating over top (with blips, acoustic instruments, and general electronica noise sprinkle here and there). Makes one wonder just what else could Bibio have in store for the rapidly approaching 2010?

Bibio - The Apple and the Tooth

Ghost Stories With Ghostface

It's Halloween and who better to drop a ghoulish ghost story than Wu's Ghostface Killah? After all, his latest album was pretty scarily awful. Although brief, it begins with Ghost in the superspooky state of Vermont and things only escalate from there.

Happy Halloween!!

The Wu Massacre

Wu-Tang members have been busy thus far in 2009. A number of members have released solo efforts (some better than others), a Wu album of sorts was released (which turned out to be a surprising treat), and collaborations happened. Now comes an effort between three of the more higher profile Wu members: Method Man, Ghostface Killah, and Raekwon. On December 22, the trio will release an album but until then there will be promo videos released leading up to the album's street date. The first video is very much in the vibe of Seven as cops uncover a grisly, dark crime scene. Hard to watch this and not think of Meth's "torture talk" on the Wu-Tang debut back in 1993. December 22: can't wait.

Hoodie Allen - Making Waves

Making Waves is the introduction to New York hip hop duo. And it's a sweet one. While the beats won't drop jaws (fairly simplistic and they sample TLC and Pharcyde among others) their easy-going style is good for casual listening with a chuckle here and there at the rhymes. Topics range from the obvious old school bragging to being stuck in the "friend zone" with the ladies. Overall, it's a fun listen that is the latest in the line of "new rappers going for that old school vibe" style. A solid mixtape.

Hoodie Allen - Making Waves

Basement Jaxx - "My Turn"

The fifth album by Basement Jaxx was another piece of house which takes influence from a number of genres along the way, but always with the thumping bass and dance mentality. it didn't exactly reinvent their sound either. However, just like with any Basement Jaxx album, there are always singles to be found and this one is a catchy, smooth track featuring the vocals of Lightspeed Champion (previously of the dance-punk troupe Test Icicles) who has dumped the punk scene for that of the pop scene. The video for the third single "My Turn" off Scars features bears dancing, hearts, bears smashing things, hearts, trippy visuals, and wardrobe changes. Another eye-feast of a video from the boys of Basement Jaxx and proof that although their overall product may be slipping (their albums), writing a single is no problem.

Lil Wayne - No Ceilings

After a number of pushbacks for his "rock-orientated" album Rebirth (with latest release date now in mid-December), Wayne could not sit back and watch others take over the realm in which he really made his name; the world of the mixtape. The usual Wayne antics are here which means to say that he kind of just says whatever comes into his mind as long as it rhymes with the previous line. While the beats (as usual) as pretty stale (including the umptenth song which utilizes the "D.O.A." beat), Wayne lyrics are the obvious star of this show. And he delivers (especially a surprise for me as I have NEVER (ever ever) been a fan). While this may not be the "official" final cut (October 31 is listed release date), it still has to be a majority of what Wayne plans on offering up to his fans on Halloween. Until Rebirth and his upcoming jail sentence, No Ceilings will successfully keep the music world occupied.

Lil Wayne - No Ceilings

Girls - "Lust For Life"

San Francisco based band the Girls debut album (Album) has been gathering critical praise since it's release the other month. And it, admittedly, is well-deserved. Album catches the hippie spirit of San Fran as well as the 60s psychedelic vibes (talk of drugs and spacey echo effects) all the while keeping things playful (insert Beach Boys-influence comment here) yet insightful (the excellent "Hellhole Ratrace"). The excellent single (and lead track) "Lust For Life" and its accompanying video captures all this during the course of the song's two and a half minutes. While the initial video contains some shots of bongs as well as a nipple slip by a chick in a bathtub, the recently released "more adult" version contains lots of nudity as well as (a now infamous) shot of a dude using another dude as a microphone (use your imagination to figure this one out). Regardless of sexual preferences or prudeness, Album is one of the year's better releases and is definitely worth repeated listens.

Alec Ounsworth - Mo Beauty

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah frontman Alec Ounsworth is the latest in 2009 to release a solo album (others have included Interpol's Paul Banks and My Morning Jacket's Jim James while The Strokes' Julian Casablancas is set to release his solo debut next week). Ounsworth's album Mo Beauty is quite a step away from the CYHSY sound (even though his nasally voice carries over to this album). Recorded away from his NYC stomping ground in the south's New Orleans, Ounsworth tries to make an album that embodies the area's history and lifestyle. "Bones to the Grave" attempts to relay some of the trademark "New Orleans oddness" with its use of a carnival-like organ and big band horns appear here and there (most predominantly on "Idiots in the Rain"; but the end result is neither well put together nor memorable to the ears. Elsewhere, acoustic instruments dominate the song as he attempts to establish a kind of southern atmosphere, however, it only exemplifies his inadequacies as a songwriter. And this is the problem that plagues all of Mo Beauty. Ounsworth set out with an obviously optimistic sound/scope but instead is muddled by his average ability as a songwriter. Even though his enlisted a talented group of well-known musicians (Galactic's Stanton Moore and The Meter's George Porter, Jr.) to help fill out his sound, Ounsworth's attempt at a piece of regional music appreciation is merely that, an attempt with a none-too-pleasing end result.

3.2/5.0

Alec Ounsworth - Mo Beauty

Mick Boogie - NBA Live 2010

EA Sports has always been a leader in sporting video games for years now. In fact, they seem to have a stranglehold on the genre. As a result, they are able to license songs that other companies just simply don't have the money (nor the time) to do. Take the latest NBA game; for the soundtrack, Mick Boogie (mixtape master) has compiled an album of talent that showcases rising stars (B.o.B., Mickey Factz), semi-old stars (Dead Prez, Xzibit), and old school stars (De La Soul, Pete Rock). Among the highs and lows (and insistent editing (seems as though half the words in the English language were deemed "dirty" when editing this thing)), are only a few tracks worth checking out. Kind of a letdown when one looks at the tracklist and thinks of what could have been.

Mick Boogie - NBA Live 2010

Gift of Gab, Del the Funky Homosapien, & Brother Ali - "Dreamin'"

Blackalicious' Gift of Gab has for the past decade amazed listeners with his lyrical abilities; not only with his words but also with his amazing rapping speed combined with pristine pronounciation. With his sophomore solo release set to drop next week (November 3), a second single from Escape 2 Mars has been issued. This time Gift gets two excellent underground emcees to help out for the track "Dreamin'." Del the Funky Homosapien has released two average albums this year (he needs to let his dreams of becoming a credible producer go) and the song's other co-star, Brother Ali, has released yet another awesome album in Us which helps to solidify his status as perhaps the best rapper around at the moment. Together the trio have produced a track that showcases three talents that have had and continue to display unbridled lyrical talent.

Young Dro - R.I.P.

As T.I. is a a hiatus (of sorts), his Grand Hustle Records has to be experiencing a lull as he basically is the label. For the past few years, T.I. has taken Young Dro under his wing as his protege in hopes of turning him into a star (even though T.I. is younger than fellow Atlanta resident Dro). This mixtape by Don Cannon (who has helped out with mixtapes by Asher Roth as well as Grand Hustle's B.o.B.) samples some of the moment's hotter songs by Jay-Z and Drake (to name a few) for Dro to discuss his 'hood lifestyle over. Running 29 tracks, Dro's mentality and style becomes tiresome quick; basically, T.I. needs to get back into the studio to reclaim his king of Grand Hustle status. ASAP.

Young Dro - R.I.P.

We Were Once A Fairytale

Spike Jonze and Kanye West have teamed up before for the weird slow-mo music video "Flashing Lights" but here the duo have collaborated on a short film that (just so happens) to coincide with the release of Jonze's Where the Wild Things Are. This piece borrows heavily from the Lynch School of Weird/Surreal Shit as it finds West drunk in a night club (antics ensue) and ends in a bathroom. Along the way there are rodents, roses, and even a pantless West. It's all very, very weird. But considering the sources, not too surprising.

The Drums - Summertime!

After a summer of weekly shows around NYC, the Drums quickly became the latest "next big band from NYC that everyone must checkout and, subsequently, fall in love with." With a simplistic, rhythmic sound that pulls heavily from the late 70s/early 80s post-punk style of bands like Joy Division (and that whole Manchester scene, in general), a little touch of surf rock, and vocals sweet, poppy (simple), and reminenscent of Peter, Bjorn and John (not sure which one though), the Drums is a band that leaves the listener with very little option but to like them. This EP serves as an introduction to a group whose genuine good-times attitude (Summertime! is loaded with aptly fitting summertime-esque tales of love (good and bad) and party vibes) is very contagious, even from the very first listen.

The Drums - Summertime!

Felt - "Get Cake"

A few years back, two ridiculously proficient emcees decided to collaborate to, well, put out more material. Slug (of Atmosphere) and Murs first appeared as Felt with their dedication album (EP actually) to Christina Ricci (with production by The Grouch). This was soon followed but a Lisa Bonet tribute (with production duties handled this time by Atmosphere cohort Ant). Now, for the third volume, the boys have targeted Rosie Perez as their latest object of affection. And along for the ride is rapper, producer, and habitual dictionary user Aesop Rock (for production purposes). This here is just a kind of interview/promotional thing for the forthcoming Felt Vol. 3, A Tribute to Rosie Perez which is dropping next month.

Land of Talk - Fun and Laughter

Land of Talk might not have yet released a sophomore follow-up to their 2008 debut Some Are Lakes but, regardless of a few lineup changes (drummer) and claims of a hiatus, the trio have issued a four-track EP until then with Fun and Laughter. Here, the trio have beefed up their sound with more intricate songs (most notably on "May You Never") but have maintained the dreamy pop vocals of lead singer/guitarist Elizabeth Powell. Together, Land of Talk have combined a true (if somewhat textbook) indie rock sound with Powell's uber-pop vocals.

Land of Talk - Fun and Laughter

Joan As Police Woman - Cover

It's always nice when an artist does something appreciative for their fans. And it's even nicer when that something is good. Following a successful European tour, Joan As Police Woman (Joan Wasser) crafted this album of covers (hence the name Cover) for her homecoming show in New York follow the conclusion of the European leg. The songs selected her are all over the place: T.I., T-Pain, Brittany Spears, Bowie, Nina Simone, as well as Sonic Youth are covered here (as well as four others). And the thing is, never do the songs come off as jokes (even though there is definitely a tongue placed firmly in the cheek). Plus check out that hot album cover.

Joan As Police Woman - Cover

Big Boi - "Shine Blockas"

With the second leaked track in a month, Big Boi is confirming that years of talk and rumors are coming to a head; Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty appears to be in it's finishing touches. In fact, recently, Big Boi hosted a listening party in which a select few got to listen to the album's 15 tracks. Yet there is no release date scheduled. Giving Boi a hand here is fellow Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane whose gangsta flow/style feels right at home against this beat and Boi's cool guy persona. But as always it is Big Boi who (obviously) steals the show with his two verses. Seriously though, when is this album coming? Or will fans have to hear one song at a time every three weeks for the next year?

Willie the Kid - The Fly

This sweet little mixtape comes from a cat who doesn't know whether or not to rep the unknown (yet hometown) city of Grand Rapids, Michigan or the southern hip hop hotspot that is Atlanta. So he teeters between both. Willie the Kid possesses an easy going flow that immediately will bring about comparisons of Lupe Fiasco (and that is not a bad thing). While most of his flow focuses on the "blue collar" approach with little swagger rap, it is still a great display of the skills that Willie totes along with him on the scene. This is a true mixtape in the sense that there are few "real" songs but more of just a lyrical offering of a promising young emcee. Worth checking out for the sole reason to better prepare the listener for things when he really gets things together.

Willie the Kid - The Fly

Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne & Eminem - "Forever"

For his latest effort in his "look at me" campaign, Drake has collected arguably the best grouping of big name rappers since "Swagga Like Us." And just like that track, each rapper gets his own full verse while none are regulated to chorus-only duties (those are handled by Drake doing his lame R & B schtick). Drake starts things out nicely but then both Kayne and Wayne (who looks like the crypt keeper more so than normal here for his movements are limited to the range of a puppet) deliver below average verses. However, all is saved as Eminem continues his 2009 tear and effort to throw his name back into the "greatest rapper right now" category with an amazing closing verse. At six minutes (and featuring two weak verses) the track falls short of the hype (considering the names involved). It's hard to make a great rap song which exceeds six minutes (Wu-Tang's "Triumph" and The Coup's "Me and Jesus the Pimp in a '79 Granada Last Night" being first come-to-mind exceptions). Plus, the weird LeBron James theme for this video makes little, no, no sense.

The xx - "Basic Space"

2009 is approaching its completion and who would have thought that one of the year's finer releases would come from a group of twenty year old art students? Well, not such a farfetched idea but what about them also being British? Ok, also not a reach but moving on. The xx released a simplistic album (ingeniously it is self-titled) of beauty that excels on a number of levels; it has the ability to be both catchy and chill, the lyrics are straightforward enough that a casual listener can't help but focus in on them, and even though songs are (somewhat) ripped off (the riff of "VCR" sounds exactly like Glasvegas' "Geraldine") the tunes hit and the album runs the perfect length of time (just under 36 minutes). The video for the second single "Basic Space" is nothing more than the bandmates (including the unfortunately underbite-stricken female singer) trading notes/vocals. It also embodies some groovy psychedelic effects but the real treat is the song itself. Great album from an extremely promising young band.

Dead Man's Bones - Dead Man's Bones

Whenever an actor tries to switch mediums to that of music, there is always the question of whether this actor can really sing (or play an instrument) than just looking at the album as done by a musician. The latest to give musicianship a go is Academy Award-nominated actor Ryan Gosling. His project with Zach Shields was initially concocted as a full-blown ghost story stage musical. However, as the ideas began to materialize, an album seemed a more reasonable (and cheaper) approach. The team succeeds in creating a haunting album based on ghosts, haunted houses, and general creepiness (perfect given the time of year) all the while half sung in a muffled doowop/50s crooner-esque voice. From the opening seconds of eerie oohs and ahhs, the mood of the album is established and maintained throughout (along with its feeling of roughness as takes did not exceed three and some instruments had never before been played by either Gosling or Shields), even when a children's choir is called upon to sing the (somewhat inappropriate) lyrics. The choir actually works extremely well (the kids appear on roughly half the tracks) especially on the ghost story song "Buried In Water" and the ballad (?) "My Body's a Zombie For You." But not everything gels as hoped on this self-titled debut; "Pa Pa Power" is the attempt at an 80s Goth/synth inspired number feels out of place among the album's other offerings and, at times, the album has a kind of "look how creative and creepy we are!" feeling that comes off as somewhat tiresome. While Ryan Gosling will still be remembered as the "actor Ryan Gosling" and not the "musician Ryan Gosling" after this release, he and Shields have made an album that proves that he is a creative musician who can set his sights on a goal and reach it. A nice, little odd/creepy/poppy (lots of handclaps and doowop vocals) release to appease the tastes of open-minded listeners.

3.6/5.0

Dead Man's Bones - Dead Man's Bones

The Last Emperor - Science Team...Go!

Philly's Last Emperor has been around for awhile. Nearly a decade ago he caught major attention with his "Secret Wars" track which depicted comic book characters fighting rappers (complete with Emperor imitating the rappers). After years of jumping from label to label and never finding a true home, the Last Emperor is prepared to release a full length (but not his first) before the year's end entitled The Wizard's Wardrobe. Until then, there is this mixtape that offers both old and new tracks by the wordy, cerebral rapper. While many familiar with Emperor's catalogue will find a lot of these tracks to be old, those new to his material will find it all refreshing.

The Last Emperor - Science Team...Go!

LCD Soundsystem - 45:33 Remixed

In 2006, LCD Soundsystem released a workout mix for Nike that lasted 45 minutes and 33 seconds. The name of the album was titled, oddly enough, 45:33. Shortly after, various DJ/producers took a shot at remixing the tracks that made up the mix (although the initial LCD Soundsystem mix was offered as a single track). Unfortunately, as is often the case with remixes, the originals were far superior to every single one of the remixes. Here is all the different remixes that were created offered in a single album. And even though this release is entitled 45:33 Remixed, it far exceeds the time length that it's name suggests. Disappointingly enough.

LCD Soundsystem - 45:33 Remixed

Karen O & the Kids - Where the Wild Things Are

Hipsters are still trying to collect themselves from the news that not only was auteur Spike Jonze handling directing credits for the children's classic Where the Wild Things Are but also the fact that the script was being drafted by celebrated author Dave Eggers. And just when that news had settled then came the next bomb; Karen O and her hip friends were taking soundtrack credits. Whew. The impressive thing here is that Karen O (along with, among others, her fellow Yeah Yeah Yeahs members) has once again created something fresh and new that wildly varies from the YYY's It's Blitz! release from earlier this year. The soundtrack to Where the Wild Things Are plays like the book reads. You can keep up with the story line merely by listening to this album. And much like soundtracks, the song titles give the listener an idea of what kind of track they are in store for (just imagine what "Rumpus" and "Animal" sound like...). The songs here, which sound like folky kids songs for adults, roll along smoothly from one to the next. The album's atmosphere can be established with the first track "All Is Love." The song is an acoustic driven track with Karen and some children singing of love over a bouncey rhythm. Even when things get a little "mature" as on the piano ballad "Worried Shoes," the song is presented in a lullaby-type manner (which takes away from the somber lyrics). Karen O and company (er, the Kids) have taken an event (that the creation of this film has become) and made something that can be held next to it and not dwarfed in it's presence.

3.9/5.0

Ben Harper & Jack Black - "Under Pressure"

Last night on "The Jay Leno Show," they had listed as the musical guest Ben Harper (and whatever band he's with these days). However, he was joined by a special guest Jack Black. And what song (obviously) would these two tear up other than the epic Bowie/Mercury duet "Under Pressure"? Jack Black keeps the hamminess down and Harper controls his constant desire to stretch a note ala (insert any 70s soul singer here) to deliver a nice rendition of a classic. It might be safe to say that Black did this so that people will talk about his performance with Harper on Leno and not his performance in the recently released to DVD uber-stinker Year One.

Sparklehorse + Fennesz - In the Fishtank 15

The 15th volume in Dutch independent music distributor Konkurrent combines the work of pop singer/songwriter Sparklehorse and the weird ambient/arty/glitch sound of Fennesz. Recorded in two days time in the Fishtank studio (the catch of the "Fishtank" series), the artists on this release seem to be working on different levels. Never do the two styles really mesh to create something coherent ("Shai-Hulud" sounds as though the instruments were messing up and instead of stopping the recording, the artists allowed it to continue). Occasionally Mark Linkous' voice works well with Fennesz productions ("If My Heart" and "Mark's Guitar Piece" somewhat resembles a song but the constant white noise background effort grows for too tiresome), however, overall it all just fizzles. Fairly upsetting since Linkous' collaboration with Danger Mouse and David Lynch earlier this year (Dark Night of the Soul) came off as a success.

Sparklehorse + Fennesz - In the Fishtank 15

Paul Westerberg - PW & the Ghost Gloves Cat Wing Joy Boys

Paul Westerberg is light years from his Replacements days (he scored the animated film Open Season) but that doesn't mean he doesn't still have something to say. This EP is a nice roots rock release which features Westerberg's raspy (and still limited range-wise) voice and somewhat bleak lyrics. Dominated by acoustic guitars and simple rhythms (his band is a tight yet loose (?) bar band which works well with this setting), PW & the Ghost Gloves Cat Wing Joy Boys (whew) is a testament of a person aging; gone are those raucous 80s, the 90s were good for regrouping, and now he has time to reflect back on his times and life like the true aging artist that he is.

Paul Westerberg - PW & the Ghost Gloves Cat Wing Joy Boys

Sole - Battlefields

White rappers have been an anomaly in hip hop since the genre's inception. However, the white boys have always been affluent members of the underground scene. Take the label Anticon; it's roster (as well as founders) is majority white. One such member, Sole, came from the northeast (not NYC or even Boston but Maine) to create his music. Although his career hit a nearly unmatchable point in the late 90s with the amazing Bottle of Humans, he still puts out new material at an impressive clip. His latest is an EP entitled Battlefields which features a live band, the Skyrider Band, to accompany his trademark flow-of-consciousness lyrics. While once again he falls short of the standard he set at his outset, all the Sole intangibles are here to satisfy/baffle listeners old and new.

Sole - Battlefields

The Dodos - Time To Die

As only a duo, the Dodos are more than capable to make quite a bit of noise without needing the aid of effects or studio gadgets. Their 2007 release Visiter, was a refreshing piece of rhythmic psychedelic folk pop that showcased the two members' abilities on their respected instruments (guitar, drums). For Time To Die, a vibraphone (some kind of hybrid xylophone/marimba thing) was added as well as the help (production-wise) of Phil Ek (The Shins, Band of Horses, Fleet Foxes). While not quite up to par with Visiter, Time To Die does come off as another album that displays the spastic yet controlled drumming of Logan Kroeber as well as the quick strumming/fingerpicking style of Meric Long. However, the noticeable difference between the aforementioned albums is the assistance of Ek. Studio tricks are added here and there (occasional feedback, faux-electric instruments) as are vocal harmonizations and the echoey vocal effect that is oh-so-characteristic of Band of Horses . While some of the songs drag on a little too long, things are kept so the tracks often end at different places than where they began ("The Strums" runs the spectrum of styles in the Dodo's repetoire). The overall effort on Time To Die is sure to garner deserved attention especially for fans of Ek's work and interested in expanding their musical horizons.

3.7/5.0

The Dodos - Time To Die

Mr. Hudson - "Instant Messenger"

Mr. Hudson's (UK crooner best known for helping out on Kanye's 808s & Heartbreak) debut will soon be released (in the UK at least) but until then, here is a video for track 6 off Straight No Chaser. "Instant Messenger" involves, what else, the new(ish) art/frustration of communicating via the communication device that everyone owns nowadays instead of the old landline. With guest appearances from Kid Cudi, Jay-Z, and Kanye (whose G.O.O.D. Music label is releasing the record) the expectations are definitely there for Straight No Chaser (even though Mr. Hudson released an album in 2007 with his band The Library). The video here is pretty low budget with random visuals thrown in as Hudson wanders around some 'hood but the track is a little more memorable.

True 2 Life Music - Larger Than Life

This "collection of new songs inspired by Notorious B.I.G." is exactly what it sounds like; songs with verses by the NYC-based True 2 Life Music over B.I.G. samples. And together it works out nice. While never taking themselves too seriously, the trio of T2LM relate the usual party themes (women, clothes, the fact they are NOT lame) with a old school kind of feel good vibe. The fact these guys are intelligent (Cornell kids) doesn't hurt either as they are able to make pretty obscure references and jokes that works perfectly with the style they embody.

True 2 Life Music - Larger Than Life

The Mountain Goats - "Ezekiel 7 & the Permanent Efficacy of Grace"

The Mountains Goats (John Darnielle and whatever musicians he decides to surround himself with) are back again. Away for what seems like a long time (really only about a 16 months) considering their proficiency, Darnielle has released The Life of the World to Come. Once again, Darnielle's excellence as a songwriter is put on displayed but whereas the previous effort Heretic Pride went expanded on it's instrumentations, this release keeps things fairly stripped down with a newly found emphasis on the piano. Although each track carries the title of a biblical verse, the only thing remotely biblical about the album is it's exploration of themes and not the book itself. Take this single/video for example; as directed by Rian Johnson (Brick, The Brothers Bloom), the video focuses on nothing but Darnielle and his piano for a single take of the album's closing track. Seemingly alone with nothing but an always moving camera, the video haunts both visually as well as musically. Overall, the track is an excellent closer to yet another great album from one of music's supreme songwriters.

Spoon - Got Nuffin

Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga brought Austin, Texas' Spoon critical success but also helped in expanding their fanbase thanks to it's landing on a number of "best of 2007" lists. Got Nuffin is the first release following Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga and is little more than a few more tracks to add to the Spoon catalogue. While only containing four songs (two of which are different "versions" of the same "song"), it does help fans feel relief that hopefully another full-length is in the future. Until then, Got Nuffin will have to hold fans off until the Austin boys get their things together again.

Spoon - Got Nuffin

Donnis - Diary of an ATL Brave

Atlanta's Donnis' Diary of an ATL Brave mixtape is a refreshing piece of southern rap. Whereas a number of ATL rappers have taken the gangsta route, Donnis' topics (as well as flow) are very reminiscent of fellow ATLiens Outkast as well as the rising star B.o.B. On hand to help Donnis out is Mick Boogie who has thus far this year released some excellent mixtapes (most notably Wale's Back to the Feature and the Peter Bjorn & John mash-up). While Diary of an ATL Brave is a grab bag of good and bad tracks (it is a mixtape), the good exceeds the bad and the overall product is sweet and worthy of attention from hip hop heads.

Donnis - Diary of an ATL Brave

Volcano Choir - Unmap

After coming out of nowhere last year (well, not nowhere but some cabin in backwoods Wisconsin), Bon Iver gained a loyal following based primarily on the release of that one record. Although he has since issued an EP, it seems as if a true followup is nowhere in direct sight, so fans will have to turn to the collaborative efforts of Bon and experimental band Collection of Colonies of Bees; also known, collectively, as Volcano Choir. Whereas Justin Vernon's utterly haunting (yet heartbreaking) voice is featured throughout, fans of the stripped down acoustics of the Vernon moniker might be turned off by the experimentalism of Unmap. Songs ramble through seemingly random arrangements while odd noises are randomly thrown in here and there. However, the voice is a constant. But can that salvage an album? In this case art surprises substance. Much like many of the "art bands" gaining notoriety nowadays (i.e., Animal Collective, Atlas Sound), Volcano Choir's sound is based primarily on the seemingly pieced together playing of the whole's members (with none being that deft at their instruments). Even the album's most straight-forward song (term being very loosely used) things just kind of go and go and go until it ends. Nonetheless, Bon Iver fans should continue to build anticipation while fans of faux-talented indie rock enjoy; here is Volcano Choir's Unmap.

2.8/5.0

Volcano Choir - Unmap

Consequence - "Whatever You Want"

Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music may not be house to many artists but it definitely seems to prescribe to the idea of "quality over quantity." One of the label's better rappers Consequence (whose debut dates back to A Tribe Called Quest's Midnight Marauders) will be releasing his sophomore album Cons TV before the year's end and for the first single he not only is receiving help from West himself but also John Legend and the directing efforts of the legendary Hype Williams (growing up, thanks to Hype, I saw many a shakin' booties and obscenely glitzy lights all thru fisheyed camera lenses). While the track isn't anything special (seems as though everyone mailed it in on this one) a new Consequence release (album or mixtape) is always welcomed.

Thom Yorke - "Feeling Pulled Apart By Horses/The Hollow Earth"

Thom Yorke is a busy man. When not touring and making albums with his ubergroup, he gets his creativity out via other ways; like releasing singles under the moniker Thom Yorke. The latest offering is a 12" which boasts "Feeling Pulled Apart By Horses" on one side and "The Hollow Earth" on the other. This coming on the heels of his contribution to the Mark Mulcahy cover album as well as volunteering his hand to the soon to be released (and make an absurd amount of money) soundtrack to New Moon. The tracks here are standard Yorke fair with blips, glitches, digital beats which all the while showcase his voice. Needless to say it's good (surprise, surprise when considering the source).

Thom Yorke - FPABH/THE

Mick Boogie + Peter Bjorn & John - Re-Living Thing

The latest Mick Boogie mixtape takes Peter Bjorn & John's Living Thing and turns it into a hip mash-up. It doesn't hurt that he is supported by a strong cast of rappers to round out the project. Well known MCs such as Talib Kweli, Wale, and Bun B (to name just a few) are joined by up-and-comers such as Christian Rich and U-n-i. As to be expected, the results are great. The verses (all of them) are well-handled and Boogie's ability to turn PBJ's Living Thing in a legitimate hip hop album comes as a welcoming mixtape and definitely worth checking out for fans of great rap, a fine mash-up, and/or PBJ.

Mick Boogie + Peter Bjorn & John - Re-Living Thing

No Age - Losing Feeling

California's No Age is one of the more talked about bands of the California experimental/lo-fi/noise movement. The thing that sets them apart from bands like Wavves and HEALTH is simple; they write much better songs. Losing Feeling is a four cut EP that takes a more heavy focus on songwriting and structure while understanding that the listener's attention span can exceed two minutes and 24 seconds (all songs exceed three minutes whereas only 2 of the 11 found on last year's Nouns broke that barrier). Although the trademark feedback is there, it seems to be toned down so that you can hear the duo's vocals. No Age has taken a different direction with this EP, one that displays the talent and range (at times it's hard to believe that only two dudes are accomplishing all this), and the outcome is fresh and leaves anticipation for their next release high.

No Age - Losing Feeling

Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement

With A Strange Arrangement, Mayer Hawthorne tries his best to not so much reinvent the soul music of the 60s and 70s but rather emulate it to his best abilities. The problem is his aspirations exceed his vocal talents. Instrumentally, Hawthorne has remained faithful to his idols of yester-decade by creating lush yet simple soundscapes that any Motown member would have been comfortable singing on. However, vocally, Hawthorne sounds half-asleep and his range limited. From the self-titled opening track through, Hawthorne's voice changes very little while sounding only slightly interested in the topic he is singing about (97% of the time it's love in one form or another). Although love is A Strange Arrangement's chief topic, on "The Ills", Hawthorne attempts to channel his Curtis Mayfield by taking his range up and discussing world issues (all over a beat that sounds totally ripped off of Peter Bjorn and John's "Young Folks"), however, much like the album itself, the idea is better than the results. While soul/neo-soul fans will look at this album as a refreshing attempt to revamp the genre, Hawthorne himself is not quite there yet as an artist to fulfill these hopes.

3.0/5.0

Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement

Big Boi - "For Your Sorrows"

OutKast's Big Boi has been working on an official solo album (not a split ala Speakerboxxx) for what seems like years now. Just released by Big Boi himself is a new cut from his upcoming Sir Luscious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty. And it's good to hear his voice again. While the chorus is iffy (George Clinton + weed), and the beat sounds lifted from "Walk It Out" (or some other generic, yet catchy, radio single), Big Boi's verses remind you immediately why he has been a top lyricist for over a decade now. Stank you very much and can't wait for a full release.

Jamie T - Kings and Queens

When Jamie T. arrived in 2007 with his debut Panic Prevention, it was received as a breathe of fresh air from an up-and-coming talent (he was only 21). Now, with his second album Kings and Queens, it seems natural that the listener would be in for something a little more mature than his previous effort (plus releasing two well received EPs thus far this year hasn't hurt). Wrong mindstate to take on. Once again, Jamie (in his best slurry Joe Strummer voice and Billy Bragg songwriting impressions) relays stories of heartbreak which lead to raucous nights with less-than-stellar characters (all the while drunk or on way to drunk). While each song draws heavily on hip-hop influences (few things are legitimately sung here), Jamie's ability to write a chorus has improved ("Sticks and Stones" is a pure joy) as has his adoption of the "indie rock" sound (ie., "The Man's Machine"). From beginning to end, Kings and Queens is a great listen; however, it does have it's lulls (are two ballads needed?). But don't let that stop you from enjoying this fresh youth, his dry sense of humor, and knack for storytelling (especially those whose youth is starting to fade as it's a nice record to reminesce to).

3.9/5.0

Jamie T. - Kings and Queens