Cool Cavern

CC - CTLY

This is by far the best thing that I've heard all year. I've really got to hand it to Wes Eisold and crew as they've really knocked it out of the park on this one. Wes has almost single handedly created the album of the year, although he did have a hand on this one from members of Chavez, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Glassjaw. Every song on here is ready for the big time, nine serious bangers that you need in your life right now. From dancey numbers that remind me of New Order to dark synth that could make David Gahan and Martin Gore jealous. The songwriting on this is so good that I bet Wes could write circles around most bands with one hand tied behind his back.

Superwolf

Matt Sweeney & Bonnie Prince Billy - Superwolf

Matt Sweeney formerly of Chavez and Bonnie "Prince" Billy (Will Oldham) playing americana music. Formed after Will Oldham issued a songwriting challenge to Matt Sweeney (which he accepted), Superwolf is as brooding and delicate as any other Will Oldham musical project. Will's lyrics are still as eccentric (and at times hilarious) as ever and Matt Sweeney adds a jolt of electricity to many of the songs. So far this is the only full length these two have released and I hope it isn't the last. As of late Matt Sweeney has become Rick Rubin's go-to guitarist and Matt has appeared on several of Rick's most recent production jobs including The Dixie Chicks, Neil Diamond, Josh Groban and Kid Rock's latest Born Free. Will is no slouch either as he continues to release solo albums and act in television and movies (my favourite being the Horse Apples episode of Wonder Showzen).

Robert Pollard - Not In My Airforce

Robert Pollard - Not In My Airforce

This is the first solo album released by Guided By Voices frontman Robert Pollard. A couple dudes from GBV play on most of the tracks so any fan of the band will like this. Matt Sweeney from Chavez (who was one of the bands earliest champions and brought them to the attention of Matador Records) contributes guitar and vocals to the track "Quicksilver". Not In My Airforce is on par to Under The Bushes Under The Stars in both sound and cohesiveness. This is essential listening for any fan of GBV and a true classic.