In The Loop Monthly New Music Guide Part 2
Written by Tamsin Cook
If the Brit Awards this month left you feeling slightly cold inside, the brilliant Animal Collective predictably pipped to the post on two accounts by the unstoppable force that is Lady GaGa, let yourself be guided towards some therapy of the new music variety to restore one’s faith in the natural balance and order of life. Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, apart from having a fantastic name, are also in possession of some great tracks including “40 Day Dream”. A sickeningly catchy chorus together with a cacophony of instruments making up the melody and a powerful beat give this song an undeniable edge.

Cacophony could describe many of Beck’s earlier creations, however the recent collaboration on Charlotte Gainsbourg’s new album “IRM” is a welcome one, his experimental ‘plinky plonkiness’ fusing with her beautiful airy vocals to form a sound quite different from her 2006 album “5:55”. Up the tempo with a spot of Two Door Cinema Club, the track “I Can Talk” reminiscent of The Sunshine Underground’s material in its guitar-laden dance sound.

The aforementioned have released the “Nobody’s Coming to Save You” album to follow the 2006 “Raise the Alarm” debut. On first impressions the alarm is certainly raised as to what exactly they have been up to in the 4 years between the two, a thought also raised by the Good Shoes new track “Under Control”, both bands seemingly heading in much the same direction as they were with their debuts. They are still worth a listen though, as is “Contra”, Vampire Weekend’s second album released not long ago. While no Bloc Party-esque transformations in artistic direction are apparent the initial charm still lingers on some well constructed tracks.

Goldheart Assembly’s “So Long St. Christopher” has a familiar feel to it but rather than find that it had appeared on an advert or in a film, Wikipedia reveals that the founder members met whilst working as zookeepers. Who says it’s not a valuable research tool? More relevant information indicates an album debut release date of 15th March which personally I will be looking out for.

In the meantime Youtube must be scoured for the Florence and the Machine/Dizzee Rascal mashup, the one redeeming element of the Brits. Along with Peter Kay of course.

Liverpool Band of the Month: Hallo...I Love You! earn the title this month. The sugary electro-pop tunes make my insides dance. Their debut single “Walk me to the Sea” is out on the 8th March. http://www.myspace.com/halloiloveyou

Album of the Month: "ODD BLOOD" by Yeasayer. From the strange, intriguing vocals of opening track "The Children", to recognisable "Ambling Alp" every track has a curious, intensely odd yet appealing feel to it.