Vinyl Vibrations: New Albums released [14th May 2024]

"With every new album, there's a new story waiting to be told."

Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of vinyl as we showcase the freshest records to grace our turntables.

1. Strange Trails by Lord Huron: Lord Huron's second album is brimming with moments of haunting beauty. "Strange Trails" not only continues the musical journey begun with their debut, "Lonesome Dreams," but also delves deeper into the Western motifs and warm melodies the band is known for. The harmonized vocals, subtle yet persistent reverb, and gentle twang of the electric guitars will surely resonate with fans of Fleet Foxes and My Morning Jacket. With the addition of new members and expanded instrumentation, Lord Huron has evolved their sound organically, building upon the foundation of what was once primarily a solo endeavor. "Strange Trails" stands as a testament to their artistic growth, offering a deeply satisfying listening experience that reveals new layers with each subsequent play. Website Link- 'turntablelab'
2. Realistic IX by Belong: Realistic IX, the third full-length album by Michael Jones and Turk Dietrich, known collectively as Belong, is a compelling exploration and evolution of their distinctive acid-washed soundscapes. Through bleached guitars, steady rhythmic pulses, and obscured vocals, the duo navigates a sonic landscape filled with swirling textures and hypnotic rhythms. Melodies occasionally emerge from the depths, only to submerge once more into waves of feedback and distortion. At times, the music dissolves into a twilight realm of obscurity and subtle tonal shifts, where electricity seems to return to the infinite darkness. Despite the 13-year gap since their previous album on Kranky, "Common Era," Belong's collaborative synergy remains intact. Jones and Dietrich continue to push the boundaries of motorik drone and ethereal emotion, crafting an increasingly immersive and otherworldly sonic experience. Their music feels tangible yet surreal, like a captivating glow glimpsed through misty windows during the witching hours. Website Link- 'belong.bandcamp'
3. Shirt by Porches: Shirt, the sixth studio album by Porches, is a compelling blend of angsty fantasy and confessional melodrama. This rock album navigates the blurred lines between reality and make-believe, capturing the innocence of suburban youth alongside the harsh realities of adulthood. Through a fusion of chaotic impulses, insatiable desires, and perpetual yearning, Shirt explores the tension between one's true self and the persona they present to the world. It's an introspective journey where dreams collide with reality, resulting in a familiar yet uncanny sonic landscape. Building upon the sonic palette of their previous album, "All Day Gentle Hold!" from 2022, Shirt marks Porches' heaviest offering yet. The album features grungy guitars with a menacing edge, complemented by drums and bass that pack a punch. Moments of eerie calmness interspersed throughout the tracks add to the overall sense of tension and release. Shirt is an anthemic tribute to the inherent duality of existence, characterized by crashing and caressing sounds that resonate deeply with listeners. Website Link- 'dominomusic'
4. Moon Mirror by Nada Surf: Moon Mirror, the latest offering from Nada Surf, embodies everything that fans have come to love and expect from the band. It's filled with bittersweet anthems that start softly but erupt into soaring harmonies, delivering those heart-wrenching melodies that listeners can't help but replay. Each track is a poetic and introspective journey, inviting listeners to belt out the lyrics with the windows down while pondering life's complexities. This album marks a thrilling and poignant progression for Nada Surf. The songs encapsulate the full spectrum of the human experience—touching on themes of love, grief, loneliness, doubt, wonder, and hope. These aren't the musings of a band in their youth; instead, they resonate with hard-won wisdom and a steadfast belief in the possibilities that life offers, born from overcoming adversity and embracing resilience. Moon Mirror is a testament to Nada Surf's evolution as musicians and storytellers, offering a poignant reflection of life's highs and lows. Website Link- 'newwestrecords'
5. Push by Sextile: Sextile is back with a serotonin-boosting new album, embracing a fresh group dynamic, faster BPMs, and an electrifying new direction. Recorded in Yucca Valley, "Push" pulsates with the energy of hardcore dance music, drawing influences from drum & bass, gabber, and trance, reminiscent of the vibrant glow of '90s Fantazia raves. Inspired by music lovers who thrive in both punk shows and raves, the album pays homage to icons like Josh Wink, Iggy Pop, Goldie, and early XL Recordings. Songs like "New York" serve as a sonic tribute to Sextile's origins, blending acid-soaked synths with nods to classics like "Higher State of Consciousness," while maintaining a playful punk spirit. While "Push" explores new territories, traces of Sextile's caustic post-punk roots still linger, offering a nod to their musical evolution. Far from abandoning their punk ethos, Sextile infuses it with a fresh, smiley-faced revamp, ensuring that their rebellious spirit remains intact. Website Link- 'sacredbonesrecords'