Radiohead-Free January

Posted by Kerstin, Online Editor

While everyone is busy downloading Radiohead's In Rainbows this month, why not try one of these not-so-on-the-radar options?

Rockfour, Memories of the Never Happened
Though they hail from Tel Aviv, this band's influences are more '60s British psychedelic than Middle Easten. Taking a cue from The Byrds, early Pink Floyd, and King Crimson, Rockfour's Memories is energetic, sprawling pop-rock -- an ideal backdrop as you primp for a girls' night out.

Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, 100 Days, 100 Nights
A neo-soul release from a stylish and confident lineup, this record sounds more like a rare, unearthed gem from the funk heyday than from a band formed in the late '90s. Jones has a gusty, smooth voice that can jazz up any random Wednesday night. Add a martini, and you've practically got a juke joint.

Richard Hawley, Lady's Bridge
After serving time in Brit-pop acts Pulp and The Longpigs, in 2001 Hawley became a solo artist and created his own sound: his haunting baritone croons anguished lyrics over lush arrangements. This mellow, wistful record -- filled with dreamy, gentle songs -- is the perfect accompaniment to a Sunday afternoon spent on the couch.

 

 

Comments

[ark]

I'm a big fan of Sharon Jones and also of 60's soul. Your use of the word "juke joint" is out of place here, I'm afraid. Juke joints, historically speaking, have historically been back-road music halls dotting the south -- the antithesis of a martini-serving urban lounge -- housed in rickety, wooden structures, home to down-and-dirty delta blues, gambling, prostitution. (I've never actually seen one in person, but if you look at this google image search you'll see what i mean.)