Nathan Angelo
Carolina EP/self-released
On Angelo’s latest record, the singer-songwriter’s penchant for soulful melodies and lyrics is as prominent as ever. These six tracks contain classic, ’70s-era pop (“Carolina Save Me”), groovy piano pop (“Find My Way”), soul (“Never Alone”) and even hints of R&B (“Fools in Love” will put you in the mood before you know what’s hit you). Much of this album centers on romantic relationships, so there are elements of love and loss throughout, with everything from the butterflies to a broken heart being examined on this album. Angelo is a solid performer whose vocals ooze with soul and verve, and it is hard not to be drawn to the emotional resonance of any story he is tells.
The Dodos
Individ/Polyvinyl Records
Over the course of its first decade (has it really been that long already?), The Dodos have impressed with a knack for the melodic and atmospheric. The new album Individ does not disappoint in either regard. From the distorted intro on “Precipitation” to the hip-shaking, riff-heavy rocker “Competition,” bandmates Meric Long and Logan Kroeber have crafted another otherworldly experience. Whether their voices echo over cascading guitars like heavenly narrators on “Goodbyes and Endings,” or they lay down hooktastic beats on the rock track “Retriever,” there is no shortage of things to like about this record. By the time you get to the seven-minute dual track “Pattern/Shadow”—characterized by languid, droney rock before picking up the pace significantly for the second half—you will be wanting more.
Milo Greene
Control/Elektra Records
If change is the name of the game, then consider Milo Greene’s sophomore effort quite the gamechanger. Gone are the folk-inspired tracks from the band’s debut, and in their place is a more cinematic pop sound that incorporates elements of dance and rock music. From the moody aesthetics to the way Robbie Arnett, Graham Fink, Andrew Heringer and Marlana Sheetz all trade lead and backing vocals to sublime effect, Control is a magnificent release. “Heartless” and “Gramercy” are great examples of the album’s tendency to match upbeat ambient pop sensibilities with dark lyrical tones as the band explores the ins and outs of love. Control is chilled out, marked by beautifully lush sounds and dazzling melodies that will leave you spellbound.