[baystateoftheart]

W/ The Artists (2003) by Rhythm & Sound

I love me some dub, and especially the kind where it's not overly washed out and abstracted, but still retains the vibrancy of the source material. This hits the nail on the head, bringing together reggae vocalists with relatively restrained manipulations. Either a side project of German duo Basic Channel or vice versa. Great stuff, and makes me want to check out more dub with mostly intact vocals. Starting at a 4/5 and 75/100 on the BEA scale.

Really enjoyed this recent release, and think it's her best work yet. Incorporates touches of trip hop and garage.


Ambiguous Desire (2026) by Arlo Parks
_________________
Join us in the canon game :) / Add me on RYM

[LedZep]

Ambiguous Desire (2026) by Arlo Parks
There's something about Arlo Parks that consistently keeps me at arm's length, and I've been struggling to articulate exactly what. It lacks punch. And yes, I'm aware that sounds extremely reductive. But I really do have a feeling her distinctive, hazy vocals paired with often lackluster songwriting and non-intrusive production don't amount to much. I had the same feeling when listening to her debut Collapsed in Sunbeams, despite it being sonically quite different. Really hoped dashes of trip hop, UKG, drum and bass and other electronic influences would help me enjoy her music. Arlo obviously has an artistic vision and she has built a sound that matches the vision. I guess I just don't dig it. To end on a positive note, this seems like a great album for night cruising, which is a vibe I love.

Here's a fantastic and utterly unique contemporary soul album. I'm yet to find anything that sounds like it.

Oh Me Oh My (2023) by Lonnie Holley

Btw I'm glad you dig w/ the artists, it really is a rare perfect match of incredible dub instrumentals and legendary MCs.
_________________
Overall chart
Fake overall chart

2020s

[baystateoftheart]

Oh Me Oh My (2023) by Lonnie Holley

This is a really interesting record. The songwriting is strong, with affecting autobiographical lyrics addressing growing up in Jim Crow Alabama - Mount Meigs is a highlight in this respect. The variety of guests complement Holley well, with Moor Mother and Bon Iver being the standout additions for me. And musically, this is not a predictable listen, with some inspired directions from Holley and producer Jacknife Lee. But at its core, this is a great soul album anchored by the vocals and songs of this legendary multidisciplinary folk artist. They're not always perfect vocals, but they're compelling and rich. Looking forward to further listening, and starting at a light 4/5, or 75/100 on BEA.

Try this album from one of the greatest vibraphonists:


Dialogue (1965) by Bobby Hutcherson
_________________
Join us in the canon game :) / Add me on RYM