What I’ve heard this year, in terms of rock music, hasn’t thrilled me like my reading and watching have. Only four albums hit the 8/10 mark and they’re a varied bunch of records by mostly older musicians, so your tastes might not match. But do give them a shot.
“Iran Iraq Ikea” from grizzled Swedish veterans Big Bad Byrd is charmingly psychedelic.
Conor Oberst teams up with talented Phoebe Bridgers under the moniker of Better Oblivion Community Center. It’s splendid!
Uncommonly suffused with beauty, “The Wisdom Line” is the best in David Bridie’s inspired career.
Check out the literate earworm songs by English pop-punk maestro Edwyn Collins on “Badbea.”