The Revinylization Project: Year in Review

I bought a lot of vinyl this year. The picture above is only a portion of the records I accumulated in 2009. Missing are the old, used, and reissues, but the picture still gives you a taste of how much vinyl was dropped off at my house by the UPS lady. Even with a few releases yet to be released, I bought a lot of records.

And I was good at sticking to the vinyl, so to speak. I bought one album (Beirut) accidentally on CD, another only available on CD (Clem Snide), and a small handful via iTunes. Of course, the fact that most of the vinyl was accompanied by MP3 codes or CD's only encouraged me to buy more. It was simple commitment despite the fact that this town no longer has a reliable source of vinyl. Insound and all their pre-order deals saved the Revinylization Project.

The toughest part was actually listening to the music. The stereo is kept in the basement and I spend most of my time upstairs or in the car. Those albums without a portable option just didn't get many listens. The listening grew easier as Lucia grew up and often requested to go to the basement to play in the area we set up for her. (Before you call child protective services...or vinyl protective services, you should know that the basement is finished.)

As the year comes to a close, many of you have submitted lists of your favorite albums of 2009. (And some of you still have yet to deliver on your promise.) I too have created my own list. As top-10 lists tend to be, this one is fluid. You may find inconsistencies with my best of the decade list, but this is mainly due to oversight and the changing direction of the wind. I may have a completely different list tomorrow. For now, this is what I've got and I'm standing by it.

10. M. Ward - Hold Time

I sometimes refer to this album as He and Her. Of course, Zooey Deschanel has less to do with this record than Ward had to do with the She and Him debut, but you get the point. The record is good and I have not given it it's due time.

9. Port O'Brien - Threadbare

This record didn't grab me right away, but it's a grower. The band's nod to early nineties alt rock draws me back every time...That and Cambria Goodwin's voice.

8. Handsome Furs - Face Control

This married duo put on a great show at Mojo's this year. The energy from that show has held up on vinyl. Say 'yes' to perestroika dance/synth rock from Canada!

7. Yo La Tengo - Popular Songs

"Here to Fall" grabs me every time. The rest of the album holds up as well. I predict with some time and further listening, this one will rise on my all-time list. It's the most complete albums YLT has done in years.

6. Antony and the Johnsons - The Crying Light

I can't listen to this very often because it's that kind of good. The album is truly effectual. Antony's voice is not of our post-modern society. It defies definition and I defy you not to feel something when this record plays.

5. Atlas Sound - Logos

I'm always slow with the Brandon Cox bandwagon, but I'm here to tell you that I get it and I'm on board. Sadly, the creator of such brilliant material is not long for this world.

4. The Flaming Lips - Embryonic

I fully admit it. this one is all hype. And I haven't liked the Flaming Lips for years. Nothing I've heard makes me think that this is a bad album or even one that doesn't belong in my top-5. Let's hope I feel the same after a few listens.

3. Various Artists - Dark Was the Night

I normally avoid compilations, but this one is too good to pass up. It's one of the few that understands both quantity and quality. I even like the My Brightest Diamond track and I hate her.

2. Japandroids - Post-Nothing

I was so close to making this my number 1, but for reasons specified below it sits in the second slot. There's still some part of me that listens with my gut and my gut tells me to like this band. I know that it's beer and lifestyle music, but it's good beer and lifestyle music.

1. Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

Sometimes the best pick for your year-end list is the most obvious. This record was talked about before Animal Collective were a band. And somehow, it lived up to the hype laid upon it. No one makes music like this. No one. Not Radiohead. Not TV on the Radio. And certainly not Wilco. They sound like no one. They sound big and twisted, unraveling and cross, triumphant and just plain brilliant. How could I not pick this record. It's lasted nearly the entire year without me growing tired of it. I don't even know if I need to hear another record by Animal Collective. This will do just fine.

Others considered for the list (in no particular order):

• Monsters of Folk
• Camera Obscura
• Matt and Kim
• Dinosaur Jr.
• Swan Lake
• Grizzly Bear

Revinylization Project: Port O'Brien and The Monsters of Folk

Man, I haven't done one of these posts in a long time. Don't get me wrong, I still acquire and listen to new records, but it's been a while. Let's see if it's like falling off a horse.

Port O'Brien - Threadbare

Music
Some one's been listening to too much 1970's AM radio. The mood on this record is way less urgent, way more laid back than 2007's All We Could Do Was Sing. It may take a bit for this one to grow on me. There are no songs that grab you right away, but the production is somewhat improved. We'll see. What I do know at this point is that Cambria Goodwin is all over this record and that's a good thing.

Insert
It's a simple lyric sheet, black on white. However, it's the reverse side's minimal liner notes that may provide the most insight into the album's aesthetic. "In Loving Memory" is inscribed with the name Darac Dean Goodwin who tragically died at 17 earlier this year. A quick Google search reveals that Goodwin died in a car accident near rural Cambria, CA. The connection is undeniable as it is easily some relation to Port O'Brien's own female vocalist/songwriter Cambria Goodwin. This piece of information really sets the tone for a sad, sad record. Sorry for your loss, Cambria.

Sleeve
A blurry, faded photo of lavender fields adds to the albums soft, sad aesthetic.

Extras
The CD was included in the packaging. I'm wondering if this is easier/more cost-effective than the whole MP3 download deal. I dunno. I just know that I was able to pop it in the car's player right away without having to load it on the iPod. Also, there was a 7" with "My Will Is Good" and B-side "Lost in a Crowd". The single was an exclusive Insound pre-order extra, I believe.

Record
The vinyl is high-quality. I don't recall if the packaging's sticker proclaimed it to be 180-gram, but it certainly seems that way.

whY?
Although I was expecting a repeat of All We Could Do Was Sing, this album is a nice change of pace, a companion to the group's 2007 effort. It will be interesting to watch Port O'Brien's development from here.

Monsters of Folk - Monsters of Folk

Music
Conor Oberst, Yim Yames (AKA Jim James), M. Ward, and Mike Mogis come together to create 2009's most creative joint venture. Though the image and feel of this super group screams 1970's CSNY or [enter 70's roots rock band here], the music is certainly more soulful and varied than anything ever played on AM radio. With at least two solid songwriters, two unmistakable voices, and two virtuoso producers on the roster (I'll let you guess which is which), the expectations had to be high for this group. Well, consider expectations delivered upon as this is maybe the most complete-yet-unfocused record of '09. Although I consider it a grower, the variation of songwriting and performances on Monsters of Folk grabbed me right away. Even Lucia was impressed, but she likes anything that remotely fits under the alt.country category. Kids.

Insert
Everything about this album's aesthetic reminds me of my parent's record collection. The insert is this huge version of a CD booklet with the album's psychedelic black and white artwork adorning the borders and each song's lyrics given its own page. This is the kind of insert one pours over for hours while playing records.

Sleeve
I love the audacity of marginally mainstream indie rockers who put out albums with their portraits on the cover as if the average music fan will stop, do a double-take, and comment, "Hey, isn't that Mike Mogis?" Leafy vines frame each band member's artfully sketched visage, fully displaying the perceived non-hierarchical nature of the super group. A cool sketch of the group arm-in-arm covers the backside.

Extras
There is the prerequisite MP3 download card, plus the aforementioned monstrous insert and two discs. I don't know that these are all extras, but it sure feels like extra stuff to me.

Record
As advertised, two discs of 180-gram goodness fell from the sleeve upon shredding the shrink wrap. This is the type of record that should be listened to on vinyl as the warmth of the guys' friendship (perceived or real) and the fun they had recording (also perceived or real) clearly comes through as you drop the needle to the record.

whY?
Because you should always buy a super-group's record. It's either going to be a train-wreck of ego masturbation or a fun jam session put to tape. This one definitely fits the latter. Besides, if you read this blog for the music, you undoubtedly like either Bright Eyes, The Mystic Valley Band, My Morning Jacket, M. Ward, She and Him, or some combination of these bands. With this record, you get all of the above (sans Zooey Deschanel).

The Revynilization Project: Screening Records for Lu

I just received some records recently, realizing that they all represent my preference almost exclusively for mid-90's indie rock. What better opportunity is there to introduce music to Lucia than to play some of the best records and artists from the era? Besides, I've neglected my music fan base and this feature in particular.

Last Splash - The Breeders

















Music
This album still stands out from anything in the 90's or even this decade. Kim Deal put together her best line-up for this classic relic from the grunge era. Maybe they weren't the most talented group (I still don't know how Kelley passed as a guitar player.), but they were tight. This has to be one of the best and most unique albums of the past 20 years. It still holds up today.

Insert
For once, an LP insert doesn't measure up its CD counterpart. The artwork found in the original CD was contained in a booklet. It's as if the design was more geared toward a jewel case than a record sleeve. It's sort of a letdown to say the least as the cool, brightly colored photos of the band found in the original packaging are now relegated to sharing space on the inner sleeve.

Sleeve
Where the insert fails, the sleeve succeeds. The colors on the cover photo just pop. The red, black, and green just scream at you to stare as the record spins. Additionally, the back features the black-and-white photo of the band in a convertible as if waving in a parade. This was certainly the size in which these pieces were intended to be viewed.

Extras
None. Well, unless you consider the months and months I waited for some lawyers to argue how this thing should be re-released. Either way, extras or not, it was worth the wait.

Record
180 gram vinyl is nothing to scoff at. The sound is great. As the cover art was meant for an LP sleeve, Last Splash was destined to be heard this way.

whY?
Rarely is there ever an album recorded in an era of loud, aggressive men that not only challenges the sounds and aesthetics of the time but also the gender politics the way Last Splash did for me. If you have a daughter who wants to rock, buy this record. I do and did.

The Soft Bulletin - The Flaming Lips

















Music
Before the Lips turned silly, they recorded The Soft Bulletin, a difficult-but-brilliant pop record. This album is the only perfect record the boys from OK ever recorded, but who can say that much? It's big in the right parts, touches you where it counts, and fills a set of headphones like few others. This is an essential listen.

Insert
The sleeves for this double LP are proper sleeves for protecting vinyl. You know the kind with paper, clear plastic lining and a hole in the middle to reveal the record's label.

Sleeve
As with the music, one can see the direction of the Flaming Lips' graphic design with silk screened images over bright colors and intricate designs and sharp typography. The inside features a great black and white of the band and lyrics. Record sleeves like this cause people to fall in love with albums.

Extras
Three outtakes are included on CD. Not only does this entice consumers with new music, but it also maintains the integrity of the original release and it's intended sequencing. The songs are throwaways, but a bonus nonetheless.

Record
180-gram vinyl just looks, feels, and sounds better. The only thing that could have made this better would have been some color on the vinyl.

whY?
Because I can only think of a small handful of records I like as much as this one.

No One's First, and You're Next - Modest Mouse

















Music
Honestly, I've heard more of this EP on KCOU than I have had time to listen to it at home. In my experience, EP's either contain songs that are too good to shelve until the next full-length release or throwaways that didn't quite cut it for the last album. In this case, these songs are closer to the latter category. However, "History Sticks to Your Feet" is beginning to stick. What I do like about this EP is that Isaac Brock continues to channel his early recordings in his most recent work. For a couple of albums he seemed to drift away from the warbling psychopath with cheap Japanese guitars I grew to love, but this is the second release that at least connects to his work in the mid-to-late-nineties. Either way, nothing he records sounds like any of the other crap on the radio or not played on MTV these days.

Insert
Nothing special. There's some continuation of the charcoal drawings of flies/insects and lyrics. I like the use of thick, quality paper for the insert with plastic coating on the inside to protect the vinyl.

Sleeve
Charcoal drawings of menacing insects with some handmade pen-and-ink lettering. It reminds me more of something one would have seen in an early Modest Mouse concert poster. It's simple and will stick out among their other releases.

Extras
There's the digital download...or so I thought. The file downloaded but won't decompress. Eventually, I'll get back to it and have my listen in the car, but for now it's vinyl only.

Record
I don't know for sure whether it's 180-gram vinyl, but it certainly is solid. There's no wobble in this record.

whY?
EP's are essential to a band's catalog. They give the listener a peak into the recording process between albums. That, or they're just another way to relieve you of some cheddar. You're pick. I think this is an intriguing part of the Modest Mouse oeuvre and should be given a chance.

God Help the Girl - God Help the Girl

















Music
Stuart Murdoch left Belle and Sebastian behind for this project. Maybe he should have rethought that plan of action. This record just sounds like one of those romantic comedies put out by Working Title Films. You know, the company who makes all those sappy comedies starring Hugh Grant and [enter name of American actress of the moment here]. Sure, those films are cute and involve lots of characters, but their benign for the most part. Even as playful as Belle and Sebastian became in this decade, there was always a hint of cynicism there to make you feel alive. This record is a Hugh Grant movie costarring Scarlett Johansson as a busy American shopkeeper in Glasgow who doesn't have time for love until a mysterious-yet-bumbling land surveyor (Grant) sweeps her off her feet. Do you really need to see how it ends?

Insert
The lyric sheet is white on black on rather heavy card stock, hugging the vinyl.

Sleeve
A simple black-and-white photo features a young woman looking longingly somewhere...very Belle and Sebastian.

Extras
There is the digital download.

Record
The vinyl is of medium quality. It's certainly not 180-gram.

whY?
If you miss Belle and Sebastian, this is worth a listen. The sleeve alone will look pretty cool in your record collection.

Overall Verdict: While the two new releases aren't particularly offensive, they are certainly not essential listening. The two re-releases are essential and will be played ad nauseam for little Lucia.

The Revinylization Project: Iron and Wine, White Rabbits, and Cursive

Iron & Wine - Around the Well

Music
There are few bands that one could envision would put out as compelling a rarities album as Iron and Wine. Lost in recent albums is the back porch feel of Sam Beam's whisper and faint slide guitar. Still, to this day, one of the most profound shows I've seen is Beam, his sister, and a guy switching between slide guitar and banjo play as hushed a show as one can imagine. You could hear a pin drop that night. That sound returns on this collection, including Death Cab and Flaming Lips covers. This record is essential Iron & Wine listening as far as I'm concerned.

Insert
The insert is a large fold-out with album artwork on the outside and lyrics on the inside.

Sleeve
The artwork features a painting of nearly as many records as one finds in the sleeve. It's both aesthetically

Extras
The free MP3 was included.

Record
This whopping LP includes three records of music. However, the third disc is one-sided, with the other side featuring a cool etching of more album artwork. I love it when bands do this.

whY?
Because you should know what this "band" sounded like before they embraced calypso or Hotel California.


















White Rabbits - It's Frightening

Music
I liked the White Rabbits first album. Sure, it sounded like every other Brooklyn band not featuring a turntable, but it also featured good, solid songwriting. This album sees the Rabbits developing into their own sound while holding onto quality songcraft.

Insert
The insert is simple. One side is a photo of a solitary drum in front of a dark background. The reverse side has the liner notes with "Britt Daniels" in big letters so that you don't forget that indie's King Midas produced this fine record.

Sleeve
The cover is a fine black-and-white blur of a drummer slamming away in front of an old piano. The black-and-white with simple white and red text remind me so much of a Spoon record.

Extras
There was no download (unless I missed it), but there was a CD with all the songs. That's something for the car. It's sort of odd how now the CD is the novelty. Things are coming full circle.

Also, I'm not sure this was intentional, but a 7" of "Percussion Gun" b/w the non-album track "Foxhunting" was included. I used to love singles. It's sort of cool Insound sends me one every once in a while.

Record
Classic, simple, black vinyl with simple label. I'm not sure if it's 180 gram, but it's solid.

whY?
If you're reading this blog, you're most likely connected to COMO in some way. The White Rabbits are from here and deserve some support. Besides that, they've recorded a really balanced and enjoyable record.


















Cursive - Mama, I'm Swollen

Music
I honestly haven't listened to Cursive in a long, long time. When I saw them play with Bald Eagle not too long ago, I didn't really listen to them then either. I think it's the fact that their crowds are so young. Hell, they were young eight years ago when I saw them before that.

Anyway, I forget how great this band can be. Sure, one could simplify their sound as "emo" or whatever, but it's way more layered, textured than that. Plus, Tim Kasher strings together themes of pain and loss better than most. The instrumentation is is varied and diverse without losing that rock edge. I think this album is a grower. I'll have to give it time before I give a final verdict, but I bet that it will rank high by year's end.

Insert
This album is loaded with extras and loads of stuff just falling from the sleeve. I'll start with the insert which is a giant book attached to the sleeve. The pages are hand-written (or scribbled) lyrics and liner notes. One can see why the kids love this band.

Sleeve
The cover is a dark and doctored photo of the moon over water. Coffee stains, some red paint, and other alterations give it an eerie feel.


















Extras
This album came with extras galore. I received both the digital download as well as a CD copy. That's the best of all worlds. Again, the CD is the novelty here. The download card is a credit card-like picture of the band on one side and info on the other.

Record
Red. The vinyl is red with some black marbled features. I love colored vinyl and this was a nice surprise.

whY? Well, Kasher is as a good a songsmith as there is in indie circles. A band that's been around, creating quality music as long as Cursive has deserves your dollar. Also, this album is easily the best packaged release that I've come across this year.

_____________________________

Since I ordered the Sunset Rubdown LP, I also received an MP3 of the album. I will reserve my opinion for after I have the entire package in my hands. However, as with most of the Wolf Parade/Handsome Furs/Frog Eyes/Sunset Rubdown material (sans Apologies to the Queen Mary), they're growers not show-ers.

The Revinylization Project: Japandroids - Post-Nothing (and a few other arrivals)

Music
Japandroids are a full bombardment of drum and guitar in your face a la Trail of Dead or Girls vs. Boys. The fact that there's just two of them makes this achievement even more impressive. I really don't understand how two can sound like five. I guess the logic lies somewhere near that eleventh notch on the Marshal stacks.

Normally, I don't go for beer and lifestyle music, but for Japandroids I will make an exception. They make getting drunk with your friends feel earnest again. And if you didn't catch it the first time, they'll repeat it for you.

Insert
There isn't one, except for the download card.

Sleeve
It's black and white with a silly portrait of the band embracing on the cover and a live shot on the backside. It reminds me of the Black Keys' first LP. It's simple, raw, much like the band's sound.

Extras
As mentioned before, purchasers are entitled to a download. Lucky for me since I don't yet have a ultra-glide in the car, I have been able to listen to this album non-stop. The best part is the message on the download card.


Record
The label features the same drawing as on the download card. It's odd how hands in a prayer position sort of resemble a certain piece of female anatomy. Coincidence?

whY?
You knew this band had to be good if they're touring with Sonic Youth while promoting their debut on an unheard-of label (Unfamiliar) after two self-released EP's. Have you stopped reading so that you can order your own copy?

_______________________________________

In the works for the project...

Bill Callahan - Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle
I'm still getting to know Bill Callahan, but this album makes me think I need to explore the catalog a little closer. I can't help but think that Mr. Callahan might be our generation's Leonard Cohen. Anyone care to correct me on this? For a more complete review of this excellent disc, check the bathysphere who love everything Callahan.

Also, I have yet to listen to these...

St. Vincent - Actor
Of course, it may take me a while to get a good feel for this record as the download didn't work at all.

Yeah Yeah Yeahs - It's Blitz!
Honestly, I have a bad feeling about this one. It came sort of late, because I was late at pre-ordering and the album was oversold. So, here it is. I'm afraid to listen. I know it's gonna stink.

Magnolia Electric Co. - Fading Trails
I had no idea which record to buy at the Magnolia show the other night, so I grabbed the one with the fuzzy blue cover. Little did I know that the cover featured some nice 60's porn shot. I'll listen to it soon enough, but I'm sure Pizza will chime in with an opinion.

I think that's all the vinyl I have for now. A new shipment of plastic sleeves arrived in the mail today. Now I can protect my records adequately. Oh, and word from Insound is that I have more on the way. Woot!

The Revinylization Project: The Thermals - Now We Can See (and some overdue reviews)

Music
Though they have a "sound", I happen to think The Thermals write some of the best songs in all of indie land. However, this album lacks the oomph The Body, The Blood, The Machine carried with its unifying themes and undeniable passion. Still, the songs made my head bob. That should count for something.

Insert
Included is a good, old fashioned lyric sheet. White print on black. I'm a fan of the lyric sheet.

Sleeve
A collage depicting a swan on a bed of stars at night is the cover. Overall, the coloring is dark and drab, not really fitting for the album's feel. Of course, a closer study of the lyrics reveals darker themes and subject areas that may fit with the artwork than previously suspected.

Extras
The digital download is there. That's about it.

Record
Simple, black, elegant.

whY?
This album feels like a transition. The Body... was The Thermals' statement. Now, they have to figure out what's next. It seems that what's next is something more akin to Ted Leo with some harmony going on. I wouldn't be surprised to hear more instruments and see this three-piece expand by the next album.

The rest of this post consists of some records I've been meaning to review but have not had time to do so.


Pavement - Live
This record accompanied my deluxe copy of Brighten the Corners. If you never saw Pavement live, this record does little justice. Their live shows were often disjointed and messy. Sure, they were unforgettable, but it was rarely about the songs or the set list and always about the wager that they might not even make it through the show themselves. Somehow, they always did.

Various Artists - Dark Was the Night
I remember when Red Hot released No Alternative and Red Hot and Bothered back in the mid-nineties. The first featured a slew of up-and-coming bands making their moves from indie to major labels. The second collection had mostly unheard of acts still on indies. Red Hot's release in its 20th year contains thirty or so tracks from bands who would have felt right at home on either compilation. This one is certainly worth the cost.


The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
To me, this band sounds like they were raised on 80's Manchester, learned to play guitar in 90's Seattle, and record in 00's NYC. This is a good thing.

Wavvves - Wavvves
There's something to this wave (or wavvve) of lo-fi bands with plenty of punch and hooks-a-plenty. Wavvves are like No Age with keyboards and Times New Viking without the childlike whimsy.

Cut Off Your Hands - You and I
This album is fine. I actually have only had the chance to listen to it once. It seems the band has yet to provide the necessary files for my digital download to be redeemable. Assholes.


Condo Fucks - Fuckbook
Yo La Tengo have always had a knack for borrowing from the best sources (Cat Stevens, Daniel Johnston, The Kinks, Sonic Youth, etc.). So, it is no surprise that their garage rock alter-egos Condo Fucks should put out such a great rawk record of covers and originals not heard since the Condo Fucks fictitiously ruled Connecticut.

Antony and the Johnsons - The Crying Light
Antony has a voice not of this world. It's not something you'll put on every day until you wear it out, but you will play this record when you need something sad, something to make you feel.


Leonard Cohen - Songs of...
A friend bought this record for me for Christmas. I sort of forgot to mention it in this blog. I never really got Leonard Cohen until I listened to this record. No I get it. I don't know whether Wes Anderson has used any Cohen tracks for his films, but he should.

Ass Ponys - Mr. Superlove
The Ohio in me would not allow me to leave Vintage Vinyl without this record. "Mr. Superlove" was once covered by the Afghan Whigs back in the day. It might be one of my ten favorite songs ever.

The Revinylization Project: Swan Lake - Enemy Mine

Music
With a trio like Carey Mercer, Daniel Bejar, and Spencer Krug, it's not hard to expect such musical genius that one would never want to listen to another record again. Well, Enemy Mine does not blow my mind like that, but it is a very, very good collection of songs. The first track, "Spanish Gold, 2044", is the fat piece of rock excess I want from a supergroup and is the perfect vehicle for Mercer's thick-throated growl. The next few tracks adequately show off Krug's and Bejar's musical prowess as well. However, it isn't until the fifth track, "Ballad of Swan Lake, Or, Daniel's Song", when the listener is fully engulfed by the potential these three musicians collectively hold. Sadly, the rest of the album is somewhat inconsistent. There are highs and lows, but it mostly consists of hits not misses. I think Pitchfork hit the nail on the head with this one in giving the album a 7.4.

Insert
The insert is a good, old-fashioned lyric sheet. Nothing special. Times New Roman-typed. Just lyrics in black and white.

Sleeve
In keeping with the odd/ugly album covers coming out of Vancouver, BC these days (sans Neko Case's fetching pic on Middle Cyclone), Swan Lake opted for a courtroom illustration like one you'd see on the evening news. Do people still do these? Don't they have iPhones? Take a picture.

The back is a simple photo of a table and two benches in front of a window. Could it possibly be related to the court scene on the cover? We may never know. What we do know is that the album was recorded in two sessions, the pseudonymed Reg Lech/Palachi did the cover illustration, and the back cover is in fact a photo.

Extras
As with most (if not all) Jagjaguwar releases, Enemy... comes complete with the MP3 download so you can cheat the vinyl gods of their glory.

Record
No 180 gram or fancy etchings here, just plain, sweet, old vinyl. There's music on them there discs and that's good enough.

whY?
Because collaboration should be encouraged everywhere: public schools, corporations, basketball teams, and especially music groups. The music coming out of Canada's "other" scene is as inventive as anything out there. They've basically taken anything ugly from the seventies and eighties and made it fresh and interesting. Besides, you have to be a fan of at least one of the bands related to Swan Lake (Frog Eyes, Destroyer, Hello, Blue Roses, The New Pornographers, Wolf Parade, or Sunset Rubdown) making you that much more interested in Enemy Mine.

The Revinylization Project: Handsome Furs - Face Control

Music
I don't know that I would have appreciated this record right after falling for Wolf Parade a few years back. Thanks to Isaac Brock's production, the first WP record really rocked. So much so that it made the band's various side-projects and last year's At Mount Zoomer really hard to accept. However, the overall body of their work demonstrates that they are more of a synth-heavy act as opposed to a guitar band.

Handsome Furs bring the hipster 80's love with Face Control. Besides the synthesizers all over the place, the band even throws in some sweet guitar riffs that scream "hair metal" or at least Guitar Hero. Their sound has really developed and solidified since the weird Plague Park.

Insert
The insert features some cool black and whites of the Handsome Furs couple in their travels and recording sessions.

Sleeve
Bold graphic design present a blown-up and highly cropped photo of a doberman in front of a bright red background and gold lettering. After WP's dud of an album cover, this is a striking contrast and graphic triumph...well, maybe it's just a really enjoyable album cover.

Extras
Nothing other than a digital download, for which I'm thankful.

Record
It's a typical record with the classic Sub Pop label. There just aren't many of those anymore. I'd say Secretly Canadian and Sub Pop stand alone in branding a record label.

whY
Buy this record because everyone should embrace the 80's-inspired hipster in all of us.

CultureBully
Snob's Music

The Revinylization Project: The Muslims - The Muslims

Music
I don't know what it is about punk/garage rock that continually recycles the same approach only to turn out great music time and time again. I guess it proves the idea that emotion is more important than skill or something like that. I think it was Calvin Johnson who said it, but I digress.

I kept seeing the Muslims all over the blogosphere. Finally, I listened to an MP3 somewhere and thought this was a band worth the investment. This record is their self-titled debut, featuring songs from several early seven-inches. The energy and naivete that comes with a debut is all over this record and I love it.

Insert
On what looks like the recycled back of a notepad, the liner notes are printed (to look as if type-written). The Muslims wish you the best as you have acquired their product and the tracks are listed, divided into sides A and B naturally.

Sleeve
Despite the fact that the outside is a plain white sleeve with almost no print, the design is a nice attempt at originality. Much like the Stones featured a working zipper on an album cover, the Muslims nailed three holes through the sleeve, making the impression they had been shot. to further the effect, the sleeve holding the record is bright red and the holes go through an inside picture of the band.

Extras
The design alone is a nice extra for me. Also, the record did come with the always-welcome digital download.

Record
Nothing special here. The label on the record is as simple and nondescript as the rest of the packaging.

whY
You should buy this record b/c you haven't purchased anything interesting in a long time. Plus, a name as currently provocative as the Muslims deserve some space in your record collection.

CultureBulley

The Revinylization Project: Bonnie "Prince" Billy

Music
One listen is not enough for an artist like Will Oldham. I am going to reserve the right to make further judgment at a later date. However, the songcraft and musicianship of this album is as good as any Oldham has put out. In that way, it reminds me a lot of the last Silver Jews record. "I Am Goodbye" is maybe my song of the year to this point...behind Animal Collective's "My Girls" and just ahead of M Ward's "For Beginners".

Insert
No card for a download fell from the sleeve when I shook it, but there was a poster (pictured below). Not enough bands put posters in their packaging. Of course, considering the age of Oldham's core audience and this record's appealing adult contemporary sound, I'm not sure if this was the best choice. I may hang it in my garage.


Lyrics are ingeniously included as photos of hand-scrawled notes pinned to a knotted-pine wall. On the reverse side of this insert is a photo of a life-sized dollar with the phrase "Seek the wolf in thyself" scribbled across the top. Wolves seem to be a regular theme in Oldham records.

Sleeve
The album does not have a ominous tone for the most part, but you'd never guess it from the cover. It's about the creepiest sketch of Oldham I've ever seen. Plus, the title is "Beware". The back side features an amateurish painting of an erupting volcano. Oh, and the serial number for the album is "dc666". I sense a theme.

Extras
I guess I already mentioned the poster. I should have waited to share it here. Oh well.

Record
The record features a colorful label. The watercolors match the volcano painting on the sleeve. Side A features colorful rings of green, blue, and red. Side B features the impression of a skull. Have I mentioned a theme?

whY
Will Oldham is one of our last untouched treasures. The man is incredibly prolific, but everything he puts out is soulful and beautiful. The first listen didn't take. However, I know enough about Oldham to realize that this record will be a grower.

Doubtful Sounds

The Revinylization Project: Songs: Ohia - Magnolia Electric Co.

Music
I avoided Jason Molina and his Songs: Ohia for a long time. I always tried to separate Ohio from that idea we were a state full of hicks who pronounced our home state "Ohia". It seemed as if Molina's band was poking fun at that. So, I wanted nothing to do with it.

Eventually, something I read or heard made me decide that I needed to check out Molina's work. I posted an inquiry on Twitter as to which album should begin my study. The Magnolia Electric Co. was the only suggestion.

The album really is amazing. Since I'm worse than a lazy rock critic (a blogger), I'll just make some lame analogies and comparisons. Molina is like Will Oldham who sings an octave or two lower and is backed by the Eagles. Songs: Ohia sound like the Jayhawks with better songs and a softer/gentler Uncle Tupelo. This album reminded me why I ever proclaimed love for alt.country...whatever that is.

Insert
The insert consists of more of the same artwork as on the sleeve and a photocopy of liner notes scribbled onto notebook paper. The artwork is really quite mesmerizing in its complexity and ugliness. It's very reminiscent of Okkervil River's album artwork. The pen and ink illustrations of strange ugly, mutated forms with bird-like characteristics all over are both haunting and strange. Steve Albini is mentioned as the one who recorded the album. Interestingly, Scout Niblett contributed to the record as well. The rest of the liner notes is a short letter from Molina cryptically explaining the composition process.

Sleeve
As mentioned in the insert, the artwork is truly menacing. You can see the cover above and the back side below for a better idea of what I'm saying. The inside of the sleeve features a slightly out of focus black and white photo of the band.

Extras
I wasn't expecting extras, but I got them anyway. There was a digital download that not only featured this really great album, but also featured all the demos for the record. The stripped-down versions of Molina's songs really expose them for the beauty within this work. Also, there is at least one bonus track in the download, but I'm too lazy to figure out the track's title right now.

Record
The record is nothing special. However, the Secretly Canadian label is pretty slick with its silver-on-white print job and snazzy, retro logo.

whY
You should buy this record because it really is a fine example of Midwestern alt.country. Plus, if you live in COMO, Mr. Molina is coming to town later this spring. This could be a nice preview before the show.

The Revinylization Project: M Ward - Hold Time

I haven't really reviewed an album in a long time. So, in the year in which I am trying to buy vinyl exclusively I figured I could introduce a new format/feature. Enter The Revinylization Project. This is my first entry. Each review will feature information about the Music, Insert, Sleeve, Extras, Record, and whY you should buy this record (or not). Unlike other reviews, this feature will not be limited to new releases. Whenever I buy a record or revisit an old favorite, it will be included in The Revinylization Project. Enjoy, music lovers.

M Ward - Hold Time


Music
After a few years of Amy Winehouse-esque retro rock filling the airwaves in true cookie-cutter fashion, the only true purveyor of retro songcraft has survived to make some of the best music on maybe the best indie label. M Ward separates himself from others who try to revisit the past of popular music without true craftsmanship or genuine artistry. Hold Time is no exception. The opening tracks are as strong as any in Ward's catalog, including the She and Him material, but the album wanes a little in the middle. The closing third of the album is passable and an improvement from the pudgy midsection. While the record is a good album, it's not great when one considers Ward's earlier works. Still, the craftsmanship is to be admired.

Insert
Inside my record was a card (addressing me as "Dear Honored Listener") that gave me the right to one free download of the album. Now I can listen to my record in the car as well.

Sleeve
The cover is a photo of a 10th century Chinese painting. The sleeve opens to three panels of the photo, blown up to take up space beyond the cardboard packaging for my record. The blown up image on the inside is of a newer Chinese piece (20th century). There are no liner notes aside from all the players Ward employs for each track. The thank-yous are loaded with Saddle Creek folk, a guy named Michael Moore, and it's signed with the statement "Blessed Are the Peacemakers".

Extras
Aside from the digital download, there isn't really anything else. Although, I should mention that Merge did me the favor of packaging the record in a clear plastic sleeve to help protect the lovely sleeve. Additionally, the plastic includes stickers with the album's artist, title, and track list. I really appreciate this since I have run out of protection for my other records.

Record
The black vinyl is of the heavy 180 gram variety, solid and clean. This fine record is additionally housed in a cloudy white envelope for protection.

whY
As usual, M Ward crafts a nice-sounding record and puts together some attractive packaging. Of course, the 180 gram vinyl with digital download option should be enough for anyone with at least a passing interest in M Ward.