Music

This Week's Best New Music Releases June 1st, 2010

by Josh

Born Ruffians – Say It (best new release)

So often, Canadian bands get their first push from abroad. Such was the case with Born Ruffians, the Midland natives, who received a great deal of exposure with the help of UK label, Warp Records. They released an EP in 2006 which was a near instant success, and followed that up with “Red Yellow & Blue” in 2008. Their latest release, “Say It”, is a giant ball of energy that is doled out in a way that is focused and mellow – like what Vampire Weekend would be like if they took a chill pill. The album is riddled with little hooks that drag you in, and force your digits to dance.

Label: Paper Bag Records

First Aid Kit – The Big Black & The Blue

A few years ago, while the world was experiencing Fleet Foxes fever, a little video sprouted up on YouTube by Swedish duo First Aid Kit. It was an instant sensation, not because of the gimmick, but because it was amazingly good. Klara & Johanna Söderberg honed in what made Fleet Foxes so popular – simplicity and warm harmony. Now in 2010, they are releasing their own album, bringing that same simplicity and warmth, but adding in their own quirks and jubilance. “The Big Black & The Blue” is a fantastic debut, and one that will linger on your stereo for a long time. (First Aid Kit will perform live at Criminal Records on Saturday, June 12th at 4pm)
Label: Fontana

The Acorn – No Ghost

Canada has a lot of artistic exports that make most of us cringe. Despite the vast wealth of talent this nation has, the Biebers and Nickelbacks always seem to punch though and steal the spotlight. So when a band comes along that has so much talent and potential to be Canada’s ambassador to the world, one can’t help but get excited. One of these bands is the Acorn. Their debut, “The Pink Ghosts”, a beautiful offering, served almost as a teaser for what would follow. After a few EPs, contributions to both “Friends In Bellwoods” compilations, and their fantastic “Glory Hope Mountain” in 2007, Rolf Klausener and company have returned with “No Ghost”, an album that grows on the musical styling of its predecessor, and adds a few new layers for extra flavor.

Label: Paper Bag Records

The Melvins – The Bride Screamed Murder

You can always count on The Melvins. Fronted by legendary Buzz “King Buzzo” Osbourne, they have been steadily releasing heavy grunge albums long before people knew what grunge was, and long after most people moved on to alternative. About ten years ago, they signed to Mike Patton’s “Ipecac Records”, where they have called home ever since, releasing an onslaught of albums under the label’s free-range philosophy. And after twenty odd albums, it’s probably safe to say you’re either along for the ride, or you’re not. Sometimes, it’s nice to get away from something that is “Pitchfork approved”, know what I mean?

Label: Ipecac