Just how anticipated is this new album from indie icon Sufjan Stevens?  It’s been well over five years since his landmark Illinoise album came out, and while many have given up on his much discussed “50 States” mission (to release an album for all 50 states – to date, only Michigan and Illinois have been completed), many have been hopefully for  a new album.  Instead, his fans have been coaxed and teased with little morsels, including a b-sides album, a Christmas boxset, a couple classical records, and an epic cover featured on the Dark Was The Night compilation.  So at this point, fans are salivating for something new.  So fear not, loyal fan base, because The Age Of Adz is here!  It is indeed a happy day – unless you want to buy it on vinyl, in which case, you have to wait until November 9^th.

Label: Asthmatic Kitty

Black Dub – Black Dub

Despite the vinyl record’s return to the spotlight in recent years, it is still not considered a priority by many record companies, and still plays second fiddle to the antiquated compact disc.  So it was a refreshing surprise to have the new Daniel Lanois project on vinyl weeks in advance of the CD release.  Lanois, who is well known for his production work with U2, Bob Dylan, and Peter Gabriel, is currently riding high on his recent success in Neil Young’s Le Noise.  Black Dub, which also features Brian Blade on drums, Daryl Johnson on bass, and the amazing Trixie Whitley on vocals, is modern jazz gem.  And Lanois continues to do what he does best – work with the world’s best musicians, and helps them shine.

Label: Jive

Belle And Sebastian – Write About Love

What is not to love about Belle And Sebastian.  Their brand of whimsical, dreamy indie-pop is hard to dismiss.  Their sound has an innocent golden oldie charm, yet is simultaneously as sexy as Serge Gainsbourg.  If there is a tambourine close at hand, Belle and Sebastian make you want to shake it.  Write About Love, their eighth studio record comes out a whopping 14 years after their debut, Tigermilk was released back in 1996.  It’s packed full of great pop tunes, including a charming collaboration with Norah Jones.

Label: Matador

The Secret Sisters – The Secret Sisters

Two very important people came into Laura and Lydia Rogers’ lives.  First came Jack White, who released a single for their cover of Johnny Cash’s “Big River”, which also featured White on lead guitar.  The second is venerable producer, T. Bone Burnett, who helped make this alt-country duo shine on their self titled debut.  Although an extremely short 29 minutes, the album gives you just enough of a tried and tested sound – female harmonies accompanied by southern steel guitar – that is very genuine, heart-warming, and satisfying.

Label: Beladroit