Last month I started something new: Project New Music. In this project I will monthly discuss the new albums I have listened to by sharing some general information and my own opinion. Which album has surprised me, which release didn’t fulfill my high expectations and which band may be the next big thing? You will read my opinion at the end of every month.
This month on Project New Music: De Staat, Radiohead, The Boxer Rebellion, Kaizers Orchestra and Anna Calvi.
De Staat
De Staat is a dutch band that keeps growing and growing. Their debut album was completely written by the leadsinger, Torre Florim. The second album, however, has been written and made by the entire band. Together they sound like a machine, all the parts work together perfectly. De Staat doesn’t make mainstream music, but crosses boundaries. In one song they even use a car horn. The result is a great album with ‘Ah I See', ‘Sweatshop’ and ‘I’m a Rat’ as highlights. The past few years have been great years for the band, but I think 2011 will be even better. World, prepare yourself for being overwhelmed by De Staat!
Radiohead
If there is one band that keeps reinventing itself, it must be Radiohead. Every album they make sounds different then the previous ones. The same counts for ‘The King of Limbs’. The band sounds more electronic than ever before and delivers the least accessible album they have ever made. ‘Codex’ is an amazing song, I immediately loved that one. It’s an album that needs time, that needs to grow on you. So keep listening and I’m quite sure you will discover its beauty.
The Boxer Rebellion
The Boxer Rebellion has the potential to become a popular band, but hasn’t reached a large audience yet. I think ‘The Cold Still’ will change that. This album proves that the band is ready for their breakthrough. The music is a bit more poppy and easier to listen to. I think we will see the band on the big festivals this Summer and will hear them on the radio more and more. My guess is that in 2011 they will finally get the attention they deserve. I personally like their previous albums a bit more than this one, but it’s still a beautiful piece of music. My favorite songs are ‘Both Sides Are Even’ and ‘The Runner’.
Kaizers Orchestra
Not many people know Kaizers Orchestra. I don’t know how I found out about this band, but I know them from songs like 'Maestro' and 'Delikatessen'. They have released a new album, called Violeta Violeta Volume I. Like the previous albums it is filled with crazy songs. You have to be able to see through the chaos before you can start liking this band. But once you are in the mood, this album will put a smile upon your face.
Anna Calvi
A distinctive debut, that’s the best description for the self-titled album from Anna Calvi. Her voice is powerful, the music is mysterious and she’s unique. She reminds me of PJ Harvey, but at the same time she delivers something new. She wrote her songs in a dark underground basement and that gives the music a dark touch. A remarkable debut that, once again, needs time to grow. It’s the kind of music you either hate or love. I think I’m going to end up loving it.
