Gerald, the Marah record Kids in Philly is a must. It's in my top 10. It's just too bad the band decided to go commercial pop after that. Since you're a fan of the Eels, you're probably familiar with MC Honky's record. If not, go get it. It has a lot of sampling, and it's hard to describe, but it's great party music. It's also great relaxing music. Now that would seem contradictory, right? But it isn't, trust me.
Check out A3's Exile on Cold Harbour Lane. Great record, which includes the theme to the Sopranos, Woke Up This Morning. Their follow-up album, La Peste, is also very good, but I didn't really dig the most recent one. For a more acoustic sound, with hints of bluegrass and jazz, pick up the Be Good Tanyas' Chinatown. Refreshing. Next month, Cracker releases an album of redneck songs, including Jimmy Buffett's Why Don't We Get Drunk, a bunch of Merle Haggard covers and one or two originals. I have some of the unmixed tracks, and it looks very promising. A fun record for parties and driving.
If you like non-mainstream country, check out Rodney Crowell's The Houston Kid. I get chills just thinking about that record, it's so good and profound. There's a pair of songs about characters struggling with AIDS, one beauuuuuutiful song called I Know Love Is All I Need, some really deep stuff about growing up in an abusive situation. If you don't mind a little twang, this album is among the best you'll ever put in your player. Incidently, Rodney has another one coming out in August. From what I hear, it will be more of the same introspection and sparsely, but beautifuly arranged, production.
Do you have any recommendations?
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