Upcoming Music Releases | June 16-22 – Top 13 Must-Listen Titles
When composing these weekly music round-ups, the challenge isn’t to source options but rather to select the most compelling tunes. This week, only a modest 13 releases captured my interest, making me question whether this signals the advent of the typical summer slowdown or merely an unusually quiet period. Despite the scarcity of standout albums, I’ve curated the top 13 titles that have managed to pique my musical curiosity.
Haim’s “I Quit” marks California rock trio Haim’s fourth studio album, boasting 15 tracks and fostering the raw vibrancy of seasoned artists worshiping classic rock. The band’s prior effort, “Women In Music, Pt. III,” secured Haim a coveted Brit Award for International Group, along with two Grammy nominations, including Album Of The Year recognition – a trailblazing milestone for an all-female rock band. “I Quit” reaffirms Haim’s prowess and perpetuates their reign over the charts.
Enigmatic blues artist D.K. Harrell unveils his latest record, “Talkin Heavy,” a defining release on Alligator Records that sets him apart from the current blues landscape. Reveling in his unique blend of soulful vocals, blistering guitar solos, and original compositions, Harrell personifies the new wave of blues purveyors, captivating audiences worldwide with his riveting live performances.
Echoing a blend of punk and R&B sounds, Thee Headcoats Sect’s EP “Got SECT If You Want It!” unleashes a fiery amalgamation of punk ethos and rock ‘n’ roll essence. This soul-stirring compilation features the original Headcoats lineup alongside Downliners Sect’s Keith Evans, collectively breathing new life into classic tracks with an invigorating twist.
“It’s All Meat” by the eponymous Toronto-formed band stands as a poignant reissue of their 1970 debut album, blending garage-rock, psychedelia, and hard-rock influences into a sonic tapestry reminiscent of iconic ’60s bands like The Doors and The Velvet Underground. A powerhouse act propelled by an array of musical influences, It’s All Meat embodies the quintessential spirit of rock ‘n’ roll’s golden era.
Knub’s debut album “Crub” unleashes the full force of Baltimore’s distinct rock sound, drawing inspiration from ’90s powerhouses like Helmet and Quicksand while infusing modern sensibilities into their music. Defined by their raw power, infectious melodies, and potent riffs, Knub embodies the spirit of live performances, translating their raw energy onto their studio recordings effortlessly.
John Mayall’s latest offering, “The Second Generation: Live Magic 1968-1993,” compiles a treasure trove of unreleased live recordings, capturing Mayall’s timeless sound across various performances featuring an array of legendary musicians. Spanning a broad spectrum of locations and a quarter-century timeframe, this collection showcases the enduring appeal of Mayall’s music and his unparalleled live prowess.
Amidst a personal journey, James McMurtry unveils “The Black Dog And The Wandering Boy,” an introspective release inspired by his father’s passing and a poignant illustration he unearthed, reminiscent of Ken Kesey’s iconic artwork. Delving into nostalgia and self-discovery, McMurtry’s music speaks to themes of loss, reminiscence, and the human condition, painting a poignant musical portrait.
In spite of this week’s music drought, these 13 standout albums offer a diverse array of sounds, stories, and emotions, promising to enthrall audiences and captivate listeners with their unparalleled artistry.