First: Grammy winner Esperanza Spalding released Radio Music Society, a new album of jazzy/funky/bluesy/pop-y tunes to follow up her 2011 release Chamber Music Society. The new album was available for streaming via NPR's "First Listen" program, and although the audio has been taken down, the review is still up (here), and if you have time, read it.
This album is wonderful. It's accessible jazz, which is a surprisingly rare occurrence. As someone who has only really scratched the surface of jazz music, I wasn't sure that I'd be able to fully appreciate this album for its jazz musicality. But it pulled me in immediately; this album does not make for any outsiders. About two minutes into the album, I picked up my guitar and started jamming along, and I do not know the first thing about jazz guitar. That should tell you something about the quality of this music.
One of my first observations was the emphasis on Esperanza's vocal ability. This album is really built around her vocals, a foundation which she is more than able to provide. She sings with an energy and musical intellect that is simply not seen in most modern music. Her previous releases did a fine job of highlighting her pipes, but there was also major emphasis on her bass playing. This one does not focus on the bass nearly as much. That is largely due to the fact that the songs are not like her previous works; they are bigger and more composed. To be honest, this is less a jazz album than a pop album with serious jazz influences. But I'm not complaining. Esperanza can belt it.
My second big observation was that, given the accessible and pop-based nature of the release, the album does a remarkable job of navigating through many musical methods and styles, and delivering refreshing content for both casual and musical listeners. Seriously, this album has a little bit of everything. Soulful saxophones, bluesy guitars, big-band horns, pianos, organs, etc. I can't think of another album that balances musical diversity with popular appeal so well. I do not dispute the fact that at times the music can border on cheesiness, but when you're as talented and energetic as Esperanza is, I don't think that's really a problem.
I haven't even mentioned the lyrical strength of her original compositions. To save space, I won't elaborate, but suffice it to say that she tackles big-time ideas with big-time composition. Radio Music Society is a success in all regards. Sit down, tune in, and chill out with this one.
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Second: The Shins released a new album for the first time in five years. It's called Port of Morrow. I know very little about The Shins, and will have much less to say about this album. Note: that does not translate to "I didn't like this album as much." Because I did.
This is a good album. It's not a knock-your-socks-off, didn't-see-that-coming, what-a-genius-work-of-art album. It's just good. The songs are well written and fun to listen to, the recording is well-done, James Mercer sounds excited and happy to be singing/playing. There's nothing to complain about on this one. It's easy-going and laid-back, and it gives off a pleasant vibe. On several songs you can hear Mr. Mercer's Hawaiian roots shine through, which of course adds an element of general happiness and excellence to the music on the album.
There's not a lot to say about it without doing a full explication of the music and its inspiration (which would probably be interesting, but I don't think I'm entirely qualified to do that). The album doesn't stray too far from what is comfortable and expected (which is, well, expected), but don't let that take away from what this album does well. Here is a collection of good, relaxed songs. Turn them on and go about your business with a little more peace of mind.
