By JAYA GUPTA Special to the Daily Press
Here is a quintet of rock discs I strongly believe should be taken for a whirl. Perhaps afterward, you will see why these records are great ones released this year. In no particular order, the five of 2005: Calexico/Iron & Wine “In the Reins.”
Artistic alliance can be as dangerous as it is rewarding. The seven-track “In the Reins” is an example of successful musical collaboration, bringing together and creating symbiosis between the best characteristics of each artist. The literacy and emotional depth characteristic of I&W’s lyrics is juxtaposed with Calexico’s southwest-influenced Americana instrumentation. At its most flourishing, the formula yields staggeringly beautiful songs like “He Lays in the Reins” and “Dead Man’s Will.” Though only offering seven songs, “In the Reins” is a small manifestation of an inspired collaborative force.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club “Howl.” A seamless fusion of country and alternative rock is the solid foundation of this album. For the most part, acoustic and accented with Peter Hayes’ harmonica playing, “Howl” extensively examines the folksy style that popped up briefly on the band’s previous two records. Far more thought-provoking than most of the music on the market right now, this record is an articulation of grassroots American foreboding.
The Kills “No Wow.” In the world of garage rock, the Strokes usually come to mind. What we should be thinking of is the music of the Kills. Lo-fidelity, raunchy, and adhering religiously to the same minimalist aesthetic that NYC punk music encapsulated during the ’70s, “No Wow” is as stripped down as it can be without sacrificing noise. In front is the beautiful, at times vulnerable voice of Alison Mosshart, lending a stark contrast to the music provided by her partner, Jamie Hince. “No Wow” is as raw-sounding as it is unrelenting.
Super Furry Animals “Love Kraft.” The only thing better than the new record is the chance to see them live. Recorded at a country estate under the blazing Spanish sun, SFA’s seventh record is more downtrodden than the other upbeat albums recorded in London gloom. Tinges of contemplative sorrow highlight this warm, symphonic record, which sees all five members participating in writing and singing duties. Though “Love Kraft” is notably mature in sound, in concert the Super Furries have lost none of their impishness.
Bloc Party “Silent Alarm.” It’s pretty difficult to listen to the radio for an hour and not hear at least a song that doesn’t sound like mediocre echoes of post-punk band Joy Division. Bloc Party is a partial exception. Though they don’t directly sound like JD, there are some similarities between their songs — “She’s Hearing Voices” is reminiscent of “She’s Lost Control.” The best tracks on “Silent Alarm” are “Blue Light” and “Banquet,” which sound not at all like Joy Division, helping to secure BP’s integrity as their own artistic force and not some guys who idolize Ian Curtis.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on December 30, 2005. Read the original PDF.