Five Cool Ones: Five Cool Albums Released Today (May 24, 2019)

After a bit of a lull over the last couple of weeks there is an abundance of new record riches to be savored this week. The Stray Cats are back after more than 25 years with an album that yes, sounds pretty much like the Stray Cats. The Waterboys continue to strongly represent, and the great Mavis Staples gives us probably the most socially aware set of the week. Here are five tasty morsels that are demanding our ear time.

Sean Nelson – Nelson Sings Nilsson

Sean Nelson, you know him as the voice behind Harvey Danger and “Flagpole Sitta” gives us a tremendously eclectic set of Harry Nilsson covers on Nelson Sings Nelson. There is no “Coconut”and indeed not a “Without You” to be found. The classic “Everybody’s Talking” doesn’t even make an appearance here. With “Gotta Get Up” from Nilsson Shmilsson probably the most popular tune being covered along with with obscure deep cut gems the likes of “Turn On Radio” from Son of Shmilsson and “I’ll Never Leave You” make this a collection worth savoring.

Justin Townes Earle – The Saint if Lost Causes

Steve Earles’s Son Justin Townes Earle is back with another solid set of introspective songs. This time, turning to more expansive road themes instead of the deeply person familial portraits he shared on his last two records, the results are equally impressive.

Frankie Lee – Stillwater

While his previous album American Dreamer seemed to focus on escapism and self-destruction, Frankie Lee’s latest, Stillwater, is all about redemption and returning to your roots.

The Amazons – Future Dust

This Reading, England four piece continues to produce ready made arena savvy anthems.

Echo in the Canyon (feat. Jakob Dylan)- Various artists

Echo in the Canyon is the soon to be released movie detailing the Laurel Canyon music scene of the 60’s. The soundtrack features an all-star selection of musicians with Jakob Dylan serving as the house band. Highlights are everywhere but the real winners are “In My Room” with Fiona Apple, “I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times” featuring Neil Young, and “You Showed Me” with Cat Power. Tremendous stuff, indeed.

Five Cool Ones: Five Cool Records Released This Week (May 17, 2019)

It definitely is a slow week when a new Dionne Warwick album and an instrumental covers record from Jimmy Webb are worthy of note, but fear not. We did manage to come up with five pretty cool albums that were released this week.

Crazy Lixx – Forever Wild

This one comes right from the belly of the Sunset Strip circa 1982. There is not a lot of nuance on this album, but is that such a bad thing.

Alex Lahey – The Best of Luck Club

The second album from this Australian songstress. Here, she matches her catchy hooks with solid songwriting.

The South Austin Moonlighters – Feels Like Home

These guys cover all of the Roots Rock bases. Americana, Blues, Country, you name it this band has it covered. Whether it is the Leon Helm inspired vibe of the title track or the Eagles-Like harmonies on “Carry Me On” this is a grower of a listen.

Jimmy Vaughan – Please Come Home

Jimmie Vaughan plays Texas Blues better than pretty much anyone in the game. Here, he handles less than obvious Jump-Blues covers with the aplomb of the savvy veteran that he is. “Midnight Hour” is worth the price of admission alone.

Lizzo – Cuz I Love You

If you are not familiar with the phenomenon that is Lizzo it is time to right that wrong. Unashamed of her body image or her sexuality her debut record is earthy, vibrant, and brilliant.