ALTERNATIVE/INDIE

This Stupid World
By Yo La Tengo

If you’re into alternative music, then this is an album to watch out for. An American indie rock band, Yo La Tengo was formed in 1984. Although some of the members have changed over the years, core duo, Ira Kaplan and Georgia Hubley have remained constant. Bass player James McNew joined in 1992.

This Stupid World has a unique stringsy sound. At the same time, it gives off indie vibes with atypical beats – the songs don’t try to maintain a beat just to qualify as club hits like on Tonight’s Episode. Ira’s singing style is easy going, as if he were jamming out of his bedroom-turned-studio, which offers a rustic edge as in Fallout.

Georgia on Aselestine will blow you away. The track has a different pace and energy compared to others on the LP; like warm sunshine thawing your cold heart. The words are raw, hitting the right spot.

Speaking of lyrics, Until It Happens gives the listener a reality check. “Prepare to die/ Prepare yourself while there’s still time/ It’s simple to do/ And then it happens to you.”

There’s a heaviness that looms throughout, surfacing in songs such as Apology Letter, which ironically also proves to be the remedy. This release via Matador Records comes after three years, and, it’s safe to say, the wait has been worth it.

COUNTRY POP

One Thing at a Time
By Morgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen’s latest release via Big Loud Records offers elements of country music with the acoustic guitar and Wallen’s addictive Southern accent, but with a modern touch, so to speak. Catchy tunes and simple words characterise this 36- song album – ideal for a long drive.

There are references to God throughout and even the music on many occasions seamlessly alternates between country and gospel. On Man Made A Bar, Wallen sings, “So God made a girl, His best work of art/ Oh, but he didn’t make no place to go when she breaks your heart/ So man madе a bar”. But then, Wallen seems to have his own idea of God and religion. On In The Bible – “Lord knows I’d be one hell of a disciple/ If bein’ country was in the Bible” and on Don’t Think Jesus – “Boy moves to city, lives fast and goes hard/ Starts chasin’ the devil through honky-tonk bars”.

There are references to imbibing, relationships and heartbreak too. It wouldn’t be hard to imagine these tracks being played on a loop in someone’s bedroom. One Thing at a Time is only Wallen’s third creation but is nonetheless promising.