A large ensemble piece by Dirty Projectors’David Longstreth, performed by Dirty Projectors with German chamber orchestra s t a r g a z e and inspired by climate change. Heroic in its scope and shifting moods, it’s more a performance piece than repeated listen, capturing the beauty – and the peril – of nature.
Frames boasts a seamless fusion of rock, electronic, alt-pop, R&B, folk, funk and a touch of subtle wit, played by an exceptional group of musicians - all of whom write and sing lead. It’s a offers a joyful escape by a band of life-long friends who became serious artists, who don't take themselves too seriously while creating some seriously well-crafted songs.
A dynamic and genre-defying exploration of soul, R&B, and pop, balancing infectious hooks with introspective moments, never shying away from themes of self-worth, love, and empowerment. Coco’s storytelling is deeply personal yet universally resonant, creating a standout debut that announces her as a force to be reckoned with in contemporary music.
Deluxe version of the 2024 pop perfection that saw Grande’s blending her emotive lyricism and expansive vocal range blend with dive into house-music. Adds nine bonus tracks, including six new songs. 2 LP translucent marble vinyl, gatefold jacket, 24-page booklet featuring lyrics and new photos.
The second release from the alternative-rock supergroup featuring Alex Lifeson (Rush), Andy Curran (Coney Hatch) and vocalist Maiah Wynne. Stygian Waves boldly ventures into a spectrum of new guises—from alt-pop and industrial rock to synthwave and hard rock.
Motor-Cycle is that rare party record that’s got a bizarre story behind it while still being a freak-show record that you can throw on at dance parties. To make a crude comparison, it’s as if The Velvet Underground recorded for Motown. In short: debauchery with a beat. Dig it.
Pulling from a wide variety of musical genres prevalent in the Southeast Texas region he calls home, Pug effortlessly mixes Tejano, Zydeco, Texas Swing, Honky-Tonk, R&B, Dixieland, and down-home Rock and Roll -- all behind a voice that is pure Country.
The Blue Stones’ sound—a melting pot of rock, blues, hip-hop, and pop—has always set them apart. They thrive on contrasts and a controlled sense of chaos, both on record and during their awe-inspiring live shows. With Metro, they deliver their most unfiltered, unapologetic work yet. Step aboard. The next stop is whatever you make it.
Boland’s latest album reflects back on the last quarter century through a series of raw, exhilarating performances captured live on the studio floor in just two whirlwind days. The result is a timeless offering from a group of master craftsmen at the top of their game, a joyful, honest snapshot of a working band 25 years into their career.
The Hold Steady frontman returns with his most narrative record yet. Always Been tells the story of a man who becomes a clergyman despite a lack of faith. What separates this album from the 14 he’s made before is the involvement of Adam Granduciel (War on Drugs), who produces luminously, plays guitars, synths and more, and enlists his bandmates for much of the remaining instrumentation.
As the son of country legend Chris LeDoux, Ned remains a powerful voice in the outlaw tradition, using his experiences to create music that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. Safe Haven is testament to resilience, blending sorrow (including the tragic death of his daughter Haven in 2019) with joy, and faith with the conviction that his loved ones continue to guide him.
Bobby Rush and Kenny Wayne Shepherd were born about 44 years and miles apart. Several decades later after the two forged their own path in music and the blues, it seemed like an idea that had been waiting to happen. For over 100 years, blues music has inspired, comforted and spoken to the truth. Young Fashioned Ways accomplishes all of that and more.
Actor Joe Keery plays Steve ‘The Hair’ Harrington in Stranger Things and his retro-pop stylings are just as keenly observed and affable. ELO-ish introspection (“Lonesome Is A State Of Mind”) gives way to new wave (“Link”; “Back On You”) and some toothsome McCartney confections (“Charlie's Garden”; “Golden Line”).
Mumford & Sons are back with their 5th studio album Rushmere, produced by Dave Cobb (Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson). The 10 track album is a triumphant return to form, with upbeat foot-stompers “Rushmere,” “Truth,” and “Caroline” alongside tender ballads such as “Monochrome” and “Where It Belongs.” It’s the perfect reintroduction – a reminder of why the world first fell in love with them nearly two decades ago, and a testament to their enduring ability to capture our ears and our hearts.
The Coalition of Independent Music Stores (CIMS) is a national level organization comprised of the best independent record stores in America. CIMS was founded in 1995 with the goal of uniting like minded independent store owners, giving them a more powerful voice in the music industry. The stores that make up CIMS are all very different, but we share the same desires – to be the heart of our communities, to super-serve our customers, to support and develop artists, and to share our love of music.
For more information about CIMS and the stores in our organization, please visit cimsmusic.com or find us through social media with the #cimsmusic hashtag. And please remember to always shop local by supporting your neighborhood record store.
