Like so much rag weed pollen in the air, spring has inundated us with too much great music! But it ain’t nothing to sneeze at! (This is the kind of writing you get when the head writer of your blog is having an allergy attack, but needs to make that deadline. Deal with it!) I’m going to make this short and sweet. No big reviews, this month (maybe a few words). Instead, you’re getting TEN albums that have come out in the last month that we just can’t get enough of! It was clear that the usual “5 favorites” format would not suffice. When I asked the crew to give me some ideas for our picks, it took very little thought for all of us to start tossing around names. So, enjoy a wealth of music, this month from all of us at Stinkweeds!

Cactus Blossoms – Easy Way [Walkie Talkie]

This is undeniably Everly Brothers-esque, but the brilliant subtlety of the songs, arrangements and production give this album a life of its own, with a modern sound, free from any accusations of imitation.

Chris Cohen – ST [Captured Tracks]

Yet another beautifully crafted album of hypnotic and strange mellow rock tunes from Chris Cohen.

Julia Jacklin – Crushing [Polyvinyl]

Deeply personal and heartbreaking songs with that timeless sound. For fans of Esme Patterson!

Karen O & Dangermouse – LUX PRIMA [BMG]

This collaboration has some real surprises for fans of both artists. It’s like nothing I’ve heard from either one! That’s what you want out of a collaboration.

Sasami – ST [Domino]

This is the kind of artistic and unique music that we just eat up at Stinkweeds. A favorite for all of us.

Nigeria 70 – No Wahala: Highlife, Afro-Funk and Juju 1973-1987 [Strut]

This is a real treat to see another compilation in our absolute favorite series of West African music. This is the fourth Nigeria 70 comp since 2001.

Beth Gibbons & the Polish National Radio Symphony – Henryk Gorecki: Symphony No. 3 [Domino]

This is a beautiful piece of music by one of the greatest modern composers. It’s an added treat to have a familiar voice bringing the words to life.

Ibibio Sound Machine – Doko Mien [Merge]

West African influenced electronic dance music! I feel like this is what the Talking Heads were trying to pull off. Ibibio Sound Machine owns this one.

Julian Lage – Love Hurts [Mack Avenue Music Group]

Julian Lage brings a wealth of musical influence and experience to this loosely categorized “jazz” album.

Strand of Oaks – Eraserland [Dead Oceans]

We’re always happy to hear some reverb drenched rock n roll. Especially if it’s coming from Strand of Oaks.