Toro Y Moi - June 2009
Toro Y Moi is a pseudonym for artist and producer Chazwick Bundick from Columbia, South Carolina. After signing with Carpark Records, Bundick released his first album in January 2010 entitled "Causers of This". Toro Y Moi (meaning "The Bull and I" in an mix of Spanish and French) has an electronic sound often categorized in the Chillwave movement. His most recent album, "June 2009", is composed of mostly unreleased guitar-based tracks from 2009. Many of these lyric-driven songs differ from his previous (or preceding) work. Though still electronic based, to me these tracks contain more of an indie rock vibe than his other work. I think "June 2009" is an excellent album, and I think it's great to have it to compare with his newer tracks and watch the development of his style.
Theresa Andersson - Street Parade
Theresa Andersson was born in beautiful Gotland, Sweden in 1972. She left her Swedish homeland with fellow Swedish musician Anders Osborn to play violin in New Orleans in 1990. She left the band in '99 and began working on solo work and some compilations, learning the instrument looping style that is becoming so popular for touring groups today. On her newest album, "Street Parade", Andersson's New Orleans influences can be clearly heard, mixed with her charming and cute indie girl vocals. I highly recommend giving Andersson a listen. Though she is reminiscent of many female vocal indie groups today, the jazzy cajun flair (in some songs at least) gives the music a unique twist that is fun for the whole family. I especially love the sax on the track "Fiya's Gone".
Patrick Watson - Adventures in Your Own Backyard
Patrick Watson is a Canadian singer/songwriter from Montreal. He has worked on both solo work and with multiple bands, including the Cinematic Orchestra, in which he co-wrote the popular song "To Build a Home" which was featured on ABC show "Grey's Anatomy". His current band, which bears his name, has released four albums, including their newest release "Adventures in Your Own Backyard". Watson's hauntingly beautiful voice, mixed with elements of indie rock and classical music give the album a lovely sound reminiscent of artists like Andrew Bird and Edward Droste. This is the perfect album to listen to in a bright and sun filled room, reading a book or writing in a journal. Absolutely go-to feel-good music.
