The Week in Albums: May 6

The first week of May brings with it two big releases from high profile artists. Rounding out this post is another highly acclaimed album from earlier in the year that slipped through the cracks.

#1
Helplessness Blues
Fleet Foxes
Sub Pop

Arguably the biggest musical export out of my hometown of Seattle since the 90s, Fleet Foxes burst onto the scene in 2008 with their self-titled debut. Their careful combination of traditional American folk and indie/songwriter sensibilities struck a resounding chord with critics and the record-buying public alike. It has since been crowned as one of the finest releases on the 2000s and has been sold in every self-respecting coffee shop around. So, now bandleader Robin Pecknold and his associates have been tasked with delivering a satisfying follow-up. Many bands have floundered when it comes time to record a second album, but I'm pleased to announce that Fleet Foxes have completely escaped the sophomore slump. In fact, Helplessness Blues is their best album yet. As one of the three people on Earth who weren't totally in love with their debut, all reservations and doubts I had about Fleet Foxes have been dispelled by this assured and rich album. The title track serves as a solid entry point, but the heart of the album lies in the smaller or more challenging songs, like the agile "Bedouin Dress" or the cacophonous sprawl that overwhelms "The Shrine/An Argument." The melodies are compelling, the lyrics are evocative and Fleet Foxes' music has never been deeper. I have little doubt that Helplessness Blues will be seen as one of the masterpieces of the year.

Simon's Grade:



#2
Hot Sauce Committee Part Two
Beastie Boys
Capitol Records

Yup, they're still around. The Beastie Boys have been doing this whole music thing since the 1980s and they've returned here in 2011 with their eighth album. Unfortunately, the group's age is starting to show. Unlike their earlier, more vital works, the music on Hot Sauce Committee feels a bit weary and worn around the edges. Singles "Too Many Rappers" and "Make Some Noise" are big, loud and energetic, but they aren't fun, which is something every Beastie Boys single should be. There just isn't anything memorable here. This isn't to say the music is bad, but it feels unfinished and a bit lazy. The rhymes don't hit like they once did and the hooks are nowhere to be found. Cameos from Nas and Santogold are welcomed, but they sure don't save the project as a whole. You're better off digging up a copy of Paul's Boutique and enjoying this great group performing at the height of their abilities.

Simon's Grade:



#3
Diamond Mine
King Creosote & Jon Hopkins
Domino Records

More or less ignored by the American music press, this beautiful collaboration between Scottish songwriter Kenny Anderson (aka King Creosote) and electronic experimenter Jon Hopkins snuck into the world back in late March. Diamond Mine is a brief album, barely exceeding half-an-hour, but the combination of Anderson's lilting songs with the majestic acoustic space created by Hopkins is enchanting. Songs like "John Taylor's Month Away" and "Running On Fumes" are perfect for late-night listening, when music this calm and spacious sounds its best. This is small, still music, but there are certainly times and places from those qualities. This has rapidly become one of my favorite hidden gems of the year.

Simon's Grade: