EMA announces new album, shares video

The excellent EMA plans to release her third album, Exile in the Outer Ring, August 25.

Watch a video for the smoking song, Aryan Nation, below.

Commenting on her song, the South Dakota-raised EMA (aka Erika M. Anderson) had this to say:

“This is for my people in the middle country. I don’t look down on, or laugh at, serious issues such as poverty or drug problems. I believe your situations are real, your pain is real. I’m not here to ridicule or dismiss you. But as a person who came from heartland America, I also believe that there is another way than directing your anger at those who often have less power than you. Don’t let your discontent or your patriotism be exploited. Don’t look down, look up.”

Tweedy guitarist James Elkington releases video ahead of debut album

Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy is obviously a fan of Chicago musician James Elkington.

The guitarist and singer-songwriter opened half of the four home stand shows Wilco played in Chicago in February. He toured with Jeff and son Spencer as part of the band Tweedy. Elkington’s upcoming debut solo album, Wintres Woma, was recorded at Wilco’s Loft studio.

The English-born Elkington cites British folk as an influence, and Richard Thompson counts himself as another fan of the Chicagoan’s music. Wintres Woma (out June 30) is Old English for the sound of winter, according to Elkington’s publicity material. It should be noted that Elkington’s past work has been more diverse. His previous band, the Zincs, was a blend of indie rock and pop.

Watch the video below for Make It Up, a song off the upcoming album.

Father John Misty reaches back to heyday of ’70s singer-songwriters

Father John Misty

Josh Tillman, who performs as Father John Misty, is once again channeling the best of the 1970s’ great singer-songwriters on his third album, Pure Comedy.

Tillman’s latest album stands out on a number of fronts: rich, lush sound, clever lyrics and good storytelling. Pure Comedy is perhaps more Elton John than Randy Newman. But it also nods to Neil Young.

If those comparisons make you think Tilman may be a bit anachronistic, think again. This is a modern take on the ’70s sound and not just because Tillman references “bedding Taylor Swift.”

This may be Tillman’s finest album. At any rate, Pure Comedy highly recommended.

CFM’s new album is classic rock that truly rocks

CFM is Charles F. Moothart, a California rocker known for his work with Ty Segall and Mikal Cronin as well as his solo material.

Moothart’s new album, Dichotomy Desaturated, is a must-listen for fans of garage, psychedelic and the throwback sounds heard on Segall’s many releases.

Dichotomy Desaturated is part Kinks, Who and Black Sabbath with a gnarly garage sound.

I highly recommend this album.

Palehound announces new album, releases video

Palehound, the band fronted by Boston singer-songwriter and guitarist Ellen Kempner, is releasing a sophomore album, A Place I’ll Always Go.

I’m a huge fan of Kempner’s debut, Dry Food, and I’m very excited for this new release, which is set for a June 16 release.

Watch the video for Flowing Over, a track from the new album.