11/6/20: Mort Garson, Daniel Romano, and more
Welcome to the November 6th edition of First Listen Friday!
Sacred Bones released Music From Patch Cord Productions, a collection of unreleased and lesser-known works from composer and electronic musician Mort Garson, who’s notoriety has grown with a new set of listeners after the reissue of his wonderful Moog synthesizer featuring album Mother Earth's Plantasia. This new compilation includes some alternate takes from that album as well as music for radio ads and themes for film. The typically minute or so long songs meant for advertisements like “Music for Advertising #1” are some of my favorite tracks here. The whole album is a showcase in vintage synth tunes and I really enjoyed it.
Daniel Romano released his new album White Flag today. It appears to be the 9th(!?) album he’s released this year (the others were 2 solo albums, 5 albums with Daniel Romano’s Outfit, and a Spider Bite album with Steve Lambke of Constantines). This is a fantastic throwback rock album, definitely has a Beatles vibe to it. There are really outstanding tracks all over this. I’m particularly fond of “Blue Heron” with its big chorus and horns, “Even Temper” and “Mysterious Storm” which features some lovely guitar work and backing vocals. Definitely give this album a listen.
Ambient electronic artist Lightbath’s “Murici” is now on streaming services after this performance of the track on his YouTube channel a few months back.
The newest track from Rhye’s forthcoming album is out, the new album Home will arrive in January.
Brittney Howard of Alabama Shakes released her version of “You’ll Never Walk Alone”.
Cass McCombs recently released “Don’t (Just) Vote” a commentary on voting which also features Angel Olsen.
That’s it for this week, the Spotify playlist is right here (minus the Daniel Romano album because it’s only up on Bandcamp currently), enjoy!