Verdict – 9.1 The quartet from Columbia University released their debut album in 2008, showcasing a young band, neither pretentious nor arrogant, but rather a happy, preppy group of guys with an interest in African music. They incorporate the feel of Africa into their songs and produce an album of Indie Pop gold. Never trying … Continue reading
Tag Archives: debut album
Is This It – The Strokes (2001)
Verdict – 9.1 The debut album by indie/garage rock band The Strokes was a defining point of the decade, revitalizing and re-invigorating life into all things guitar related and starting a wave of new artists in their attempt to replicate or better Is This It. Simply put, no other albums came close. The charisma, confidence … Continue reading
Fleet Foxes – Fleet Foxes (2008)
Verdict – 8.7 The debut album by the American Indie Folk band, uses a basis of late-60’s pop music to create an innovative and refreshing folk record, with strong vocal harmonies and refined lyrics accompanied by a strong display in instrumentation. The strength of Fleet Foxes is in the ease of how it takes songs … Continue reading
James Blake – James Blake (2011)
Verdict – 8.5 The debut album by English dubstep producer James Blake is a subtle, understated and affecting record, taking the concept of the popular dubstep genre, stripping it down to abstract minimalism and supporting the production with emotive soul singing. Also a singer/songwriter, the songs are laced with intricate vocal textures and layers, enveloping … Continue reading
For Emma, Forever Ago – Bon Iver (2008)
Verdict – 9.7 Bon Iver’s (pronounced bohn eevair) debut album may seem rather lush, complex, but know it was recorded with nothing but a few microphones and old recording equipment. The back story of For Emma, details one of a Justin Vernon (who was the sole creator of the album) following the break-up of his … Continue reading
Funeral – Arcade Fire (2004)
Verdict – 9.8 The indie rock band’s debut album was made following the deaths of multiple group members (hence the title), and you feel that the themes within the album are directly influenced by those traumatic times. Coping with loss, a sense of entirety, an acceptance of worthlessness, all are explored in Funeral. There will … Continue reading
Original Pirate Material – The Streets (2002)
Verdict – 9.3 The debut album by English rapper/producer Mike Skinner, revolutionized the UK garage genre by combining the garage sound with lyrics detailing the everyday, menial lifestyle of the underground. In doing so, it becomes almost impossible to not find relatable lyrics within the album. Whether you live the lifestyle depicted, or have never … Continue reading