RADIOHEAD - "IN RAINBOWS"

Well here's one that counts in both categories, I guess..with the band's online release of the record in October, and now the availability of the physical CD. Sure, the importance surrounding the nature of this release can't be understated...but the truly interesting part is to come, now that it's officially released. Besides perhaps a U2 or someone, Radiohead is one of the few groups/artists that could pull off this bold "pay what you want" method of putting a record out (and afford to do so, no less). But it's going to be exciting to watch what happens now, and see how many fans buy the real thing, after they paid 5 bucks/10 bucks/nothing to download it a few months ago. Even more importantly, though, is that underneath the hooplah, is an incredible album that returns the band to their more structured, less experimental selves. If you had gotten off the Radiohead bus at some point (like I had, somewhere circa "Amnesiac"), it's time to reboard.

THE HOUSTONS - "STILL"

Charlotte, NC's The Houstons (formerly The Houston Brothers) have their first record out under their new moniker, and have expanded from being a brother duo of Justin and Matt Faircloth to a full-blown quintet. The album is stocked with irresistible folky Americana...yet quite textured, not like a backporch strumming session. It's been in my car CD player for weeks, and it's out this week.

MY FAVORITE 2007 RELEASES

I won't take up your whole day spouting off on why I love each of these so. Instead, I'll simply list them. Follow the links to check out a song or two, and see if you like them, as well..and please feel free to comment with your picks.

RICHARD HAWLEY - "LADY'S BRIDGE"

www.myspace.com/richardhawley

THE NATIONAL - "BOXER"

www.myspace.com/thenational

M.I.A. - "KALA"

www.myspace.com/mia

THE SHINS - "WINCING THE NIGHT AWAY"

www.myspace.com/theshins

WILCO - "SKY BLUE SKY"

www.myspace.com/wilco

DATAROCK - "DATAROCK"

www.myspace.com/datarock

...And many more!
-pogo