1) Wet Leg, “Moisturizer” / The British band’s sophomore record rings different than its twisted 2022 debutante, yet harnesses so many of the same qualities: ironic, bionic, funky and funny.
2) Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, “Hearts of Oak” / A pet project has taken me back—and caused me to fully appreciate—to this wonderfully textured, often-so-visceral 2003 record. I don’t think Leo’s crew is typically lumped in with pop-punk, but it knows how to offer up the best of both worlds.
3) Open Mike Eagle, “Neighborhood Gods Unlimited” / The word “reliable” gets a bad rap, as if it’s the enemy of invention. But, with his latest, Open Mike Eagle extends his reputation as one of the most reliably inventive forces in hip-hop. His work, here and in perpetuity, qualifies as must-listen.
4) Ruston Kelly, “Pickleball” / I need little reason to grow excited about new Ruston Kelly sounds, but this baritone guitar-laced single arrives with instant classic status.
5) Marya Hornbacher, “Waiting” / As someone who’s, shall we say, between spiritualities, Hornbacher’s 2011 memoir is a perfect bridge, a guide to discovering the more everyday, nameless transcendental in and around us.