What the CL Music Team is spinning this fine Monday to rocket launch us into the work week… To check out previous entries, click here.
Ray – Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside, Dirty Radio (2011)
I've been utilizing the debut LP from Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside to keep me sane in between trying to get a sonic grasp on any one of the 60+ bands playing at Antiwarpt on Saturday. The 11-track effort opens with the alternating basslines and dirty guitar of "I Swear," and every track on the album makes it hard to believe that the quartet hails from the cold Pacific Northwest. Packed with a tangible attitude and energy, Dirty Radio makes me want to buy some wingtips and learn to swing dance — all while slamming shots of cheap bourbon. It's not to early to start drinking is it? Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside open for Jolie Holland tonight at Crowbar. Tickets are $15.
Joel – Theophilus London, Timez Are Weird These Days (2011)
The Brooklyn MC introduces himself with typical hip-hop braggadocio on "Last Name London" but his backing is much less smooth, modern R&B and way more throwback electro. London straddles hip-hop and neo-soul on his debut. He's lured some great collaborators — Holly Miranda on "Love Is Real" and Tegan & Sara's Sara Quin on "Why Even Try" — for groovy jams that would sound at home flanked by early 80's new wave or dance music, but without feeling dated. Inevitable TV On The Radio comparisons will be drawn to "I Stand Alone" and other similar moments in the set, but even TVOTR's Dave Sitek numbers among London's helpers.
Gabe – Orgone, The Killion Floor (2007)
Infectious blend of funk, soul, Latin grooves and hip-hop from this Los Angeles-based outfit. Listening to this lively album is a perfect way to shake away the Monday blues and put you in a great mood.
This article appears in Jul 21-27, 2011.