I like Regina Spektor. Her music may appear cutesy and contrived on occasion (kitschy, too), but she is a talented songwriter. Songs like "Us" and "All The Rowboats" have melodies that swirl and charm. With albums, however, it has never quite worked out between Regina and me. There is little cohesion, and while none of the songs are bad (or even mediocre - she always knows what she is doing), I grab highlights and abandon the ship. There are several of those on Home, Before and After (★★★½), with the soaring "One Man's Prayer" being a personal favourite. Also, the title of the album just has to be a reference to her disgraced homeland.
Having said that, my appreciation for cuddly indie-pop does not stretch too far, and increased doses of Soccer Mommy's Sometimes, Forever (★★★) may result in hyperglycemia. Also, Soccer Mommy - what the hell kind of name is that? Sadly, I did not quite detect enough charisma in Michael Head's latest either. Dear Scott (★★★) is well-written and well-played - but it lacks a punch. Remember that trumpet from Pacific Street? It was subtle - but it blew you away.
As ever, Andrew Bird has no intention of blowing you away - and with Inside Problems (★★★½), he does what he does best: beautiful arrangements, insidious melodies and lots of clever experimentation that never quite overwhelms you (although "Atomized" certainly tries). This is witty chamber pop with a twist - even if nothing here is as spectacular as some of his earlier albums. Perfume Genius, on the other hand, released his career best with the difficult new album Ugly Season (★★★½). An artistic triumph? Pretentious crap? I'm still torn. It is difficult and uncomfortable - but there is primordial beauty to these songs. Just look at the cover. The cover gives it away.
