Instead

[Tin Bird]

Instead of the albums of the year post, I figured I would just list what I've been listening to lately. Not sure if it's me, but the onset of winter this year has seemed darker that usual. Perhaps a back injury that I am currently suffering from has clouded my judgment. Anyhow, music-wise I have been on an old-school ambient jag, Given that it is cold and dark outside by 4:30pm, evenings and weekends have been serenaded with the sounds of Bill Nelson, Harold Budd, Jeff Pearce, Pete Namlook, Jonah Sharp, and Cluster. The lone rock band that I have been listening to is Interpol. I had forgotten how much I love their second album, "Antics". I remember now.
I collect CD's (not vinyl) and 99% of what I purchase is filling in holes in my collection such as finally getting some Holger Hiller albums. I am having trouble remembering ANY new albums I have purchased this year. I am sure there are a few, but I simply cannot recall them so they must not have made that much of an impression. Actually, one did just come to mind...the new Chameleons record. Other than the first single, "Saviors Are a Dangerous Thing", I didn't care much for the rest of the album. A shame, because I was really looking forward to it.
Oh, and one other rock/pop band that I quite like is 21 Pilots. I know that isn't a hipster choice. I don't care, I think they are great! I usually just stream their songs and listen via Bluetooth. I need to get some of their work on CD though.
Speaking of Bluetooth. I recently purchased a pair of Kanto Ren speakers. Unless you are a super high end audiophile with a treated room...etc., I must say the Ren's are some of the best sounding (esp. for the money) speakers I have heard. That combined w HDMI, Bluetooth, a DAC all built in...ease of use is a no brainer. Really happy with them.

OK everyone...Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

PS A new track this year that I DID really dig, was, "Boundary Rider" by Paul Banks (of Interpol) and Tycho. In case you haven't heard it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwPhmsazh4c

[Quiet Visitor]

Good luck with your back. That can be very frustrating and tiresom.

After I heard one track of the new The Chameleons I decided I didn't buy the album. Too straight ahead rock in stead of the beautifully arranged New Wave from the past. I stick to View From The Bridge and the two albums that came after that.

[Tin Bird]

Thanks. Not sure yet what the issue is...doctors are testing for herniated disc next week. Hopefully no surgery. Painful as hell.
I love the Chameleons...1st three albums...esp. Strange Times are brilliant. I agree that the new album seemed kind've bland. I also didn't think it sounded all that well recorded.