Philadelphia Weekly

MUSIC

On The Record

Album reviews in 30 seconds or less.

By Bill Chenevert

Add Comment | Comments: 0 | Posted Jun. 15, 2010

Janelle Monae

The ArchAndroid

(Bad Boy)

Sounds Like: Stylistic hybrid of funk, soul, R&B and hip-hop from a futuristic diva for the 21st century whose take on pop music is refreshing and new.

Free Association: Solid production, ambitious variety and infectious hooks.

For Fans Of: Ms. Badu, Estelle, Jill Scott, Santigold, VV Brown.

Blitzen Trapper

Destroyer of the Void

(Sub Pop)

Sounds Like: Laid back, countrified indie rock from Portland on their fifth LP (but second for Sub Pop); it’s a breezy, ambient spin on Americana for dusk.

Free Association: The title track is an impressive sprawling proggy gem of weirdo folk.

For Fans Of: Neil Young, ELO, Beach Boys, Gram Parsons.

Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti

Before Today

(4AD)

Sounds Like: The weirdo/creative genius is a production maverick and DIY hero, but he uses his power for retro, trip rock and not for groundbreaking futurism.

Free Association: Tempo changes, peculiar vocals and the occasional deep groove.

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