Every month here at Branching Out, we take note on the past month’s music, and pick some favorites.
BRANDI:
“Born and Raised” – John Mayer (Columbia/Sony Music): My love for this album was enough to garner two reviews from material on it, including an extensive review last week on the merits of the album. My love for it hasn’t dimmed at all, making it my absolutely favorite for the month and one of the top five so far for the year. Mayer’s explorations into the Americana, bluegrass, Southern rock and blues genres are so versatile, and the tone is much more mature than many of his past ventures. I’ll keep trying to convince people to get past their predispositions and listen to it for a long time to come.
Favorite Tracks: Love is a Verb, Something Like Olivia, Shadow Days
“AM/FM” – Rita Wilson (Sing It Loud LLC/Decca Label Group): Actress, producer and Hollywood royalty Rita Wilson surprised me with the release of her summery album of cover songs early this month. Taking on classic songs from the 50s, 60s and 70s that have nearly become standards at this point, Wilson shows off her pretty voice against a light backdrop, providing the perfect soundtrack to a day floating around in a pool. Among the highlights is the often-covered Joni Mitchell classic, “River,” as well as the popular Juice Newton/Pretenders song, “Angel of the Morning.”
Favorite Tracks: All I Have to Do is Dream, Cherish, Please Come to Boston
“The Bright Side” – Meiko (Concord Music Group): Georgia native Meiko first got my attention a few years back with the release of “How Lucky We Are.” She was one of the first people to sign onto the fledgling MySpace label about four years ago, garnering enough Internet success to bolster her debut to moderate success. It is that same support that made her latest sophomore effort possible, continuing her string of airy pop songs marked by breathy vocals, fluttery pianos, simple guitars and bare percussion. It felt like a perfect record for spring with nothing overly heavy or melancholy with songs like “Stuck On You” and “I Wonder” among the best.
Favorite Tracks: Thinking Too Much, I’m Not Sorry, I Wonder
Cher will have her collection later in the week. Have a great holiday!
