Overlooked Alternatives: Blackfield, Gruff Rhys, Son Volt

Like the Batman, Overlooked Alternatives scans the skies for the beacon of need - new music that might otherwise go unnoticed by someone out there.

This week's theme is apparently "moonlighting."

Blackfield - Blackfield II: Progressive metal mastermind Steven Wilson and and controversial Israeli singer/songwriter Aviv Geffen got together again for another powerful, but not unexpectedly dark take on pop. If you're a fan of the lush, catchy numbers that Wilson writes for his main band, Porcupine Tree, such as "Shesmovedon," "Gravity Eyelids," and other stuff like that, you'll probably like what Blackfield does.

Gruff Rhys - Candylion: Taking a break from Super Furry Animals, lead furry guy Rhys releases his second solo album in the U.S. two months after the rest of the world got it. Isn't that always the way? This one promises to be a bit stronger and more immediate than Yr Atal Genhedlaeth and also features mostly songs in English this time, rather than his native Welsh. Suffice it to say that if you already dig the Furries' blend of 60's garage rock and modern electro-pop, you're probably going to love this as well.

Son Volt - The Search: Jay Farrar and Jeff Tweedy parted ways in Uncle Tupelo a long time ago and, to me, it seems that each formed stronger bands. Them's fightin' words to some, I know, but what I can I say? Wilco's an art-rock outfit and Son Volt's a killer alt. country band that can throw down with the best of them - 2005's Okemah And The Melody Of Riot was an incredible return to form for the band, even if Farrar had basically been turning the stuff out under various other names in the meantime. Well, he's back again with what should hopefully be as strong a contender as Okemah.

Those looking for the best deal will probably want to head to Best Buy this week - $9.99 and three exclusive tracks. Damn that Best Buy.

Article Author: Tom Johnson

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