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Home » 2022

Top album picks for 2022

December 9, 2022 by Cynthia Orlando

This year saw a profusion of superior album releases across all music genres.

Coldplay, The Weekend, Brian Eno, The Black Keys, Beyonce, Sharon Van Etten and Harry Styles had top-notch albums. There were also first-rate recordings from George Ezra, Wilco, Father John Misty, Tate McRae and Adele.

You say there was so much music out there you couldn’t decide what to buy?

Here’s a few of my top picks.

Kurt Vile – “Watch My Moves”

With “Watch My Moves,” the former lead guitarist of rock band The War on Drugs focuses on the here and now.

His dreamy, meandering psych-folk tracks are hard to resist. Recorded in Vile’s new home-based studio, “Moves” conveys a man at peace with life and with himself.

Watch for “Palace of OKV in Reverse,” a complex, gorgeous low-key jam. His free-wheeling “Flyin (like a fast train)” is a perfect answer to life’s pressures. And like much of the album, upbeat “Hey Like a Child” feels like an afternoon walk in the summer sun.

“Mount Airy Hill” might be the album’s centerpiece. It’s impressionistic dream pop with sublime guitar and Vile’s straightforward storytelling.

In short? “Watch My Moves” is Kurt Vile’s best work yet.

Wet Leg – “Wet Leg”

One of this year’s most delightful music highlights came from England’s Wet Leg. Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers excel at catchy post punk rock with great hooks and clever lyrics.

Of course if you’ve been paying attention you’ve already heard exceptional “Chaise Lounge.” The catchy tongue-in-cheek hit single was written in a day.

Other not-to-be-missed tracks from the rhythm-guitar duo: playful “Being in Love,” sassy “Angelica” and dance track “Wet Dream.”

Everything here is musically tight, engaging and often humorous.  “I don’t want us to ever lose sight of having fun,” says Teasdale. Maybe that’s why NME called the album “an instant classic.”

In short, seeing Wet Leg’s album debut enter U.K. charts at #1 was a thrill.

They’re nominated for several Grammys, including “Best New Artist.”

Here’s wishing them all the best.

Taylor Swift – “Midnights”

Reflection, revenge and midnight confessions are the inspiration for Taylor Swift’s “Midnights,” a concept album. The new release keeps breaking streaming records and is Swift’s fifth to quickly sell more than a million copies.

Musically, “Midnights” is packed with synth and reverb. The album also triumphs with exceptionally choice lyrics, giving fans lots to consume.

Swift is a master at setting the scene, and excels at being an honest, unflinching, articulate storyteller. For instance, the way she recounts a New York City romance on mournful “Maroon.” Listen also for tender, whimsical “Lavender Haze,” intimate “Mastermind” and autobiographical “You’re on Your Own, Kid.”

All 13 tracks were produced by Swift and longtime friend Jack Antonoff.

“Midnights” apex is hit single “Anti-Hero.” The lush electro-pop track explores Swift’s insecurities in ways both commanding and cathartic. “This song is really a guided tour through all the things I tend to hate about myself,” says the artist.

Of the seven bonus tracks, “The Great War” and “Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve” are masterworks. One could question the bonus track designation, but let’s not quibble. Both tracks were co-written with Aaron Dessner (The National, Big Red Machine).

It’s a cinch “Midnights” will be Grammy-nominated come 2024.

That’s a ways away, but things look promising.

Beach House – “Once Twice Melody”

Baltimore-based Beach House never fail to satisfy.

With their soft psychedelia and layered shoe gaze, the indie-rock duo specialize in making us feel good.

This year the band went twice the distance with double-CD release “Once Twice Melody.” The 18-song album was released in “chapters.” Primarily recorded in Baltimore’s Apple Orchard Studio, it reached #12 on the Billboard 200.

Opening track “Once Twice Melody” evokes Fleetwood Mac’s early “Future Games” with an arresting, more ethereal vibe.

Is it possible for one song to convey both inspiration and heartbreak? Beach House’s celestial “Superstar” does.

Sample lyrics: “When you were mine / we fell across the sky.” Its sweeping, cinematic vibe resonates like a soundtrack we’ve all lived through. 

There’s really no other act delivering the complex, atmospheric arrangements Beach House so consistently crafts. Bravo.

Tears for Fears – “The Tipping Point”

This year music connoisseurs were bowled over by Tears for Fears’ stellar new release, “The Tipping Point.” It’s on our playlist!

It’s the band’s first new album in seventeen years, and Curt Smith and Roland Orzabal are still a powerful songwriting duo. “Tipping Point” is bold, engaging, musically solid, and intimate.  

“No Small Thing” is an expansive opening track. It’s also a hint we’re about to embark on a journey. “This song is definitely a journey,” says band member Curt Smith, adding, “albums for us should be a journey.”

The mesmerizing title track was inspired by the death of Orzabal’s wife Caroline in 2017. It’s passionate rock n’ roll that’ll give you goosebumps.

Alt-rock “End of Night” is perfect for ringing in the New Year. And “My Demons” is a commanding rocker with astute commentary about extremist violence.

“The Tipping Point” was seven years in the making. An artistic achievement, it was well worth the wait.

Lizzo – “Special”

It’s rare when a band or artist consistently delivers to their fans just what they want. This year, Lizzo once again gifted to us all the goods we crave via her sensational “Special.”

Lizzo’s music instincts continue to impress. Maybe that’s because she studied classical music and flute while attending University of Houston.

On “Special,” Lizzo soars with the luscious sounds of pop, soul, R&B, hip-hop and disco.

Rolling Stone called the album “a radical political statement.” That’s possible, though topics like friendship, mental health, girl time and body-positivity aren’t exactly radical. “Enjoy being yourself, no matter what others think” is the kind of message everybody needs to hear.

Lizzo’s “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)” is the emotional boost we all need. “Grrrls” is irresistible. And even if you’re just home alone, “Birthday Girl” will give you a night on-the-town.

To sum up: jubilant “Special” is a fun-loving tonic you’ll want to have on repeat.

Bonnie Raitt – “Just Like That”

What a joy it was to experience Bonnie Raitt’s new “Just Like That” this year. It’s on our playlist!

Raitt’s finely honed blues instincts, trademark vocals and ample helpings of sizzling slide guitar are legendary. That perfect, bluesy way she belts: “Pretty soon the melody, is like a rainstorm tin-roof symphony” is pure Raitt.

What could be better?

As you might expect, the accomplished Raitt, a 12-time Grammy award winner (and Stratocaster fan) is surrounded by exceptional musicians. They include bassist James “Hutch” Hutchinson, drummer Ricky Fataar, and new musicians Glenn Patscha (keyboards) and Kenny Greenberg (guitar).

“Love So Strong” with its punchy Reggae vibe is a perfect pick for Raitt and company to cover. Rock n’ roll standout “Livin’ for the Ones” reminds us to count our post-pandemic blessings.

Don’t miss first-class title track, acoustic “Just Like That.” Based on a true story, the song describes a mother meeting her dead son’s heart recipient for the very first time. Raitt’s vocals are impeccable, and it’ll have you bawling.

To sum up?

The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner has no one to impress, but she keeps dazzling us nonetheless.

Lucius – “Second Nature”

This year American indie pop duo Lucius dropped colorful and creative “Second Nature.”

In the past, Lucius has provided vocals for outstanding acts like Harry Styles, The War on Drugs and singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile. Their new release takes things to another level.

“Second Nature” boasts tasteful arrangements with soaring atmospheric synths. The beautiful opening harmonies on remorseful “24” will stop you in your tracks. And wistful “The Man I’ll Never Find” is an instant classic.

Most definitely lend an ear to electro-pop single “Next to Normal.” It’s a top-tier, catchy dance track with a playfully spooky vibe.

Life’s twists and turns are often hard to negotiate with grace. Keeping “Second Nature” on standby seems like an excellent backup plan.

Noah Kahan – “Stick Season”

Don’t miss American singer-songwriter Noah Kahan’s “Stick Season.”

It’s folk-pop reminiscent of Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers. However, that said, it’s the heart and soul of musician Kahan that makes “Stick Season” a real standout.

This is the third studio release from the Vermont native. It’s an album with a powerful, relatable theme: small town nostalgia, homecoming, and reflection.

In a recent interview, Kahan describes “Stick Season” as the time between “peak foliage and Halloween…a time of transition.”

Kahan knows how to write songs that build momentum. The album’s crisp, passionate title track is perfect testament to that.

He covers a friend’s sobriety in “Orange Juice,” recalls teenage loneliness in “Come Over,” and relays explosive frustration in rockin’ “Homesick.”

It’s a shame this absolute gem of an album didn’t receive any Grammy nominations, possibly because it was released late in the year. Don’t let that stop you from adding it to your collection.

Taylor Swift – “Red, Taylor’s Version”

Swift’s original “Red” sounded amazing to begin with. “Red, Taylor’s Version” (“Red TV”) gives us these tracks again, this time with more sparkle, finesse, and a fuller sound.

Red TV was re-recorded and re-released late last year as part of Swift’s effort to regain control of her master tapes.

Owing to the lush, immaculate production of arena rockers “Holy Ground” “State of Grace” and “Starlight,” Red TV easily surpasses the original. There are subtler differences, too. For instance, when Swift sings “you’re the lucky one” there’s now a mature, wistful wisdom to the vocals.

Around the globe, music reviews for “Red, Taylor’s Version” were consistently glowing. NME and American music magazine “Spin” praised all aspects of the release.  The New Zealand Herald called it Swift’s “magnum opus.”

Guests include Phoebe Bridgers on the exquisite “Nothing New,” a guitar-led folk ballad about the fickleness of the music industry. And Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody returns with his velvety smooth vocals on top-notch “The Last Time.”

Generously included are nine additional songs Swift wrote during the same time period. By all means don’t miss these spectacular “from the vault” tracks. Top-tier mentions: infectious “Message in a Bottle,” tender “Nothing New” and brilliant power-pop “Forever Winter.”

And of course, there’s now the epic ten-minute version of “All Too Well.”

“All Too Well” is up for a Grammy for Song of the Year – I think she’ll get it.

🎵Closing Notes


Coldplay’s Simulcast

Coldplay’s global live simulcast in October from Buenos Aires was a smash hit.

Even in small town Eugene, Oregon, it got an enthusiastic reception from moviegoers.

A simulcast in a movie theater is not exactly the same as a live concert – but also, absolutely, it’s the next best thing. The sensational setlist included mega hits Higher Power, The Scientist, Paradise, Hymn for the Weekend, Viva la Vida, A Sky Full of Stars and Clocks.

Best of all was the sheer excitement of a simulcast! The sight of 70,000 fans splashed across the screen while Coldplay performed so many heavy hitters was a thrill.

Two thumbs up for what I hope is an emerging music trend.

Let’s hope more artists follow suit.


Keep your eye on Brandi Carlile 

Brandi Carlile’s “In These Silent Days” is an absolutely “must-have.”

The album is up for a Grammy, and was included in my Top 10 last year, here.


Live music returned

This year also marked a joyful return to live shows, touring and music festivals.

Fleet Foxes, Bonnie Raitt, Ben Harper, Jesse Colin Young, Lord Huron, Rebelution and so many more played here in the PNW.

And Lizzo’s two sold-out shows at Portland’s Moda Center were phenomenal.

Support our local music venues!


That’s a Wrap

Happy Holidays…and stay safe out there.

Thanks for listening to KRVM and supporting listener-powered radio!

Filed Under: Music, Music Scene, New Music Tagged With: 2022, Brandi Carlile, Coldplay, KRVM, Kurt Vile, Lizzo, Lucius, Music, Taylor Swift, Tears for Fears, Top 10 albums

Three new releases to watch for

August 22, 2022 by Cynthia Orlando

In the mood for fresh new voices that may have not yet caught your ear? Look no further than these three musicians whose works merit more attention.

Brooke Annibale

Musician Brooke Annibale is an artist to watch! A songwriter since the age of 15, she has 4 albums to her credit.

The artist’s fingerpicking and smooth, endearing vocals have earned her a following. Her critically acclaimed “The Simple Fear” (2015) was filled with lovely, compelling compositions.

The album also led to continuous touring with artists like Rufus Wainwright and Josh Ritter.

“Better By Now” is typical of her alt-rock style that digs deep.

This year, Annibale released “What if You,” a powerful, beautifully arranged alt-rock track sure to entice. Have a listen:

What if You

Currently touring in both the U.S. and abroad, her new album “Better By Now” is due out Sept. 30. Watch for it.

Wet Leg 

If you haven’t yet heard of Wet Leg, you’re missing out.

Wet Leg are Rhian Tesdale (29) and Hester Chambers (28), two young women with sharp punk-music instincts. Based in the UK, this fun Brit-Pop band is earning accolades from far and wide.

Released this year, their self-titled debut entered charts in the U.K. at #1.

All twelve tracks are punchy, musically tight and engaging. Our favorites from the rhythm – guitar duo include their sassy “Angelica” and playful “Being in Love.”

Meanwhile, hit single “Chaise Longue” is racking up hits on Youtube.

Chaise Longue

The band is currently touring with show stops scheduled in Dallas, Phoenix, Seattle and a host of other cities, including Eugene.

They perform at Eugene’s McDonald Theater in October. Be there!

Sharon Van Etten

An album receiving rave reviews is Sharon Van Etten’s powerful “We’ve Been Going About This All Wrong.” Van Etten is an example of the many talented women artists who go unnoticed or ignored by music outlets like Rolling Stone magazine.

Van Etten’s album contains everything music lovers seek. Fantastic arrangements, soulful vocals and meaningful messages add up to make her new album a “must-have.”

Van Etten cites Ani DiFranco as a key influence: “She was the first musician I had ever heard whose songs were super confessional,” says Van Etten. “She could really play guitar. That was my first experience with non-pop female musicians,” she adds, “she made me want to start playing more.”

Tracks are meticulously recorded, and each one bears a perfectly crafted message. Whether talking about the challenges of motherhood (“Home to Me”, “Far Away”), or referencing a new era (“I’ll Try”), Van eaten gets her messages across with musical finesse.

“I’ll Try” is my favorite track this year.

Have a listen:

I’ll Try

Van Etten is currently touring with an upcoming show stop in Albuquerque. The tour then moves on, with shows in Australia and New Zealand.

We think Van Etten may be headed for a Grammy. You can find Van Etten’s music on her website.

That’s a wrap.

Thanks for listening to KRVM and supporting listener-powered radio!

Filed Under: Music Scene, New Music Tagged With: 2022, Brooke Annibale, Grammy, Sharon Van Etten, Wet Leg

Lord Huron gives fans a night to remember

May 23, 2022 by Cynthia Orlando

Lord Huron in concert in EugeneIndie rock band Lord Huron gave fans a packed, impeccable night of music at their sold-out Hult Center show Saturday night.

Playing songs from across their discography, the band enthralled concert goers with a top-notch, well-paced setlist, a polished presentation and lovely, atmospheric lighting.

About Lord Huron

At the center of the L.A. based-band’s unique sound is the creative force of musician Ben Schneider. Initially an art school major and artist, the gifted Schneider learned about music playing his father’s guitar, after which he recruited some of his friends to form a band.

Among his musical influences are Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and Kate Bush. Schneider was raised in Michigan, and the band gets its name from Lake Huron.

For those new to Lord Huron their music has been described as “Mythic Americana,” an apt label.

From Cosmic Pizza to The Hult

It’s a fun thing to watch a band rise to fame from their inception.

Ten years have passed since their below-the-radar “Lonesome Dreams” release brought us touching, timeless tales that tugged our heartstrings.  And though their songs have been used by many Netflix shows, last year’s “Not Dead Yet” was their very first number one on the alternative charts.

Admirably, with each album release Lord Huron has grown their fan base. And the posh Hult Center with a seating capacity of close to 4,000 is a long ways from the time they played Eugene’s funky “Cosmic Pizza” – a point Schneider jokingly shared with the crowd.

Show highlights

Lord Huron captivated fans at the Hult Center Saturday night.

Saturday night’s highlights?

They include cinematic “Mine Forever” from newest album “Long Lost,” and tender “Meet Me In The Woods” from their second “Strange Tails” release.

Fast-paced, edgy performances of “Secret of Life” and “Ancient Names (Part I)” from their 2018 “Vide Noir” were electrifying.

Romantic ballad “Wait by the River” – sung with showmanship and finesse by Schneider – was another standout.

Lord Huron’s Ben Schneider performed “Wait By The River” with winning finesse.

At times, fans seemed almost mesmerized. Schneider is an excellent songwriter, after all, penning lyrics like “When the ocean drinks the sky / And the city winks its eye.”

The band was polished, and touring keyboardist and vocalist Misty Boyce was exceptional.

Adding excitement to the night, Schneider donned a skeleton mask with a movable jaw for extra drama during the show’s latter half.

Saturday night’s show was capped off with rich and evocative “Ends of the Earth” from their 2012 “Lord Huron” debut.

To close out, a long and well-earned standing ovation brought band members back for a fan-favorite; nostalgic, triple-platinum “The Night We Met.”

Throughout the night, The Hult Center’s exemplary sound system was icing on the cake.

Nashville-based Erin Rae opened for Lord Huron.

Erin Rae

Opening for Lord Huron was Nashville-based Erin Rae.

She wooed the crowd with her sweet, pure vocals, and with songs from her new album “Lighten Up.”

Her lead guitar player is someone we’d love to hear more from.

Lord Huron’s tour moves next to show dates in California, Washington, Utah and Colorado. Happy Trails!

That’s a wrap.

Thanks for listening to KRVM and supporting listener-powered radio!

Filed Under: Music Scene Tagged With: 2022, Hult Center, Indie, Lord Huron, Los Angeles, Rock, Tour

Don’t Miss the Latest From These Northwest Artists

March 28, 2022 by Cynthia Orlando

There’s always something exciting happening when it comes to the Pacific Northwest (PNW) music scene.

Though we might not often stop to appreciate it, many excellent bands and artists hail from, or are now based in, the PNW. Among them: The Shins, Mat Kearney, Ashley Flynn & The Riveters, blues artist Ty Curtis, Sleater-Kinney and many others.

Let’s take a look at what’s happening!

Mat Kearney

Born in Eugene and now based in Nashville, outstanding singer-songwriter Matt Kearney has lots going on.

His recent soft-rock “January Flower” release is getting rave reviews. That’s likely because he’s still sticking with his winning formula: heartfelt disclosure, superior vocals and polished pop arrangements.

He plays Portland’s Schnitzer Concert Hall in May.

Catch his show, and, check out “January Flower.”

It’s one not-to-miss!

Bees in A Bottle

Bees In A Bottle, above, have a new album due out this Fall.

Portland-based indie-rock duo Bees In A Bottle are a top-tier band to keep on your radar.

Don’t let their lovely layered vocals deceive you, as their songs often take on serious subject matter.

They released “Treasures Ugly and Few” last year. Filled with lilting harmonies and well-structured arrangements, exceptional tracks include “Language” and “Follow.”

Commanding rock track “Liar” is another standout. “Treasures Ugly and Few” confirmed their superior standing in PNW’s music scene.

Bees In A Bottle have 3 studio records to their credit, including two albums with Grammy Award-winning producers.

They’re recording their 4th album due out this Fall. It’s a collection of songs told from the perspective of the women closest to the many male musicians who’ve died from suicide or addiction.

“I wanted to give voice to the survivors’ point of view,” says band member and songwriter Christine McAllister. Chad McAllister is the other half of this duo; both are multi-instrumentalists.

Bees in a Bottle have two shows coming up!

They play Roland Winery in Longview Washington April 9, and Portland’s Flying Fish May 14th. 

You can find all their music on Bandcamp. Catch them live if you can!

Eddie Berman

Folk-Americana artist Eddie Berman currently makes his home in Portland. An avid reader, Berman’s work is as much inspired by the books he reads as it is by hikes he takes in Portland’s Forest Park.

Berman’s sometimes mournful, introspective brand of warm folk-rock is worthy of a wider fan base.

His 2017 “Before the Bridge” is filled with great tracks like comforting “Easy Rider” and mournful “Low Down Curse.”

Berman released “Taurus” last year, and it’s on our playlist.

Brandi Carlile

Who’s up for a Grammy, makes her home up north in Washington, recently wrote a book and is currently on tour?

That’d be American singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile.

Now on tour, Carlile has shows scheduled in Nashville, Santa Barbara and Red Rocks.

If you haven’t added her latest “In These Silent Days” release to your library, you might be due for a trip to your favorite record store.

Don’t miss her when she comes to the PNW’s Gorge Ampitheatre in May!

The Muddy Souls 

Eugene’s The Muddy Souls blend bluegrass and folk for a winning sound that’s sure to up the vibe quotient at your next social gathering.

The Muddy Souls’ American roots music is uplifting and expertly executed. Formed in 2018, the 5-member band has been consistently working on new music and booking live shows.

Out this month, watch for “The Raven,” their newest studio album.

Ashleigh Flynn

A native of Kentucky, Ashleigh Flynn has been on the Americana scene since 2008 with the release of her third “American Dream” album.

Equally impressive to her studio albums are her ace live performances.

Brilliantly mixing genres (country, zydeco, rock) and engaging her audience, Flynn and her band The Riveters consistently create charming, heartland rock that brings down the house.

Keep your eye on her Twitter feed or her website for upcoming shows.

Laura Veirs

Let’s hear it for Portland’s Laura Veirs! She’s currently on tour playing numerous venues in the United Kingdom.

Wow! Fantastic fanbase for this PNW musician.

If you’re new to Veirs, check out her last album here.

More music news

American rockers Sleater-Kinney (Olympia, Washington) just released “Path of Wellness.”  It’s getting great write-ups.

PNW-based bands Modest Mouse and The Shins are among those headlining the second annual Just Like Heaven Festival in Los Angeles this May.

American indie-rocker’s The Decemberists’ “Arise from the Bunkers” Tour starts in August.

Blitzen Trapper play Sessions Music Hall in April. photo by Tyler Kohlhoff

Portland’s Blitzen Trapper play a unique brand of indie-folk-rock and are currently touring to promote their “Holy Smokes Future Jokes” release.

They’ve been written up by the likes of Rolling Stone and American Songwriter.

“Holy Smokes Future Jokes” was among my Top 10 when it came out (during the height of the pandemic). It’s great to see the band can finally get out and play some of these superb tracks live.

The northwest treasure that is Blitzen Trapper play Eugene’s Sessions Music Hall Sunday, April 24.

Don’t miss them!

That’s a wrap

Thanks for supporting new music and the PNW music scene!

Please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

We follow back!

Most of all, thanks for supporting listener-powered radio at KRVM.

Filed Under: Music Scene, New Music Tagged With: 2022, Bees in a Bottle, Blitzen Trapper, Brandi Carlile, Eddie Berman, Laura Veirs, Mat Kearney, Music, Pacific Northwest, The Muddy Souls

New on the music scene

February 18, 2022 by Cynthia Orlando

What’s new on the music scene?

There’s lots to be excited about, let’s take a look.

Elton John / Dua Lipa – “Cold Heart”

For a rush of smooth-as-silk pop with a hint of nostalgia, give Elton John and Dua Lipa’s “Cold Heart” a spin.

A superb collaboration, it’s built upon Elton John’s songs “Rocketman” and “Sacrifice.”

Vocals by this pair on this dance pop remix are a perfect compliment. Have a listen:

“Cold Heart” comes from Elton John’s recent “The Lockdown Sessions,” which hit the #1 spot in the UK charts.

Comprised of collaborations with a variety of talented artists – including Miley Cyrus and Stevie Wonder – it’s a fantastic assortment of tracks you’ll want to delve into.

Aly & AJ – “Symptom of Your Touch”

American pop duo Aly & AJ are back with “Symptom of Your Touch,” a stellar synth-pop arrangement worthy of acclaim.

Shimmering guitars create a lush vibe, and the crystal-clear vocals by the California-based musicians are compelling.

In 2005, Ally & AJ’s debut studio album was certified gold. And last year, their re-released “Potential Breakup Song” won “Best Comeback song” at the MTV Video Music Awards. “Symptom” comes from their fourth studio album A Touch of the Beat Gets You Up on Your Feet Gets You Out and Then Into the Sun,” released last year.

In short?

It’s a great track from an album filled with excellent musicianship.

Carlos Santana “Joy”

Carlos Santana’s “Joy,” from his new “Blessings and Miracles” release, is pure electric guitar sizzle. It’s a superlative blues arrangement with a fun reggae beat we think you’ll love.

Grammy-winning musician Chris Stapleton, who also produced the track, adds vocals and guitar to the well-crafted song.

Other artists on “Blessings and Miracles” include Chick Corea and Rick Rubin. “Joy” is on our Playlist.

Bastille – “Thelma & Louise”

The always appealing English pop band Bastille have done it again with hit single “Thelma & Louise.” A fun drumbeat, lush synths and a great chorus make it a natural for radio and dance clubs.

Have a listen:

It’s the perfect track to get us thinking about the warm days of summer and escaping to a new, sunny destination. Of course it’s based on the 1991 movie, “Thelma & Louise.”

“I wanted to write a love letter to that film,” says Bastille frontman Dan Smith. Job well done.

“Thelma & Louise” comes from Bastille’s just-released “Give Me the Future” album. It’s their third UK Number One album.

Sharon Van Etten and Angel Olsen – “Like I Used To”

Watch especially for lovely and pensive “Like I Used To.”

Musicians Sharon Van Etten and Angel Olsen admired each other from afar. Fortunately, they decided to meet up. The result? This very special track.

Etherial and sincere, “Like I Used To” is an acoustic Americana ballad filled with heartache and a hint of country.

Like I Used To

Van Etten and Olsen are on to something.

Let’s hope we hear more from them this year!

George Ezra – “Anyone for You”

George Ezra is back on the music scene with jubilant, melodically captivating “Anyone for You.” It’s his first new music since “Staying at Tamara’s” in 2018, and it’s on our playlist.

Catchy lyrics, exuberant keyboards and Ezra’s distinct baritone make for the perfect lift.

Ezra’s new album “Gold Rush Kid” releases June 10th.

We’ll be watching for it!

More music news

Hippo Campus – “Ride or Die”

We’re loving “Ride or Die” from Indie-rockers Hippo Campus. The upbeat track comes from the Minnesota-based band’s newest “LP3” release, and it’s on our playlist.

New Fleet Foxes live album

Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes frontman) released live album “A Very Lonely Solstice” in December. From a livestream concert recorded in Brooklyn, it’s a lovely, contemplative collection of mostly solo songs from the band’s body of work. In a more perfect world, the concert would have been televised over the holidays. Maybe next time, but for now, it’s available on iTunes.

The Lumineers – “Where We Are”

“Where We Are” is classic Lumineers, and one for your collection. It’s on our playlist! This indie folk-rock track features bright vocals, a melodic hook and heartfelt harmonies.

“Where We Are” comes from the band’s fourth studio album, “Brightside.”

Eugene’s live music scene is buzzing

This year it seems there are more live shows on the horizon than ever. Here in Eugene, we’re lucky to have an abundance of music venues and live music opportunities.

In April, blues-rocker Curtis Salgado, and Portland’s well-loved Blitzen Trapper, both have concerts scheduled at Sessions Music Hall. The Talbott Brothers perform at Sessions in May.

Keb’ Mo’ and Randy Newman are both scheduled to play The Shedd Institute in May.

The always-entertaining Modest Mouse perform at the Cuthbert Amphitheater in May.

Imaginative and astonishing Lord Huron will even be here. Their show is scheduled for May at The Hult Center.

Legendary blues icon Bonnie Raitt has a show scheduled at the Cuthbert Amphitheater in August, as does southern California’s fabulous reggae band Rebelution.

There are lots more concerts coming, so check listings at your favorite venues. Better yet, sign up for their mailing lists.

That’s a wrap

Thanks for supporting new music, musicians, and the music venues of Eugene.

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Most of all, thanks for supporting listener-powered radio at KRVM!

Filed Under: Music Scene, New Music Tagged With: 2022, Acoustic, Aly & AJ, Bastille, Carlos Santana, Dua Lipa, Elton John, Fleet Foxes, George Ezra, KRVM, Lumineers, Music Scene, Sharon Van Etten

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