Following up on the masterful An Overview on Phenomenal Nature can't have been easy, but the fact is that Cassandra Jenkins manages to outdo herself. The New York-based singer-songwriter's musical expression has been further refined. Jazzy, smooth, or to use an extremely bourgeois word: sophisticated, pop with elements of indie rock makes the '60s meet the '90s in a completely natural way. Not to mention Cassandra's singing voice, which is one of the most pleasant things you can treat your ears to right now. One of the absolute best albums of the year.
Partly americana, party indie rock, Katie Crutchfield continues her road trip towards the absolute top. On the sixth album as Waxahatchee, she enlists MJ Lenderman - which is a true match made in heaven. Rarely has the collaborative work of two major talents sounded this good, as underscored by the duet "Right Back To It".