What’s he listening to in there?

It’s been a while since I posted a quick summary of the music I am listening to. If you have been reading my blog for a few years (yes, you at the back with your eyes closed!) you will know that I am mad about music and have pretty diverse tastes.

So, for what it’s worth here is a list of the music that I am really enjoying at the moment with a quick explanation. I am not attempting reviews – just a quick context:

1. Ketil Bjornstad – Songs from the Alder Thicket.

I have loved the music of Ketil Bjornstad for a long time. I first came across his music in a collaboration he did with Terje Rydal. His piano music touches something in my soul. A few years ago I read a novel by him called “To Music”. It was brilliant – very few novels move me to tears. This one did. So, when I saw that there was an album based on the novel (and its sequels) I was keen to hear it. Unfortunately the sequels are not available in English (wonder when they will be) but this double album is stunning. It comprises a set of piano improvisations on the first disc – Bjornstad’s music is beautifully melodic and lyrical – and a set of classical pieces mentioned in the novel for the second disc.

2. James Blake – Overgrown

Stunning minimal music on this second album. I love the space in between the notes and the plaintif sound of Blake’s voice. I also love the EP called “Enough Thunder” by Blake which has a stunning cover of “A Case of You” by Joni Mitchell.

3. Neil Young – Harvest Moon

Yes, I know it’s been around for ages. I used to have it on cassette tape. Then, a few weeks ago June and I went to a coffee shop in Chester, UK which was named after the album. I couldn’t stop singing the title song for the rest of the day and I ended up buying the album again. The video of the title track is great. His latest album “Psychedelic Pill” is amazing too – extended guitar jams and great riffs!

4. Naughty Boy – Hotel Cabana

Heard the single “La La La” on the radio a lot. Then, when I saw the video which is an amazing piece of work, I was really keen to get the album. It only came out a week ago – it’s fabulous. If you like Emeli Sande you will be pleased because she sings on several tracks.

5. Richard Skelton – Ivystrung

I’ve been following the musical output of Richard Skelton for a couple of years now. He makes serene minimal music where the various string instruments he plays are treated, looped and remixed to generate prolonged resonating pieces which are fantastic to work to. I’ve also just bought “Echoless” by *AR which is an album of music made with his partner Autumn Richardson.