Trouble-maker, rebel-rouser, super model dater, self-described hell raiser and recovering drug addict. Whatever you think of one of the UK's most talked about rockers, Peter Doherty makes fine music. Doherty's new release Grace/Wastelands is out and it's a keeper. It's heavy on misery and pain. Hopefully this is his way of overcoming his life-threatening drug habit and some day he might write some 'brighter' songs.

"Arcady" - Pete Doherty from Grace/Wastelands (2009)

"New Love Grows on Trees" - Peter Doherty from Grace/Wastelands (2009)

When an artist or band gets a lot of praise from critics, and love from fans, one of two things usually happens: it goes to their heads, or it goes to their hearts. St. Vincent, the moniker of Annie Clark, looks like she taking it to heart as evidenced by the brilliance of her new release Actor.

"The Strangers" - St. Vincent from Actor (2009)

This unusual band from London whose music has been described as 'kitchen sink avant pop' made quite a splash at South by Southwest this year and have since garnered the oh-so lovely 'blog buzz'. From the blog Earfarm: "[Micachu sounds like] Deerhoof mixed with Captain Beefheart, The Bug, and the board game Chutes & Ladders...Mick Jagger swagger, worn by a puppy."

"Lips" - Micachu & The Shapes from Jewellery (2009)

"Calculator" - Micachu & The Shapes from Jewellery (2009)


Note about posting new songs

When you have a limited staff (literally three people) and you're getting up to 50 music submissions a week, plus plenty of music to review that isn't sent in, there will be a backlog. Those of you who sent music for review, keep checking back because you never know - your music could be posted at any time.

That's exactly what I am currently working on; I wish there was more time to write full reviews of all the great music I hear, but there simply is not. But I do my best to keep you all up on the best of the best (IMO) of new and classic indie, alternative, rock, folk, pop and electronica.

Labels: 2009 Indie Songs, Peter Doherty