Lunch of Champions

Thoughts from a new lunchmate

I’m new to the lunch room, so I thought I would ease into things by writing about a couple of recent releases that have been monopolizing my stereo.

Drive-By Truckers – “A Blessing and A Curse” (New West)

This has been living in my CD player ever since I picked up a copy of the new album from the Southern quintet. I’ve read several reviews, including those from Paste and Pitchfork, that haven’t been as high on the new album from the DBT when compared to their last three releases. I will admit that this album doesn’t have the raw feeling and narrative story lines that “Southern Rock Opera” or “Decoration Day” displayed, but at the same time I think this album is more accessible. I’ve found that the DBT are one of those bands that you have to see live to truly get. When I first heard the DBT, I enjoyed some of the tunes but it wasn’t until I saw them play a lengthy PBR/Jack Daniels inspired show at the 400 Bar did I become hooked. “A Blessing and A Curse’ is tighter and more focused than the previous three efforts, making it easier for the newbies to the band. Hopefully that won’t deter anyone from checking them out when they come to town to play at First Ave. on May 17. Recommended tracks: “Gravity’s Gone,” “Aftermath USA,” and “A World of Hurt.” You can enjoy these songs and the rest of the album at the band’s streaming media player.

A Band of Horses – “Everything all the Time” (Sub Pop)

A co-worker suggested this album after he had seen them at SXSW. I found that the duo, which hail from Seattle, evoke a dreamy comparison to Built to Spill. I guess this isn’t altogether surprising since the album was produced by Phil Ek, who has also worked with Built to Spill on several occasions. Lead singer Ben Bridwell’s vocals aren’t too far off the mark from Wayne Coyne’s style. Other songs have a Pacific Northwest feel at times, which make for great accompaniment during the grey and rainy days of the spring. The band will be in town playing at the 7th Street Entry on June 4th. Recommended tracks: “The First Song, “The Funeral,” and “The Great Salt Lake.” You can download some song’s from the band’s website.