Back in action

Apologies for the lack of blog action lately. This is what happens when your computer goes on the blink.
I have a couple of reviews lined up, but for the time being here's what's been...

Burnin' up the Beard stereo

Neko Case - Fox Confessor Brings The Flood
At long last! Slightly less noir than Blacklisted. Garth Hudson is all over it, playing strange and wonderful keyboards. Star Witness is quite possibly the greatest thing she's ever done - a gorgeous, evocative and deeply sad ode to a dead love.
Sonic Youth - Sonic Youth
First EP finally reissued with lots of bonuses. Very no-wave: sounds like ESG, Pil and Can. Well, it was 1981.
Thurston Moore - Psychic Hearts
Solo album from 1995 also reissued. Title track is an outsider anthem: "I bet you have a fucked up life..."
Sonic Youth - Sister
Not a reissue, just for the hell of it. Wild, brilliant, blazing. They've never done anything like Master Dik again. Mores the pity. I think it might just be their masterpiece.
Howe Gelb - Sno Angel Like You
Mr Giant Sand pits his sonic muck against a gospel choir to glorious results. His best since Chore of Enchantment. Look out for an interview in the next Beard!!!
Giant Sand - Centre of the Universe
Desert bubblegrunge! One of their best.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds - Kicking Against The Pricks
From my weekend second hand vinyl shopping excursions. Absolutely immense, thrilling version of All Tomorrow's Parties, and a beautiful By The Time I Get To Phoenix.
Kevin Ayers - Whatever We Bring She Sings
A Beard favourite and classic of English jazz-rock whimsy (ok, prog). Finally got my own, scuffed but playable, vinyl copy for £3 in Roxfam.
Emmylou Harris - Roses In The Snow
Stunning nu-bluegrass album from 1980. All star cast helping Emmylou out - Johnny Cash (awesome bass baritone vocals on Jordan), Willie, Dolly, Linda Rondstat. Amazing cover of The Boxer and one of the most sublime versions of Wayfayring Strangers ever recorded.
Lemonheads - Come On Feel
Evan Dando - Baby I'm Bored
Seeing the mighty Chris Brokaw has led me back to his old buddy Dando.