AUGUST 2022 VINYL PICKS

Warren's Pick:

Eddie Vedder - Earthling (2022)

Sometimes, it takes a new instrument to get inspired. After Vedder received an Electric Tenor Guitar, the songs started pouring out. At times, the album sounds like a long-lost Tom Petty record, only with Vedder's familiar baritone "yarl." And when you are one of the leaders of the Grunge movement, you can record with anyone you want. The all-star band lineup includes Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Ringo Starr, Josh Klinghoffer & Chad Smith (Red Hot Chilli Peppers), Pino Palladino (D'Angelo, John Mayer), and Benmont Tench (Tom Petty).

Tom's Pick:

Tennis - Yours Conditionally (2017)

Denver-based duo Tennis released Yours Conditionally in 2017, and the album was largely inspired by a sailboat trip across the Pacific Ocean. Sonically, Yours Conditionally channels a retro ‘70s soul vibe with warm synth and four-on-the-floor rhythms. The decidedly analog feel and mellow vibe allows Alaina Moore’s vocals to sit at the front of the mix as she delivers melodies that are at times fragile despite lyrics that are sarcastic and defiant.

Andy's Pick:

Brent Cobb - Keep 'Em On They Toes (2020)

Originally from Southern Georgia, Cobb’s music has been described as “pure rural, country, soul filled music.” This album is Cobb's fourth effort, and it lives up to its title by going further. It's a mix of country, rock, and folk that tends to fall more into the Americana space. On "Shut Up and Sing," Cobb harps on the importance of taking a stand, but then he preaches the opposite message on “Soap Box.” A juxtaposition of musical styles, genres, and lyrical messages, Cobb keeps the listener on they toes