So we're just over half way through another year dominated by a Pandemic and bent Politicians. But there's good news too, England made it to the final of the European Championships and there has been some amazing music too...
So now that grass roots music venues are starting to open their doors it's time to go and check out some of those brilliant 2021 releases made by new artists and old timers alike. Rest assured we've been playing these albums non-stop in our virtual record store.
Head over to Spotify for this playlist featuring Vinyl Revolution's best picks from the year to date.
1. FLYTE - TRYING TO BREAK YOUR HEART
A beautiful song from the breathtaking album 'This Is Going To Really Hurt'.
2. RODDY WOOMBLE - ARCHITECTURE IN L.A.
Taken from the fantastic Lo! Soul record. Roddy lets down his hair down and turns in an inspired album.
3. SLEAFORD MODS (With BILLY NOMATES) - MORK 'n' MINDY
Much like Marmite, you either love 'em or hate them. England's best duo return with more scathing observations. This tune has refused to leave my head since I first heard it a few months back.
4. KYNSY - HAPPINESS ISN'T A FIXED STATE
Stand-out track from the great 'Things That Don't Exist' EP. Think Strokes channelling cheap drugs.
5. THE CORAL - LOVER UNDISCOVERED
2021 has seen some great comeback albums, and the sprawling 'Coral Island' is one of the very best. Still doing their own thing in their own time, this track is one of many highlights on the latest Coral record.
6. THE WEATHER STATION - ATLANTIC
A slow burning gem from the majestic 'Ignorance' album. What a voice!
7.KIWI Jr. - TYLER
2020's 'Football Money' was a highpoint of that year and the quick fire 'Cooler Returns' is every bit as good. Slacker pop in all its glory.
8. DEL AMITRI - YOU CAN'T GO BACK
Another blinding return this time from Scotland's finest sons. 'Fatal Mistakes' gatecrashed the UK Top 5 upon it's return a month or so back and this is a killer tune. Check out the fab video too!
9. BLONDE OTTER - BUT CRAIG!
Sublime pop songs from one of 2021's most exciting Bandcamp prospects. Skewed pop and perfect melodies. Ace!
10. ALLISON RUSSELL - NIGHTFLYER
Beautiful soul stirrer from the fantastic 'Outside Child' album. One of many sublime moments on the record.
11. CROWDED HOUSE - PLAYING WITH FIRE
Another standout return from the kiwi pop Gods. 'Dreamers Are Waiting' is a joy to behold and sits amongst a bunchy of crafted gems.
12. THE REDS, PINKS & PURPLES - I WOULDN'T DIE FOR ANYONE
Warped indie fuzz from another new name to us at Vinyl Revolution. Be sure to check out the full 'Uncommon Weather' album for evidence of greatness.
13. WOLF ALICE - HOW CAN I MAKE IT OK?
'Blue Weekend' is an emphatic success from one of the UK's best indie bands. Shimmering tunes blend with dolorous vocals to devastating effect.
14.BEACHY HEAD - WARNING BELL
More outrageous talent first heard on Bandcamp courtesy of my Monday evening What's App sessions with mates Stuart and Pete. Great work!
15. MASSAGE - HALF A FEELING
An impressive album that distils the Mary Chain and everything great about 80's/90's indie rock. 'Half A Feeling' is a strong start to an excellent record.
16. TEEN CREEPS - SEEING SHAPES
Blistering guitar assault from the hugely enjoyable 'Forever' album.
17. TEENAGE DADS - THANK YOU FOR THE HONEY, HONEY
Upbeat, joyous pop anthem. Once heard not easily forgotten!
18. THE GORSTEY LEA STREET CHOIR - THAT CHITTY BANG MAJIK
More pop smarts from my old mucker Mike Clapham (Ex Great Divide, Dummy). Looking forward to the album AND some live dates in 2022.
19. THE SHOP WINDOW - OUT OF REACH
Showing off their indie cred with an infectious slice of 90's guitar jangle, The Shop Window proudly unveil their excellent 2021 debut album 'The State of Being Human'. Nice work Carl and Simon!
20. THE BESNARD LAKES ARE THE LAST OF THE GREAT THUNDERSTORM WARNINGS
Fantastic prog rocker that doesn't fail to deliver on melody. Best listened to as a whole piece, the wise money says that The Besnard Lakes will place highly in Vinyl Revolution's end of year round-up.
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