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Russia and Georgia go to war over the Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia

1. Conor Oberst-Conor Oberst
Conor's first solo album in 12 years (and first since the age of 16) was a continuation of the collection of brilliantness he has output over the years with Bright Eyes. Lyrically he is as strong as ever, and the Mystic Valley Band (play on the album, and tour with him) are awesome. This is such a strong album, every song is great with varied musical and lyrical content across the record. As usual, the lyrics are very much open to interpretation on many of the tracks, songmeanings is good for guidance if you want it! New Bright Eyes album next year?
Best track: Conor Oberst-Souled Out!!!
Bonus: Conor Oberst-Breezy (Live at 400 club)
Metacritic (76)
2. Bloc Party-Intimacy
I am torn between this:
While Okereke has described Intimacy as a break-up album, it feels like more of a document of a band disconnected from itself. Pitchfork
and this:
Brave, individual and heartfelt, Intimacy offers treasure for fans old and new. The Guardian
Much more towards the Guardian one though.
Read my initial thoughts on the album here
Still not made up my mind on it!! Goin to see them in January :D
Best track: Bloc Party-Halo
Metacritic (69)
3. Late of the Pier-Fantasy Black Channel
I was very late on the LOTP hype, which started late 2006 really. Finally got round to listening to this album (pretty apprehensively) in December but loved it instantly. The production on this is ridiculous (Erol Alkan) and 2/3rds of the songs are absolute bangers. They are similar to Klaxons, but actually a fair bit more talented. Hopefully goin to see these in Feb!
Best track: Late of the Pier-Space and the Woods

4. The Walkmen-You&Me
Not listened to this enough to make a real judgement, but after a couple of listens its sounding very promising. Only heard one of their previous efforts, Bows and Arrows, which was good. This sounds better. Donde Esta La Playa is an amazing song. Many have said this album marks a move for the Walkmen from a singles band to a great one. I think I may agree.
Best track: The Walkmen-Donde Esta La Playa
Metacritic (79)
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Whilst I was in Mexico, Conor Oberst (of Bright Eyes fame) released his 4th solo album (first since 1996-when he was 16) with the Mystic Valley Band. The album is, as expected, brilliant. It sounds pretty similar to Bright Eyes, with a similar style to Cassadaga but it is alot more accessible and enjoyable. This is definately up there with his best work; Fevers and Mirrors, i'm Wide Awake... and Letting off the Happiness...and it was recorded in Mexico which makes it pretty damn cool!! The album shows Conor's verstility from the driving rythms of NYC-Gone, Gone and Souled Out to the stripped back Lenders In The Temple.
I saw him at Leeds 2 and a half weeks ago (leeds review IS coming soon!) and he was very good, holding a large tent in which the majority hadn't heard any of his solo work. Last week, he played Manchester Academy, and it was amazing. One of the best live performances I have seen so far this year for sure, him and his band are so talented and excellent onstage! He played the whole album and a few other tracks, allowing members of the band to take center stage for a couple, and covered the legendary "Everybody's Talkin'" and "Corrina, Corrina"!
[mp3]Conor Oberst-Lenders in The Temple
[mp3]Conor Oberst-Moab
[mp3]Conor Oberst-Souled Out
[mp3]Conor Oberst-Breezy (Live at 400 Club)
The latter is a live recording of the song he closes with, Breezy.
Bonus:
[mp3]Harry Nilsson-Everybody's Talkin'

apologies for the lack of old skool monday this week!! i will be posting 2 next monday...
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