Lenny Kravitz – It Is Time for a Love Revolution (2008)
EZ-livin’ faceless rock for dads under 40, courtesy of Lenny Kravitz, eternal favorite of the boxed-wine and Cracker Barrel circuit. I can’t seem to pinpoint the exact hatred I have for It Is Time for a Love Revolution – maybe it’s the bland title, or the brain-on-autopi… Click to read more

Erykah Badu – New Amerykah, Pt. 1: 4th World War (2008)
Badu rises from the nu-Soul wreckage as a nu-Funkateer, complete with blowout cover, jive spelling and “up with people” vibes. If the terms “retro” and “vintage” inspire you to burn down the closest Urban Outfitters in a storm of Nag Champa-fueled anger,… Click to read more

Beach House – Devotion (2008)
Kinda-sorta hypnotizing display of Mazzy Star dream pop for the winter lover’s crowd. A warm reverb swallows the LP, allowing the prettier melodies to keep afloat amongst the morass of gentle but typical songcraft. Weirdo Beardos like Gary Higgins spin pastoral cottage folk-pop far better than mousy, bookish t… Click to read more