5x5: January 30, 2025

I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning and Digital Ash in a Digital Urn – Bright Eyes

These two albums turned 20 this week, and for 18 of those years, Bright Eyes has been my favorite band. Naturally, both of these albums occupy significant space in my life and I had to revisit them on their birthday.

This anniversary is celebrated with a wonderful Life of the Record episode, where Conor and Mike reflect on the process of writing and recording I’m Wide Awake. It is a lovely and worthy testament to an album that holds a sacred spot in the canon of the aughts indie scene, and I feel equally grateful and spoiled for the two hours of precious insight it provides.

Lucero Unplugged – Lucero

Ben’s songs can easily stand on their own, but Rick’s accompaniment enriches them in a way that is better experienced than written about. The harmonic and melodic embellishments he adds are not only sonically perfect, but furthers the abundant pathos these songs already hold. The man has soul like he has mutton chops, which is to say in great supply. These are moving, beautiful renditions of the many high-points across Lucero’s catalog.

Obverse – Obverse

A bass, drums, harp, trio at face value is already an interesting proposition, but what Obverse delivers surpasses any preconceived notion I could have had. At only 24 minutes long, these arrangements are dense in the best way due to superb contributions from all members. This album offers a plethora of fresh ideas and interplay to be digested, a delight that will continue to grow with repeated listens.

CAN’T RUSH GREATNESS – Central Cee

I don’t spend much time in the rap world, much less UK drill, but I have fully bought into the kayfabe of Central Cee. His flow is always engaging and rhythmically interesting, and I appreciate the frequent melody-first approach to his beats. Despite the 17 track length, this album does not fall victim to the common trap of over-bloated rap albums, in part due to tracks that err on the shorter side.

Sol y Sombra – Rose City Band

An intentional album that lives up to its name. It ebbs and flows, sometimes joyous, sometimes contemplative, sometimes neopyschadelic jam band, but always set against beautiful and interesting textures. It is easy to mistake this album as just a pleasant soundtrack to day drink to (which it is), but closer inspection reveals an unassuming tenderness to the tracks.