As the tune goes, the days grow short when you reach September. But alternative musicians have managed to make the most of them this September, with tantalizing new releases coming from a wide array of celebrated groups. Here are a few of my most anticipated.
September 4
Animal Collective – Centipede Hz (Domino)
It has been more than three years since the release of Merriweather Post Pavilion, which was among the most critically acclaimed albums of 2009. Take a listen to the track “Today’s Supernatural”.
Stars – The North (ATO)
The indie poppers from Montreal are back with their sixth full-length album. NPR Music says the album “rewards exploration with moments that alternately swoon, seethe, swing and paralyze.”
September 11
The xx – Coexist (Young Turks)
The xx’s debut album, xx, was one of the biggest indie successes of 2009. Will the band give listeners more of that unique minimalist style? Check out the track “Chained” below and see what you think.
September 18
Grizzly Bear – Shields (Secretly Canadian)
We’ve played a lot of Grizzly Bear on the show over the past two seasons. A lot. Having exhausted the track lists of Yellow House and Veckatimest, here’s hoping Shields will deliver more of the great psych-folk from their previous albums.
September 25
Mumford & Sons – Babel (Young Turks)
Admit it, you know you’re curious.