Long-time readers may wonder at the absence of The Story, my 268-part series providing the lowdown on the least you need to know about major artists. Well, I’ll tell ya: it used to be that I’d post The Story whenever there weren’t enough new albums to recommend in a given week, but 2019 has proven ridiculously strong. Can’t let all these fine new releases get away.

I’ll get back to The Story soon. But in the meantime, let’s round ’em up.

BAILEN – Thrilled To Be Here

And we’re thrilled to have you. Sibling harmonies that sound like an indie Fleetwood Mac with some touches of R&B? Stay as long as you like.

Grace Ives – 2nd

Homemade electro-pop which occasionally sounds like old Nintendo game music.

Saint Agnes – Welcome To Silvertown

Welcome to rock! Debut album from UK garage-rockers kicks you where you need to be kicked.

Pure Bathing Culture – Night Pass

80’ssssss