This article was featured in RVAMag #25: Summer 2016.
This article was featured in RVAMag #25: Summer 2016. You can read all of issue #25 here or pick it up at local shops around RVA right now. You can check out Psrt 1 of this issue’s album reviews here.
Pete Curry
Doin’ Nothin’
In a short span of time, Pete Curry is making a strong argument for him being one of Richmond’s best pop auteurs. On Doin’ Nothin’, he takes the framework from his debut and dabbles with fascinating, tempered instrumentation. “Nobody’s Home” is the perfect song to include on any summer mixtapes. (SC)
Veery
Veery
Quick. Loud. Abrasive. Thoughtful. These are all words that can be used to describe Veery’s spectacular debut EP. Nothing from this trio’s past could prepare audiences for their unique blend of post-hardcore and grunge. From the first moments of “Julia” up until the closing refrain of “Dry,” you’ll soon realize you’ve just stumbled upon your new favorite band. (SC)
Vexine
Little Sin (http://static1.squarespace.com/static/55fa06e1e4b0c09b5ee38b54/t/571e0414e707ebff308351d1/1461585492565/?format=300w)
(ZAP Records)
Stirring rock and roll for any jaded fan of the current scene or any fan just wanting some inescapable aplomb. Vexine assert themselves as one of Richmond’s premier acts here with a sound fully realized and deeply explored across all styles and timbres. The aesthetic has to be mentioned here for its encompassing success, but at its core, this music succeeds on its ability to tap into the core of rock and roll and fully exploit it. (DN)
The Wimps
The Wimps
On their self-titled debut, The Wimps feel extracted from such a wide array of genres, yet they pull it off effortlessly. Seamlessly tying together baroque, early punk, garage rock staples, and reckless abandon, The Wimps are a great example of the next generation of Richmond music to be paying attention to. (SC)
NATIONAL
ANOHNI
Hopelessness (
(Secretly Canadian)
As the title suggests, the subject matter demurs any chance it gets, but with a shrewd ear for contrast and balance, it leaves you far removed from a somber outlook once finished. As much as it challenges your way of thinking, it does more to contest the concept of what a protest record can be and might just change what we believe it should be moving forward. (DN)
Aloha
Little Windows Cut Right Through
(Polyvinyl)
You can never predict what Aloha will do record to record, but that’s the beauty of it. On their recent release, they implement a few prog rock textures into their atypical spin on the genre. “Moon Man” and “One Hundred Million” are instant favorites. For fans of Owls and Minus The Bear. (SC)
Beyonce
Lemonade
(Columbia Records)
Bold. Ambitious. Ingenious. Exultant. This is a record immune to any common criticism or complaint. It is far from flawless, but the poised displayed at even the weakest moments points to an artist creating at her highest possible level and nothing can take away from the excellence formed from the simple concept of infidelity. (DN)
