DAILY RECORDS : Tender Forever, Norfolk & Western, & Sparta Philharmonic

by | Jul 8, 2010 | MUSIC

Tender ForeverNo Snare (K)
This album’s title is not just a clever phrase. It also describes its contents–instead of a snare drum, a collection of percussion instruments create syncopated beats that back melodic indie-pop music reminiscent of Fiona Apple, or Mirah. The result is a funky yet melancholy sound that’s enjoyably original.

Norfolk & WesternDinero Severo (Hush)
N&W’s slow, quiet indie-folk has always been good, and the eclectic songwriting on their new album is even better, mixing post-Velvet Underground slowcore with Lennonesque ballads and even interludes of distorted guitar noise. The result is an album that should win over huge portions of the indie community.

Sparta Philharmonic(Trans)Migratory Birds (Atlas)
Sparta Philharmonic’s use of primitive recording equipment and unconventional studio spaces results in an album ill-suited for the “lo-fi” genre tag, as it shifts from loud indie rock to experimental folk and everything inbetween. It’s all over the place, but in a good way. Well worth a listen.


Tender ForeverNo Snare (K)
This album’s title is not just a clever phrase. It also describes its contents–instead of a snare drum, a collection of percussion instruments create syncopated beats that back melodic indie-pop music reminiscent of Fiona Apple, or Mirah. The result is a funky yet melancholy sound that’s enjoyably original.

Norfolk & WesternDinero Severo (Hush)
N&W’s slow, quiet indie-folk has always been good, and the eclectic songwriting on their new album is even better, mixing post-Velvet Underground slowcore with Lennonesque ballads and even interludes of distorted guitar noise. The result is an album that should win over huge portions of the indie community.

Sparta Philharmonic(Trans)Migratory Birds (Atlas)
Sparta Philharmonic’s use of primitive recording equipment and unconventional studio spaces results in an album ill-suited for the “lo-fi” genre tag, as it shifts from loud indie rock to experimental folk and everything inbetween. It’s all over the place, but in a good way. Well worth a listen.

R. Anthony Harris

R. Anthony Harris

In 2005, I created RVA Magazine, and I'm still at the helm as its publisher. From day one, it’s been about pushing the “RVA” identity, celebrating the raw creativity and grit of this city. Along the way, we’ve hosted events, published stacks of issues, and, most importantly, connected with a hell of a lot of remarkable people who make this place what it is. Catch me at @majormajor____




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