I Don't Hear A Single Albums Of The Year 2021 : 51-60

It's been difficult to get these choices down to 100. I'm also not a believer in saying one album is better than another. Most of the time you are comparing Apples To Oranges. I'm not a List person, I just think what's the point?

However, for the last few years I have compiled annual Best Of 's  because these posts seem so popular and the aim of this Blog is to get exposure (and Sales) for the artists. There is no meaning or judgement on an album that is Number 1, Number 100 or not on the list. Anything that I review on here, mention on Social Media or play on the Radio Show is as highly recommended.

There are few rules. All albums have to have been reviewed on IDHAS. Reissues and Live Albums are not included. Previously unreleased albums are included, but Best Of's are not. For each album, I've posted a song from it and a link to the IDHAS Review where you can find further details and how to listen or buy the album. 

No 51 : The Stan Laurels - There Is No Light Without The Dark     IDHAS Review

No 52 : Underwater Sunshine - Suckertree        IDHAS Review





No 53 : Marc Ribler - The Whole World Awaits You    IDHAS Review





No 54 : Drew Beskin - Problematic for the People          IDHAS Review

No 55 : The Verve Pipe - Threads       IDHAS Review

   

No 56 : Star Collector - Game Day      IDHAS Review





No 57 : Hushdrops - The Static     IDHAS Review

No 58 :  Galore - Roller    IDHAS Review

              

No 59 : Sandra's Wedding - Pleasure Grounds    IDHAS Review

   

No 60 : Bordello & Clark - Atlantic Crossing         IDHAS Review

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Hushdrops - The Static

 

The third Hushdrops album is one tinged with sadness as it has become a tribute to drummer, Joe Camarillo, who died suddenly just before the album was completed. The Chicago threesome were the true definition of the Power Trio.

Although more known for their adventures elsewhere, this supergroup of sorts always sounded most at home together. The playing was almost telepathic at times and the one take nature of the recordings underline that. 

The Rhythm Section of Camarillo and Jim Shapiro underpinned the Lead Guitar of John San Juan allowing the band to veer between Rock, Psych, Indie and even Pop Rock. San Juan's vocal is not a million miles away from Ray Davies and this is prevalent on the likes of Tomorrow Takes The Sun and Monday.

Yet there is a controlled looseness that prevented songs becoming Jams. At times they could resemble Man without the length, never feeling the need to keep a song continuing unnecessarily. San Juan is on fire at times, guitar wise, particularly on the likes of The Lummox and Secrets. Even more so on the awesome I Had A Room.

But Planets and The Sweetest Plum are Pop Gems and Elevator is almost Lounge. One Of The Guys edges into Space Rock and Psychic Space may be the best thing on the album, it's immense. It is, however. the title track that best explains what the band is all about.

If this is the final album, it is a fitting one. One Take stuff can be a warts and all thing, but Hushdrops turn it into an album of depth and versatility. The Static has the knack of providing songs that sound so simple on first listen, but repeated goes continue to reveal hooks that just grip you. Wonderful.

You can listen to and buy the album here.

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