Nine Albums to Beat the Final Stretch of Winter, and Roll Right into Spring.
Afro-Harping by Dorothy Ashby
Hailing from Detroit, Dorothy Ashby is one of the greatest jazz harpists of all time, and Afro-Harping is Ashby’s eighth studio album, released in 1968. However, she often goes unrecognised and underappreciated when considered next to the male jazz ‘greats’ who dominate jazz history. Afro-Harping is a swirling, hypnotic combination of jazz and soul tracks, showcasing Ashby’s understated talent and effortlessly elegant playing.
Highlights: Soul Vibrations and Life Has Its Trials.
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Heaven or Las Vegas by Cocteau Twins
A glittering record from the turn of the 90s, Scottish band Cocteau Twins delivered with Heaven or Las Vegas. Elizabeth Fraser’s soaring vocals glide over the shimmering instrumentation; driving bass and shining synth culminating in a tracklist of ten songs as individual and enticing as ever. Fraser’s equally captivating and indiscernible lyrics are wholly alluring, reminiscent of the escapism of the warmer seasons. Even the cover art is colourful, evoking the feeling of impending sunshine.
Highlights: Cherry-Coloured Funk and Heaven or Las Vegas.
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Now Would Be a Good Time by Folk Bitch Trio
No album recommendation list of mine would be complete without Folk Bitch Trio, who are my favourite Australian (if not all-time) artist. A stunning debut of lush gorgeous harmonies paired with introspective and quietly profound lyricism, Folk Bitch Trio’s Now Would Be a Good Time is simply magnificent. This record is the perfect way to curl up as August ends and banish the remnants of the winter blues.
Highlights: The Actor and Foreign Bird.
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Console Me by Tell Mama
Adelaide’s Tell Mama gave us this delightful debut back in 2023, a groovy soul record. Featuring lilting trumpet solos peppered beside jazz-inflected guitar and piano improvisations, this album feels simple yet timeless, embodying the hopeful incandescence of soul and jazz music. Console Me is a perfect choice for an easy, light listen, especially as the sunshine of springtime starts to peek out.
Highlights: Fragile Woman and Midnight.
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Tusk by Fleetwood Mac
Determined to run in the other direction of mainstream pop success, Lindsey Buckingham’s refusal to continue creating in the commercially acclaimed realm of Rumours and Fleetwood Mac brought us Tusk in 1979. Drifting into post-punk territory, Tusk is an amalgamation of the different voices in the band, from Stevie Nicks, Christine McVie and Buckingham himself. This variety gives Tusk an unapologetic edge, oscillating between grittier tracks to softer, honeyed tones; giving you something new with every listen.
Highlights: Save Me a Place and Tusk.
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The Stone Rose by The Stone Roses
Pioneers of the ‘Madchester’ sound of the 90s in the UK, Manchester born-and-bred The Stone Roses’ self-titled record is a combination of punk, alternative rock, britpop and psychedelic rock. Neither too heavy nor too laid-back, this debut encapsulates the excitement of spring with the infusion of dance-inspired sound, but remains composed and poised. Creative, confident and compelling, The Stone Roses is a must-listen for any alternative music fan.
Highlights: I Wanna Be Adored and Made of Stone.
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Tawk Tomahawk by Hiatus Kaiyote
While maybe not the most revered among Hiatus Kaiyote’s four albums, Tawk Tomahawk still remains one of the most creative and innovative records in the soul/jazz vein there is. This album is mesmerising, combining an inimitable rhythm section over Nai Palm’s utterly unique vocals. The intricacy and interplay of the entire band is to be marvelled, and this debut merely magnifies the beginnings of an outstanding discography from the Fitzroy locals.
Highlights: The World It Softly Lulls and Lace Skull.
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Pink Moon by Nick Drake
A delicately beautiful record, Pink Moon reveals Nick Drake at his best, with his signature husky vocals and his exquisite guitar melodies. The power of this album lies in its simplicity, often with just Drake’s arresting lyricism and skillful layered guitar throughout the tracks. An example of folk brilliance, Pink Moon is softly haunting, perfect for a slow evening or peaceful rainy day.
Highlights: Pink Moon and From The Morning.
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Dawn by Emma Donovan & The Putbacks
Pairing the soaring soul voice of Indigenous artist Emma Donovan with the funky rhythm section of The Putbacks was a stroke of genius. The result is Dawn, an effortlessly irresistible record spinning funk, soul, blues, gospel and jazz elements. This album is an apt listening choice as the cold weather starts to recede and flowers begin to poke out in the grass.
Highlights: My Goodness and Dawn.
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