This past year proved to be one of the most musically fruitful periods for both new and resurging bands. Many artists broke through the pre-established sonic and business conventions that plague the industry, and put the fire back into what many consider a dying industry. From the looks of it, 2014 should be no different, with both new and veteran artists stepping out into the limelight with highly anticipated new material. Here is a list of the top five albums I am most excited about for 2014.
1. David Crosby – “Croz”(Jan. 28)
In discussing this latest record with Rolling Stone magazine, Crosby said, “I wanted to challenge myself. Most guys my age would have done a covers record or duets on old material.” After a twenty-year silence, Crosby is back with a unique mellowed out sound that is distinctively his own. Always the most innovative and thoughtful lyricist in Crosby Stills and Nash/Crosby Stills Nash and Young, the songs on “Croz”tackle a variety of diverse subjects, from female prostitutes in Belgium to political policies and even AA, which Crosby has been in and out of for almost14 years.
2. Ryley Walker – TBA (April)
Chicago native Ryley Walker is the modern day Bert Jansch folk guitar wizard. After releasing an album with folk guitarist Daniel Bachman and a seven-inch this year, Walker will release his sophomore record sometime in April. While his sound is reflective of British folk jazz guitarists Bert Jansch, Davy Graham and John Renbourn, Walker also implements swirling psychedelics into his music a la the late, great John Fahey. With the modern folk landscape being dominated by “old