1 Liz Phair “Soberish” Based on its early singles, the indie demigod’s first album in eleven years runs true to form: staggeringly smart, confrontational lyrics set to music so shaggy it’s almost an afterthought. Available June 4
2 Dennis DeYoung “26 East, Vol 2” A year ago the former Styx frontman released Volume 1, his first solo album in more than a decade; now he delivers its sequel—which he’s also announced as his swan song. Available now
3 Liquid Soul “Lost Soul, Vol. 1” The album collects propulsive live performances by saxophonist-composer Mars Williams’ funk-meets-free-jazz octet, from a decade, beginning in 1993, when they were fixtures at Elbo Room and Double Door. Available now
4 Course “A Late Hour” Based on the opulent texture of its first single, “Give It All Away,” the synth-pop ensemble’s debut album promises to be a gorgeously layered souffle of lush, dreamy soundscapes. Available now
5 Old Joy “Trash Your Life” Singer-songwriter Alex Reindl bills this project as “scum pop” and “power trash,” and it does plumb the underside of contemporary life; but the tunes themselves are surprisingly polished and infectious. Available now
Robert Rodi is an author, spoken-word performer and musician who has served as Newcity’s Music Editor since 2014. He’s written more than a dozen books, including the travel memoir “Seven Seasons In Siena,” and his literary and music criticism has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, the Chicago Tribune, Salon, The Huffington Post and many other national and regional publications. Contact: robert@newcity.com
Music Top 5: June 2020 Lockdown—self-isolating—sheltering in place—whatever you call it, goes easier with these outstanding album releases by stellar Chicago artists.
