Album of the Week: Dawes -- Nothing Is Wrong

I downloaded Spotify last week and I've pretty much been hooked ever since. I figured with all this access to free new music, on a weekly basis, I'd highlight an album I've been digging lately. It might be something I recently discovered or an old favorite, but I'll try to put them up on Mondays from now on.

My first pick is Dawes' second album, Nothing Is Wrong. I didn't listen to this band's first record, North Hills, much when it was released a couple years ago, but I remember thinking it was fairly decent. I think I like Nothing Is Wrong more than the band's debut -- it's good to see the group avoid the dreaded "sophomore slump." This album is a solid folk record, with nice harmonies and subtle --but distinctive -- piano accents.

I've had this album on repeat for the past couple days. Pretty great summer album -- check it out.

No. 52: Dawes

An appearance by Wilco member Pat Sansone on their debut album, jam sessions with Conor Oberst and having their national television debut on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson definitely put some notches in their column, not that Dawes needed the help.

Their debut album North Hills is a fitting tribute to the American folk rock bands of the past. I can picture Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young literally passing the torch to the band,Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith, Wylie Webster and Alex Casnoff. Similar bands of today would include Delta Spirit and Blind Pilot; Dawes sound is softer though with more harmonies, perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Fortunately Dawes has a favorable time slot in this year's Lolla lineup, playing at half past three Saturday afternoon conflicting only with the xx and Gogol Bordello. I will definitely make time to see this Southern California band jam.

Dawes on MySpace

The Official Site of Dawes