February 2022 brought me a great opportunity - to rank the ten best albums of a twenty-album selection of Richmond independent music released within the previous year. As is usual when I go listen to a local concert, my first word is : impressed? Floored? Amazed? by the quality of the performances I find at my semi-local bars. (I don't think they count as local because I have to pay tolls.) For the record, part of my role in this jury prize project was selecting albums, and though only one of my selections appeared on the list (and I found out about it in the newspaper,) for those music listeners who don't know their local scene, a tour through this shortlist would surprise and delight with the professionalism and quality.
McKinley Dixon, the inaugural prize-winning nominee, with his album, For My Mama And Anyone Who Look Like Her, who was represented by Spacebomb Records, that also lays down tracks for the Big Boss Combo among others, sung and spoke about the crucial necessity of his art to his personal identity. Fans responded to the unique texture of the album, maybe. Our goal was to select an album, in memory of a very creative and vibrant VCU Professor, Dika Newlin, based on what felt most "Richmond." What do we have? Textural and modern. Poetry flowing into rap. Art videos and a distinct sense of place on a kind of unkempt, green fringe of a neighborhood that doesn't put blinkers on in viewing violence and dispute, drugs and whatever else. This artist doesn't really denounce anything but exists in their own world, portraying a vulnerable, hopeful dreamer youth that wants to start fresh, celebrate creativity. And so I think the jury spoke clearly when they selected this album as most Richmond. But other songs still echo in my head and I think deserve recognition: Have you even heard of Frames, indie female-led pop group with their catchy "Cold Hard Criminal," or search as you may, good luck finding bedroom artist, Caro, on the web. A young student who has honesty and poise -- I can't get "Summertime," from her album From My Room, out of my head. Don't miss Junnie Mac X NameBrand rapping about "Glow" from their album, Peace, Mercy & Blessings. This song provides the lyrics for the album title, and maybe, to me, also the most put-together or seasoned political commentary. Coming right behind them in this category would be maybe Ant the Symbol, or Prabir Trio, or DJ Harrison, or Terminal Bliss. For spirit that has happily stuck with me, I've gotta hand the prize to Big Talk by Giant. This was a really good listen for me, because I'm a parent. Twin for sleek production and seasoned creativity are Jewell Booker, a music professor, too, and Illa Styles. For the social statements, I enjoyed Jewell's message, as well as WKNDR, Irish folk, Angelica Garcia, Mexican folk-modern. For strange and hard to grasp music that kind of transports you, I enjoyed DJ Harrison, Matthew E White and Big Fundamental. Including Gnawing, these all have a kind of distance or sarcasm to them that is compelling. I think they push musical boundaries, and in a way, all of these artists absolutely do. Abby Huston in more of an art-for-art's-sake direction. Finally, I was excited about two albums, Tennishu (self-titled) and Tiara and Andrew's Roller Skates, which were all about the footwear. These were the most mellow and mild albums, and I loved them! For artists and enthusiasts, in the coming months, you can visit the Newlin Music Prize website, contact the founders, and recommend next year's picks! Arrive early so you don't miss your favorite band's opening act! Hit the food or folk festival next weekend! Get out and enjoy the nice weather and yay!!! And for a more in-depth response to each of these albums, or a mention of my favorite track names from each, look further back in this blog history for a 3-part tour of all 20 of this year's nominees!
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AuthorWe are Kieran and Michelle, two 32-year-old William & Mary grads living in Virginia. Archives
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