Though a few promising debuts are in the mix, this week’s batch of new albums is all about ~the grand return~. Following multiple solo outings and a well-received homecoming concert, Philly favorites Dr. Dog are back in ship shape on their self-titled 11th album; it’s their first to be produced by singer/guitarist Scott McMicken. Donald Glover soundtracks his upcoming post-apocalyptic adventure film, Bando Stone & the New World, with his purported final album as Childish Gambino. A decade on from their debut (and just over three years since their American chart breakthrough), UK pop-rockers Glass Animals examine the dissociation that comes with international success on I Love You So F***ing Much.
Austin-based singer/bassist Melissa Carper’s Borned in Ya is a confident set of soulful Western swing with a title (and title track) that references an adage by bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley. All Hell is the seventh LP from Welsh indie rockers Los Campesinos!, and it’s packed with plenty of Gareth David’s trademark lyrical wit. British-Jamaican artist Lava La Rue has collaborated with Clairo and Wet Leg; their debut, Starface, is a bold and eclectic sci-fi concept album. Last year, Danish duo The Raveonettes were the subject of a tribute featuring The Black Angels, Dave Gahan, and more; for their ninth album, Sune Rose Wagner and Sharin Foo offer their take on classics by The Velvet Underground, The Everly Brothers, and The Shangri-Las.
Listen for spotlights on new records like these (and more) every week on the XPN Morning Show and Indie Rock Hit Parade.