The 10 Key Albums of Arab Strap
PopMatters takes a rapid-fire tour of the ten key releases that every Arab Strap fan should have in hand.
indie rock
Arab Strap Brighten the Nights with Hope, Humor, and Songcraft on ‘As Days Get Dark’
Arab Strap’s comeback album ‘As Days Get Dark’ stirs fond memories while making a quantum leap forward.
Black Nash’s Self-Titled Album Is Weird, Catchy Psych-Pop
Fresh out of the Army, Black Nash (aka Jody Smith) holed up at home and made an album full of odd, utterly charming bedroom pop songs.
Cloud Nothings’ ‘The Shadow I Remember’ Is a Life-Affirming and Defiant Statement
Cloud Nothings’ ‘The Shadow I Remember’ caps a remarkably prolific 12 months for leader Dylan Baldi with a reminder about the possibilities for community that music can provide.
Palm Ghosts Deliver Dark, Danceable Single “The Dead Inside” (premiere)
Palm Ghosts’ “The Dead Inside” draws from three decades of influence with flecks of soul and post-punk for good measure.
The Artwork of Arab Strap
The distinct identity of Arab Strap, as an instrumental and lyrical unit, is matched by the visual aspect. The band’s artwork walks a sure-footed tightrope of casual appearance to deliberate effect.
Martyrs and Murderers and Post-Punk Dialogues Between Dublin and Detroit
Dublin's the Murder Capital and Detroit's Protomartyr both delve into murky existential lyrical terrain as riotous riffs reverberate and drums pound militantly, infusing the atmosphere with ominous sonic shadows.
It’s Business As Usual for the Hold Steady on ‘Open Door Policy’
Like the title implies, it's hard to see the Hold Steady's latest album as something more than just another shrewd career move.
Far Lands Deliver Understated Gem “There Be Monsters” (premiere)
"There Be Monsters" from Portland's Far Lands is understated but impactful and a testament to the group's attention to richly detailed songwriting.
Finnish Americana? Why Not? Hear Crimson Peak’s “Lies”
Helsinki's Crimson Peak drape their indie pop-rock in rootsy and folky tones on their latest single, "Lies".