Archive - Oct 20, 2008

For several years my sister has, unfortunately, borne the brunt of my musical conversation, whether she wanted to hear it or not. I apologize for that, and realize that she probably would have been more into music if I weren't around. I did have some positive influence on her listening habits, however, adding bands like The Mountain Goats, Donavon Frankenreiter and The Polyphonic Spree to her list of favorites. Overall, though, it was rare that I liked any of the new music that she threw my way, mostly because it was crap. But there was one artist that I have to admit she turned me on to: she handed me a copy of Ray LaMontagne's Trouble in late 2004, and after giving it just one listen, I immediately fell in love. His unique voice and stellar songwriting made him immediately stand out from the host of male singer/songwriters that were emerging around that time. After a two year wait, the release of Till The Sun Turns Black cemented LaMontagne as a significant member of today's popular music scene.

Last Tuesday, October 14th, marked the release of his third studio album, "Gossip In The Grain." I've been eagerly awaiting its arrival since first hearing the single, "You Are The Best Thing," through the blogosphere a while back. A few weeks ago, Stereogum also featured a new track, "Meg White," which finds LaMontagne professing his love for the White Stripes' drummer. Rumor has it she even attended one of his shows after hearing the track. Is there romance in the air?

You can get the album pretty much anywhere, and it's pretty damn good, so do yourself a favor and buy this album!

Keep reading for a track listing and more after the jump