Eight Albums For July

July, the first full month of summer, offers me plenty of time to reaquaint myself with music I had forgotten about or just haven't gotten to. It's also one of the few months when I can actually listen to a new release thoroughly when it comes out. Summer releases have a certain amount of staying power because most people are listening to music more---as anthems for road trips or even just out at the bar. Here's to summer...

1. Wilco - "AM" (1995)

Pure alt-country sounds refreshingly raspy anew.

2. The Roots - "How I Got Over" (2010)

Hip-hop faves make soulful summer album.

3. OK Go - "Of the Blue Colour of the Sky" (2010)

This too shall not be passed.

4. Tom Petty - "Mojo" (2010)

The blues with a Petty twist.

5. Monsters of Folk - "Monsters of Folk" (2009)

Took a break, love it again.

6. God Street Wine - "$1.99 Romances" (1995)

Reunion tour brings high school memories.

7. The Asteroids Galaxy Tour - "Fruit" (2009)

Thanks Sternberg. Band name describes music.

8. Band of Horses - "Infinite Arms" (2010)

Only listened twice. Pleased. Want more.