Lord Huron is known for their concept albums and their latest release, Long Lost, leans the furthest into this format. They record all of their albums at Whispering Pines Studio. The decor has not been changed since the 70’s and the band has described the space as “definitely haunted.” Frontman Ben Schneider described writing the album as from the viewpoint of the various artists that he imagines came through to record at Whispering Pines over the years.

My take: Lord Huron appears so easily able to capture a soundscape that is separate from time and space. They are brilliant musicians and are able to add layers that lend to an ethereal quality, as if you’re remembering something you haven’t thought about in a long time.

If you only have time for one: I Lied (ft. Allison Ponthier)

This album is often mischaracterized as frontman Tim Kasher’s divorce album. He has gone on record saying that it is a concept album about a couple that are going through it, but just because he got divorced as they were making and the label leaned into that in their marketing, doesn’t make it true. Tim has said this is the hardest record they’ve ever written and he is proud of it, but they will never make anything this heavy again.

My take: This album came out 25 years ago and it so timeless. You could tell me it came out yesterday and I would believe you (if I had amnesia, because this has been a favorite of mine since I found it 15 years ago). It hits you in the face, though. It is abrasive in the best way. The dueling guitars, syncopated drums, and screaming vocals will leave you on the floor. I recommend headphones to get the full experience of the mix. 10/10 feels.

If you only have time for one: The Martyr

The latest full-length release from the Baltimore native. Lindsey Jordan wrote the entire album herself; she even asked the label for songwriting help with the last two tracks and they said, “No, this is too important to let anyone else have a say.”

My take: I love this album. It is raw and real. Lindsey Jordan is one of my favorite songwriters of all time. She has a real talent for crafting painfully simple lyrics that are way harder to write than you think they would be. 10/10 songwriting.

If you only have time for one: Headlock or Automate. Your choice; both made me cry.

This is the latest release from Canadian band Valley. This is their first album with their recently reduced line-up. They used to be a four-piece, but one of the members decided to leave the band. It is an album about hope, growing up, cutting ties, and trying to live life without fear of consequences.

My take: This album is a banger from start to finish and I have told no fewer than everyone I know about it. It has a really fresh sound, but is also nostalgic at the same time. 10/10 cover art, too.

If you only have time for one: The Bass Player’s Brother