Music roundup

It's been too long since I wrote anything here, but I've been quite busy recently.

Yesterday Woodpigeon's new album Die Stadt Muzikanten was officially released in the United States some two months after the Canadian release. It's an amazing album that anyone who likes artists like Sufjan Stevens or Belle and Sebastian should definitely check out. I wrote a review a while back. I hope this album does well, because I really really really want Woodpigeon to do a U.S. tour and come to Cleveland!

Also yesterday, Family of the Year put out a new five-song EP. I first became aware of this young band when they opened for Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros in Kent last fall. I was impressed with their performance and thoroughly enjoyed their album Songbook. The new EP Through the Trees is a solid followup. I especially enjoy "Princess and the Pea," which is highlighted by some sexy horns, and the catchy "Chugjug."

Family of the Year will be playing at the Beachland Tavern tomorrow night, opening for Ben Sollee and Daniel Martin Moore, who are touring in support of their new album Dear Companion. I saw Ben Sollee in a stripped-down performance (just him and a female vocalist) at the Spot last fall and was impressed by his soulful voice and cello playing. This should be a good show. Conveniently, a Daytrotter session with four songs from Dear Companion was recently posted.

And here's a new Daytrotter session that shouldn't be missed: Megafaun. These guys put on one of the best live shows I saw last year. They'll be playing at the Beachland Tavern again on April 7, just four days after Shearwater. There are a lot of good concerts coming to Cleveland in the next few months!