David Mead; new album; 2 MP3s

After a hiatus, singer-songwriter David Mead is releasing a new album August 25 on Cheap Lullaby. Almost and Always is well worth the wait. Mead has long been a songwriter who can combine polished craftsmanship with authentic emotional appeal – the new LP continues that trend. That Mead has overcome career vicissitudes – label changes and the like – to deliver some of his finest songs to date makes it all the sweeter.

Two tracks from Almost and Always are linked below.

MP3: “Blackberry Winters”

MP3: “Rainy Winter Friend”

Taller Children

Elizabeth and the Catapult; Video; new LP

Elizabeth and the Catapult have just released a video in support of their new LP Taller Children (Verve Forecast). While the song may feature the vagaries of adults with arrested development, it’s smart, brisk pop that will likely please listeners of all ages; even the mature set, as is attested by their recent interview on NPR’s All Songs Considered (listen here).

Video: “Taller Children” (YouTube)

MP3: “Taller Children”

Christina Courtin

Wednesday: Christina Courtin at Le Poisson Rouge; new CD; MP3

Christina Courtin recently received her degree in violin from the Juilliard School; but she’s taking after Andrew Bird: singing while she fiddles and wowing audiences with crossover fare.

Courtin is performing at Le Poisson Rouge tonight. The date celebrates yesterday’s release of her self-titled CD on Nonesuch. You can download a song from the record, “Foreign Country,” on the label’s website (link below).

MP3: “Foreign Country”