It’s rare that I come across new music that floors me. TV On The Radio’s “Dear Science”, Deerhoof’s “Offend Maggie” and My Morning Jacket’s “Evil Urges” are the only albums that sincerely moved me this year. I would rather write about and post on music from the past until something comes along that is worthy of praise. Don’t get me wrong, there have been some excellent new bands to emerge on the scene in 08′; Dead Confederate, Fleet Foxes, White Denim, Black Joe Lewis and others.

The new self-titled Hush Arbors LP just made my top 5 albums of 2008. Singer-songwriter Keith Wood is the genius behind Hush Arbors. He’s been kicking around for years as a solo artist and contributing member of Six Organs of Admittance, Current 93, Wooden Wand and Sunburned Hand Of Man.

His music falls in the psych-folk-rock category. The folk-rock space is crowded with heavyweights Sam Beam, Ray Lamontagne, Devendra Banhart, Damien Rice, Jose Gonalez and Bon Iver. His voice is similar to Ivers’ but Wood’s haunting melodies and layered electric guitar put him in a class all by himself. The first record Wood’s owned was a 45 of Lovin’ Spoonful’s “Summer In The City” then he moved on to the Beach Boys, Beatles, Dinosaur Jr. Black Flag and Sonic Youth. All of his influences show up on the album. Simply beautiful.

Wood’s press kit reads “While repeated listens reveal more and more details, as good albums should, this is also an album that commands immediate attention“. Amen brother.

Definitely check out: Sand, Water II, Follow Closely, Rue Hollow

Download:
MP3: Hush Arbors – The Light
MP3: Bon Iver – Skinny Love

Download:
Hush Arbors – Hush Arbors (iTunes)