Thee Silver Mt. Zion Memorial Orchestra - "The West Will Rise Again" 2x7"

Fresh from their reformation stint as post-rock/drone legends Godspeed! You Black Emperor, Canadian formation Silver Mt. Zion here release a limited double-single and their first new tunes in 2 years.

"What We Loved Was Not Enough", in 2 parts, is a slow and almost mournful folk/chant reflection. "The State Did Not Agree" is a similar lament, with the wailed, strained vocals of Efrim Menuck. The fourth cut, "Psalms99", doesn't divulge much from that formula, either. This one's for collectors only, it seems. Me? I'm anxiously awaiting that new Godspeed! album. (Ruined City Birdsong Combos)

Grant Hart - "Hot Wax" CD

Best-known as drummer for Minneapolis punk icons Husker Du, some would be surprised to hear this new solo record from Hart, his first in 9 years. All but abandoning his more raucous punk roots, "Hot Wax" sees collaborations with members of Canadian post-rock acts Godspeed You Black Emperor/ A Silver Mt. Zion, but even this is overshadowed -- probably for the better, due to Hart's fine, mature, and well-developed songwriting skills. "You're The Reflection Of The Moon On The Water" is a superb, raved-up rock song that admittedly owes much to Patti Smith. "Barbara" is a sweet bit of 60's-style English baroque pop, and "School Buses Are For Children" is a well-written and heartfelt classic rock-style song that showcases Hart's considerable skills as a vocalist -- a fact seemingly forgotten and overshadowed by his years in the background. "California Zephyr" is a simple pop song that's effectively catchy and narrative, as is the 60's pop of "Sailor Jack". Taken as a whole, "Hot Wax" is an amazingly well-composed collection of diverse, tuneful, clever, and timeless songs that will withstand. Full accolades! (MVD Audio)

Grant Hart site