Upcoming Album of the Week (Ending April 1)

A few weeks ago, I wondered if Chance The Rapper may be harboring some nascent political aspirations. This week, he did something that made me realize his desires are more altruistic than political (at least for now). Following his less-than-fruitful meeting with Governor Bruce Rauner discussing education, he's stepped up in a big way. He's donated $1 million to Chicago Public Schools, raised an additional $2.2 million for the school system, and started the New Chance Arts and Literature Fund. Pretty impressive for the young artist; an amazing musician and generous philanthropist!

As always, my list of anticipated albums can be seen at my Upcoming Releases page!

This week, New Zealand artist Aldous Harding announced her sophomore album, Party.

brooklynvegan.com

Though I'd heard a couple of her songs before, my first real exposure to Harding came when she opened for Deerhunter on their fall tour last year. I caught the show in Covington, Kentucky and was transfixed by the musician, both by her music and her stage presence, which was odd to say the least, but still amazing to watch.

I looked for the LP of her self-titled debut at the show's merch table after the show, but it did not seem to be available. I purchased it online instead and waited several excruciating weeks for it to be restocked. It was worth the wait; it truly is a spectacular record.

So soon after that debut got its American release, I was surprised to be getting such a quick follow-up. She signed to 4AD earlier this year and is wasting no time in putting out her first record on the label. Party was announced on Wednesday, along with a new single, "Imagining My Man."

Party is set to be released on May 19.

Also announced this week:

Dan Auerbach - Waiting on a Song (June 2)
The Kooks - Best Of… So Far (May 19)
The Secret Sisters - You Don’t Own Me Anymore (June 9)
Sparks - Hippopotamus (September 8)
Sufjan Stevens - Carrie & Lowell Live (April 28)
Sufjan Stevens, Bryce Dessner, Nico Muhly, James McAlister - Planetarium (June 9)