The Antlers: Hospice

Artist: The Antlers
Album: Hospice
Date Released: August 18, 2009
Genre: indie rock, chamber pop, lo-fi, experimental
Rating: 8.9

Review: Dark and brooding, Hospice is the fourth studio album from Brooklyn's The Antlers. The brainchild of Peter Silberman, The Antlers are like a more experimental version of Bon Iver and The Walkmen. Hospice chronicles Silberman's personal journey through themes of isolation, death and his relationship with the larger world. The stunningly beautiful "Prologue" is a definite standout on what is a very good but challenging album.

Patrick Watson: Wooden Arms

Artist: Patrick Watson
Album: Wooden Arms
Date Released: May 5, 2009
Genre: indie pop, contemporary singer-songwriter, chamber pop
Rating: 7.6

Review: Canadian singer and pianist Patrick Watson weaves together post-rock experimentalism with a vocal style that intersects between Nick Drake and Jeff Buckley. The tracks are strong and command attention. One of the year's most unique musical achievements.