New Releases Tuesday (7/12)

Röyksopp - The Understanding (Astralwerks) Long awaited follow-up to the Norwegian duo's brilliant debut album, Melody A.M. Highly recommended if you dig lounge music, electronic pop or even dance. They're also equally amazing live and will be returning to Metro on September 19. Nine Black Alps - s/t (Tiny Evil) Debut ep from Manchester's latest rock export. They're currently on their first North American tour and will be making a stop at the Bottom Lounge on July 21. Check out their latest single, "Cosmopolitan," here in Windows or Real Player. Willie Nelson - Countryman (Lost Highway) Still keepin' it real after all these years, Willie decides to throw everyone a curve by droppin' a reggae album. (his first, at age 72 no less!) Amazon.com probably puts it best, "...Given Nelson's well-publicized taste for ganja, it's not surprising he's also fond of the island's major musical export." Look in your local store's new releases section for the CD with the big pot leaf on it. Various Artists - Wedding Crashers [Sndtk] (New Line) Features tracks from Spoon, Death Cab For Cutie, Bloc Party, Rilo Kiley as well as the great new Flaming Lips single, "Mr. Ambulance Driver." Check it out here in Windows or Quicktime. Lips frontman Wayne Coyne sez: "Maybe it’s just me, but is anybody noticing that big budget mainstream potential hit movies have very weird soundtracks these days? This looks more like a homemade compilation by one of my friends that own all of the new records that come out, but can’t resist throwing on an occasional ole’ fave. I mean who puts Death Cab for Cutie and Mungo Jerry on the same CD...now that’s a mash-up!! By the way if you’re driving your car be careful when you hear the sirens - that’s our song, not the fireman or an ambulance or the cops behind you...or could it be???” Other Notables Daniel Lanois - Belladonna (Anti-) Prefuse 73 - Read the Books [e.p.] (Warp) Son Volt - Okemah and the Melody of Riot (Sony) Xiu Xiu - La Floret (5 Rue Christine)