Grizzly Bear - Shields

I predict that Spin, Pitchfork and Rolling Stone will name this as their album of the year for 1 reason.  It’s amazing.  It is NOT a loud rocking, hook-filled good time.  Fans of OK Computer will love this and that is not to say that these guys are biting Radiohead, because they aren’t.  Check out “Yet Again” “The Hunt” and “Gun Shy.”  Then buy this if you like what you hear.  It will grow on you like a tumor.

Rating: 91%

Divine Fits - A Thing Called Divine Fits

This band is a side project by the singer from Spoon.  Favorites are "Would That Not Be Nice" "Salton Sea" & "Baby Get Worse."  This has an 80's vibe to it, but not a calculated one.  If this was hyped by a major label, it could be huge, but it will likely fly under the radar, like much of the great music Spoon has been putting out for the last 15+ years.  

Rating: 86%

Nas - Life is Good

“Daughters” (about his daughter) and “Bye Baby” (about his ex-wife) are the strongest cuts.  It’s a much-needed change of pace lyric-wise and the beats are nice overall.  You can skip the Rick Ross song and the Swizz Beats song.  Other than that, this is Nas best album since God’s Son and Illmatic before that.

Rating: 82%

The Westies: Inside New York's Irish Mob - by T.J. English

I was always curious about the Irish Mob in Hell's Kitchen.  This book lays it out in full detail.  It's sick and it's twisted, but I couldn't put it down.  I needed to say a prayer and take a shower after reading this book.

Rating: 85%