Welcome back to the “staff picks” shelf at The Riff.
1. Gary: Janet Jackson’s new album, Discipline, dropped in February, so she’s back in action. And it’s good! I resisted the urge to include “When I think of You,” one of the BEST songs from my junior high career, and instead went with a new track, “Rock With U,” because it’s saucy.
2. Gary: The combination of Faith No More’s Mike Patton with the “math” rock/hardcore band Dillinger Escape Plan produced what I consider some of the most interesting and badass aggressive/metal/thrash/loud/angry music of the early 2000s. The band’s chaos is precise, and nobody screams the way Mike Patton screams. Turn it up.
3. Kiera (on a Russian kick this week): “Id,” Nogu Svelo! This band’s name, I’m told, translates to something along the lines of “cramp in the leg!” They’ve been giving Russians cramps in their legs…from dancing…for 20 years. Like it? You’re in luck! They have a new album coming out. Or at least that’s what this Google translation of part of their website makes it sound like:
I hasten to inform joyous news: Musicians Nogu Svelo!…locked in the studio and prepare a surprise for all their fans!
4. Kiera: “Dvornik,” Agata Kristi. Since you’ve always wished Depeche Mode would sing in Russian, I’ve decided to make your day. Masters of Russian indie pop Agata Kristi synth it up in this track. I won’t lie: It’s a little gothic, too.
