Lambchop - Punching the Clown (2026) Aldous Harding - Train on the Island (2026)

Greetings from a new chapter of my life, I got a big chunk of the new Mutual Benefit album recorded and then immediately started my undergrad at Brooklyn College which is a very new experience for me. Although I’m enjoying the structured learning environment, I’m definitely struggling with the total evaporation of my free time. Now that I’m getting used to my new routine, I’m hoping to have more time to write again.

Since it has been a while, I wanted to mention two recent albums that have touched me deeply.

First up is Lambchop’s Punching the Clown. I’m in awe of the incredible alt-Americana songwriting that doesn’t stray from difficult truths of living in this country right now. The album is almost entirely voice, guitar, banjo, and choir which is used to great effect. It has been a while since I was so delighted by the musical and lyrical choices of a record.

My friend Jenn recommended the new album from New Zealand singer-songwriter Aldous Harding. We played together years ago in London and it has been fun to see her career blossom. It can sometimes be hard for me to get into highly produced big indie albums but this one feels carefully crafted and brimming with beauty, darkness, wit, and talent.