The Fashionably Late Top 60 of 2014 #47: The Phantom Band

2014 was quite a year. Not the best of years, on a personal level, but a rather good year from a music standpoint. Having given a listen to record after record after record from the year that was, I’ve pulled together a list of favorites, finding it next to impossible to whittle the list down any further beyond 60 (I tried). In this group of 60 you’ll find records from old, faithful friends, upstart newcomers, and even a headscratcher or two. You’ll probably see some records that were a Big Deal not on this list. I either didn’t bite or didn’t buy the hype. I’m pleased as punch with this list, and I hope you’ll come across something that might have otherwise passed you by. And so, without further ado, my favorite records of 2014.

WHO: The Phantom Band

WHAT: Strange Friend

WHEN: July 2014

WHERE: Chemikal Underground

WHY: My favorite wacky Weejies, The Phantom Band, are experts at churning out some of the most delightfully odd songs you’re likely to set ears on. Strange Friend sees the Glasgow outfit frolic through topsy-turvey, backards-forwards sonic terrain, throwing everything but the kitchen sink at you with no apologies. A strange, wonderful brew.

My jams: “The Wind That Cried the World,” “Clapshot,” “Atacama,” “Sweatbox,” “No Shoes Blues,” “Galapagos”






[posted 3.16.15]