Choice Cuts: June 2004

to eat dog food, another song revolves around being so poor you're forced to eat reindeer meat), and we could do without the contrived laughter and whispers. In all, though, it's an all-too-rare reminder that the blues has a promising present to go along with its storied past.

Highlight Tracks: "Please Come Home Before it Rains" and "505 Train"

For More Info: Head over to http://www.otistaylor.com

Artist: TEMPORARY RESIDENCE - VARIOUS ARTISTS

Album: Thank You

The Scoop: Portland is suffering a substantial loss this month as Temporary Residence packs its boxes for Brooklyn. Jeremy Devine's label is the rare one that is a consistent treat in a reviewer's inbox; personal favorites of the recent past have included strong releases from Kammerflimmer Kollektief, Lazarus and Howard Hello. For their 50th release, they pulled together new songs instead of a best-of from the past 49 albums. It was a risk worth taking. Like all of their releases, the compilation is beautifully packaged and carefully assembled. Like very few label compilations, it plays out more like a thoughtful, agonized-over mix tape that harnesses diversity and experimentation without descending into a hodgepodge of styles. For newcomers, Thank You serves as an excellent introduction to the label's forward-thinking rock deconstructivists and ambient instrumentalists. For those who are already fans, the album is an assurance that, though they may be moving, Temporary Residence isn't leaving.

Highlight Tracks: Sonna's somnolent, aptly titled closer "The Closer" and Explosions in the Sky's "The Long Spring"

For More Info: Visit http://www.temporaryresidence.com

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