Named after Bill Shakespeare’s goriest play, New Jersey’s Titus Andronicus’ second effort is a fuzzed up, concept album about the American Civil War (yes, really) and despite initial misgivings about their frankly brave/barmy choice of subject matter, The Monitor is actually a really great LP. Singer Patrick Stickles’ drawl is equal parts Conor Oberst/Bright Eyes and Brian Fallon from the Gaslight Anthem and the occasional gang vocals, old film samples and ‘70s riffage create an opus that could very well make the end of year critics’ polls. Don’t tell Rick Wakeman (Please! – Ed), but it looks like concept records are back in style.
Key Track: ‘Titus Andronicus Forever’