Quickie Album Reviews: Islands, Irving, and Eagles of Death Metal

Islands – Return to the Sea (Rough Trade)
As playful as Diamonds’ previous venture The Unicorns, but somehow a bit easier to take seriously. Though solid, the album could still use a few more tracks as strong as the track Rough Gem ... a song so good you’ll never want it to end, but just keep getting increasingly louder and more insistent.

Irving – Death in the Garden, Blood in the Flowers (Eenie Meanie)
While Irving’s previous fare was made up of clear-cut, highly charismatic pop charmers, the tracks on this album are instead full of subtle little moments that win your love slowly over time. There’s a lot to like here, and you’ll constantly reevaluate your favorite song on it.

Eagles of Death Metal – Death By Sexy (AntAcidAudio)
A second helping of hedonism from Jesse "The Devil" Hughes and Josh (Queens of the Stone Age) Homme. This time a tighter, more-focused ball of ass-shaking, irreverent, mustachioed rock and mother-effin' roll. Hide your sister, put the top down, and play it loud.

(EODM review by Gabe Burger.)