The most anticipated spring releases of 2006

After a traditionally quiet start of the year in terms of album releases, we are gearing up for more pace as we move into the spring. There are quite a few interesting releases on the way and the next 6 months already look very good music-wise.

I want to mention six of the ones I'm mostly looking forward to. They are all by artists I already know very well, so my anticipation is probably based on the knowledge that I'll be getting something quite good but also without too many surprises. But what the hell, I expect at least a couple of these six albums to be on the list when I collect the top ten for 2006 at the end of the year.

First up is the new PLACEBO album called 'Meds'. I actually already have this (promo copy) and it is quite simply brilliant! I'm thinking that it may even be their best yet, so if you're into Placebo you will have a lot to look forward to when it comes out in March.

Next up is the new CHARLATANS album 'Simpatico'. The last couple of albums have been really really great and I hope they can keep this up. I guess the biggest shame is that way too few people know about the band. You really should care less about bands like Coldplay and turn your attention to overlooked bands like The Charlatans. I'm quite sure you'll like it...Try out their fine albums 'Wonderland' and 'Up At The Lake'.

Another big favourite of mine is LIVE. Their new album 'Songs From Black Mountain' should enrich us with another set of fairly traditional rock anthems of high quality. There was a time when Live could serve up new and refreshing ideas on the alternative rock scene. They don't really do this so much any more and rely mostly on a decent fan base. But their music always has a distinct sense of urgency and substance.

Sad neurotic MORRISSEY is also back with a very melodic and string-driven album. It's called 'Ringleader Of The Tormentors' and the title alone indicates that we're in for yet another journey into melodic depression. Well, at least Morrissey has a cunning ability to make tristesse rather appealing and somehow positive. Prepare to rip out the Prozac...

One of my all-time favourite artists, PET SHOP BOYS, return with what has been rumoured to be a really great album. It's called 'Fundamental' and it is probably the release I'm looking most forward to (now that I already know the brilliance of the Placebo album). A Pet Shop Boys in form just cannot be beaten!

Finally, there's some quality lounge/chillout music on the way from ZERO 7 who return with 'The Garden'.

So I guess there's something for most corners of my music taste. 2005 was a pretty good year with many great releases. 2006 is shaping up to follow that high quality level.

Le Mec