2012, Matador

VINYL FORMAT. Sonic Youth guitarist Lee Ranaldo puts out his first proper, song-oriented studio album this March. Recorded with longstanding Sonic Youth producer John Agnello, the album is a shimmering and melodic tapestry of rock sounds. Ranaldo's trademark alternate-tuning guitar work is at the forefront, but it is amplified by brilliant leadwork from Wilco's Nels Cline on every track. The all-star lineup also includes Sonic Youth's Steve Shelley on drums, Alan Licht on guitar, and John Medeski on keyboards. There are also cameos from original Sonic Youth drummer Bob Bert and Jim O'Rourke.