California! California? Okay, so it’s not set in stone, and more appropriately, on the rumor mill, but we can still talk about it amongst ourselves, right? And while we’re at it, what are some of the things, you, the reader, are speculating that Sufjan will write about? I’m thinking… The O.C.? The Lakers? Hollywood peeps? The Gold Rush?

Allow me to introduce you to - Eluvium. My first exposure to them, or him, if you want to get technical (Matthew Cooper), was his 2003 record, An Accidental Memory in Case of Death, which much to my dismay, was not his usual breed. You see, this was a strictly piano record that provided the best scenery whilst sitting on your porch sipping on tea. In the past, his records have been more ambient filled with guitar droning celebrations. But I’m here to write to you about, Copia. This is his 2007 release, which offers more strings and ambiance. I would say it is his most sonically mature album to date. So, without further adieu, check them out here and here. Lastly, if you’re not familiar with ambient music, this may enlighten you.

In closing, I figured I would be narcissistic and pretentious to tell you about my favorite records of 2007 thus far. I know that it’s only 2 1/2 months in, but so far, I’ve been extremely pleased.

The Shins - Wincing the Night Away

Kings of Leon - Because of the Times

Explosions in the Sky - All of a Sudden I Miss Everyone

Modest Mouse - We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank

Arcade Fire - Neon Bible