New albums from Jungle, the Mountain Goats, and Nino aus Wien

Nino aus Wien, an artist known for his distinctive voice in the Austrian music scene, has released his latest album, "Neubau Alone." This new work marks a departure from his previous sound, as the artist has chosen to record the album without his regular band, the AusWienBand. The result is a collection of twelve songs that embrace a raw, unpolished aesthetic, often described as having a "sloppy lo-fi charm."

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As if Wolfgang Ambros were singing through a walkie-talkie with a weak battery

The recording process for "Neubau Alone" took place primarily in a studio located in Vienna's Neubau district, with additional sessions held in the basement of his parents' home. This intimate setting contributes to the album's intimate and sometimes rough-around-the-edges feel. The press text accompanying the album likens the sound to "Wolfgang Ambros singing through a walkie-talkie with a weak battery," a description that captures the album's crackling, lo-fi quality.

Despite the deliberately unrefined production, the album showcases Nino aus Wien's characteristic lyrical talent. Songs like "Zerrissene Figuren" (Torn Figures) highlight the linguistic flair that first brought him attention beyond the borders of Vienna. While he may not be the "Bob Dylan of Hirschstetten," as he's sometimes playfully called, his unique artistic voice resonates, drawing comparisons to influential lo-fi artists like Daniel Johnston.

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It crackles and rustles on the twelve songs

The album's stripped-down approach, while potentially sounding unfinished to some, is precisely where its appeal lies for others. It offers a more personal and direct listening experience, allowing the artist's songwriting and vocal delivery to take center stage without the embellishments of a full band arrangement.

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he is perhaps not quite the Bob Dylan from Hirschstetten, but at least a Daniel Johnston.