Ask a Local: Randy Reynolds / Leatherbag

This winter, Austinist wanted to take some time to check in with some of our favorite local performers, artists and musicians to see what they enjoyed in 2008. Our request was simple: give us a few things that you enjoyed listening to this year, and feel free to include releases that might not have been released in 2008, but that found their way onto your turntable anyhow. We'll be sharing our own list too, but be patient and hear what some of our favorite folks thought was worthwhile in '08.

It's no secret that here at Austinist we're just waiting for Randy Reynolds' Leatherbag to emerge as a serious force in the national indie scene. In the meantime, he continues to quietly write some of the finest rock'n'roll music around, on this year's Love & Harm as well as an upcoming EP, Tomorrow. What was he a fan of in 2008? Let's find out:

1. Kelley Stoltz - Circular Sounds A little more polished than his previous album Below the Branches, Stoltz kicks ass again and again and again here. There are definite debts owed to Andy Partridge and The Dukes of Stratosphear on this record. "The Birmingham Eccentric" is where to start.

2. Paul Westerberg - 49:00... Of Your Time/Life It's what I've always wanted, Alien Lanes performed and written by Paul Westerberg. That's essentially what it is and it works very very well. Paul takes the short form crown from Pollard easily on this release.

3. The Spiritual Rags - Dead Keys It was supposed to released this year. I don't think it's gonna make it but I hope so. It's Simon Joyner and Lonnie Eugene Methe sharing songs and instruments. This record has got so much power lyrically and instrument wise, I dubbed myself a tape copy for my car. This record might make my all-time favorite list and it will also be a personal blow if it is not released.

4. Elvis Costello - Momofuku I have never claimed to be a Jenny Lewis or Jonathan Rice but it doesn't matter here. This record has great moments, the best being "American Gangster Time" which has this kick ass keyboard riff. It's not a comeback record or a 'return to form', just a solid record.

5. Hayden - In Field & Town Hayden made a record called Skyscraper National Park in 2001, since then I've listened. He merges pop and sad bastard with great results. The title track and "The Van Song" make it all worthwhile.