Flavorwire

The last couple of weeks have been a pretty dire time for album releases, but happily, there’s respite to be had in August — there’s a fair selection of worthwhile records due out over the next four weeks, and as ever, we’ve pored over the release schedules to bring you our selection of the 10 best, along with a quick roundup of other notable upcoming releases. There’s an eclectic selection to be found after the jump: everything from cerebral piano-led ambience to neo-dreampop and the return of Ariel Pink — and at least one genuine album of the year contender. (Spoiler alert: SWANS.) Let us know in the comments section what’s on your shopping list for August.

Willits & Sakamoto — Ancient Future (August 7)

Anyone who enjoyed Japanese visionary Ryuichi Sakamoto’s work with Alva Noto will find much to like here — this record shares a similar stately beauty and a similarly reflective mood. We’ve had a copy to listen to of late, and have found it to be excellent music for writing/reading/general contemplating.