1) The Monitor – Titus Andronicus
Holy... Living... Fuck... The Monitor is my 2010 Album of the Year. Following up their solid debut (2009's The Airing of Grievances), Titus Andronicus' sophomore effort was creating a very ruckus and ambitious concept album about the Civil War; a concept about as crazy as making an album about Anne Frank. The former concept was made into one of the finest indie albums ever recorded and the latter... well, time will tell its place in history, but, fuck, if it isn't great right now. Using segments of speeches from Abe Lincoln, Walt Whitman, and references to the epic battle between the ironclads ("The Battle of Hampton Roads'), Titus Andronicus have created an utterly unique allegory about the perils and downtroddenness of living in New Jersey and moving to Boston. Despite all of its high-falutin' ideas, The Monitor cannot hide the fact that it is one kick-ass rock album, which is hard enough to accomplish in these days. To fully understand the epicness of The Monitor, listen to it at an extremely obscene volume, with drunken friends, and morally ambiguous amounts of whiskey. In other words, buy it now and thank me later.
2) When I Am Gone My Blood Will Be Free – Call Me Lightning
Do you like The Who? Do you Like Mission of Burma? The Minutemen? Good! Throw all of these bands together, mold them into three individuals with giant beards, plop them in Milwaukee, and you have Call Me Lightning. Now, some might say this is an awful description of their music, and I would agree, so let me elaborate. Call Me Lightning’s musical style sounds arena-rock-ready. The strong, thumping, rhythm section and Townshend-esque riffs will pound you into submission, then melt your face. Just listen to “Beyond the Beasts,” you’ll be picking up what I’m putting down.
3) Melted – Ty Segall
I walked in to Luna Music on Friday (greatest music store of all time) and was instantly struct by the song being blasted in the store. That song was "Girlfriend" from Ty Segall's album Melted. Add one part Beck, one part Strokes, one part late-Beatles era John Lennon, a shitload of distortion and feedback, add even more fuzz in the production process, and punk sensibilities and you have one of the best albums of the year. Needless to say I purchased it immediately. Melted holds up to its name because that is exactly what it does to your face. The only oddity on the album is a song called "Mike's Coke", in which Segall asks you to drink Coca-Cola with him. Over and over again. It is not bad, just really fucking. Other than that, this album is a slice of fried gold.
4) King of the Beach – Wavves
On Wavves third album, they create the modern beach-party-boogaloo album. Infectious melodies, jangly guitar, and enough distortion to keep everyone happy, this was a great summer album. If this is what The Beach Boys would have sounded like, I would be their biggest fan, but they don’t and I hate them. I can just see people standing on surf boards on the beach doing the twist while listening to this album. It is like the early 60’s without segregation. What makes this album especially good are Nathan William’s self-deprecating lyrics. In songs like “Take on the Word” where he says he’s disappointed in himself when his songs “drip like posture.” I like that line.
5) My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy – Kanye West
Mr. West is egotistical, narcissistic, and handsome-wait, no! In other words he has the perfect chemical composition to be a great rapper. Now, I do not listen to modern day rap (I stopped after the Chronic 2000), so for a rap album to make me take notice, it took an earth-shaking event like Pitchfork giving the album a 10.0! Well, it is worth the hype. It has everything that great rap albums should have, songs about Kayne’s awesomeness, plenty of “disses,” Jay Z rapping about how much money he has (apparently $30 mil is chump change), and having intercourse with “bitches” (verbal or otherwise). The standout for me (and there are several) is “Power.” Any song with a line like “they can kiss my whole ass/More specifically, they can kiss my asshole” is good in my book.
6) High Violet – The National
From my June 23, 2010, review:
I am a huge fan of the National. They first wow-ed me with Alligator and The Boxer is an unbelievable follow-up (even though it is a bit of a grower), so needless to say I was a little excited when High Violet was released. Snarky, downtrodden lyrics about fights, and the fear and nervousness about being a new father, High Violet runs the gamut of sadness. The National do this better than anybody in the industry and High Violet is no exception. My only knock (and not a big one) is that the album is, again a "grower". It took me three listens for the album to go from good to stellar. I do not need instant gratification from listening to an album, but it does not hurt. The real gem of High Violet is at the midway point of the album. "Bloodbuzz Ohio". A dense song that piles on a heavy, churning melody with driving keyboards, tight rhythm section, all overlain with Berninger's baritone voice, and you have not only the quintessential National song, but the makings of an indie epic.
7) This Is Happening – LCD Soundsystem
What may be LCD Soundsystem’s final album is definitely their best. This Is Happening plays out like a really good 80’s David Bowie album. Sharp synths, booty-shakin’ beats, with sharp, witty lyrics make this album very easy to listen to. This Is Happening would definitely be playing at a Tim Yates pajama-jammy-jam. This is about as close to dance music as I get.
8) Mines – Menomena
Call this the Year of Mellow. A lot of the bands this year released slower paced albums to great effect in 2010 and Menomena is no exception. The Portland trio follow-up my 2007 Album of the Year (Friend & Foe) with their fourth album. Mines may be a little mellower than previous efforts, but these guys are still musical geniuses; crafting melody shifts that turn on a dime really keep you on your toes. Mines, like all of their albums, provides very engaging listens and leave you salivating for their next release.
9) Go – Jónsi
The Sigur Rós front man released his solo debut this year and Go is something to behold. Take all of the theatricality of Sigur Rós, add it to his ethereal voice, and the fact that half of the album is sung in Icelandic, and you have an album that sounds like it was recorded by an elf or some other magical being. Between Björk, Jónsi, and Sam Amidon I think Iceland is completely colonized by fantasy creatures that live in volcanoes and produce awesome music.
10) Walk in the Park – Beach House
From my June 23, 2010, review:
I have to admit, I had not heard anything by Beach House before Teen Dream. I am now very embarrassed. Teen Dream is a near flawless album. I am not over-exaggerating when I say this. Teen Dream is all about establishing mood and atmosphere, and Beach House does it as well as anyone. "Walk in the Park" illustrates why Teen Dream works so well. This stand-out track is the dreamiest of the dreamy songs on this album. "Walk in the Park" has you floating through outer space with its tinkling synths and lush, yet distorted vocals. It is music robots would make out to. From the great opener "Zebra", to the warped synth of "Norway", Beach House has you experiencing love, outer space style; and it is a feeling I could really get to.
11) Expo 86 – Wolf Parade
Like LCD Soundsystem, this might very well be the last Wolf Parade album and they would definitely be going out with a bang. Expo 86 is in the same vein as their debut (Apologies to the Queen Mary), as both have an urgency that makes the relatively long album seem brief. The awesome synths, mixed with the great rhythm section (gotta love a good rhythm section), and churning guitar, Wolf Parade sounds tighter than ever. While I am sad that one of my favorite bands is splitting, I can still take comfort in knowing I can listen to one of Spencer Krug’s four side projects (most notably Sunset Rubdown) and Dan Boeckner’s solo project Handsome Furs.
12) The Winter of Mixed Drinks – Frightened Rabbit
It’s time for depression Scottish-style! If there is one thing Frightened Rabbit does well (and there are many), it is crafting songs that really make you know how difficult life and love are, and wondering what it really is to be a man. I am pretty sure a sweet beard is the answer to the second half. Frightened Rabbit have a more polished sound on this (their third) album, and while I missed the rawness of their debut (Sing the Greys) it does not have a negative impact to their sound; downtroddenness is downtroddenness no matter how it sounds, and it sounds great.
13) Nothing Fits – Tyvek
Nothing Fits is a classic garage punk album: very fast, lo-fi, with barking lyrics, and very brief. Like this review.
14) Lisbon – The Walkmen
Open mouth, insert foot. I listened to this album when it first came out and was bored beyond tears. I have always said The Walkmen are an amazing band live, but their records are generally a snooze. I popped the CD in about three to four weeks later to give it another shot and I had to wonder if it was the same album I had listened to. Lisbon sounds like it was recorded in a weekend while they were just goofing off, a very spontaneous feeling. Difficult to pull off, but fun to listen to, and I bet you anything these songs sound amazing live.
15) **** – The Greenhornes
**** (aka Four Stars) is the first Greenhornes album in eight years. The rhythm section of this Cincinnati trio has been utilized by Jack White in The Raconteurs and any other band in the greater Ohio area during that time. **** packs in everything you love about The Greenhornes and their early 70’s garage band sound. Heavy guitars, distortion, a lead singer who sounds like he drinks gravel, all combine into a no-frills rock album. This is a Greenhornes album. They rock. Enough said.
16) Destroyer of the Void – Blitzen Trapper
Destroyer of the Void has got to be one of the best album names of 2010. With an album name like that, you’d expect face shredding on the level of a Lightning Bolt album. That is not the case, as Destroyer of the Void is Blitzen Trapper’s mellowest, albeit most focused record to date. They still have some psychedelic nostalgia in the album, but they really harness their folky/Americana sound on this album. Destroyer of the Void is a very relaxing album. One you would like to listen to on the porch of your log cabin while drinking ice tea with a shotgun on your lap to keep the varmints from getting in your house, or whatever it is you do with your log cabin and a really good album that is more reasonable.
17) Lasted – Benoît Pioulard
Benoît Pioulard returns with another very fuzzy and amazing album. With building melodies and dark-folk feel, Lasted feel spooky at times for no discerning reason. Maybe it’s because I am a wuss, who knows? What I do know is Last is very good and you should listen to it. RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Too much?
18) Champ – Tokyo Police Club
The quirky Torontonian quartet is back with another album full of sonic candy for your skull. I like that last sentence so much, I don’t think I should write another. I guess I should elaborate and say this is (yet again) the mellowest effort to date for Tokyo Police Club, that being said songs like “Breakneck Speed” still have the frantic energy that made me love this band upon my first listen. No songs about robots blowing people apart, though. Sad really.
19) Contra – Vampire Weekend
↑, ↑, ↓, ↓, ←, →, ←, →, B, A, Paul Simon-esque rock.
20) Brothers – The Black Keys
Brothers has a more R&B feel to it than the normal blues-rock feel every other album has (except Attack & Release). The duo from Akron definitely show they have the chops and sensibilities to pull off R&B almost as good as the blues, which they still show they have the chops for on stand-out “Tighten Up.” Gone may be the days of such rockers like “Girl is on My Mind,” but with soulful sounds like this I don’t mind.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Titus Andronicus
Titus Andronicus - The Monitor
Holy... Living... Fuck... If not the album of the year, The Monitor is definitely in the Top 5. Following up their solid debut (2009's The Airing of Grievances), Titus Andronicus' sophomore effort was creating a very ruckus, and ambitious concept album about the Civil War. A concept about as crazy as making an album about Anne Frank. The former concept was made into one of the finest indie albums ever recorded and the latter... well time will tell its place in history, but, fuck, if it isn't great right now. Using segments of speeches from Abe Lincoln, Walt Whitman, and references to the epic battle between the ironclads ("The Battle of Hampton Roads'), Titus Andronicus have created an utterly unique allegory about the perils and downtroddenness of living in New Jersey. Despite all of it's high-falutin' ideas, The Monitor cannot hide the fact that it is one kick ass rock album, which is hard enough to accomplish in these days. To fully understanding of the epicness of The Monitor, listen to it at an extremely obscene volume, with drunken friends, and morally ambiguous amounts of whiskey. In other words, buy it now and thank me later.
Grade: A
Owen Pallett
Owen Pallett - Heartland
Heartland is the first album Owen Pallett has released under his own name (he was previously Final Fantasy, until Squaresoft put the kibosh on that) has a reputation for his sonically complex live performances with just his violin, a loop pedal, and a really good singing voice. Think Andrew Bird without the whistling and a huge flare for dramatics. Anyways, Heartland sounds and plays like a mini-rock opera except really good. Utilizing the Czech Symphony Orchestra, as everyone seems to do these days, Pallett has outdone himself, composing wildly orchestrated songs that are engaging to listen to, but a little to over-the-top sometimes. Those moments are easy to roll your eyes at and move on, because when Heartland nails it, it is a thing of beauty.
Side note: I cannot wait to see Owen Pallett open up for the National in October! A post-show blog will follow.
Grade: B+
The National
The National - High Violet
I am a huge fan of the National. They first wow-ed me with Alligator and The Boxer is an unbelievable follow-up (even though it is a bit of a grower), so needless to say I was a little excited when High Violet was released. Snarky, downtrodden lyrics about fights, and the fear and nervousness about being a new father, High Violet runs the gamut of sadness. The National do this better than anybody in the industry and High Violet is no exception. My only knock (and not a big one) is that the album is, again a "grower". It took me three listens for the album to go from good to stellar. I do not need instant gratification from listening to an album, but it does not hurt. The real gem of High Violet is at the midway point of the album. "Bloodbuzz Ohio". A dense song that piles on a heavy, churning melody with driving keyboards, tight rhythm section, all overlain with Berninger's baritone voice, and you have not only the quintessential National song, but the makings of an indie epic.
Grade: A-
Ty Segall
Ty Segall - Melted
I walked in to Luna Music on Friday (greatest music store of all time) and was instantly struct by the song being blasted in the store. That song was "Girlfriend" from Ty Segall's album Melted. Add one part Beck, one part Strokes, one part late-Beatles era John Lennon, a shitload of distortion and feedback, add even more fuzz in the production process, and punk sensibilities and you have one of the best albums of the year, so far. Needless to say I purchased it immediately. Melted holds up to its name because that is exactly what it does to your face. The only oddity on the album is a song called "Mike's Coke", in which Segall asks you to drink Coca-Cola with him. Over and over again. It is not bad, just really fucking weird and only lasts a little over a minute. Other than that, this album is a slice of fried gold.
Grade: A
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Beach House
Beach House - Teen Dream
I have to admit, I had not heard anything by Beach House before Teen Dream. I am now very embarrassed. Teen Dream is a near flawless album. I am not over-exaggerating when I say this. Teen Dream is all about establishing mood and atmosphere, and Beach House does it as well as anyone. "Walk in the Park" illustrates why Teen Dream works so well. This stand-out track is the dreamiest of the dreamy songs on this album. "Walk in the Park" has you floating through outer space with its tinkling synths and lush, yet distorted vocals. It is music robots would make out to. From the great opener "Zebra", to the warped synth of "Norway", Beach House has you experiencing love, outer space style; and it is a feeling I could really get to.
Grade: A
New Reviews
Bear with me people. I have a ton of new music to get through and will have new reviews for Joanna Newsom, Shearwater, Lightspeed Champion, Titus Andronicus, Owen Pallet, Surfer Blood, and Zeus (just to name a few). Hopefully, I can crank these out and let the masses know what goodness awaits.
Local Natives
Local Natives - Gorilla Manor
Gorilla Manor is the debut album from new indie buzz band, Local Natives. Bringing in a blend of Jump Little Children and Fleet Foxes, this LA band can really, really sing and harmonize well. With the 1-2-3 punch of opening tracks "Wide Eyes", "Airplanes", and "Sun Hands", these guys had me completely hooked, which made for what happened next very disappointing. Like most albums released today it is very top-heavy, and sadly the album quickly peetered out and started slogging along with forgetable and completely interchangable songs. Not until the final two tracks, "Stranger Things" and "Sticky Thread" do Local Natives get back to some of the magic they created with the opening tracks. Gorilla Manor (ridiculous name, by the way) is a decent enough album and Local Natives do show a lot of potential. Once these guys find their sound, they will produce some great songs.
Grade: B-
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Vampire Weekend
Vampire Weekend - Contra
Hype surrounding Vampire Weekend’s sophomore effort, Contra, has been almost as big as their self-titled debut. Most bands would crumble under the weight of such lofty expectations, but the New York-based quartet delivers on all levels. While not having the frantic energy of their debut (with the exception of standout “Cousins”), Contra displays Vampire Weekend expanding their sound a little more. Contra still sounds like Graceland-era Paul Simon, but they add little things like a bit of synth and going T-Pain (or Cher, take your pick) on “California English”. Trust me; it is not annoying like it sounds. Overall, Contra is a great follow-up to an already outstanding early career for Vampire Weekend. I can’t wait for the next one.
Grade: A-
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Unreleased Elliott Smith Song
Record label Kill Rocks Stars is going to be reissuing all of Elliott Smith's albums with the exception of xo and Figure 8. The best part is that there is a new unreleased Elliott Smith song, "Cecilia/Amanda". It is really good, too. For more on this astounding information, go to Pitchfork.
http://pitchfork.com/news/37398-hear-an-unreleased-elliott-smith-song/
http://pitchfork.com/news/37398-hear-an-unreleased-elliott-smith-song/
Free Music!
Spencer Krug (Sunset Rubdown/Wolf Parade/Swan Lake) has a new project called Moonface. He has released an EP for free on his website. Can't beat free music from a great artist.
http://pitchfork.com/news/37408-hear-spencer-krugs-moonface-ep/
http://pitchfork.com/news/37408-hear-spencer-krugs-moonface-ep/
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Honorable Mentions for 2009
Here are several good albums released this year that almost made my Best of 2009 list. In no particular order:
Bitte Orca, Dirty Projectors. Listen to Dirty Projectors’ debut, The Getty Address, then Bitte Orca, and you would hardly tell that this is the same band. Trust me, it is good thing. The Getty Address was too avant garde for its own good. Bitte Orca still has some eccentricities but it is more of a straightforward indie rock record. Whether paving regular indie territory with songs like “Cannibal Resource” or creating melting ballads like “Two Doves”, Dirty Projectors prove they can drop the overly artsy guise to produce something entirely enjoyable and listenable.
The Crying Light, Antony & the Johnsons. Antony Hegarty has an achingly beautiful voice that is almost operatic in quality. Some people might say it is too pretty, but fuck them this dude has golden pipes. On his third album, Antony expands on the chamber pop sound he created on 2005’s I Am Bird Now. Wearing his emotions on his sleeve on every song, he doesn’t need lyrics to invoke what he wants you to feel. The theatrics wear a little towards the end, making you immediately reach for the happiest album you can grab.
Tonight: Franz Ferdinand, Franz Ferdinand. Franz Ferdinand’s third album has the standard disco-y beats, slick guitar hooks, and polished, sexy sound. It is also the make-out album of the year. The songs tread the same ground as the last two albums (Franz Ferdinand and You Could Have It So Much Better), but doesn’t go anywhere. These songs could be interchanged from any other Franz Ferdinand album. Example: my favorite track, “Bite Hard” echoes the slow build and explosion of “Jacqueline”, from their debut. However, with an album of carbon-copied Franz Ferdinand songs, you know what you are getting.
Tight Knit, Vetiver. Unfairly lumped into the “freak folk” movement started by Devendra Banhart, Vetiver has so much more to offer. Tight Knit has the perfect album name. The songs are great, laid back, psychedelic folk songs. Good for sitting on the front porch, drinking a cold one, and chillaxin’. The album does leave you wishing they could pick up the pace, but songs this “tight knit” (yep, I went there) it’s hard to be too picky.
Middle Cyclone, Neko Case. I love Neko Case. I LOVE her. So, I was more than pumped for Middle Cyclone. The opening track, “This Tornado Loves You” didn’t disappoint me at all, but the album never really took off for me from there. The rest of the album is standard Neko Case fare, showing off that beautiful voice, and excellent songwriting skills. However, “Never Turn Your Back on Mother Earth” is hands down one of her worst songs… ever. What makes it stand out more is the song is sandwiched between two infinitely better ones (“Vengence Is Sleeping” and “Middle Cyclone”). Take that out and you have a solid album from start to finish, which is more than you could ask for these days.
Actor, St. Vincent. Sufjan Stevens and Polyphonic Spree collaborator, Annie Clark, really impressed me with her debut, Marry Me and continues here with Actor. Much like the Thermals’ new album (Now We Can See, see below), Actor is a consistent album and enjoyable to listen to. It flows in a very dream-like state; the kind of dream that involves walking down the street, eating donuts with your high school art teacher. Like Dirty Projectors, St. Vincent has some arty eccentricities that begin to wear on you (“Actor Out of Work”), but it is nice seeing a very talented artist taking these leaps to find their sound.
Now We Can See, The Thermals. Alright, this album is good; probably the best out of the Honorable Mentions. I guess I was expecting awesomeness on the level of The Body The Blood The Machine. I should have lowered my expectations a little; how often can a band release an album of that magnitude. I agree with the great Jason Adams, saying: “…it is the best album written from a dead man’s perspective.” Here is the ultimate problem I had with this album: I listened to it from start to finish (as anyone would normally do) and thought: “That was good.” No track really stuck out and blew me away. Like Neko Case’s Middle Cyclone, it was consistent, but consistently middle ground. If you are looking for a good post-punk album, give it a shot, I encourage you. It just won’t change your life.
Bitte Orca, Dirty Projectors. Listen to Dirty Projectors’ debut, The Getty Address, then Bitte Orca, and you would hardly tell that this is the same band. Trust me, it is good thing. The Getty Address was too avant garde for its own good. Bitte Orca still has some eccentricities but it is more of a straightforward indie rock record. Whether paving regular indie territory with songs like “Cannibal Resource” or creating melting ballads like “Two Doves”, Dirty Projectors prove they can drop the overly artsy guise to produce something entirely enjoyable and listenable.
The Crying Light, Antony & the Johnsons. Antony Hegarty has an achingly beautiful voice that is almost operatic in quality. Some people might say it is too pretty, but fuck them this dude has golden pipes. On his third album, Antony expands on the chamber pop sound he created on 2005’s I Am Bird Now. Wearing his emotions on his sleeve on every song, he doesn’t need lyrics to invoke what he wants you to feel. The theatrics wear a little towards the end, making you immediately reach for the happiest album you can grab.
Tonight: Franz Ferdinand, Franz Ferdinand. Franz Ferdinand’s third album has the standard disco-y beats, slick guitar hooks, and polished, sexy sound. It is also the make-out album of the year. The songs tread the same ground as the last two albums (Franz Ferdinand and You Could Have It So Much Better), but doesn’t go anywhere. These songs could be interchanged from any other Franz Ferdinand album. Example: my favorite track, “Bite Hard” echoes the slow build and explosion of “Jacqueline”, from their debut. However, with an album of carbon-copied Franz Ferdinand songs, you know what you are getting.
Tight Knit, Vetiver. Unfairly lumped into the “freak folk” movement started by Devendra Banhart, Vetiver has so much more to offer. Tight Knit has the perfect album name. The songs are great, laid back, psychedelic folk songs. Good for sitting on the front porch, drinking a cold one, and chillaxin’. The album does leave you wishing they could pick up the pace, but songs this “tight knit” (yep, I went there) it’s hard to be too picky.
Middle Cyclone, Neko Case. I love Neko Case. I LOVE her. So, I was more than pumped for Middle Cyclone. The opening track, “This Tornado Loves You” didn’t disappoint me at all, but the album never really took off for me from there. The rest of the album is standard Neko Case fare, showing off that beautiful voice, and excellent songwriting skills. However, “Never Turn Your Back on Mother Earth” is hands down one of her worst songs… ever. What makes it stand out more is the song is sandwiched between two infinitely better ones (“Vengence Is Sleeping” and “Middle Cyclone”). Take that out and you have a solid album from start to finish, which is more than you could ask for these days.
Actor, St. Vincent. Sufjan Stevens and Polyphonic Spree collaborator, Annie Clark, really impressed me with her debut, Marry Me and continues here with Actor. Much like the Thermals’ new album (Now We Can See, see below), Actor is a consistent album and enjoyable to listen to. It flows in a very dream-like state; the kind of dream that involves walking down the street, eating donuts with your high school art teacher. Like Dirty Projectors, St. Vincent has some arty eccentricities that begin to wear on you (“Actor Out of Work”), but it is nice seeing a very talented artist taking these leaps to find their sound.
Now We Can See, The Thermals. Alright, this album is good; probably the best out of the Honorable Mentions. I guess I was expecting awesomeness on the level of The Body The Blood The Machine. I should have lowered my expectations a little; how often can a band release an album of that magnitude. I agree with the great Jason Adams, saying: “…it is the best album written from a dead man’s perspective.” Here is the ultimate problem I had with this album: I listened to it from start to finish (as anyone would normally do) and thought: “That was good.” No track really stuck out and blew me away. Like Neko Case’s Middle Cyclone, it was consistent, but consistently middle ground. If you are looking for a good post-punk album, give it a shot, I encourage you. It just won’t change your life.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
WTF?!
Apparently, Billy Corgan and Jessica Simpson are an item?! This has to be one of the craziest pairings since Julia Roberts and Lyle Lovett. One for the ages.
http://www.cokemachineglow.com/dailyops/4988/elsewhere-holyshitcorgan
http://www.cokemachineglow.com/dailyops/4988/elsewhere-holyshitcorgan
Courtney Love Loses Custody of Daughter
From a Pitchfork article... Apparently Courtney Love has unsurprisingly lost Francis Bean to Kurt Cobain's mother and sister. She is a complete mess. I feel bad for Francis, what a life.
http://pitchfork.com/news/37392-courtney-love-loses-guardianship-of-daughter-to-kurt-cobains-mom-sister/
http://pitchfork.com/news/37392-courtney-love-loses-guardianship-of-daughter-to-kurt-cobains-mom-sister/
Best of 2009
Okay, peoples. It is the time of the year for “best of” lists and I am going to add another one to the mix. For your reading and potential listening pleasure is my Best Music of 2009 list. These albums have been hand-picked from the crap-load of new music I have listened to this year. I hope you enjoy.
1.) Elvis Perkins in Dearland, Elvis Perkins in Dearland. My Album of the Year, folks. Singer-songwriter Elvis Perkins has not had a happy life. His father, Anthony Perkins of Psycho fame, died of AIDS when he was a teenager and his mother, photographer Berry Berenson, was on the ill-fated American Airlines Flight 11. Needless to say, both his debut (Ash Wednesday) and his phenomenal follow-up, Elvis Perkins in Dearland, are not happy albums. Perkins’ folk-rock style is remarkable, and displayed magnificently in tracks such as “1,2,3-Goodbye”, and “Shampoo”. However, the stand-out track is “Doomsday”. With its steady bounce and drinking song rhythm, the end of the world never seems so welcoming.
2.) These Four Walls, We Were Promised Jetpacks. The absolutely horrible band name should not distract you from this album, this Scottish quartet really knows how to craft great songs. On their debut, they hone the sound of Scottish greats Big Country and make soaring songs about mundane things, like walking home drunk from a bar. Seriously, that is what the opening track, “It’s Thunder and It’s Lightning”, is about… and it’s brilliant.
3.) Post-Nothing, Japandroids. On the other side of the band name spectrum, the awesomely named Japandroids released their debut to much hype and fanfare. Post-Nothing does not disappoint. The Vancouver two-piece rocks out from beginning to end with distortion-heavy songs, my favorite of which is all about trying to "French-kiss some French girls"(on “Wet Hair”). Hey, at least they have aspirations.
4.) There Is No Enemy, Built to Spill. There is No Enemy is Built to Spill’s tightest and most consistent release since the epic Keep It Like a Secret. I could elaborate, but it is a Built to Spill album; which means it has the Built to Spill sound, pseudo-jams, and soaring guitars we have grown to love. And that is a good thing to hear.
5.) Travels with Myself and Another, Future of the Left. Future of the Left's sophomore debut, Travels with Myself and Another, is the sound of Future of the Left coming into their own. The songs are still angry, political, and heavily sarcastic, but the difference is they have found their sound. Steve Albini produced this record and helped Future of the Left tighten things up and let them thrash around. Only more greatness can come from this band.
6) The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart. I almost did not listen to this album purely based on their name. Terrible. It would even be a mediocre album name, but what can you do. Anyway, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart’s debut is fantastic. The Brooklyn band has crafted PERFECT pop songs. Think Belle and Sebastian with distortion and a little less sadness. This is a beautiful summer album.
7.) Why There Are Mountains, Cymbals Eat Guitars. Call 2009 the “Year of Awful Band Names”. The oddly named Cymbals Eat Guitars’ debut album packs in soaring guitars and arena rock sound into 9 finely crafted songs. While they wear their influences on their sleeves (mostly Pavement), Cymbals Eat Guitars use the inspiration of those bands well. Liam thinks they rock. You should listen to him, the kid has an ear for rock.
8.) Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle, Bill Callahan. Like Matt Berninger of the National, Bill Callahan sings with a very distinctive baritone voice. His voice really lends to the wonderful despair in most of his songs, like in “Eid Maw Clak Shaw”: “Love is the King of the Beasts/And when its hungry it must kill to eat.” Yep. Pretty much.
9.) Noble Beast, Andrew Bird. Andrew Bird has been getting better with every album and Noble Beast is no exception. The album’s almost ethereal quality fits beautifully with Bird’s simple but powerful arrangements. And as most Andrew Bird fans know, it’s all about the whistle, man.
10.) Dragonslayer, Sunset Rubdown. Frontman Spencer Krug is the man. He is also a busy man being in four other bands: Wolf Parade, Swan Lake, Frog Eyes, and Fifths of Seven (all Canadian). Out of all of them, Sunset Rubdown is his band, and he has molded it into something beautiful. With Krug’s warbling vocals, great songwriting, lush synths, and tight rhythm section, Dragonslayer is capable of making hairpin melodic turns mid-song, with the greatest of ease. It also gets my vote for Best Album Name.
11.) Life of the World to Come, The Mountain Goats. I like the Mountain Goats. Phil introduced me to them and two things immediately stood out: John Darnielle’s nasally vocals and the biting lyrics. This guy is really bitter; so it came as to some surprise that all of Life of the World to Come is based on the Bible. The songs are all about loss, redemption, and things you can never take back. In his own words: “12 hard lessons the Bible taught me, kind of.”
12.) The Atlantic Ocean, Richard Swift. Richard Swift’s first true LP since 2005’s Dressed Up for the Letdown, displays everything wonderful about the singer-songwriter. The Nilsson/Beatles-esque melodies and harmonies are spot on, while his cutting lyrics indicate the four years between albums have not been very pleasant. Swift’s misery is our gain.
13.) Merriweather Post Pavilion, Animal Collective. I first listened to Animal Collective’s albums Sung Tongs (2004) and Feels (2005) and was underwhelmed from all of the hype I had heard about them. As a result, I ignored 2007’s Strawberry Jam and was mum on hearing about their new album. I’ll admit it, I was strong-armed into listening to this album by the constant showering of attention given to them by indie music. So, I decided to give Merriweather Post Pavilion a try. To quote a friend: “It’s turbo diesel sweet.” The tinkling piano, synth beats, and great harmonies really make this busy album a treat. Stand-out “My Girls” would be bumpin’ at a Club Yates Pajama-Jammy-Jam.
14.) The Sound the Speed the Light, Mission of Burma. Mission of Burma has now released more albums since their reunion, than they did their first go-round in the early 80s. It is an amazing feat, considering what most reunions sound like. Unlike their last two albums, the Sound the Speed the Light, explores more atmospheres albums and finds them tuning it down, just a little. However, songs like “1,2,3 Partyy!” shows what makes Mission of Burma such an amazing band and comeback story.
15.) Earthly Delights, Lightning Bolt. Lightning Bolt is not your typical two-piece. The Providence noise rock duo consists of bassist Brian Gibson and drummer Brain Chippendale. The heavily distorted bass and insane drums make listening to Lightning Bolt an experience you will not forget. Listening to Earthly Delights is like listening to a chainsaw trying to cut through a steel plate, put distortion on it, and crank up the noise to 11. It is simultaneously loud, pounding, aggressive, and awesome. Perfect for beating the crap out of people and driving.
16.) Forget the Night Ahead, The Twilight Sad. Forget the Night Ahead is the Scottish band’s (and FatCat label-mates to fellow Scottish bands We Were Promised Jetpacks and Frightened Rabbit) fuzzy (meaning it sounds like there is a general fuzz over the entire album) second studio release. Like its predecessor, Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters (2007), it seems evident that frontman, James Graham did not have a good childhood. Whether he is writing songs about houses burning down, children being locked in closets, and growing up in unhappy households, this band is not something you listen to, to pick up your spirits. It is depressing music, in a good way.
17.) The Hazards of Love, The Decemberists. Writing a concept album/rock opera about a pregnant woman who is running away from a queen trying to steal her baby, and a man who wants to kill her is a difficult task. However, it works and this is probably the most Decemberists-like album the Decemberists have produced. The Hazards of Love is all things weird, beautiful, and at times horrifying. It would be interesting to see this performed onstage as a play.
1.) Elvis Perkins in Dearland, Elvis Perkins in Dearland. My Album of the Year, folks. Singer-songwriter Elvis Perkins has not had a happy life. His father, Anthony Perkins of Psycho fame, died of AIDS when he was a teenager and his mother, photographer Berry Berenson, was on the ill-fated American Airlines Flight 11. Needless to say, both his debut (Ash Wednesday) and his phenomenal follow-up, Elvis Perkins in Dearland, are not happy albums. Perkins’ folk-rock style is remarkable, and displayed magnificently in tracks such as “1,2,3-Goodbye”, and “Shampoo”. However, the stand-out track is “Doomsday”. With its steady bounce and drinking song rhythm, the end of the world never seems so welcoming.
2.) These Four Walls, We Were Promised Jetpacks. The absolutely horrible band name should not distract you from this album, this Scottish quartet really knows how to craft great songs. On their debut, they hone the sound of Scottish greats Big Country and make soaring songs about mundane things, like walking home drunk from a bar. Seriously, that is what the opening track, “It’s Thunder and It’s Lightning”, is about… and it’s brilliant.
3.) Post-Nothing, Japandroids. On the other side of the band name spectrum, the awesomely named Japandroids released their debut to much hype and fanfare. Post-Nothing does not disappoint. The Vancouver two-piece rocks out from beginning to end with distortion-heavy songs, my favorite of which is all about trying to "French-kiss some French girls"(on “Wet Hair”). Hey, at least they have aspirations.
4.) There Is No Enemy, Built to Spill. There is No Enemy is Built to Spill’s tightest and most consistent release since the epic Keep It Like a Secret. I could elaborate, but it is a Built to Spill album; which means it has the Built to Spill sound, pseudo-jams, and soaring guitars we have grown to love. And that is a good thing to hear.
5.) Travels with Myself and Another, Future of the Left. Future of the Left's sophomore debut, Travels with Myself and Another, is the sound of Future of the Left coming into their own. The songs are still angry, political, and heavily sarcastic, but the difference is they have found their sound. Steve Albini produced this record and helped Future of the Left tighten things up and let them thrash around. Only more greatness can come from this band.
6) The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart. I almost did not listen to this album purely based on their name. Terrible. It would even be a mediocre album name, but what can you do. Anyway, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart’s debut is fantastic. The Brooklyn band has crafted PERFECT pop songs. Think Belle and Sebastian with distortion and a little less sadness. This is a beautiful summer album.
7.) Why There Are Mountains, Cymbals Eat Guitars. Call 2009 the “Year of Awful Band Names”. The oddly named Cymbals Eat Guitars’ debut album packs in soaring guitars and arena rock sound into 9 finely crafted songs. While they wear their influences on their sleeves (mostly Pavement), Cymbals Eat Guitars use the inspiration of those bands well. Liam thinks they rock. You should listen to him, the kid has an ear for rock.
8.) Sometimes I Wish We Were an Eagle, Bill Callahan. Like Matt Berninger of the National, Bill Callahan sings with a very distinctive baritone voice. His voice really lends to the wonderful despair in most of his songs, like in “Eid Maw Clak Shaw”: “Love is the King of the Beasts/And when its hungry it must kill to eat.” Yep. Pretty much.
9.) Noble Beast, Andrew Bird. Andrew Bird has been getting better with every album and Noble Beast is no exception. The album’s almost ethereal quality fits beautifully with Bird’s simple but powerful arrangements. And as most Andrew Bird fans know, it’s all about the whistle, man.
10.) Dragonslayer, Sunset Rubdown. Frontman Spencer Krug is the man. He is also a busy man being in four other bands: Wolf Parade, Swan Lake, Frog Eyes, and Fifths of Seven (all Canadian). Out of all of them, Sunset Rubdown is his band, and he has molded it into something beautiful. With Krug’s warbling vocals, great songwriting, lush synths, and tight rhythm section, Dragonslayer is capable of making hairpin melodic turns mid-song, with the greatest of ease. It also gets my vote for Best Album Name.
11.) Life of the World to Come, The Mountain Goats. I like the Mountain Goats. Phil introduced me to them and two things immediately stood out: John Darnielle’s nasally vocals and the biting lyrics. This guy is really bitter; so it came as to some surprise that all of Life of the World to Come is based on the Bible. The songs are all about loss, redemption, and things you can never take back. In his own words: “12 hard lessons the Bible taught me, kind of.”
12.) The Atlantic Ocean, Richard Swift. Richard Swift’s first true LP since 2005’s Dressed Up for the Letdown, displays everything wonderful about the singer-songwriter. The Nilsson/Beatles-esque melodies and harmonies are spot on, while his cutting lyrics indicate the four years between albums have not been very pleasant. Swift’s misery is our gain.
13.) Merriweather Post Pavilion, Animal Collective. I first listened to Animal Collective’s albums Sung Tongs (2004) and Feels (2005) and was underwhelmed from all of the hype I had heard about them. As a result, I ignored 2007’s Strawberry Jam and was mum on hearing about their new album. I’ll admit it, I was strong-armed into listening to this album by the constant showering of attention given to them by indie music. So, I decided to give Merriweather Post Pavilion a try. To quote a friend: “It’s turbo diesel sweet.” The tinkling piano, synth beats, and great harmonies really make this busy album a treat. Stand-out “My Girls” would be bumpin’ at a Club Yates Pajama-Jammy-Jam.
14.) The Sound the Speed the Light, Mission of Burma. Mission of Burma has now released more albums since their reunion, than they did their first go-round in the early 80s. It is an amazing feat, considering what most reunions sound like. Unlike their last two albums, the Sound the Speed the Light, explores more atmospheres albums and finds them tuning it down, just a little. However, songs like “1,2,3 Partyy!” shows what makes Mission of Burma such an amazing band and comeback story.
15.) Earthly Delights, Lightning Bolt. Lightning Bolt is not your typical two-piece. The Providence noise rock duo consists of bassist Brian Gibson and drummer Brain Chippendale. The heavily distorted bass and insane drums make listening to Lightning Bolt an experience you will not forget. Listening to Earthly Delights is like listening to a chainsaw trying to cut through a steel plate, put distortion on it, and crank up the noise to 11. It is simultaneously loud, pounding, aggressive, and awesome. Perfect for beating the crap out of people and driving.
16.) Forget the Night Ahead, The Twilight Sad. Forget the Night Ahead is the Scottish band’s (and FatCat label-mates to fellow Scottish bands We Were Promised Jetpacks and Frightened Rabbit) fuzzy (meaning it sounds like there is a general fuzz over the entire album) second studio release. Like its predecessor, Fourteen Autumns & Fifteen Winters (2007), it seems evident that frontman, James Graham did not have a good childhood. Whether he is writing songs about houses burning down, children being locked in closets, and growing up in unhappy households, this band is not something you listen to, to pick up your spirits. It is depressing music, in a good way.
17.) The Hazards of Love, The Decemberists. Writing a concept album/rock opera about a pregnant woman who is running away from a queen trying to steal her baby, and a man who wants to kill her is a difficult task. However, it works and this is probably the most Decemberists-like album the Decemberists have produced. The Hazards of Love is all things weird, beautiful, and at times horrifying. It would be interesting to see this performed onstage as a play.
20 Albums that Changed My Life
1. Pinkerton - Weezer
Say what you will about their music now (it fucking blows), Pinkerton made Weezer my favorite band. Following up their great debut (see that below), this album was more raw, better written, and just fucking rocked. I also helped that it came out right after I got dumped, which helped with my bitterness. Sounds cheesy but I felt this was MY album. I could relate to everything he was saying. I still listen to this album on a regular basis, and in my opinion, this is the final Weezer album. Matt Sharp needs to kick River's ass and then get the original line-up back together.
2. OK Computer - Radiohead
Since Weezer went belly-up, Radiohead is now my favorite band. I heard "Paranoid Android" once and immediately bought this album, The Bends and (regrettably) Pablo Honey. "Flawless" is the word I would use to describe this album. There is not a single bad song on here. I am going to listen to this right now.
3. Keep It Like a Secret - Built to Spill
This was a staple at parties I went to my junior/senior year. At some point a bunch of us would be drunk and rocking out to this album. "Carry the Zero" is still one of the best songs I have ever heard, and is even better live. Listening to this album makes me relaxed and reminiscent about simpler times. If you do not own it, stop reading this and buy it now.
4. In the Aeroplane Over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel
Jeff Magnum is a genius. Unfortunately, he is now a hermit. This is the last thing he has done, and it blew my mind when I heard it. Buy/download/steal this and listen to the first track ("King of Carrot Flowers, Part 1"), and you will hear simple but immediately catchy acoustic guitar and Jeff's nasally I-don't-need-a-damn-microphone-because-I-sing-really-loud voice. If you are not hooked after the first song, you are dead to me.
5. Bossanova - The Pixies
While many people I know like Doolittle better, this album was my introduction and is still my favorite. "Hang Wire" kicks my ass every time I hear it. Joey Santiago has to be one of the best guitarists in rock history.
6. Entertainment! - Gang of Four
The first (and best) album by a great post-punk band. Politically charged and somewhat relevant today, this album is best listened to when you are in a foul mood, and just want to rock out. I do have to say that the fall in line with my opinion about punk bands. I like punk, but if you are going to get some of the classic, gorundbreaking albums, you have to look at the line-up. As long as you have the original line-up, the album is probably going to be good. This is not always the case, but it is my opinion so fuck you.
7. Weezer (Blue Album) - Weezer
Great album. That is all I can say. Reminds me of the good times in high school. Probably the third album that had a profound effect on me in my life.
8. Flood - They Might Be Giants
When I was a kid, I do not think I listened to any album more than this. Flood is still great and TMBG are still one of my favorites.
9. Life's Rich Pageant - R.E.M.
Still my favorite R.E.M. album. "Begin the Begin", "Cuyahoga", "Swan Swan H". What is not to love about this.
10. Paul's Boutique - Beastie Boys
This was a staple of McKinney Hall. I think owning this album was a requirement, actually. It is pathetic, but I think I quote this album in everyday conversation more than an other. That and (for those who know him) hearing Brian Talley sing along to this album always puts a smile on my face.
11. xo - Elliott Smith
One of the many musicians/bands I can thank my brother for introducing me to. It makes me sad every time I listen to one of his albums that there will be no more Elliott Smith music. That is all I am going to write, because I am getting depressed.
12. Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain - Pavement
Pavement is awesome. This album is fantastic. I would like "Gold Soundz" to be my theme song. Buy all of their albums. !Viva el Pavemento!
13. Yankee Hotel Foxtrot - Wilco
Still one of the best bands to see live, this album really got me hooked on Wilco. This album is viral in a good way. It gets into your system and makes you feel awesomeness. The opposite can be said about the Eagles.
14. Navy Blues - Sloan
Again, thank you Phil for introducing me to these guys. I have been a loyal Sloan fan ever since I heard this album. Sloan creates almost perfect pop and this album is the prime example of what they can do when they are on it. I secretly wish I was Chris Murphy.
15. Orange - The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
I found this album at Lincoln Library when I worked in the AV section. I liked the name of the band and the simple yet flashy cover. I thought what the hell, I'll give it a try. "Bell Bottoms" ricked my socks off and "Ditch" is an ass kicker. I wish I could see these guys live some time. You might be confused or find yourself saying "What the fuck?!" a lot while listening to them, but never in a bad way.
16. Complete Discography - Minor Threat
This album has everything Minor Threat has ever done. Get it immediately, listen to it while you work, drink, read about politics, or any time you need to releave some stress. Ian MacKaye is a god.
17. Raw Power - Iggy & the Stooges
This album is best served with whiskey and a beating.
18. Alligator - The National
This band is getting better with time. Their most recent release, The Boxer, is great, but pales in comparison with Alligator. One of a few bands witha baritone lead singer, it goes great with the sarcastic lyrics and melancholy tone. And it is great hearing him yell "I won't fuck us over," over and over again during "Mr. November".
19. It's a Shame About Ray - The Lemonheads
Great/sad album about drug use. Evan Dando is killer on this album and I had a huge crush on Julianna Hatfield after listening to this.
20. Blood and Chocolate - Elvis Costello & the Attractions
In my opinion, it is still his best album, has his best lyrics, and is him at his most bitter. The album's title track and "Tokyo Storm Warning" still floor me with their brilliance every time
Say what you will about their music now (it fucking blows), Pinkerton made Weezer my favorite band. Following up their great debut (see that below), this album was more raw, better written, and just fucking rocked. I also helped that it came out right after I got dumped, which helped with my bitterness. Sounds cheesy but I felt this was MY album. I could relate to everything he was saying. I still listen to this album on a regular basis, and in my opinion, this is the final Weezer album. Matt Sharp needs to kick River's ass and then get the original line-up back together.
2. OK Computer - Radiohead
Since Weezer went belly-up, Radiohead is now my favorite band. I heard "Paranoid Android" once and immediately bought this album, The Bends and (regrettably) Pablo Honey. "Flawless" is the word I would use to describe this album. There is not a single bad song on here. I am going to listen to this right now.
3. Keep It Like a Secret - Built to Spill
This was a staple at parties I went to my junior/senior year. At some point a bunch of us would be drunk and rocking out to this album. "Carry the Zero" is still one of the best songs I have ever heard, and is even better live. Listening to this album makes me relaxed and reminiscent about simpler times. If you do not own it, stop reading this and buy it now.
4. In the Aeroplane Over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel
Jeff Magnum is a genius. Unfortunately, he is now a hermit. This is the last thing he has done, and it blew my mind when I heard it. Buy/download/steal this and listen to the first track ("King of Carrot Flowers, Part 1"), and you will hear simple but immediately catchy acoustic guitar and Jeff's nasally I-don't-need-a-damn-microphone-because-I-sing-really-loud voice. If you are not hooked after the first song, you are dead to me.
5. Bossanova - The Pixies
While many people I know like Doolittle better, this album was my introduction and is still my favorite. "Hang Wire" kicks my ass every time I hear it. Joey Santiago has to be one of the best guitarists in rock history.
6. Entertainment! - Gang of Four
The first (and best) album by a great post-punk band. Politically charged and somewhat relevant today, this album is best listened to when you are in a foul mood, and just want to rock out. I do have to say that the fall in line with my opinion about punk bands. I like punk, but if you are going to get some of the classic, gorundbreaking albums, you have to look at the line-up. As long as you have the original line-up, the album is probably going to be good. This is not always the case, but it is my opinion so fuck you.
7. Weezer (Blue Album) - Weezer
Great album. That is all I can say. Reminds me of the good times in high school. Probably the third album that had a profound effect on me in my life.
8. Flood - They Might Be Giants
When I was a kid, I do not think I listened to any album more than this. Flood is still great and TMBG are still one of my favorites.
9. Life's Rich Pageant - R.E.M.
Still my favorite R.E.M. album. "Begin the Begin", "Cuyahoga", "Swan Swan H". What is not to love about this.
10. Paul's Boutique - Beastie Boys
This was a staple of McKinney Hall. I think owning this album was a requirement, actually. It is pathetic, but I think I quote this album in everyday conversation more than an other. That and (for those who know him) hearing Brian Talley sing along to this album always puts a smile on my face.
11. xo - Elliott Smith
One of the many musicians/bands I can thank my brother for introducing me to. It makes me sad every time I listen to one of his albums that there will be no more Elliott Smith music. That is all I am going to write, because I am getting depressed.
12. Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain - Pavement
Pavement is awesome. This album is fantastic. I would like "Gold Soundz" to be my theme song. Buy all of their albums. !Viva el Pavemento!
13. Yankee Hotel Foxtrot - Wilco
Still one of the best bands to see live, this album really got me hooked on Wilco. This album is viral in a good way. It gets into your system and makes you feel awesomeness. The opposite can be said about the Eagles.
14. Navy Blues - Sloan
Again, thank you Phil for introducing me to these guys. I have been a loyal Sloan fan ever since I heard this album. Sloan creates almost perfect pop and this album is the prime example of what they can do when they are on it. I secretly wish I was Chris Murphy.
15. Orange - The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion
I found this album at Lincoln Library when I worked in the AV section. I liked the name of the band and the simple yet flashy cover. I thought what the hell, I'll give it a try. "Bell Bottoms" ricked my socks off and "Ditch" is an ass kicker. I wish I could see these guys live some time. You might be confused or find yourself saying "What the fuck?!" a lot while listening to them, but never in a bad way.
16. Complete Discography - Minor Threat
This album has everything Minor Threat has ever done. Get it immediately, listen to it while you work, drink, read about politics, or any time you need to releave some stress. Ian MacKaye is a god.
17. Raw Power - Iggy & the Stooges
This album is best served with whiskey and a beating.
18. Alligator - The National
This band is getting better with time. Their most recent release, The Boxer, is great, but pales in comparison with Alligator. One of a few bands witha baritone lead singer, it goes great with the sarcastic lyrics and melancholy tone. And it is great hearing him yell "I won't fuck us over," over and over again during "Mr. November".
19. It's a Shame About Ray - The Lemonheads
Great/sad album about drug use. Evan Dando is killer on this album and I had a huge crush on Julianna Hatfield after listening to this.
20. Blood and Chocolate - Elvis Costello & the Attractions
In my opinion, it is still his best album, has his best lyrics, and is him at his most bitter. The album's title track and "Tokyo Storm Warning" still floor me with their brilliance every time
Woo!
This is the first official post for my new music blog. I will try to update this on a regular basis with musis news, album reviews, and anything else music oriented. I hope you enjoy it, if not... well you know what to do.
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