Sometime ago, a friend of mine proposed a rather interesting question to me. The question was one for the ages and of great thought. Only a select few would dare try to handle the question’s style, but since it has been some time, I believe it is time to propose that question to the rest of the world.
“Which Dio video do you think rocks the hardest?”
That is the kind of question that could melt one’s face or freak their mind. Despite the danger, it is a question we must ask and have the balls to answer. So people, which Dio video do you think rocks the hardest?
Rainbow in the Dark
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DJ_FgL5l1og
Rock N’ Roll Children
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzXuH7Ck34U
Last In Line
Holy Diver
Despite the awesomeness of the first three videos, Holy Diver is the answer for me. From the tough guitar riffs to the Dio with a Sword singing “ride the tiger!” nothing matches this video’s fierce ways.
Rock on Dio, Rock on!
Anyway, please discuss your answers. Not sure if you can give a wrong one.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Monday, December 29, 2008
Finally, it's here! 2008's top 20 albums
I meant to post this a while ago, but it's been a busy time of year. I hope everyone has had a very nice holiday and here's to having a very safe and happy new year! Enjoy, JP
1.Okkervil River – The Stand Ins
Fuck yeah! I love this album. Their last album was hyped up, so naturally I dismissed it for being acclaimed by all the so called critics, but I can openly admit now that I was wrong, because the “Stage Names” has become one of my favorites. Needless to say, when the new album came out, I got it the day it was released. There was a point where it was all I listened to for days. Great lyrics and incredible songwriting overall make this my favorite album of the year. If you don’t have a copy of it, get it and sit back and listen. I think you will like it.
Key Tracks – Lost Coastlines, Singer Songwriter, Calling and Not Calling My Ex, Pop Lie
Lost Coastlines
Calling and Not Calling My Ex
2. Portishead – Third
Like the rest of their fans, I have been waiting with great anticipation for this album to come out and thank god it was no Chinese Democracy. Unlike Axl, these guys make it worth the wait. A very complex album with a ton of noises going on in the background that seems difficult to pull off, but that is why I attached the live takes of some of these songs because it is quite impressive to see how they pull this off. A great dark trip hop album that will haunt you and make you move. It should not cause night terrors though.
Key tracks – Silence, The Rip, We Carry On & Machine Gun
Silence
We Carry On
3. Fleet Foxes – Fleet Foxes
Beautiful harmonies accompanied by very well orchestrated music is why this was the year’s biggest surprise for me. In fact, I am still kicking myself for not going to see them play a free show at the Petrillo Band Shell this summer. Imagine you caught the beach boys and put them in a cage with Dylan back in the day. It might sound something like this. It also goes extremely well with the holidays.
Key Tracks - He Doesn’t Know Why, White Winter Hymnal, Ragged Wood
Ragged Wood
White Winter Hymnal
4. Vampire Weekend – Vampire Weekend
This album was a very nice surprise for this year. This came out with a lot of hype and as always with a lot of hype there is a long way to fall, but this album actually did a pretty good job of living up to it. Picture yourself listening to this while wearing a pastel colored polo with a white sweater tied around your neck lying nicely on your shoulders while walking around with your brand new top of the line Sony walkman. It’s a good feeling!
The album combines simple David Byrne pop with a world music influence to it. I guess if you took the Talking Heads and had them make an afro-beat album; it would sound similar to this. Whether that is your thing or not, this is a very good album and one of my favorites of the year.
Key Tracks – Mansard Roof, Oxford Comma, A-Punk, M79, Campus & The Kids Don’t Stand a Chance
A-Punk
Oxford Comma
5. Girl Talk – Feed the Animals
No other album this year put a larger smile on my face than this album did the first time I heard it. A mash up dance album that is absolutely perfect. Let me tell you the first time I heard Big Country’s “In a big country” mixed with “whoop, there it is!” my mind was freaked.
Key Tracks – Play your part (part 1), Set it Off, No Pause & Hands in the Air. Really, this album should be listed in one take from beginning to end.
Still Here
Like This
Hands in the Air
6. Frightened Rabbit – The Midnight Organ Flight
This was given to me by a friend this fall and I couldn’t have been happier to receive it than I did. It was something new that I had not heard but with a sound that was very familiar to what I am used to. This Scottish band blends sounds from bands such as Travis, Arcade Fire, The Shins, Badly Drawn Boy and there is even one song that has a bit of a Ned’s Atomic Dustbin sound. Now, I am just waiting for them to tour with Travis and the Mull Historical Society and call their tour the “If it’s not Scottish, it’s crap” tour. I’d go!
Key t racks – The Modern Leper, Heads Roll, Twist, I Fell Better
Heads Roll Off
I Feel Better
7. Sea and Cake – Car Alarm
What could be labeled as Chicago’s very own supergroup, the Sea and Cake continue to keep putting out quality albums that sound completely different than what is out on the music market these days. The musical stylings of Archer Prewitt and Sam Prekop have not sounded better in years and that is exactly why this album has made my top ten. Individually, these guys are absolutely amazing musicians and together they can almost form the Voltron robot of the music scene. If you are unfamiliar with these guys, think of smooth experimental mellow rock and roll.
Key tracks – Aerial, On a Letter, Car Alarm, Weekend
Weekend
On a Letter
8. Oasis – Dig Out Your Soul
OK, I am not going to write much about this, because if anyone knows me they know I love this band and are also probably surprised I didn’t make it my album of the year. Well, although it is good, it is not as good as the others on the list ahead of it.
In this album, Noel and Liam continue to prove that they can write quality songs and are now receiving help from Gem and Andy Bell. Overall, a very good album that shows these guys can still rock.
Key tracks – Shock of Lightening, Waiting for the Rapture, I’m Outta Time, Bag it Up, Falling Down
Shock of Lightening
Waiting for the Rapture
9. The Dodos – Visiter
This Bay Area duo released one of the best new albums of the year and it was the perfect time for this band to hit the streets. Giving the kids who bought the Vampire Weekend album something else to listen to, these 2 guys made a great album that could appeal to the mainstream and all those indie rock nerds too. Sort of an artsy alternative folk act, the dodos can make a pretty big sound with 2 just pieces. Think of something in-between the violent femmes and wilco, with a hint of Elliott Smith.
Key tracks – Walking, Red and Purple, Fools, Winter and Jodi
Fools
Winter
10. Dr. Dog – Fate
This was one band that I always had on the backburner. Always meaning to listen to them, but never getting around to it. Well, this year I finally did and I found one of the best surprises of the year. This Philadelphia band takes a lot of cues from great American rock and roll legends such as Bob Dylan and the Beach Boys and combines them with some good soulful sounds. Philly Dans La Maison!!!
Key Tracks – The Breeze, Hang On, The Rabbit, The Bat & The Reindeer, From & Uncovering the Old
Hang On
The Rabbit, The Bat & The Reindeer
11. Spiritualized – Songs in A&E
Last year I went to go see Spiritualized play an acoustic show at the Apollo theatre and since then I was sitting with great anticipation to hear this album. When it came out, I was extremely pleased with the final product. As Spiritualized is one of the reasons that I am in love with music, I am also very critical of the things that Jason Spaceman releases because I try to compare everything to his first album Lazer Guided Melodies and I need to learn that nothing will ever be as good as that album.
Jason does continue to blend a very solid balance of drug induced rock and roll with gospel tones. Some may say sacrilege, but I say genius.
Key tracks – Soul on Fire, You Lie You Cheat, Yeah Yeah, I Gotta Fire, Borrowed Your Gun
Soul on Fire
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_k1s2xBXMDg
You Lie You Cheat
12. The Raveonettes – Lust, Lust, Lust
It is no secret that I am a sucker for distortion on a bass guitar. When it is done correctly, it can provide you with the COOLEST FUCKING SOUND ON THE PLANET. Now when you accompany that with a hot bass player and REALLY LOUD FUCKING GUITARS, you get the Raveonettes.
Key tracks – Aly, walk with me, Hallucinations, Dead Sound, Blush & You Want the Candy
Aly, Walk With Me
Hallucinations
13. British Sea Power – Do You Like Rock Music?
Yes, Yes I do! And if you do too, you will listen to this album.
Key tracks – No Lucifer, Waving Flags, Canvey Island, A Trip Out & All In It
No Lucifer
Canvey Island
14. Liam Finn – I’ll Be Lightening
The son of Neil Finn, Liam is starting to separate himself from his dad’s shadow and make a pretty solid name for him. In this album, you can hear how his dad has influenced his songwriting by showing him how to write beautiful melodies, but you can also hear how musicians like Elliott Smith and John Lennon have influenced him as well.
This album is filled with great songs that can lead one to believe that this kid has a long future in this business.
Key Tracks – Better to Be, Second Chance, Lead Balloon, Wise Man & I’ll Be Lightening
Better to Be
Second Chance
15. Wolf Parade – At Mount Zoomer
Canada strikes again! Not only do our neighbors from the north take care of their residents with health benefits, but they are also exporting awesome these days too. The sophomore album by these French Canadians proves to be a successful follow up to their last album while keeping their quirky heavy rocking synth sound.
Key Tracks – Soldier’s Grin, Language City, California Dreamer, The Grey Estates
Soldier’s Grin
The Grey Estates
16. Broken Social Scene Presents…. Brendan Canning – Something for All of Us
The second album in the series of “solo” albums called Broken Social Scene Presents, Brendan Canning takes us on a tour of his contributions to the Canadian Rock and Roll Collective. Showing that he is the Ying to Kevin Drew’s Yang, Brendan puts together a collection of different types of sounds ranging from experimental and straight forward rock and roll to even a disco tune. More of a composer than a front man, Brendan shows all the broken social scene fans with this album that he is one of the main reasons the band has such a fantastic sound.
Key Tracks – Something for all of us, Hit the Wall, Churches Under the Stairs, Love is New
Hit the Wall
Churches Under the Stairs
17. Tokyo Police Club – Elephant Shell
A fun little band from Canada. I know it seems like all things coming out of Canada are pretty fucking cool these days, but these guys can actually stand up and prove it. I’ll admit it that these guys are not for everyone, because they can be a little teeny boppy, but on a whole they have a nice blend of 80’s synth pop and punk rock. Normally I would say this combination would be annoying, but they seem to pull it off pretty well. Think of a more rocking version of the Rentals.
Key Tracks – In A Cave, Juno, Tessellate & Your English is Good
Tessellate
In A Cave
18. Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks – Real Emotional Trash
The former lead singer of Pavement comes out with possibly his most accessible album since the last Pavement album. Still showing off his quirky side, Malkmus combines that talent with some amazing pop and rock and roll hooks. A pleasant surprise for the year and still keeps hope alive that one day a new Pavement album will arrive.
Key tracks – Dragonfly Pie, Hopscotch Willie, Gardenia & We Can’t Help You
We Can’t Help You
Gardenia
19. MGMT – Oracular Spectacular
The big “IT” album to start off the year, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked this album from this dance group from New York. A lot of hype, but still a lot of good tunes on this debut album. Overall this is just a fun piece of work that will make you get up and move. Great listening to have a party to or to even just clean your home too.
Key tracks – Time to Pretend (one of the best singles of the year in my mind), Kids, Electric Feel & Weekend Wars
Time to Pretend
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVnRzEjpUmE
Electric Feel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtUI5MC9tVM
20. Travis – Ode to J. Smith
Ah, OJ Smith, he just can’t go away, well until this album came out. Has anybody else noticed that it was only a matter of weeks after this album was released in the states that OJ was finally put behind bars? Coincidence? Not sure, but either good job! Anyway, the Scottish rock sensation known as Travis, follows up last year’s album with another great piece of work. If these last two albums would have followed “The Man Who,” these guys would still be playing large venues in the states.
Key tracks – Something Anything, J. Smith, Chinese Blues, Long Way Down & Last Words
Something Anything
J. Smith
1.Okkervil River – The Stand Ins
Fuck yeah! I love this album. Their last album was hyped up, so naturally I dismissed it for being acclaimed by all the so called critics, but I can openly admit now that I was wrong, because the “Stage Names” has become one of my favorites. Needless to say, when the new album came out, I got it the day it was released. There was a point where it was all I listened to for days. Great lyrics and incredible songwriting overall make this my favorite album of the year. If you don’t have a copy of it, get it and sit back and listen. I think you will like it.
Key Tracks – Lost Coastlines, Singer Songwriter, Calling and Not Calling My Ex, Pop Lie
Lost Coastlines
Calling and Not Calling My Ex
2. Portishead – Third
Like the rest of their fans, I have been waiting with great anticipation for this album to come out and thank god it was no Chinese Democracy. Unlike Axl, these guys make it worth the wait. A very complex album with a ton of noises going on in the background that seems difficult to pull off, but that is why I attached the live takes of some of these songs because it is quite impressive to see how they pull this off. A great dark trip hop album that will haunt you and make you move. It should not cause night terrors though.
Key tracks – Silence, The Rip, We Carry On & Machine Gun
Silence
We Carry On
3. Fleet Foxes – Fleet Foxes
Beautiful harmonies accompanied by very well orchestrated music is why this was the year’s biggest surprise for me. In fact, I am still kicking myself for not going to see them play a free show at the Petrillo Band Shell this summer. Imagine you caught the beach boys and put them in a cage with Dylan back in the day. It might sound something like this. It also goes extremely well with the holidays.
Key Tracks - He Doesn’t Know Why, White Winter Hymnal, Ragged Wood
Ragged Wood
White Winter Hymnal
4. Vampire Weekend – Vampire Weekend
This album was a very nice surprise for this year. This came out with a lot of hype and as always with a lot of hype there is a long way to fall, but this album actually did a pretty good job of living up to it. Picture yourself listening to this while wearing a pastel colored polo with a white sweater tied around your neck lying nicely on your shoulders while walking around with your brand new top of the line Sony walkman. It’s a good feeling!
The album combines simple David Byrne pop with a world music influence to it. I guess if you took the Talking Heads and had them make an afro-beat album; it would sound similar to this. Whether that is your thing or not, this is a very good album and one of my favorites of the year.
Key Tracks – Mansard Roof, Oxford Comma, A-Punk, M79, Campus & The Kids Don’t Stand a Chance
A-Punk
Oxford Comma
5. Girl Talk – Feed the Animals
No other album this year put a larger smile on my face than this album did the first time I heard it. A mash up dance album that is absolutely perfect. Let me tell you the first time I heard Big Country’s “In a big country” mixed with “whoop, there it is!” my mind was freaked.
Key Tracks – Play your part (part 1), Set it Off, No Pause & Hands in the Air. Really, this album should be listed in one take from beginning to end.
Still Here
Like This
Hands in the Air
6. Frightened Rabbit – The Midnight Organ Flight
This was given to me by a friend this fall and I couldn’t have been happier to receive it than I did. It was something new that I had not heard but with a sound that was very familiar to what I am used to. This Scottish band blends sounds from bands such as Travis, Arcade Fire, The Shins, Badly Drawn Boy and there is even one song that has a bit of a Ned’s Atomic Dustbin sound. Now, I am just waiting for them to tour with Travis and the Mull Historical Society and call their tour the “If it’s not Scottish, it’s crap” tour. I’d go!
Key t racks – The Modern Leper, Heads Roll, Twist, I Fell Better
Heads Roll Off
I Feel Better
7. Sea and Cake – Car Alarm
What could be labeled as Chicago’s very own supergroup, the Sea and Cake continue to keep putting out quality albums that sound completely different than what is out on the music market these days. The musical stylings of Archer Prewitt and Sam Prekop have not sounded better in years and that is exactly why this album has made my top ten. Individually, these guys are absolutely amazing musicians and together they can almost form the Voltron robot of the music scene. If you are unfamiliar with these guys, think of smooth experimental mellow rock and roll.
Key tracks – Aerial, On a Letter, Car Alarm, Weekend
Weekend
On a Letter
8. Oasis – Dig Out Your Soul
OK, I am not going to write much about this, because if anyone knows me they know I love this band and are also probably surprised I didn’t make it my album of the year. Well, although it is good, it is not as good as the others on the list ahead of it.
In this album, Noel and Liam continue to prove that they can write quality songs and are now receiving help from Gem and Andy Bell. Overall, a very good album that shows these guys can still rock.
Key tracks – Shock of Lightening, Waiting for the Rapture, I’m Outta Time, Bag it Up, Falling Down
Shock of Lightening
Waiting for the Rapture
9. The Dodos – Visiter
This Bay Area duo released one of the best new albums of the year and it was the perfect time for this band to hit the streets. Giving the kids who bought the Vampire Weekend album something else to listen to, these 2 guys made a great album that could appeal to the mainstream and all those indie rock nerds too. Sort of an artsy alternative folk act, the dodos can make a pretty big sound with 2 just pieces. Think of something in-between the violent femmes and wilco, with a hint of Elliott Smith.
Key tracks – Walking, Red and Purple, Fools, Winter and Jodi
Fools
Winter
10. Dr. Dog – Fate
This was one band that I always had on the backburner. Always meaning to listen to them, but never getting around to it. Well, this year I finally did and I found one of the best surprises of the year. This Philadelphia band takes a lot of cues from great American rock and roll legends such as Bob Dylan and the Beach Boys and combines them with some good soulful sounds. Philly Dans La Maison!!!
Key Tracks – The Breeze, Hang On, The Rabbit, The Bat & The Reindeer, From & Uncovering the Old
Hang On
The Rabbit, The Bat & The Reindeer
11. Spiritualized – Songs in A&E
Last year I went to go see Spiritualized play an acoustic show at the Apollo theatre and since then I was sitting with great anticipation to hear this album. When it came out, I was extremely pleased with the final product. As Spiritualized is one of the reasons that I am in love with music, I am also very critical of the things that Jason Spaceman releases because I try to compare everything to his first album Lazer Guided Melodies and I need to learn that nothing will ever be as good as that album.
Jason does continue to blend a very solid balance of drug induced rock and roll with gospel tones. Some may say sacrilege, but I say genius.
Key tracks – Soul on Fire, You Lie You Cheat, Yeah Yeah, I Gotta Fire, Borrowed Your Gun
Soul on Fire
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_k1s2xBXMDg
You Lie You Cheat
12. The Raveonettes – Lust, Lust, Lust
It is no secret that I am a sucker for distortion on a bass guitar. When it is done correctly, it can provide you with the COOLEST FUCKING SOUND ON THE PLANET. Now when you accompany that with a hot bass player and REALLY LOUD FUCKING GUITARS, you get the Raveonettes.
Key tracks – Aly, walk with me, Hallucinations, Dead Sound, Blush & You Want the Candy
Aly, Walk With Me
Hallucinations
13. British Sea Power – Do You Like Rock Music?
Yes, Yes I do! And if you do too, you will listen to this album.
Key tracks – No Lucifer, Waving Flags, Canvey Island, A Trip Out & All In It
No Lucifer
Canvey Island
14. Liam Finn – I’ll Be Lightening
The son of Neil Finn, Liam is starting to separate himself from his dad’s shadow and make a pretty solid name for him. In this album, you can hear how his dad has influenced his songwriting by showing him how to write beautiful melodies, but you can also hear how musicians like Elliott Smith and John Lennon have influenced him as well.
This album is filled with great songs that can lead one to believe that this kid has a long future in this business.
Key Tracks – Better to Be, Second Chance, Lead Balloon, Wise Man & I’ll Be Lightening
Better to Be
Second Chance
15. Wolf Parade – At Mount Zoomer
Canada strikes again! Not only do our neighbors from the north take care of their residents with health benefits, but they are also exporting awesome these days too. The sophomore album by these French Canadians proves to be a successful follow up to their last album while keeping their quirky heavy rocking synth sound.
Key Tracks – Soldier’s Grin, Language City, California Dreamer, The Grey Estates
Soldier’s Grin
The Grey Estates
16. Broken Social Scene Presents…. Brendan Canning – Something for All of Us
The second album in the series of “solo” albums called Broken Social Scene Presents, Brendan Canning takes us on a tour of his contributions to the Canadian Rock and Roll Collective. Showing that he is the Ying to Kevin Drew’s Yang, Brendan puts together a collection of different types of sounds ranging from experimental and straight forward rock and roll to even a disco tune. More of a composer than a front man, Brendan shows all the broken social scene fans with this album that he is one of the main reasons the band has such a fantastic sound.
Key Tracks – Something for all of us, Hit the Wall, Churches Under the Stairs, Love is New
Hit the Wall
Churches Under the Stairs
17. Tokyo Police Club – Elephant Shell
A fun little band from Canada. I know it seems like all things coming out of Canada are pretty fucking cool these days, but these guys can actually stand up and prove it. I’ll admit it that these guys are not for everyone, because they can be a little teeny boppy, but on a whole they have a nice blend of 80’s synth pop and punk rock. Normally I would say this combination would be annoying, but they seem to pull it off pretty well. Think of a more rocking version of the Rentals.
Key Tracks – In A Cave, Juno, Tessellate & Your English is Good
Tessellate
In A Cave
18. Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks – Real Emotional Trash
The former lead singer of Pavement comes out with possibly his most accessible album since the last Pavement album. Still showing off his quirky side, Malkmus combines that talent with some amazing pop and rock and roll hooks. A pleasant surprise for the year and still keeps hope alive that one day a new Pavement album will arrive.
Key tracks – Dragonfly Pie, Hopscotch Willie, Gardenia & We Can’t Help You
We Can’t Help You
Gardenia
19. MGMT – Oracular Spectacular
The big “IT” album to start off the year, I was pleasantly surprised with how much I liked this album from this dance group from New York. A lot of hype, but still a lot of good tunes on this debut album. Overall this is just a fun piece of work that will make you get up and move. Great listening to have a party to or to even just clean your home too.
Key tracks – Time to Pretend (one of the best singles of the year in my mind), Kids, Electric Feel & Weekend Wars
Time to Pretend
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVnRzEjpUmE
Electric Feel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtUI5MC9tVM
20. Travis – Ode to J. Smith
Ah, OJ Smith, he just can’t go away, well until this album came out. Has anybody else noticed that it was only a matter of weeks after this album was released in the states that OJ was finally put behind bars? Coincidence? Not sure, but either good job! Anyway, the Scottish rock sensation known as Travis, follows up last year’s album with another great piece of work. If these last two albums would have followed “The Man Who,” these guys would still be playing large venues in the states.
Key tracks – Something Anything, J. Smith, Chinese Blues, Long Way Down & Last Words
Something Anything
J. Smith
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
30 - 21
30. Black Keys – Attack & Release
The Akron, OH duo got Danger Mouse to produce this album and you can definitely tell which songs he had an influence on. From what I have read, this album was originally supposed to be a Black Keys and Ike Turner album, but due to Turner’s death this past year, DM went on and produced a full black keys album. I’m still interested to how that album would have sounded. Oh well, here are a couple songs from Attack & Release.
Strange Times
I Got Mine
29. Death Cab for Cutie – Narrow Stairs
I gave up on these guys because their album in my opinion was about as boring as you can get. Well, I decided to give this album a shot and to my surprise it turned out to sound more like their older albums then their newer ones. A little more rock and a little less bore the shit out of me is always a better combination.
Cath…
I Will Possess Your Heart
28. Land of Talk – Some Are Lakes
Canada continues to export awesome in the form of great rock and roll. This album was given to me by a friend and it has been in heavy rotation since then. If you like Sleeter-Kinney or liked Belly back in the day, check this out.
Some are Lakes
Yuppie Flu
27. I’m From Barcelona – Who Killed Harry Houdini?
One of my favorite albums in 2006, I’m From Barcelona’s album “Let me introduce my friends” was my feel good hit of the year. In fact it was so good, I put it on last year’s list too because it was released in the states in 2007. Well, their first album may have been super poppy, but the new album is quite dark. The band still packs the stage and the studio with 20+ members, so it is still fun, but despite the singles the new album has more melancholy friends than poppy ones.
Paper Planes
Mingus
26. Los Campesinos! – Hold On Now, Youngster!
There is something about bands from Wales that make me happy. Everything from Gorky’s, Stereophonics to the Super Furry Animals, the place is always good for putting out some good music and this album from Los Campesinos is no exception to that rule. Kind of wild and all over the place, but has a solid melody and behind each of the songs on the album. And besides, in the video to Death to Los Campesinos, a unicorn comes out of an amplifier and kills the bass player. Pretty bad ass when you think about it and a rather unlikely way to go.
Death to Los Campesinos
You! Me! Dancing!
25. Little Joy – Little Joy
This side project by the drummer of the Strokes may show some people that the drummer may have more influence on the band’s songwriting than originally have thought. A lot of the songs sound like the strokes, but with a different vocal type. Think of the strokes with a little more of a world sound. Overall a very good album.
Next Time Around
No One’s Better Sake
24. The Hold Steady – Stay Positive
Modern day rock and roll at its best! These guys just plain rock and have a lot of fun doing it. Just hit play, smile and enjoy.
Constructive Summer
Sequestered in Memphis
23. Beck – Modern Guilt
Another Danger Mouse produced album makes my list in a very quiet way. Most everybody loves Beck because they think he is so hip and original, but when he gets on his dark side kicks, people tend to drift away. Luckily for me, that’s when I think his songwriting is his best. This album would have been much higher if it were not produced by Danger Mouse. All his stuff sounds the same, so I get kind of bored with it. Regardless, another solid album by one of America’s better modern song writers.
Gamma Ray
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIBw-lbxtT4
Modern Guilt
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD0F9p5IjSc
22. Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson – Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson
This 24 year old singer / songwriter has been influenced by a lot of different musicians on this album. You have songs that you can hear Dylan, the Kinks and Richards playing. A quality piece of work that should be on a regular rotation on anyone’s ipod or cd player.
Buriedfed
21. Radiohead – In Rainbows
This album should be much higher on the list, but since it really came out last year, I just couldn’t let it crack the top 20. There really isn’t anything left to be said about this band that has not been said already. And if you haven’t heard this album yet, well, hit play.
Reckoner
All I need
The Akron, OH duo got Danger Mouse to produce this album and you can definitely tell which songs he had an influence on. From what I have read, this album was originally supposed to be a Black Keys and Ike Turner album, but due to Turner’s death this past year, DM went on and produced a full black keys album. I’m still interested to how that album would have sounded. Oh well, here are a couple songs from Attack & Release.
Strange Times
I Got Mine
29. Death Cab for Cutie – Narrow Stairs
I gave up on these guys because their album in my opinion was about as boring as you can get. Well, I decided to give this album a shot and to my surprise it turned out to sound more like their older albums then their newer ones. A little more rock and a little less bore the shit out of me is always a better combination.
Cath…
I Will Possess Your Heart
28. Land of Talk – Some Are Lakes
Canada continues to export awesome in the form of great rock and roll. This album was given to me by a friend and it has been in heavy rotation since then. If you like Sleeter-Kinney or liked Belly back in the day, check this out.
Some are Lakes
Yuppie Flu
27. I’m From Barcelona – Who Killed Harry Houdini?
One of my favorite albums in 2006, I’m From Barcelona’s album “Let me introduce my friends” was my feel good hit of the year. In fact it was so good, I put it on last year’s list too because it was released in the states in 2007. Well, their first album may have been super poppy, but the new album is quite dark. The band still packs the stage and the studio with 20+ members, so it is still fun, but despite the singles the new album has more melancholy friends than poppy ones.
Paper Planes
Mingus
26. Los Campesinos! – Hold On Now, Youngster!
There is something about bands from Wales that make me happy. Everything from Gorky’s, Stereophonics to the Super Furry Animals, the place is always good for putting out some good music and this album from Los Campesinos is no exception to that rule. Kind of wild and all over the place, but has a solid melody and behind each of the songs on the album. And besides, in the video to Death to Los Campesinos, a unicorn comes out of an amplifier and kills the bass player. Pretty bad ass when you think about it and a rather unlikely way to go.
Death to Los Campesinos
You! Me! Dancing!
25. Little Joy – Little Joy
This side project by the drummer of the Strokes may show some people that the drummer may have more influence on the band’s songwriting than originally have thought. A lot of the songs sound like the strokes, but with a different vocal type. Think of the strokes with a little more of a world sound. Overall a very good album.
Next Time Around
No One’s Better Sake
24. The Hold Steady – Stay Positive
Modern day rock and roll at its best! These guys just plain rock and have a lot of fun doing it. Just hit play, smile and enjoy.
Constructive Summer
Sequestered in Memphis
23. Beck – Modern Guilt
Another Danger Mouse produced album makes my list in a very quiet way. Most everybody loves Beck because they think he is so hip and original, but when he gets on his dark side kicks, people tend to drift away. Luckily for me, that’s when I think his songwriting is his best. This album would have been much higher if it were not produced by Danger Mouse. All his stuff sounds the same, so I get kind of bored with it. Regardless, another solid album by one of America’s better modern song writers.
Gamma Ray
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIBw-lbxtT4
Modern Guilt
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD0F9p5IjSc
22. Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson – Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson
This 24 year old singer / songwriter has been influenced by a lot of different musicians on this album. You have songs that you can hear Dylan, the Kinks and Richards playing. A quality piece of work that should be on a regular rotation on anyone’s ipod or cd player.
Buriedfed
21. Radiohead – In Rainbows
This album should be much higher on the list, but since it really came out last year, I just couldn’t let it crack the top 20. There really isn’t anything left to be said about this band that has not been said already. And if you haven’t heard this album yet, well, hit play.
Reckoner
All I need
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Best of 2008, 40 - 31
40. Clinic – Do It!
From the same place that brought the world the Beatles, we have some sort of a new wave punk hybrid with hospital masks. These guys are great and I think that if I would have listened to this album a lot more than I did it would have been much higher on my list. Anyway, here are a couple songs off the album
The Witch
Tomorrow
39. Neon Neon – Stainless Style
OK, I know right off the bat that this will not be for everyone, but neither is this list as a whole. Let me see what I can make if I were to put Super Furry Animals (the band, stay way PETA) in a blender with Depeche Mode and Duran Duran. It would probably sound something similar to this album. Only if I could listen to this while cruising in a Delorean.
I Told Her on Alderaan
I Lust U
38. Be Your Own Pet – Get Awkward
Very straight forward angry suburban kids. It has it’s moments and it’s kind of fun to hear punk rock girl sing about zombies. The second song was recorded for the album was banned in the states. Gotta love our 2nd amendment.
The Kelly Affair
Becky
37. Santogold – Santogold
A decent combination of some r&b, reggae, electronic rock, punk and dance music. Not great, but the album on a whole has it’s moments.
L.E.S. Artistes
You’ll Find A Way
36. Kings of Leon – Only By The Night
Usually these guys would be much higher on my list because they were one of the few bands out there that would bring the rock and roll to the stage. Well, some might say when bands get older, they mature, I say they stop rocking. Some of the songs are OK, but there is no Velvet Snow, California Waiting, or McFearless on this album. Despite that, there is still some quality music on this album.
Sex on Fire
Use Somebody (mark my words, this song will be used in some upcoming bad chick flick)
Slow Night, So Long (I had to attach this to remind people why this band is so good)
35. David Byrne & Brian Eno – Everything That Happens Will Happen Today
I love the Talking Heads. Need I say more?
Strange Overtones
Home
34. Coldplay – Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends
I know, I know, it’s Coldplay. Call me what you wish, but this is a pretty good album. Darker than their last with a little more of an edge.
Life In Technicolor (This is just a very big instrumental, a very good one at that)
Violet Hill
33. Albert Hammond Jr. – Como Te Llama?
A very good pop rock album by the guitar player from the Strokes. His last album was a very pleasant surprise and this one, although not as accessible as the last, is still as solid piece of work.
GFC
Bargain of the Century
32. Elf Power – In A Cave
One of the coolest bands to come out of the Elephant 6 collective, but then again, there are very few bands that came out of that group that suck. A slight departure from their other albums, but it still has that TRex sound to it! (sorry, but I could only find one song on youtube, so I linked their myspace page. Owl Cut, Spiral Stairs and Paralyzed are all from In A Cave)
Spiral Stairs
http://www.myspace.com/elfpower
31. Hot Chip – Made in the Dark
Dance baby, Dance! More electronic 80’s dance syth music for the list from London. This one is a little more dance than 80’s but still a damn good time.
Ready for the Floor
One Pure Thought
From the same place that brought the world the Beatles, we have some sort of a new wave punk hybrid with hospital masks. These guys are great and I think that if I would have listened to this album a lot more than I did it would have been much higher on my list. Anyway, here are a couple songs off the album
The Witch
Tomorrow
39. Neon Neon – Stainless Style
OK, I know right off the bat that this will not be for everyone, but neither is this list as a whole. Let me see what I can make if I were to put Super Furry Animals (the band, stay way PETA) in a blender with Depeche Mode and Duran Duran. It would probably sound something similar to this album. Only if I could listen to this while cruising in a Delorean.
I Told Her on Alderaan
I Lust U
38. Be Your Own Pet – Get Awkward
Very straight forward angry suburban kids. It has it’s moments and it’s kind of fun to hear punk rock girl sing about zombies. The second song was recorded for the album was banned in the states. Gotta love our 2nd amendment.
The Kelly Affair
Becky
37. Santogold – Santogold
A decent combination of some r&b, reggae, electronic rock, punk and dance music. Not great, but the album on a whole has it’s moments.
L.E.S. Artistes
You’ll Find A Way
36. Kings of Leon – Only By The Night
Usually these guys would be much higher on my list because they were one of the few bands out there that would bring the rock and roll to the stage. Well, some might say when bands get older, they mature, I say they stop rocking. Some of the songs are OK, but there is no Velvet Snow, California Waiting, or McFearless on this album. Despite that, there is still some quality music on this album.
Sex on Fire
Use Somebody (mark my words, this song will be used in some upcoming bad chick flick)
Slow Night, So Long (I had to attach this to remind people why this band is so good)
35. David Byrne & Brian Eno – Everything That Happens Will Happen Today
I love the Talking Heads. Need I say more?
Strange Overtones
Home
34. Coldplay – Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends
I know, I know, it’s Coldplay. Call me what you wish, but this is a pretty good album. Darker than their last with a little more of an edge.
Life In Technicolor (This is just a very big instrumental, a very good one at that)
Violet Hill
33. Albert Hammond Jr. – Como Te Llama?
A very good pop rock album by the guitar player from the Strokes. His last album was a very pleasant surprise and this one, although not as accessible as the last, is still as solid piece of work.
GFC
Bargain of the Century
32. Elf Power – In A Cave
One of the coolest bands to come out of the Elephant 6 collective, but then again, there are very few bands that came out of that group that suck. A slight departure from their other albums, but it still has that TRex sound to it! (sorry, but I could only find one song on youtube, so I linked their myspace page. Owl Cut, Spiral Stairs and Paralyzed are all from In A Cave)
Spiral Stairs
http://www.myspace.com/elfpower
31. Hot Chip – Made in the Dark
Dance baby, Dance! More electronic 80’s dance syth music for the list from London. This one is a little more dance than 80’s but still a damn good time.
Ready for the Floor
One Pure Thought
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Best of 2008 List, 41 - 50
This year I have decided to expand my list to a top 50 because there was just way too much out there to listen to in 2008. Here are my picks at 41-50. I will try and post these pretty regularly so I don't lose track. Enjoy!
50. TV on the Radio – Dear Science
Depending on the day of the week, I find myself liking these guys, but just don’t ask me what day. At number 50 with a bang!
Dancing Choose
Golden Age
49. Supergrass – Diamond Hoo Ha
As a whole, this album is just ok, but it does have some great individual songs. In fact, every now and again, you can hear the rockin’ Supergrass of old.
Diamond Hoo Ha Man
Bad Blood
48. The Verve – Forth
OK, the reason this is on the list is because it is number 49 and it has been way too long since we have heard new material from the combo of Ashcroft and McCabe. After listening it to a couple of times, it turned out better than I expected, but that “Love is Noise” single is complete shit because of that stupid sample in it. Fuck that. Ashcroft, you are better than that, at least I thought you were. Anyway, here are a couple of tracks from the album that I think are worthwhile. One is a decent single and the other is a song that reminds you of what the Verve once were, a psychedelic rock and roll machine!
Rather Be
Columbo
47. My Morning Jacket – Evil Urges
A lot of people really liked this album, but I could never get completely into it. Don’t get me wrong, it has some pretty good rock and roll songs on it, but it just didn’t have much staying power. These guys are great musicians and make my list for that and for the fact that they are amazing live.
I’m Amazed
Touch Me I’m Going to Scream Pt. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFFwBA9DO34
46. Tapes n’ Tapes – Walk it Off
Ok, I just like the way the first couple of songs on this album rock. Nothing more.
Hang Them All
Conquest
45. Mates of State – Re-Arrange Us
Kind of lame, but there are some really catchy pop songs on this album. I know, it’s not for everyone, but give it a listen to if you want. Trust me, there are much worse husband and wife duos and Lawrence, Kansas doesn’t usually produce much in the realm of music.
Get Better
Jigsaw
44. REM – Accelerate
After that shit album they put out a few years ago, the boys from Athens, GA brought out the guitars again. Not their best work, but a solid album that reminds you of their talents.
Supernatural Superserious
Living Well is the Best Revenge
43. Of Montreal – Skeletal Lamping
Well, it is not as good as Cold Lamping with Flavor, but it does have it’s moments. Another band from Athens, GA makes the list and provides us with some solid tunes. Lead singer Kevin Barnes has been labeled by some as the next Bowie, but I just don’t see it. Just because you are weird and dance around wearing make-up does not make you rock god! Here are some songs from the album with putting your teeth into.
An Eluardian Instance
Id Engager
42. Nine Inch Nails – The Slip
Well, Trent may not be the sad man we once knew on pretty hate machine and the downward spiral, but he still can deliver some angry strong rock and roll. On top of that, it no longer takes him seven years to put out new material. Just for that he makes the list.
1,000,000
Echoplex
41. The Walkmen – You & Me
After their last album and hearing about how bad these guys are live, I wrote them off completely. Well, let me thank eMusic for giving me extra credits, because that is why I bought it. A unique or annoying voice accompanies these dark haunting riffs.
In the New Year
On the Water
50. TV on the Radio – Dear Science
Depending on the day of the week, I find myself liking these guys, but just don’t ask me what day. At number 50 with a bang!
Dancing Choose
Golden Age
49. Supergrass – Diamond Hoo Ha
As a whole, this album is just ok, but it does have some great individual songs. In fact, every now and again, you can hear the rockin’ Supergrass of old.
Diamond Hoo Ha Man
Bad Blood
48. The Verve – Forth
OK, the reason this is on the list is because it is number 49 and it has been way too long since we have heard new material from the combo of Ashcroft and McCabe. After listening it to a couple of times, it turned out better than I expected, but that “Love is Noise” single is complete shit because of that stupid sample in it. Fuck that. Ashcroft, you are better than that, at least I thought you were. Anyway, here are a couple of tracks from the album that I think are worthwhile. One is a decent single and the other is a song that reminds you of what the Verve once were, a psychedelic rock and roll machine!
Rather Be
Columbo
47. My Morning Jacket – Evil Urges
A lot of people really liked this album, but I could never get completely into it. Don’t get me wrong, it has some pretty good rock and roll songs on it, but it just didn’t have much staying power. These guys are great musicians and make my list for that and for the fact that they are amazing live.
I’m Amazed
Touch Me I’m Going to Scream Pt. 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFFwBA9DO34
46. Tapes n’ Tapes – Walk it Off
Ok, I just like the way the first couple of songs on this album rock. Nothing more.
Hang Them All
Conquest
45. Mates of State – Re-Arrange Us
Kind of lame, but there are some really catchy pop songs on this album. I know, it’s not for everyone, but give it a listen to if you want. Trust me, there are much worse husband and wife duos and Lawrence, Kansas doesn’t usually produce much in the realm of music.
Get Better
Jigsaw
44. REM – Accelerate
After that shit album they put out a few years ago, the boys from Athens, GA brought out the guitars again. Not their best work, but a solid album that reminds you of their talents.
Supernatural Superserious
Living Well is the Best Revenge
43. Of Montreal – Skeletal Lamping
Well, it is not as good as Cold Lamping with Flavor, but it does have it’s moments. Another band from Athens, GA makes the list and provides us with some solid tunes. Lead singer Kevin Barnes has been labeled by some as the next Bowie, but I just don’t see it. Just because you are weird and dance around wearing make-up does not make you rock god! Here are some songs from the album with putting your teeth into.
An Eluardian Instance
Id Engager
42. Nine Inch Nails – The Slip
Well, Trent may not be the sad man we once knew on pretty hate machine and the downward spiral, but he still can deliver some angry strong rock and roll. On top of that, it no longer takes him seven years to put out new material. Just for that he makes the list.
1,000,000
Echoplex
41. The Walkmen – You & Me
After their last album and hearing about how bad these guys are live, I wrote them off completely. Well, let me thank eMusic for giving me extra credits, because that is why I bought it. A unique or annoying voice accompanies these dark haunting riffs.
In the New Year
On the Water
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
THIS JUST IN... 2007's Top 20 Albums
1. Arcade Fire – Neon Bible
From the opening sounds of “Black Mirror,” you can tell this is going to be a huge album. Now believe me when I say, I understand that there is a lot of hype around this band and nobody wanted to dismiss this album to the sophomore slump pile more than I did, but I’m sorry, this album is amazing. The sound is big and beautiful and it leaves you wanting more from this band. If you have never had the opportunity, please make sure the next time they visit your town, you go and see them. This was my favorite album of the year as well as concert of the year at the Chicago Theatre.
Suggested Tracks: The whole fucking album! But if you have to listen to single tracks try these: Black Mirror, The Well and the Lighthouse, (Antichrist Television Blues), No Cars Go & Neon Bible
2. Radiohead – In Rainbows
The album the world was waiting to buy, or not to buy. That was the option the band gave their fans when the album was released. You got to pick the price you pay and I will tell you this, regardless if you got it for free or paid $1,000, you got your money’s worth. Their best album since OK Computer! From the opening track to the last song, this album plays off of the entire bands talents. You have your rock songs, your art songs, and your mellow chill ones. A very good piece of work that deserves all of the hype it received.
Suggested Tracks: Bodysnatchers, Nude, Faust Arp, Jigsaw Falling Into Place & Videotape
3. Beirut – The Flying Club Cup
Despite barely being able to buy a beer, Zach Condon can really arrange the fuck out of some vocals, horns and strings. The follow up to the acclaimed Gulag Orkestar, the Flying Club Cup is a great mix of melodies, harmonies and intrigue. Even if you do not like the Balkan sounds of this band, do your ears a favor and give it a listen. It is too interesting not to enjoy.
Suggested Tracks: Nantes, The Penalty, Cliquot & Forks and Knives
4. Interpol – Our Love to Admire
This is one of those bands that you look at and you just want to hate. One of those cocky New York poser bands that should really just suck, but you know what? THEY ROCK!!! Immediately after hitting play on your iPod, CD player, Turntable or whatever you use to listen to music these days, you find out that this album is a fantastic piece of work. Our Love to Admire is the third studio album released by Interpol and they just keep getting better.
Suggested Tracks: Pioneer to the Falls, No I in Threesome, The Heinrich Maneuver & Mammoth
5. The National – Boxer
Recommended by a friend, this album has quickly turned into one of my favorites. This is a very dark piece of work, but dark in the way a band like Joy Division can be, dark yet beautiful. Solid percussion work that stands out on its own accompanied by picturesque lyrics and delicate melodies makes this a must own for 2007.
Suggested Tracks: Fake Empire, Mistaken for Strangers, Squalor Victoria & Apartment Story
6. Apples in Stereo – New Magnetic Wonder
Two words to describe the new album: BILL DOSS. That’s right kids, the Bill Doss is a member of the Apples in Stereo. One of my favorite musicians from the Olivia Tremor Control is now playing keys, tambourine and providing sweet harmonies for the Apples. The new album is a quality piece of work ranging from their straight up beach boys pop sounds to their psychedelic beach boys sounds. Basically, Robert Schneider still has a hard on for Brian Wilson, but can you blame him? Not Elijah Wood, that‘s for sure. Yes, that Elijah Wood, the kid who played Frodo and North is a big fan of this band and made them the first group to sign on his new record label.
Suggested Tracks: Can You Feel It?, Energy, 7 Stars & Sun is Out
7. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club – Baby 81
The follow up to 2005’s Howl, BRMC loses the gospel rock and goes back to what originally made them special, psychedelic noise rock. From the opening notes on the first track, you realize that this album was going to be different then their last. A solid combination of noise and blues, these three guys from San Francisco show why they are one of the best American bands out right now.
Suggested tracks: Took Out A Loan, Weapon of Choice, Not What You Wanted, Need Some Air & All You Do Is Talk
8. Blonde Redhead – 23
Now these guys are just fucking cool! And on top of that, they are great live. Creating another very dark and moody album for the year, Blonde Redhead put together a fantastic group of songs made up of intriguing rhythm sections and soothing vocals. They are just as interesting to listen to as Sonic Youth only not as rocking. Don’t worry, it is still very good.
Suggested Tracks: 23, Dr. Strangeluv, SW & Top Ranking
9. The Good, The Bad & The Queen
This just in… Damon Albarn is a genius. What originally started off as a solo album turned into an unnamed band created by Albarn that includes Simon Tong (the verve), Tony Allen (Afrobeat) and the Clash’s Paul Simonon. Now, how cool is that? The creator of Blur and Gorillaz gets members of the verve, clash and one of the best percussion players in the world to start a band. The music of this band is dark and tells tales about life in London, which I hear is also very dark. The organ and crazy drums give this album sort of a crazed carnival feel. Definitely worth a listen!
Suggested tracks: Hurculean, Northern Whale, Kingdom of Doom, Three Changes & The Good, The Bad & The Queen
10. Band of Horses – Cease to Begin
You knew this album was going to be good before it even came out, because if you pre-ordered the album, they were going to send you a koozy with a dead bird on it that said band of horses. Now what kind of a band creates koozys for their fans? Two kinds, ones that rock and ones that suck. Yes, very scientific, but luckily for these guys they are of the rockin’ category. A great album that combines good old fashioned southern folk music with some straight up rock and roll!
Suggested tracks: Is There A Ghost, Ode To LRC, No One’s Gonna Love You & Island On the Coast
11. Broken Social Scene PRESENTS… Kevin Drew – Spirit if…
Some may say this is a solo album for Kevin Drew and for the most part it is, but considering that just about every member of the scene was on this album and the fact that album sounds exactly like a broken social scene album, I will consider this their new album. All of the ingredients are there. You have the slow intros orchestrated by the brass section, great melodies and guitar riffs, beautiful harmonies and amazing percussion. Sounds like another victory for the broken social scene.
Suggested Tracks: Farewell to the Pressure Kids, Lucky Ones, Safety Bricks & Bodhi Sappy Weekend
12. The Shins – Wincing the Night Away
Probably their most commercial album to date, Wincing the Night Away plays well for the traditional fans and opens up a new audience with such singles as Australia and Phantom Limb. Highly recommended and a great listen for anyone who needs a nice pick me up
Suggested Tracks – Sleeping Lessons, Australia, Phantom Limb, Sea Legs & Turn On Me
13. Albert Hammond Jr. – Yours to Keep
I picked up this album because of my allegiance to the strokes and to be honest, I had very low expectations for it, but after just one listen I was very impressed. In all honesty, as a strokes fan it is hard not to like this album. Why? Because it sounds just like the strokes, minus the major commercial rock song and the angry singing. So I guess it can best be described as a strokes album minus the “edge,” but either way a very good album.
Suggested Tracks: In Transit, Call an Ambulance, 101 & Hard to Live in the City
14. Feist – The Reminder
Wanna buy an iPod? Just ask Fiest, she has been selling them with her single “1 2 3 4” all over the world. Despite being overheard and seen every 20 minutes on the TV, this is a very good piece of work. Someone should ask her if she rents or owns those wings, because she has the voice of an angel. She has amazing range that can be used for jazz, pop or rock music and has done that on this album as well as her work with Broken Social Scene.
Suggested Tracks: I Feel It All, My Moon My Man, See Lion Woman, Past In Present & 1 2 3 4
15. Arctic Monkeys – Favourite Worst Nightmare
OK, I really hate to say this, but I actually like these guys. I mean kids. I think the oldest might be 23, but if you can write good songs, does it really matter how old you are (see Beirut for example)? This album is a nice mix for the band and you can really hear how they are influenced by such bands as the jam, the kinks, oasis, the clash and the smiths.
Suggested Tracks: If You Were There, Beware, Teddy Picker, D is for Dangerous, The Bad Thing & Fluorescent Adolescent
16. Travis – The Boy With No Name
Back in the late 90’s early 00’s, this was one of my favorite bands on the planet. I had seen them about 7 times during those years, but it seemed over time their music became extremely boring and adult contemporary, which is a shame for a band with great talent and whose opening track on their first album was called “all I wanna do is rock.” Despite the rock still not being there (and that’s ok), this album should have been the follow up to “the Man Who,” because it seems to pick up where that album left off. This is a great listen for anyone who at one time was or is a Travis fan.
Suggested Tracks: 3 Times and You Lose, Selfish Jean, Colder, Big Chair & My Eyes
17. LCD Soundsystem – Sound of Silver
OK, this is one of those “it” bands that I tend to write off because they are all hype with little to no substance, however after seeing these guys at Lollapalooza this year, I decided to give the album a chance, and I am glad I did. This upbeat groovy New York group makes you want to sing and dance. Albeit in the hipster dork-robot way of dancing, but still dancing nonetheless.
Suggested Tracks: All My Friends, Time To Get Away, North American Scum & Someone Great
18. The Polyphonic Spree – The Fragile Army
After their last album, I thought this band had worn off on me, but after seeing them perform live at Lollapalooza, I remembered why I liked them. Their sound is big and full of energy and because of that, they rarely disappoint me. Because of that, this album exceeded expectations and because of that, it squeezed into my list.
Suggested Tracks: Guaranteed Nightlife, Running Away, Watch Us Explode & The Fragile Army
19. Kings of Leon – Because of the Times
The third album from the band that was labeled as “the southern strokes” comes off a bit different than their other albums. Why? Because they are taking that “we’re getting older,” “we’re more mature,” “we don’t need to rock as much” approach with this album. Now don’t get me wrong, the songs that do rock on this album will kick you in the chest with the distortion pedal of god, but then again there are others that will only hit you like a slap bracelet.
Suggested Tracks: Knocked Up, Fans, On Call, Camaro, Arizona & McFearless
20. I’m From Barcelona – Let Me Introduce My Friends
The only reason this album is not higher on my list is because it was on my list last year. Yeah, I could have put another album on here to close out the 20, but this album is still the feel good album of the year. First, the reason it made both lists is because it was released in the states this past March and second, you cannot listen to this album and not clap your hands, stomp your feet of bob your head. It’s just fun! Just sit back, relax and let those crazy Swedes take you away to land filled with great pop music.
Suggested Tracks: Oversleeping, Collection of Stamps, We’re From Barcelona, Treehouse & Barcelona Loves You
Other notables (in no order)
• White Stripes – Icky Thump
• The Thrills – Teenager
• The Sea and Cake – Everybody
• The New Pornographers - Challengers
• Bjork – Volta
• The Hives – The Black and White Album
Disappointments (in no order)
• Of Montreal – Hissing Fauna, are you the destroyer?
• Modest Mouse – We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank
• Jarvis – Jarvis
• Clap Your Hands Say Yeah – Some Loud Thunder
• Wilco – Sky Blue Sky
From the opening sounds of “Black Mirror,” you can tell this is going to be a huge album. Now believe me when I say, I understand that there is a lot of hype around this band and nobody wanted to dismiss this album to the sophomore slump pile more than I did, but I’m sorry, this album is amazing. The sound is big and beautiful and it leaves you wanting more from this band. If you have never had the opportunity, please make sure the next time they visit your town, you go and see them. This was my favorite album of the year as well as concert of the year at the Chicago Theatre.
Suggested Tracks: The whole fucking album! But if you have to listen to single tracks try these: Black Mirror, The Well and the Lighthouse, (Antichrist Television Blues), No Cars Go & Neon Bible
2. Radiohead – In Rainbows
The album the world was waiting to buy, or not to buy. That was the option the band gave their fans when the album was released. You got to pick the price you pay and I will tell you this, regardless if you got it for free or paid $1,000, you got your money’s worth. Their best album since OK Computer! From the opening track to the last song, this album plays off of the entire bands talents. You have your rock songs, your art songs, and your mellow chill ones. A very good piece of work that deserves all of the hype it received.
Suggested Tracks: Bodysnatchers, Nude, Faust Arp, Jigsaw Falling Into Place & Videotape
3. Beirut – The Flying Club Cup
Despite barely being able to buy a beer, Zach Condon can really arrange the fuck out of some vocals, horns and strings. The follow up to the acclaimed Gulag Orkestar, the Flying Club Cup is a great mix of melodies, harmonies and intrigue. Even if you do not like the Balkan sounds of this band, do your ears a favor and give it a listen. It is too interesting not to enjoy.
Suggested Tracks: Nantes, The Penalty, Cliquot & Forks and Knives
4. Interpol – Our Love to Admire
This is one of those bands that you look at and you just want to hate. One of those cocky New York poser bands that should really just suck, but you know what? THEY ROCK!!! Immediately after hitting play on your iPod, CD player, Turntable or whatever you use to listen to music these days, you find out that this album is a fantastic piece of work. Our Love to Admire is the third studio album released by Interpol and they just keep getting better.
Suggested Tracks: Pioneer to the Falls, No I in Threesome, The Heinrich Maneuver & Mammoth
5. The National – Boxer
Recommended by a friend, this album has quickly turned into one of my favorites. This is a very dark piece of work, but dark in the way a band like Joy Division can be, dark yet beautiful. Solid percussion work that stands out on its own accompanied by picturesque lyrics and delicate melodies makes this a must own for 2007.
Suggested Tracks: Fake Empire, Mistaken for Strangers, Squalor Victoria & Apartment Story
6. Apples in Stereo – New Magnetic Wonder
Two words to describe the new album: BILL DOSS. That’s right kids, the Bill Doss is a member of the Apples in Stereo. One of my favorite musicians from the Olivia Tremor Control is now playing keys, tambourine and providing sweet harmonies for the Apples. The new album is a quality piece of work ranging from their straight up beach boys pop sounds to their psychedelic beach boys sounds. Basically, Robert Schneider still has a hard on for Brian Wilson, but can you blame him? Not Elijah Wood, that‘s for sure. Yes, that Elijah Wood, the kid who played Frodo and North is a big fan of this band and made them the first group to sign on his new record label.
Suggested Tracks: Can You Feel It?, Energy, 7 Stars & Sun is Out
7. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club – Baby 81
The follow up to 2005’s Howl, BRMC loses the gospel rock and goes back to what originally made them special, psychedelic noise rock. From the opening notes on the first track, you realize that this album was going to be different then their last. A solid combination of noise and blues, these three guys from San Francisco show why they are one of the best American bands out right now.
Suggested tracks: Took Out A Loan, Weapon of Choice, Not What You Wanted, Need Some Air & All You Do Is Talk
8. Blonde Redhead – 23
Now these guys are just fucking cool! And on top of that, they are great live. Creating another very dark and moody album for the year, Blonde Redhead put together a fantastic group of songs made up of intriguing rhythm sections and soothing vocals. They are just as interesting to listen to as Sonic Youth only not as rocking. Don’t worry, it is still very good.
Suggested Tracks: 23, Dr. Strangeluv, SW & Top Ranking
9. The Good, The Bad & The Queen
This just in… Damon Albarn is a genius. What originally started off as a solo album turned into an unnamed band created by Albarn that includes Simon Tong (the verve), Tony Allen (Afrobeat) and the Clash’s Paul Simonon. Now, how cool is that? The creator of Blur and Gorillaz gets members of the verve, clash and one of the best percussion players in the world to start a band. The music of this band is dark and tells tales about life in London, which I hear is also very dark. The organ and crazy drums give this album sort of a crazed carnival feel. Definitely worth a listen!
Suggested tracks: Hurculean, Northern Whale, Kingdom of Doom, Three Changes & The Good, The Bad & The Queen
10. Band of Horses – Cease to Begin
You knew this album was going to be good before it even came out, because if you pre-ordered the album, they were going to send you a koozy with a dead bird on it that said band of horses. Now what kind of a band creates koozys for their fans? Two kinds, ones that rock and ones that suck. Yes, very scientific, but luckily for these guys they are of the rockin’ category. A great album that combines good old fashioned southern folk music with some straight up rock and roll!
Suggested tracks: Is There A Ghost, Ode To LRC, No One’s Gonna Love You & Island On the Coast
11. Broken Social Scene PRESENTS… Kevin Drew – Spirit if…
Some may say this is a solo album for Kevin Drew and for the most part it is, but considering that just about every member of the scene was on this album and the fact that album sounds exactly like a broken social scene album, I will consider this their new album. All of the ingredients are there. You have the slow intros orchestrated by the brass section, great melodies and guitar riffs, beautiful harmonies and amazing percussion. Sounds like another victory for the broken social scene.
Suggested Tracks: Farewell to the Pressure Kids, Lucky Ones, Safety Bricks & Bodhi Sappy Weekend
12. The Shins – Wincing the Night Away
Probably their most commercial album to date, Wincing the Night Away plays well for the traditional fans and opens up a new audience with such singles as Australia and Phantom Limb. Highly recommended and a great listen for anyone who needs a nice pick me up
Suggested Tracks – Sleeping Lessons, Australia, Phantom Limb, Sea Legs & Turn On Me
13. Albert Hammond Jr. – Yours to Keep
I picked up this album because of my allegiance to the strokes and to be honest, I had very low expectations for it, but after just one listen I was very impressed. In all honesty, as a strokes fan it is hard not to like this album. Why? Because it sounds just like the strokes, minus the major commercial rock song and the angry singing. So I guess it can best be described as a strokes album minus the “edge,” but either way a very good album.
Suggested Tracks: In Transit, Call an Ambulance, 101 & Hard to Live in the City
14. Feist – The Reminder
Wanna buy an iPod? Just ask Fiest, she has been selling them with her single “1 2 3 4” all over the world. Despite being overheard and seen every 20 minutes on the TV, this is a very good piece of work. Someone should ask her if she rents or owns those wings, because she has the voice of an angel. She has amazing range that can be used for jazz, pop or rock music and has done that on this album as well as her work with Broken Social Scene.
Suggested Tracks: I Feel It All, My Moon My Man, See Lion Woman, Past In Present & 1 2 3 4
15. Arctic Monkeys – Favourite Worst Nightmare
OK, I really hate to say this, but I actually like these guys. I mean kids. I think the oldest might be 23, but if you can write good songs, does it really matter how old you are (see Beirut for example)? This album is a nice mix for the band and you can really hear how they are influenced by such bands as the jam, the kinks, oasis, the clash and the smiths.
Suggested Tracks: If You Were There, Beware, Teddy Picker, D is for Dangerous, The Bad Thing & Fluorescent Adolescent
16. Travis – The Boy With No Name
Back in the late 90’s early 00’s, this was one of my favorite bands on the planet. I had seen them about 7 times during those years, but it seemed over time their music became extremely boring and adult contemporary, which is a shame for a band with great talent and whose opening track on their first album was called “all I wanna do is rock.” Despite the rock still not being there (and that’s ok), this album should have been the follow up to “the Man Who,” because it seems to pick up where that album left off. This is a great listen for anyone who at one time was or is a Travis fan.
Suggested Tracks: 3 Times and You Lose, Selfish Jean, Colder, Big Chair & My Eyes
17. LCD Soundsystem – Sound of Silver
OK, this is one of those “it” bands that I tend to write off because they are all hype with little to no substance, however after seeing these guys at Lollapalooza this year, I decided to give the album a chance, and I am glad I did. This upbeat groovy New York group makes you want to sing and dance. Albeit in the hipster dork-robot way of dancing, but still dancing nonetheless.
Suggested Tracks: All My Friends, Time To Get Away, North American Scum & Someone Great
18. The Polyphonic Spree – The Fragile Army
After their last album, I thought this band had worn off on me, but after seeing them perform live at Lollapalooza, I remembered why I liked them. Their sound is big and full of energy and because of that, they rarely disappoint me. Because of that, this album exceeded expectations and because of that, it squeezed into my list.
Suggested Tracks: Guaranteed Nightlife, Running Away, Watch Us Explode & The Fragile Army
19. Kings of Leon – Because of the Times
The third album from the band that was labeled as “the southern strokes” comes off a bit different than their other albums. Why? Because they are taking that “we’re getting older,” “we’re more mature,” “we don’t need to rock as much” approach with this album. Now don’t get me wrong, the songs that do rock on this album will kick you in the chest with the distortion pedal of god, but then again there are others that will only hit you like a slap bracelet.
Suggested Tracks: Knocked Up, Fans, On Call, Camaro, Arizona & McFearless
20. I’m From Barcelona – Let Me Introduce My Friends
The only reason this album is not higher on my list is because it was on my list last year. Yeah, I could have put another album on here to close out the 20, but this album is still the feel good album of the year. First, the reason it made both lists is because it was released in the states this past March and second, you cannot listen to this album and not clap your hands, stomp your feet of bob your head. It’s just fun! Just sit back, relax and let those crazy Swedes take you away to land filled with great pop music.
Suggested Tracks: Oversleeping, Collection of Stamps, We’re From Barcelona, Treehouse & Barcelona Loves You
Other notables (in no order)
• White Stripes – Icky Thump
• The Thrills – Teenager
• The Sea and Cake – Everybody
• The New Pornographers - Challengers
• Bjork – Volta
• The Hives – The Black and White Album
Disappointments (in no order)
• Of Montreal – Hissing Fauna, are you the destroyer?
• Modest Mouse – We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank
• Jarvis – Jarvis
• Clap Your Hands Say Yeah – Some Loud Thunder
• Wilco – Sky Blue Sky
Monday, August 27, 2007
Lollapalooza Photos
Here's the link to some of the photos that I took during Lollapalooza weekend.
Lollapalooza Photos
enjoy,
JP
Lollapalooza Photos
enjoy,
JP
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Finally, a new post
It has been some time since I put anything on here, so I figured why not start all over by posting about Lollapalooza, the reason I started this blog.
I will write more about the show later, but I thought I would share some pictures for the time being. Enjoy - JP
Viva Voce
LCD Soundsystem w/ Skyline
Daft Punk = French Robots
I'm From Barcelona - I could not fit the whole band in the photo. I counted at least 20 of them on stage.
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Karen O is the coolest
I will write more about the show later, but I thought I would share some pictures for the time being. Enjoy - JP
Viva Voce
LCD Soundsystem w/ Skyline
Daft Punk = French Robots
I'm From Barcelona - I could not fit the whole band in the photo. I counted at least 20 of them on stage.
Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Karen O is the coolest
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