Bakers Dozen: Best Sports Movies: Baseball

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OK. So, it may be time to get back to making real lists. I mean, we do call ourselves Listologies and everything. So, here we go.

For a long time now, and I mean years, I have been mulling over the idea of doing a best sports movies list, divided by sport. But, I could never settle on a ranking. Writing and rewriting over and over again. But, I figured, a prefect order doesn't really matter, not really. So, I just jumped in. First off, Baseball. I realize it is not baseball season, but I am doing these in reverse order of my favorite sports. So I hope you enjoy. 

You'll notice, Pride of The Yankees and Bang The Drum Slowly are not featured, this is not an error.

1. Bull Durham
This is not just a movie about baseball, it is a moving life lesson. This far and away Kevin Costner's best work, not counting Waterworld.


2. League Of Their Own
This is no chick flick. Don't even give me crap about it. It has more heart and love for baseball than almost any of the guy-centric flicks on this list.


3. Moneyball
This is new, and some might scoff that it is ahead of Field of Dreams and The Sandlot, but it is probably my9 second favorite film of 2012, and that says a hell of a lot. The acting is by both leads is spectacular.


4. Field Of Dreams
Does K. Costner make anything but baseball movies?! I know the answer of that is no, but I wish it was  yes.


5. The Sandlot
There are not many kids movies that resonate with adults as much as this one does. It does not matter if you are 9 or 90, you will love this movie.


6. For Love Of The Game
I know that I am on my own with this movie. It's long, plodding, and a bit heavy handed. But I love it. Honestly and truly. Yet again, Mr. Costner shines, but its Jena Malone that steals the show on this one.


7. The Rookie
When I first wrote this list, I had this movie all the way up at number 3, then later, down at number 11. This is the movie that prevented me from publishing this list for the last few years. But, it is so great.


8. 8 Men Out
Just look at that cast. The acting. And the heartbreak of Buck getting banned for no reason. One of the most tragic stories in baseball history, told beautifully.


9. Major League
Who knew dysfunction could be so damn funny. Far and away the funniest baseball movie ever made.


10. The Natural
I know this would be near, if not on the top, of so many other peoples list. And don't get me wrong, it's great, but its also so boring!


11. Brewster’s Millions
I know most of you do not consider this a baseball movie, but Monty is a baseball player, and what does he do with his money? He sets up his minor league team against the NYY. Granted, there is a lot more going on than baseball, but the movie is all the better for it.


12. Sugar
This is a dark horse kind of baseball movie. I know more people who have never heard of this than have seen it. If you have not seen it, watch it. I think 20 years from now, this will be considered a landmark sports movie.


13. Hardball
Yeah, I know. But it was either this or Angles In The Outfield. And this felt less wrong.

Best of 2011: Albums

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This year, for the first time in many years, seemed insignificant. One day bled into the next until this year felt like last. Stretching within my own confines proved to be a fruitless task, this year was doomed to be nothing special, static, and forgettable. Understand, this is not a bad thing; quite possibly, it is something to celebrate. No news is good news. My life, for the first time in years, was dramaless and boring. Dramaless and boring, is great for one thing. Losing oneself in those true inner passions. Rediscovering exactly how discovering something feels. This was my year in music. A year of discovery. And it was bountiful.

This was a helluva year for music, not really for albums as a whole, but for music in general. I know that sounds contradictory, but, stick with me. Out of the 217 albums/EP's/singles that I picked up this year, very few felt complete. But, so many had something spectacular to share. A song here, a lyric there, something unique. This is definitely more so the year of the song, rather than the album. However, with that said, I still scoured through the 217 records in my 2011 collection, and there are about 20 standouts which I have narrowed down to my favorite 13. 

So, it's that time. It's the list I work on all year. My favorite list to write. I hope you enjoy. 

1. The Rural Alberta Advantage - Departing 

 Listening to this record is like forgetting. The RAA allows you to lose yourself within yourself. Allows you to forgive and redeem yourself in 16 bars.

It shocks me to no end that The RAA is not the biggest band in the world. They can craft a song like it's a habit. They can haunt, enthrall, engage, and epic from one song to the next. Listening to this record is like forgetting. The RAA allows you to lose yourself within yourself. Allows you to forgive and redeem yourself in 16 bars. This is my go to album. This is the record that ten years from now will define 2011 for me. That is why it is number 1.
"Two Lovers"

Songs that Hit: Every Single One.
Songs that Miss: Nil.
Songs that I will listen to forever: Goodnight, Two Lovers, Coldest Days, Tornado '87, Stamp, Muscle Relaxants

2. Lissie - Catching A Tiger
Lissie sings with a reckless abandon that can only be celebrated.

First things first, this record was released in the latter stages of 2010. But, it was too good to pass up, and as you loyal readers will remember, I often count anything released after September of the as part of next year, for musical purposes. How am I to develop a relationship with a record in so few months? So, this is included. I hope you can deal.
There are some voices that sing you. And there are some voices that move you. Lissie sings with a reckless abandon that can only be celebrated. She is so distinct, so unique and powerful, that I often think it will work against her in the long run. But for now, and as long as she is putting out music, I'll champion it the best I can.
Lissie came so close to being the number one record of the year, that I would not be surprised, if when I do my annual review, she does not pop up there.
"Worried About"

Songs that Hit: Nearly All.
Songs that Miss: Stranger
Songs that I will listen to forever: When I'm Alone, Everywhere I Go, Worried About, Oh Mississippi, Record Collector

3. Middle Brother - Middle Brother 
Because each member of Middle Brother is so immeasurably talented, it is like the band has multiple personality disorder. From one song to a next, you never know what you are going to get, and yet it never fails to disappoint. 

Super groups are commonplace these days. With the way the music industry is, and how bands starting out seem to be built on a support system of other bands, it's understandable that they would often find kinship in their likemindedness and passions. Most of those bands fail *cough*monsters of folk*cough* but every now and then, one will show up and far outshine the bands they came from. One of those bands is Middle Brother. Comprised of the frontmen of Deer Tick, Delta Spirit and Dawes (appearing later on this list) this band has found something within eachother that is lacking from each individual part. Because each member of Middle Brother is so immeasurably talented, it is like the band has multiple personality disorder. From one song to a next, you never know what you are going to get, and yet it never fails to disappoint.
"Someday"

Songs that Hit: All.
Songs that Miss: None.
Songs that I will listen to forever: Someday, Million Dollar Bill, Wilderness, Portland, Thanks For Nothing, Bloods and Guts, Mom and Dad.

4. The Belle Brigade - The Belle Brigade
This is the kind of record that will ninja your world.

This brother and sister duo takes me back to my childhood. Not that they have been around that long, hell, this is their debut, but their sound is so classic, it feels like they are displaced in this era. And I am grateful. Their harmonies and song structures bleed their influences. Simon & Funkel and Fleetwood Mac most notably.
This is the kind of record that will ninja your world. As I go through the year, any song that I really feel, I give 5 stars on my iPod. When all was said and done, I had gathered 286 songs that garnered that rating. When I reviewed my list, I was utterly shocked to find that The Belle Brigade were the most starred band, getting 8 songs on that list. This albums slowly took over my life.
"Sweet Louise"

Songs that Hit: Nearly all work yet again. And those that don't, just barely fail.
Songs that Miss: Rusted Wheel
Songs that I will listen to forever: Sweet Louise, Losers, Where Not To Look For Freedom, Fasten You To Me, Lucky Guy,

5. Noah Gundersen - Family
Everytime Noah Gundersen plays, it is like he is cutting out his own heart and putting it on a platter for all of us to see. There is not a more honest voice in the game right now.

If this record was longer, it would be number one. I cannot justify putting a 7 track album at the top. I know that is a little close minded, but if this was one song shorter, I'd have to consider it an EP. Releasing a record with only 7 tracks is a gamble, if one song fails, the album is like 15% failure. Luckily, Noah, does not not have that concern, as he does not fail. Everytime Noah Gundersen plays, it is like he is cutting out his own heart and putting it on a platter for all of us to see. There is not a more honest voice in the game right now. I say that with so much reverence, so many of us try to hide behind ourselves that we often get lost in the facade of who we want to be, rather then who we are. Noah Gundersen is who he is, and he sings it outright, and it's f'n grand.
"David"

Songs that Hit: All
Songs that Miss: None.
Songs that I will listen to forever: Family, Garden, David, Nashville

6. Campfire OK - Strange Like We Are
I think, if not the shadow of the Head and the Heart's hustle, this would be considered the best band in Seattle right now. Easily.

So, if you read my Best Of The Northwest blog a few days ago, you would have notice this band was number, one, and Noah Gundersen sat firmly at number 2. I do not want this to shine any negative light on Campfire OK. This album is fanfuckingtastic. It's just that I could write this list, or the NW one, for that matter, 100 times and Noah and CFOK would filpflop 50 times.

Campfire OK's debut album is one of the more complete records I have heard in many many years. There is not a throw away track among the bunch. In today's digital music industry, when albums are pushed out so fast, this is one hell of an accomplishment.

I think, if not the shadow of the Head and the Heart's hustle, this would be considered the best band in Seattle right now. Easily. And, I am sure, soon enough, the rest of the country is going to catch on as well. And that is in no way a slight to THATH, you all know how much I love them, but Campfire OK, is wow
"Strange Like We Are"

Songs that Hit: All.
Songs that Miss: Nada.
Songs that I will listen to forever: Complimenting Parts, Strange Like We Are, Not Young Not Old, Brass, Mexico N-O

7. The Civil Wars - Barton Hollow
On quiet days, when alone starts to veer into lonely, sometimes all you need is the right album. This is the right album. 

This is the first album I feel in love with this year. Like really fell in love with. And it's staying power is remarkable. When you are me, and you sift through 217 albums in a year, its easy to forget the old as the new shuffles in. And for the most part, there is a record or two that I lose along the way each year due to this plight. But not The Civil Wars. On quiet days, when alone starts to veer into lonely, sometimes all you need is the right album. This is the right album. Thank you The Civil Wars.
"Barton Hollow"

Songs that Hit: C'est La Mort, Barton Hollow, The Violet Hour, Falling, Forget Me Not, Dance Me TO The End Of Love, Dance Me To The End Of Love, To Whom It May Concern,  and of course Poison and Wine
Songs that Miss: My Father's Father
Songs that I will listen to forever: C'est La Mort, Barton Hollow, The Violet Hour, Poison and Wine

8. Dawes - Nothing Is Wrong
This record came out of nowhere and choked me out of my self induced stupor.

It's funny to me that I have this album ranked ahead of the one that follows. Dawes is a band that snuck right up on me. I was going to a concert for Brett Dennen, and for Brett Dennen only, but, being the audiophile I am, I opted, as I always opt, to make sure I was early enough to catch the opening act. This band that my friend who sold me her tickets to the show, was very excited to see. A band that I had never heard of. This little band called Dawes. A little band the blew me away. A little band, who's album I purchased based on that set alone, is now sitting pretty at number 8 in 2011. This record came out of nowhere and choked me out of my self induced stupor. It ruined my game of listening and not hearing, and I could not be more grateful. It is a pleasure to find that Harry Chapin-esque song writing like this still exists.
"So Well"

Songs that Hit: Time Spent In Los Angeles, Coming Back To A Man, So Well, How Far We've Come, Fire Away, Million Dollar Bill, A Little Bit Of Everything
Songs that Miss: Moon In The Water
Songs that I will listen to forever: So Well, How Far We've Come, Million Dollar Bill, A Little Bit Of Everything

9. Brett Dennen - Loverboy
This is my summertimegoodfundrivingwiththewindowsdown album.

This is my summertimegoodfundrivingwiththewindowsdown album. There is just something about that man that sings out to the ugly kid inside of me. It just works. Brett Dennen has long been a mixtape staple of mine, but this record goes beyond the occasional fantastic track, and delves into something more. This singer songwriter has found that special thing that only the rarest of the singer songwriters latch onto, something where he can make you dance on one track, and break your heart on the next, and it always feels genuine. Honest.
"Comeback Kid (That's My Dog)"

Songs that Hit: Dancing At A Funeral, Comeback Kid (That's My Dog), Sydney (I'll Come Running), Make You Fall In Love With Me, Can't Stop Thinking About You, Song For Leaving, Alone Again
Songs that Miss: Little Cosmic Girl, Queen Of The Westside
Songs that I will listen to forever: Dancing At A Funeral, Comeback Kid (That's My Dog), Sydney (I'll Come Running), Make You Fall In Love With Me, Alone Again

10. Jessica Lea Mayfield - Tell Me
Her coy demeanor, and her aloof voice draws you in, and washes over you in cloud of stillness.

I didn't know apathetic could be sexy. But somehow, Jessica Lea Mayfield makes it happen. Her voice has an "I have feelings, but I don't give a shit" vibe to it that is impossible to describe until you hear it. Now, does that voice make this a good record? I think it might. Her coy demeanor, and her aloof voice draws you in, and washes over you in cloud of stillness. This album makes you stop, dead in your tracks and take stock of your life.

"Sometimes At Night"

Songs that Hit: I'll Be The One You Want Some Day, Our Hearts Are Wrong, Somewhere In Your Heart, Grown Man, Sometimes At Night, Tell Me, Sleepless
Songs that Miss: Run Myself Into The Ground
Songs that I will listen to forever: I'll Be The One You Want Some Day, Our Hearts Are Wrong, Somewhere In Your Heart, Grown Man, Sometimes At Night, Tell Me, Sleepless

11. Slow Club - Paradise
The band has found it maturity without losing its gleeful edge.

I was so blindly enamored with Slow Club that even before their record came out, I wrote on a song of the day for The Belle Brigade that I was reserving the top spot for album of the year for this record. And even as I wrote this today, I had to honestly look at my rankings, and drop them from #4, down to #11, where they actually belong. I have a blindspot for this English pop duo, but this record is not Yeah, So, and I cannot pretend that it is. But, that said, this record is still very good. I mean, 11 out of 217, that's 95% better than anything else out there. That's something. The band has found it maturity without losing its gleeful edge. Sadly, I do not think this record will win new fans, namely my co-blogger Stevie, but, for a guy with a Slow Club blindspot, it's special.
"Hackney Marsh"

Songs that Hit: Two Cousins, Hackney Marsh, Never Look Back (Acoustic), Palms, Half Drunk, Where I'm Waking, Beginners, The Dog, Horses Jumping, You Earth or Ash
Songs that Miss: Gold Mountain
Songs that I will listen to forever: Two Cousins, Hackney Marsh, Never Look Back (Acoustic), You Earth or Ash

12. Wye Oak - Civilian
Wye Oak's dark album pulsates with such raw energy that is palpable.

Another boy/girl duo. Huh. I didn't realize how many of those "acts" would end up in the top 13.
Wye Oak's dark album pulsates with such raw energy that is palpable. This is the kind of record that I am at a loss of words for, yet cannot stop talking about. I am just gonna let the music tell you the story.
"Fish"

Songs that Hit: All.
Songs that Miss: Nope, none.
Songs that I will listen to forever: Fish, Holy Holy, Civilian

13. Atmosphere - The Family Sign
It is everything a hip-hop album should be. It is complete, rare and a masterclass.  

The songs within The Family Sign are unlike anyother hip-hop record I have laid my ears on. It is intelligent without being preachy. It is dramatic without being exaggerated. It is moving without being soft. It is honest and open without being weak and exposed. It is everything a hip-hop album should be. It is complete, rare and a masterclass.
"My Notes"

Songs that Hit: My Key, My Notes, Your Name Here, I Don't Need Brighter Days, Became, Last To Say, Something So
Songs that Miss: Bad Bad Daddy
Songs that I will listen to forever: Became, Last To Say, Something So, My Notes

Honorable Mention
Adele - 21
Cults - Cults
James Vincent McMorrow - Early In The Morning
Lykee Li - Wounded Rhymes
Manchester Orchestra - Simple Math

Best of 2011: Hip-Hop & R&B

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So, if you read my blog, and I hope you do, you will probably notice a lack of all things Hip-Hop. Now, that is not because I do not listen to it, rather it's because I fear I am not a good judge of it. Every year, my audiophile friends will suggest an album or two that I am "sure to love" and it never sticks. Take the new Lil' Wayne record this year. I cannot count how many people told me that I need to feature that record, that it was the best of the year, and yet, only one song stuck. In years past I've always ended up finding things a little off the beaten track, picking up mixtapes or gravitating to artists like K'Naan, Cage, and Atmosphere. But, I figured,  there have to be a few others out there that have a skewed view of what is right, and solid and good in the hip-hop/r&b world. So, here is what I dig in 2011.

I am not going to be so bold to actually review each album, but I'll share a track and the album cover and let it speak for itself.

Just as a side note. Big K.R.I.T. may only sit at number 13 on this list, but his song The Vent is one of the best written songs I have ever heard. In any genre.

1. Atmosphere - The Family Sign

"Became"

2. Frank Ocean - nostalgia, ULTRA.

"Strawberry Swing"


3. Drake - Take Care

"Lord Knows"


4. Jay Z & Kanye West - Watch The Throne

"Otis"


5. The Weeknd  - House Of Balloons

"The Party & The After Party"


6. Wale - Ambition 

"Slight Work"


7. Pusha T - Fear of God Part 1 & 2 

OK, so this one needs a bit of an intro. Pusha T, of Clipse, opted to be a genius this year. First, stepping out on one of my favorite hip-hop duos is a bit risky. But then he went and released Fear Of God, as a free Mixtape, and I knew all was right in the world. He later followed it up with an actual release, Part II, and his prowess was only on further display. He is a man on his own track, and he owns it.
"Open Your Eyes" (From Part 1)

"Amen" (From Part 2)


8. Lupe Fiasco - Lasers

"I Don't Wanna Care Right Now"


9. We F.A.M. - Reality Check

"Why"

.
10. Talib Kweli - Gutter Rainbowstor

"GMB"

11. Toro Y Moi - Underneath The Pine

"Still Sound"


12. The Cool Kids - When Fish Ride Bicycles

"Bundle Up"

13. Big K.R.I.T. - Return of 4Eva

"The Vent"

Year In Music: Best Albums of 2010, A Look Back.

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I generally like to do a quarterly revisit of my best albums of the year, but I am not going to do that this year. This will more then likely be my only revisit. It was a weak year in music, outside of the top 6 records, it really was a struggle to fill out a full list of 13.  

I do this, in part because, it is funny how albums stay the same as you change. You realize that overtime you are listening to some albums more than others, and some you are not listening to at all after the luster wears off. But also, upon reviewing my previous best of lists, I would change so much in retrospect. So, this is to document how my mind is evolving throughout the year.

Below you will see the albums ranked in their new order with the original ranking in parentheses. You will also see my original introduction for this list, as well as each original review listed as they were back when first posted. I have very few new insights, but I will put my them in a lovely shade of pink.

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This year, for the first time in many years, seemed insignificant. One day bled into the next until this year felt like last. Stretching within my own confines proved to be a fruitless task, this year was doomed to be nothing special, static, and forgettable. Understand, this is not a bad thing; quite possibly, it is something to celebrate. No news is good news. My life, for the first time in years, was dramaless and boring. Dramaless and boring, is great for one thing. Losing oneself in those true inner passions. Rediscovering exactly how discovering something feels. This was my year in music. A year of discovery. And it was bountiful.
(Yes, that is the same intro I wrote for last year's Year In Music Review, but it is still prefect, so deal)
This year I purchased 163 records and EP's that were released between Oct. 2009 and Nov 2010. Just writing that makes me feel sick. Both with the concept of how much money I spent (I do not steal music) and the prospect of narrowing that down to 13 records. FUCK, a 163 records?!?!? Seriously, I need a life or something. The biggest issue with that, most were unremarkable.
So, it's that time. It's the list I work all year on. And even as I write it today, with all my choices narrowed down, I still do not feel great about it. It's not so much about the quality of the music, my issue is with the order. I feel like it is a clear near tie for the top 3, a solid number 4 and then another tie for the remaining 7. It is as if, any order will do. However, you will notice, this is easily my most eclectic collection ever. It ranges from piano pop driven stuff, to 80's revival, to egotistical hiphop, to a butt load of traditional folk and indie folk revival. It is quite the genre busting list.
I apologize, my reviews are not going to be as elaborate this year. I usually take about a month to review all these records and write all my thoughts down. But I had trouble narrowing down after the top 4, then got hit with a nasty flu bug. So, I will give brief reviews this year, and attach a sample song. Enjoy.
You will notice, that the top 7 have remained practically unchanged, outside of fact that there is no longer a tie for 1st place. Wakey!Wakey! has actually pulled away, and it surprised the hell out of me. I expected it to go the way of THATH. 
Outside of that, You will only see some slight up and down, and two new additions. I hope you enjoy.


1. Wakey!Wakey! - Almost Everything I Wish I'd Said The Last Time I Saw You... (1a.)

Sexy. Heartpunching. Dancey. Sing-a-long-a-thon. Impactful.

So, piano pop melodies have never been something I gravitated towards in my musical endeavors. I try to stay as cool and indie as possible. But, some records just just need to be reckoned with, no matter how uncool they make you feel to love.
Sexy. Heartpunching. Dancey. Sing-a-long-a-thon. Impactful. This string of mostly made up words should never be used together to describe one artist, let alone one record. But, it barely does the job here. I have never had the urge to both harmonize, cry, boogie and make-out at the same time in my life. Nor would I recommend doing all those activities at the same time, but that is what this record does to me.
This record is old cheese. It gets better and better the longer it sits. I put this record away for about a month, picked it back up, and fell hard back in love with it. I did the same with The Head and the Heart, and although I still loved it, it made it clear which record I favored. This is now hands down the best record of 2010. 
"Feral Love"

Songs that Hit: All. Yes, every single pop hook.
Songs that Miss: Nil.
Songs that I will listen to forever: Feral Love. Car Crash. Dance So Good. The Oh Song. Almost Everything...


2. The Head and the Heart - The Head and the Heart (1b)

This Seattle band is going to be the biggest thing to come out of the area in the last 10 years. Easily.

I wrote this list in my head 10 different times, and this record was king of the hill 5 of those times. It was honestly a toss up. So, if you look closely, this is actually ranked 1b. Yeah, I cheated. But this Seattle band is going to be the biggest thing to come out of the area in the last 10 years. Easily. This album, from top to bottom is SPECTACULAR. It came down to the point where I was searching for something not to like about it. It took a while, but I found it, the one and only thing I cannot stand on this record is that 2 or 3 second gap they have between the songs. It's wasteful. Also, easily the best live band out there right now, and the second best show I have ever been too. So, yes, this is my local pick, but, they would make the list if they were from Germany.
I do now want my demotion of this record from a first place tie to second place to come off as a, excuse my 90's vernacular, diss. It was just a matter of circumstance, and the everlasting strength of Wakey!Wakey. 
"Ghosts"

Songs that Hit: Every GD amazing track.  

Songs that miss: The fact that they use real animal sounds on "Cat's and Dog's" bugs me, but it's still a gem of a song.

Songs that I will listen to forever: Ghosts. Down In The Valley. Sounds Like Hallelujah. Honey Come Home. Lost In My Mind. Winter Song. 

3. Tallest Man On Earth - The Wild Hunt (3)

The warmth of this record permeates everything.

Sometimes, while trying to emulate your heroes, you fail and stumble into yourself. And that is about as much as I want to comment on all the Bob Dylan comparisons that are clearly unavoidable. This record is so much more than a Dylan knockoff.
"As it stands, as of 4/18/2010, this is one of the best records of the year. Top spot possible, top three probable." This is one of my bold predictions that actually held firm, and it's easy to see why. The warmth of this record permeates everything. I know I am ranking this record number 3 of the year, but I turn to it more often than any other this year. It's my music to write too record. My music to mope to record. My music too shut my eyes too record. This is my any excuse record.
Yes sir.
"Love Is All"

Songs that Hit: Hard to find a fault in this entire record.

Songs that Miss: Burden of Tomorrow, but just barely.

Songs that I will listen to forever: Love Is All. King of Spain. Kids on the Run. The Drying of the Lawns. Troubles Will Be Gone.

4. Girls - Album (4)

It is a story of drunk teen angst, and beautiful sloppy rebellion. 

This is my big cheat of the year. This record was released in Sept of 2009. So, yes, that falls outside of my Oct-Nov yearly window, but who the hell cares when the music is this good. I am actually glad I discovered it after last years list was published, because last years list was so top heavy with outstanding music, this would have been lost in the shuffle and fallen too far down the rankings. From the first rushed guitar strings and stinging vocals, you can taste the angst. The pop melodies hurry along like they are being chased in songs like Lust For Life, and slow down to catch their breath in an Elvis Costello haze in tunes like Hellhole Ratrace. The pacing of this record is suburb. It is completely an album. This is not one to put on shuffle. Every note is specific and important. It is a story of drunk teen angst, and beautiful sloppy rebellion.
Still great. I never skip a track. 
"Lust For Life"

Songs that Hit: All but one, see below.

Songs that Miss: Big Bad Mean Motherfucker

Songs that I will listen to forever: Lust For Life. Hellhole Ratrace. Lauren Marie. Laura. Ghostmouth.

5. Steel Train - Steel Train/Terrible Thrills Vol. 1 (5)

 It is 2010 indie rock at its finest, but with that whole 90's alt rock sensibility. Infectious.

This is not really a double album, it is only pretending, and it is genius. When Steel Train released their album, I was excited. I am a fan of Jack, the frontman from his work in the awesome band fun. So I was sold from day zero, but then, I was blown away. The band did something unthinkable. They released their album, but with a slew of female indie rock goddess' re-imagining their tunes. And I am sorry guys, but they out did you all. Not that Steel Train's record is not impressive in itself, it is very very good. It is 2010 indie rock at its finest, but with that whole 90's alt rock sensibility. Infectious. And would have undoubtedly made this list own its own merits, but the rerelease certainly moved the record up at least 4 spots.
So, I have officially decided that I cannot wait for this band to do another record. I feel like this is a great appetizer for an upcoming full meal. 
Below you will see the same song twice, from each record. Both have something fantastic, and utterly different to offer. Enjoy.
"You Are Dangerous" - Steel Train

"You Are Dangerous" - Deradoorian

Songs that Hit: Nearly All.

Songs that Miss: The Speed Motor Racers Club (Steel Train). Bloody Lips (Both Versions)

Songs that I will listen to forever: Children of the 90's (Both). Bullet (Steel Train). Turnpike Ghost (Both). Fall Asleep (Steel Train) Soldier In The Army (Rachel Cantu). Touch Me Bad (Nellie McKay). You Are Dangerous (Deradoorian)

6. Samantha Crain - You (Understood) (6)

 It is as far away from what one would typically consider soul music, but the closest thing I have personally found in my adult life.

I think this will win the award of the best record you have never heard of. I am not sure that I would have picked this up had she not blown me away as an unknown opening act earlier this year. I think I had 20 bucks to last me for 2 weeks when I was at this show, and I spent $10 on this record. Some stupid decisions work out. She stands as tall as her guitar, she is small in stature, however, her voice towers a good 9 feet tall. I cannot stress enough how much power and beauty she filled the room with.
Core shiveringly emotional, this record delves deep. It feeds those empty parts of you that you did not know were hungry. It is as far away from what one would typically consider soul music, but the closest thing I have personally found in my adult life.
I was so tempted to move this one up to number 4. I just feel like it deserves more praise and a better representation then the number 6 spot of the year. It really is a superb record. 
"We Are The Same"

Songs that Hit: Lions. Equinox. We Are The Same. Sante Fe. Blue Prints. Wichitalright. Toothpicks. Holdin' That Wheel

Songs that Miss: Religious Wind.

Songs that I will listen to forever: Lions. Equinox. We Are The Same.

7. Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (7)

The things that Kanye is doing is just beyond.

As I have said, I wanted so bad to hate this record. I never ever want to fall for a record I am "expected" to like as a consumer. I know that sounds all extra indie and whatnot, but it is what it is. I want to form my own opinions, not fall in line with others. But this album is madness. It is so far past anything that I ever expected it to be. It smashes all boundaries and expectations. The things that Kanye is doing is just beyond. The fact that he pulled Justin Vernon of Bon Iver into his wicked web was a stroke of genius. This album will be referred too as a pinnacle point in the path of hiphop 20 years from now. The game has changed.
No new opinion. Still a fantastic record. In a stronger year, it would be at risk of being surpassed, but it is safe in this weak music year. 
"Lost In The World"

Songs that Hit: Runaway. Power. Lost In The World. Monster. Gorgeous. So Appalled

Songs that Miss: Who Will Survive In America. Blame Game

Songs that I will listen to forever: Runaway. Power. Lost In The World.

8. First Aid Kit - Big Black & The Blue (9)

It's a blanket or footie pajamas. It just fits on those rainy days.

If this list would have been written back in June, this record would be top three. And I feel bad saying that, because I really has done nothing wrong to lose its high ranking, it's just a little one note. Granted, that one note is spectacular, but it does not supply that staying power that a record with a little more varied tones would. Do not get me wrong, I love this record. I love these teenage Swedish sisters. It is a special record that does not have a hole in it. It's a blanket or footie pajamas. It just fits on those rainy days. It just lost a little luster.
More then anything, I am surprised that this record has held strong and moderately improved in its position of awesomeness. 
"I Met Up With The King"

Songs that Hit: All

Songs that Miss: Honestly, none.

Songs that I will listen to forever: Josefin. I Met Up With The King. Sailor Song. Winter Is All Over You.

9. The Dead Weather - Sea Of Cowards (NR)

It has a twisted sensibility. It pushes together what feels good with strange and painful. Its like propping yourself up on your elbows until your fingers go numb enough to start to tingle in that subtle painful way. 

I avoid buying "superband" records, and they are often times more failure then success. Too many cooks in the kitchen syndrome. But, after some prodding from a fellow music lover in Texas, I picked up this record and fell into a heavy-petting-like puppy dog love with it. Then, I did something stupid. I listened to The Black Keys, and decided that only one darker, bluesy rock band could make my list. And it was a stupid stupid choice. And looking back now, if I were to only choose one, it should have been this one. It has a twisted sensibility. It pushes together what feels good with strange and painful. Its like propping yourself up on your elbows until your fingers go numb enough to start to tingle in that subtle painful way. 

"Old Mary"

Songs that Hit: Old Mary. Hustle And Cuss. I'm Mad. Die By The Drop. Blue Blood Blues. Gasoline.

Songs that Miss: Jawbreaker. 

Songs that I will listen to forever: Old Mary. I'm Mad.

10. The Black Keys - Brothers (10)

This record wins the award of making me look like the biggest retard in public.

This is the newest record on my list. I am still exploring it, and do not feel 100% comfortable giving it a full on review. However, it has clearly shown it deserves a spot on this list. Although, I may be over valuing it a bit. But, only time will tell. However, I will tell you that this record wins the award of making me look like the biggest retard in public. I cannot help but bob my head/shoulders/torso to every bluesy beat. And I do not look good when I bob.
This was such a late addition to my list, that it probably should not have been ranked. Even so, it has held its own. It did not improve or faulter.
"Too Afraid To Love You"

Songs that Hit: Too soon to tell.

Songs that Miss: Too soon to tell.

Songs that I will listen to forever: Tighten Up. She's Long Gone. Next Girl. Too Afraid To Love You.

11. Yeasayer - Odd Blood (13)

Do not get me wrong, this is one strange fucking record, but it is strange in all the right places.

I have switched back and forth between like 3 records for this last spot on the list. When I physically started writing this exact blog several hours ago, this spot belonged too The Dead Weather, a week ago, this spot was filled by Vampire Weekend, and you could make a case that both bands are very very worthy. It just came down to the excitement factor. This record, although it has its major faults, gets me happy. It really is that simple. Do not get me wrong, this is one strange fucking record, but it is strange in all the right places.
Of all the records on this list, I play this one the loudest. It is my good mood tune record, and has improved thusly. 
"Ambling Alp"

Songs that Hit: Ambling Alp. Madder Red. O.N.E. Rome. I Remember
Songs that Miss: The Children. Mondegreen
Songs that I will listen to forever: Ambling Alp. O.N.E.

12. Fences - Fences (NR)

A record I tried to ignore, but snuck up on me anyways. It's like an acoustic cigarette. 

A record I tried to ignore, but snuck up on me anyways. It's like an acoustic cigarette. Now, understand that I have never smoked, so I don't really have any clue how smoking a cigarette makes you feel. But I think I am on solid ground when I say that it's similar to how Fences makes me feel. 

"From Russia With..."

Songs that Hit: Boys Around Here. Girls With Accents. The Same Tattoos. From Russia With... Fires. My Girl The Horse. 

Songs that Miss: None.

Songs that I will listen to forever: Girls With Accents. Boys Around Here. From Russia With...

13. Chromeo - Business Casual (8)

There is not a lot of depth in the record, because there doesn't need to be.

I am at a loss of words on how to describe this record. It is just straight late70's/80's pop revival. All synthed out and awesome. Clearly the most fun I have found in a record all year. Every tune is turn it up and car dance qualities. There is not a lot of depth in the record, because there doesn't need to be. There is not a lot depth in this review either, because I am lazy.
It is still a pretty damn fun record. But it is one note and has dropped accordingly. I think I will like this record more if I did not listen to it so often. 
However, this is probably the best music video of the year.

"Night By Night"

Songs that Hit: Almost the entire album.

Songs that Miss: (The Hook of) When The Night Falls

Songs that I will listen to forever: Hot Mess. I'm Not Contagious. Night By Night. 

Honorable Mention.

Allo, Darlin' - Allo, Darlin'
Vampire Weekend - Contra

Born Ruffians - Say It

Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More

Frightened Rabbit - The Winter Of Mixed Drinks

Removed from the list. 

Formally #11. the bird and the bee - Interpreting the Masters Volume 1: A Tribute to Daryl Hall and John Oates

This album should never have been made. But fuck, I am so glad it was. It should not work. But holy shit, does it ever. 

I have said it before, and I'll say it a hundred times more. This album should never have been made. But fuck, I am so glad it was. It should not work. But holy shit, does it ever. It just shows you that a good song is a good song, but a great song transcends. From top to bottom, this is a good mood spinning. I was so embarrassed to love it at first, now I am ashamed not to share it. This is fantastic.

Songs that Hit: All nine of em.

Songs that Miss: Nil.
Songs that I will listen to forever: The ENTIRE record is a forever record.

Formally #12. Local Natives - Gorilla Manor

This record took over my subconscious. It was like musical ninjary.

I thought this record was a throw away up until a month ago. Then, one of my closest musical advisors told me it was her album of the year. I was shocked and knew it was my fuck up and not hers. So I gave it another listen, well, a first real listen, and it really did kill. Turns out, I already loved it. I just didn't realize what I was listening too. Have you ever heard that song, that you don't realize you're singing along too, that you're tapping your toes too? That was this record. I knew almost all the songs, but never paid attention to the fact that it was actually the local natives. This record took over my subconscious. It was like musical ninjary.

Songs that Hit: Airplanes. Sun Hands. Wide Eyes. World News. Cards & Quarters. Warning Sign. Who Knows Who Cares.

Songs that Miss: Cubism Dream. Shape Shifter. Sticky Thread

Songs that I will listen to forever: Airplanes. Warning Sign. Who Knows Who Cares.