Song of the Day: "Beginners" by Slow Club

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You've all had that one band that you just cannot get enough of. That one band that you love unconditionally. That one band that always seems to release the right song at the right time in your life. Well, Slow Club is that band for me. And I get a lot of shit for how often I talk/blog about them, but I've gotten to the point where I no longer care. I love this band.

And now, get ready for them to blow your mind. Clearly, they are much bigger in England, because they were able to recruit Daniel Radcliffe to star in this one shot wonder of a music video. If you have ever wondered what Harry Potter would look like drunk, now you know.

I also think it takes balls as a band to have a music video, and not be in it anywhere.

"Beginners" by Slow Club

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

My Up And Coming Music List. Updated 9/28/11

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Inspired by Stevie's Up AndComing Book List, I am going to start the same thing with my music purchased for the year. I found this to be really useful in 2010, that I am starting even earlier for 2011.

My favorite blog to write is my year end music review. And it be honest, I start it in January of each year. I start collecting music as soon as possible, and use a smart playlist to amass them all in one place for easy listening and examining.

Below you will see a quick list of the albums I have picked up so far this year. I will try to update them every month or so. If I have an opinion of the record, will post a quick note, but keep in mind, I may change mine.

I realize this list has gotten exceptionally long, and I appreciate you reading it. So to help cut things down a bit, I have removed the records that I dislike from the main list itself, and placed them at the bottom under a subcategory. I have also removed the majority of those negative reviews. I just hate saying means things.

I have changed the format of the list entirely, instead of alphabetical, as it has been all year; I have opted instead to compose this list as it is in my head, in categories. I apologize if that makes it harder to find the albums you are looking for, but, now that this list has grown to 130 albums; it’s getting a little hard to reformat from the mess that is my mind, onto paper. So, I give you my true breakdown.

Best of the year so far….

Adele - "21" ----- So far, easily one of my favorites. I am not sure how long it will stick with me. It is so emotionally ripe, that it wears me out to listen to it. For now, that is a great ride, but it might get tiresome.

Atmosphere – “The Family Sign” ----- It seems as though, Atmosphere cannot let me down. Now, I am not sure that this album will reach the peaks that “Sevens Travels” or “…Paint That Shit Gold” did, but it’s well on its way.

The Bell Brigade – “The Bell Brigade” ----- So, a month ago, I thought this record was just “not so bad,” but now I love it. While I have been gathering nominees for my best songs of the year this, this band tops the totals. With 5 songs garnering 5 star ratings.

Brett Dennen – “Loverboy” ----- I fathom that when summer rolls around, this will be my album of choice. It is windows down music. I think I love it.

Campfire OK – “Strange Like We Are” ----- Another NW talent explosion. Special special special. If the Head and the Heart never happened, Campfire OK, would be the best band in the northwest.

The Civil Wars - "Barton Hollow" ----- I love this band. This record, their first full length, is exactly as it should be. Is it for everyone? No, probably not. But, for a folk/blues/singersongwriter hound like me, it is wonderful.

Dawes – “Nothing Is Wrong” ----- This is a new record with serious staying power. It is one of those records that have teeth. I am very excited about it, and do not be surprised when you see it on the best of list at the end of the year.

Girls – “Father, Son, Holy Ghost (Album 3)”

Grouplove - "Grouplove" ----- My favorite "EP" (Not identified as an "ep" but with only 6 tracks, it is not a full length) of the year. Every track is keeper. This record makes me want summer to be here now. Listen and you will understand.

Jessica Lea Mayfield - "Tell Me" ----- 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.

The Joy Formidable - "The Big Roar" ----- This is the kind of band that can only be played loud. Right now, one of my favorites, but I can see how it could become grating.

Lissie – “Catching A Tiger” ----- Lissie reminds me of Justin Nozuka. Not in any tangible way, but in the way that both their records snuck up on me, and from song to song, they can become completely different artists. They are both chameleons.  I love this record hard.

Lykee Li - "Wounded Rhymes" ----- Far and away the most well-crafted album of the year. It is nearly perfect from beginning to end and you know directs you through the ebbs and flows of her heart.

Manchester Orchestra – “Simple Math” ----- I have a soft spot for Manchester Orchestra. People who know me, know this, and accept it as one of my flaws. This record is no different. It is like a nice medium from where they were back on “Like a Virgin…” and their most recent release “Mean Everything….” And it is exactly what my year needed.

Middle Brother – “Middle Brother” ----- I always hold my breathe for these supergroups (Delta Spirit, Dawes, and Deer Tick) they always seem to let me down, So, far, this has my hopes up. So far so very good. They kick the shit out of Monsters of Folk.

Rural Alberta Advantage - "Departing" ----- This has moved from a record that I really wanted to like but was having trouble getting behind, to a record I cannot stop listening to. It is the frontrunner.

Slow Club – “Paradise” ----- I know this record just came out a week ago, so for me to already have it lumped in with this group is a bit surprising, but, this record, and its imported bonus disc have taken my world by storm. Easily, the best record of the year. I expect this to be number one.

Wye Oak - "Civilian" ----- One of my favorite records right now. It just sings to me. I am not going to get all over wordy for once. It's just super good.

Borderline. Awesome and could get there, or could fall off….

Angus & Julia Stone - "Down The Way" ----- Yes, this was released in 2010. But I consider the last quarter of last year, a part of this one. It is too hard to fall in love with a record in 3 months, let alone, digest it enough to know if its crap or not. But, so far, this one is NOT crap. It’s mellow and breezy and wonderful.

Brandi Carlile – “Live At Benaroya Hall With The Seattle Symphony” ----- I generally steer away from live albums, I’d rather just see the show, but this is special. It’s full of beauty, life, sorrow, and perfection.

Bryan John Appleby – “Fire on the Vine” ----- This NW singer songwriter is BLOWING up my iPod right now. There is not a spoiled track amongst the bunch.

The Dodos - "No Color" ----- This is the record I have been waiting for from the band. As I wrote on my recent Song Of The Day, "The band learned from their mistakes, simplified, honed into what made them stand out in the first place, and embraced it. So many bands think they need to evolve so much that they force it and fall short of themselves, most never recover from this mistake, but not the dodos."

Ellie Goulding – “Lights” ----- I love her voice. It’s a little poppy, but every nowandthen, that works for me. This is one of those times.

Frank Ocean – “Nostalgia/Ultra” ----- I have only had this a few days, but so far, I am really really digging it. Strong, singular voice in the R&B game.

Generationals – “Actor-Caster” ----- Unique to the point of awesome.

Idiot Glee – “Paddywhack” ----- I have only delved about halfway into this record, but every new song I hear makes me want to listen to more. So, that is a good sign.

Loch Lomond – “Little Me Will Start A Storm” ----- This is a record that I am excited to fall in love with. Seems like it is more suited for grey days, but we have plenty of those.

The Lonely Forest – “Arrows” ----- Fantastic. I am actually pissed that I passed over this record for so many months. It is honestly great and has a very good chance to make the top 13.

Lulu & The Lampshades - "Cold Water EP" ----- Quirky and great. I wish there were more.

Matt Nathanson – “Modern Love” ----- This record reminds me of all the reasons why I love singer songerwriters. It is fun, insightful, impactful, romantic, nostalgic, and warm. It’s like a blanket.

The Oh Wells - "The EP that We Love" ----- This little Canadian band has made me realize that I cannot just blanketly decide to shun all things from a country. Great EP. Cannot wait to see what they can do with a full length.

Pearl and the Beard – “Killing the Darlings” ------ I love it. They have taken their sound to a whole new, refined, mastered place.

Psychologist – “Waves of OK EP” ----- 5 total tracks, and 3 of them have burrowed their way into my soul.

The Weeknd – “House of Balloons” ----- An R&B record that holds no punches. It is so overtly honest; it is sometimes hard to listen too. But then, when you do, you realize how brilliant it actually it.

Typhoon – “A New Kind Of House” ----- So far so good. Unique kind of noise.

Youth Rescue Mission - "Youth Rescue Mission" ---- This Seattle band, by way of Montana, has me all in a tizzy. This group of siblings make noises to die for. I keep trying to string together other artists to give you a good description/comparison of style/sound, but all combos fall short. Yes, you can hear a bit of The Head and the Heart, a dollop of Blind Pilot, a tad of Hey Marseilles, and a smidge of Choir of Young Believers, but in only the littlest of amounts. They are distinctly their own. And I am loving it.

Yuck – “Yuck” ----- In all the ways that Crystal Stilts does not work, Yuck does. I feel like this is going to be like when I found the dodos back in 2009 and they took over my life. It’s good.

In a weak year, this could be something….

The Antlers – “Burst Apart” ----- Their journey continues. From the master piece that was “Hospice” to this, this band does not disappoint. I am afraid of how much this record might take over my life.

Architecture In Helsinki – “Moment Bends” ----- My good mood record. It carries a vibe into a room that cannot be hated.

City And Colour – “Little Hell” ----- Growing on me everytime I hear it.

Florence + The Machine - "Lungs: The B-Sides" ----- It is hard for me to hate this record. It has like 3 fantastic tracks and the rest are throwaways. It stands no chance to make my year end list, but it not bad enough to move to the short of awesome pile

French Horn Rebellion – “The Infinite Music of French Horn Rebellion” ----- Picked this up hoping to find this year’s Chromeo, and so far, it is filling that void, not sure if it has the staying power. Has one great track.

Is Tropical – “Native To” ----- I think out of all newer records, this record has the best chance to grow on me.

James Vincent McMorrow – “Early In The Morning” ----- People are calling him the Irish Bon Iver, and although I hate when people do that, it is not far off. He has a quiet genius about his sound. It is simply a beautiful record. One of my favorites.

Mat Kerney – “Young Love” ----- Standard Mat Kerney stuff. So, in other words, awesome.

Seryn - "This Is Where We Are" ----- The Head and the Heart told me to buy this record. And since they are one of my favorite bands, I figured their advice in music could not be far off, so I picked it up. And, lucky for me, they were very very right. One of those bands that you take mental note of, so you can come back and enjoy more later.

Toro Y Moi – “Underneath the Pine” ----- Considered by most as Chillwave artist, Toro Y Moi has never been my thing. However, with this most recent record, he has surpassed that label and really come into his own. Strong album.

We F.A.M. - "Reality Check" ------ NW Hip-Hop group that at times is spectacular, and at times has too many cooks in the kitchen. But unlike most hip-hop records the good far out ways the bad on this self-produced album. Some tracks stand so far out, that I am sure the will pepper this website by years end.

Enjoyable, yet forgettable….

Alexander – “Alexander” ----- It’s like Edward Sharpe (understandably) meets Simon and Garfunkel (unexpected). I was anticipating it to be a little bit too one note, but it has actually gone the other direction. Not sure if that is a good thing or not yet, I’ll let you know.

Amos Lee – “Mission Bell” ----- This singer songwriter finally has his groove back. Is it enough to bounce him into the top 13 of the year? Doubtful.

Beat Connection – “Surf Noir” ----- Seattle band, and although I have never been a dance/electronica fan, I have been sucked into Beat Connection.

The Boxer Rebellion - "The Cold Still" ----- Did not stand out, but now, as the summer wanes on, it is starting too. 

Bon Iver – “Bon Iver” ----- Everyone keeps building this album up, and although it is dreamily good, I does not live up for For Emma, Forever Ago. Maybe, I need to let go of that expectation, and I will be able to love this record like it deserves.

The Cool Kids – “When Fish Ride Bicycles” ----- I am excited to give this one a go. I have been scouring the world for a new fantastic hip hop record. I hope this one is it.

Cults – “Cults” ----- This record is garnering rave reviews from bloggers across the net, and although I do find myself a toe tapping from time to time, it is just pretty good.

Cut Copy – “Zonoscope” ----- Much like their last record, it has a few stand out tracks, and a few clunkers. Middle of the road.

Fink – “Perfect Darkness” ----- He is great at what he does, but does not stray far from that, although, I wish he would.

Foster The People – “Torches” ----- This is a good mood record. Fun to listen too, but not the most memorable.

Hey Rosetta! – “Seeds” ----- This band has a sound that is hard to describe. It's like if you take the delicate mastery of Hey Marseilles and combine it with the chaotic perfection of Los Campesinos! you would stumble into these Canadians. It works.

Holy Ghost! – “Holy Ghost!” ----- Great toe tapping fun.

Lupe Fiasco – “Lasers” ----- Not bad, but not memorable.

The Mountain Goats - "All Eternals Deck" ----- I have been converted into a fan. It has a quiet raw power that is hard to quantify.

Pusha T – “Fear Of God” ----- I have been searching for great hip-hop all year, and nothing has really stood out. But now, I have stumbled into the Pusha T “Fear of God” mixtape. And I have to say, this half of Clipse, has not lost his flow.

Ravenna Woods – “Valley of the Headless Men” ----- Yet another band that makes me so supremely proud to be a music fan in The Great Northwest. Closer to Fleet Foxes then THATH, but still uniquely their own.

Seapony – “Go With Me” ----- Nice airy indie pop rock from Seattle does not disappoint. It does not illicit screams of joy either, but it is solidly in between. 

Shabazz Palaces – “Black Up” ----- NW hip-hop is coming on strong this year. Yet another example.

Tennis – “Cape Dory” ----- The perfect summer record. It makes me want to play this with my windows down on a road trip somewhere.

The Vaccines – “What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?” ----- Impressed with this debut album. Some great things here, and if the band can hold steady, they will make very big noises. 

TV On The Radio – “Nine Types of Light” ----- This is one of those records that you do not realize you like until you already like it. It’s got that familiar, yet new, feeling to it.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra – “Unknown Mortal Orchestra” ----- Great songs, scattered amongst throw away tracks. But the good far outweighs the bad.

Just plain forgettable….

Apollo Brown – “Clouds”

Barry Brother’s Band – “Yawnin’ in the Dawnin’” ----- This is a newer record, that to be honest, I did not expect anything out of. But, some songs have really really stood out.

Big K.R.I.T. – “Return of 4Eva” ----- Good but not great. Nice flow, decent lyrics. Kinda a throw back. But middle of the pack.

Bright Eyes – “The People’s Key” ----- I wish I could get on the Bright Eyes train. But, I just can’t.

Clams Casino – “Clams Casino” ---- Aside from the “Cold War” remix, the album is unspectacular.

D/R/U/G/S – “Love/Lust EP” ----- They have a dance hammer dulcimer song on this record. But that is about all I can say about it.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. – “It’s A Corporate World”

Friendly Fires – “Pala”

J Mascis - "Several Shades of Why"

Let’s Wrestle – “Nursing Home”

Musiq – “Musiqinthemagiq”

My Morning Jacket – “Circuital”

Panda Bear – “Tomboy”

Peter Bjorn and John – “Gimme Some”

Talib Kweli - "Gutter Rainbows"

The Wave Pictures – “Beer In The Breakers”

White Denim – “D”

William Fitzsimmons – “Gold In The Shadow”

Disappointing/Wasted Potential

The Cave Singers - "No Witch”

Cold War Kids - "Mine Is Yours" ----- I was not more disappointed in a record this year then I was in this. Now, this disappointment earlier in the year made me label this as a bad record, its honestly not, but its not great either.

Fleet Foxes – “Helplessness Blues”

Givers – “In Light” ----- I was excited for this record. Based on what Up Up Up sounded like, but in the areas where they do not overreach, they just are not very good.

Howie Day – “Ceasefire” ----- What happened to Howie Day? I feel like he was trying so hard to find himself successful, that he just flat lost who he was.

LMFAO – “Sorry For The Party Rocking”

The Middle East – “I Want That You Are Always Happy” ----- The most disappointing follow up to a super fantastic EP ever.

Psychologist – “Propeller EP” ----- Psychologist, intended his record to be split into two EP’s, but I wish he would have just released a singular album. “Waves of OK” far out shines “Propeller.” But possibly as a whole, it could have worked fantastically.

Ungood…..

BOAT - "Dress Like Your Idols"

Death Cab For Cutie – “Codes And Keys”

Eddie Vedder – “Ukulele Songs”

Eisley - "The Valley"

Elbow – “Build A Rocket Boys!”

Hercules & Love Affair - "Blue Songs"

James Blake – “James Blake”

Kate Bush – “Directors’ Cut”

The Kooks – “Junk in the Heart”

Marissa Nadler – “Marissa Nadler”

Noah & The Whale - "Last Night On Earth”

of Montreal – “thecontrollersphere

The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart - "Belong"

SLOWWAVE – “Drag Lake Sin”

Tune-Yards – “W H O K I L L”

The Unthanks – “Last”

Special Category for the worst records of the year, so far beyond Ungood, it needs to be distinguished….

The Beastie Boys – “Hot Sause Committee Part Two”

Bow Ribbons - "Bow Ribbons" ----- The worst record I have picked up in 5 years.

Crystal Stilts – “In Love With Oblivion”

Julianna Barwick – “The Magic Place” -----  It is like indie-elevator music. I cannot, for the life of me see the big deal. 

Too new to review…..

The Boom Booms – “Hot Rum!”

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah – “Hysterical”

Fishboy – “Classic Creeps”

Gavin DeGraw – “Sweeter”

Grouplove – “Never Trust A Happy Song”

Jay Z & Kanye West – “Watch The Throne”

Lil Wayne – “Tha Carter IV”

Neon Indian – “Era Extraña”

Oh Land – ”Oh Land”

Release the Sunbird – “Come Back To Us”

St. Vincent – “Strange Mercy”

Sweet Baboo – “Girl Under a Tree EP”

Band of the Week: Slow Club

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So, on Sunday, I finally got my autographed Slow Club record, and I could not be more excited. I love autographs.

Now, in all my excitement, I neglected to realize that the little bonus disc it came with it is fan-fucking-tastic. Like seriously, beyond words good. I feel bad for all the other Americans that were not willing enough to spend extra money, wait 3 weeks, and have a record shipping all the way from London, cause they are missing out. But, I'm feeling generous, so I am going to share 3 of the super-duper tracks with your here on this lovely blog. 

"Half Drunk"

"Palms"


"Never Look Back (Acoustic)"

Love/Like/Loathe: 9/17/11

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So, I apologize for my absence from Listologies. I tweaked my back up good and nasty and have been pretty doped up, and I figured if I tried to blog it out, it would all come out embarrassingly hilarious, so, I opted out. But I figured since I am feeling a bit more lucid, I would start my new blog series that I have been mulling over. It's called Love/Like/Loathe. Basically, its pretty simple. I am going to share, on a semi weekly basis, things I love, like and loathe. It's pretty self explanatory.

Love: I know this is going to come off predictable, but I LOVE the new Slow Club album "Paradise." It has surpassed by expectations by a mile. The band has found it maturity without losing its gleeful edge. Sadly, I do not think this record will win new fans, namely Stevie, but I think it is by far, the best record of the year.
"You, Earth or Ash" by Slow Club


Like: Susan Beth Pfeffer's The Last Survivors trilogy of novels. I have to admit, they are dark as hell and should barely be qualified as Young Adult, but the are well written portrayals of the beginning of the end of the world. From clear stand out of book one, Live As We Knew It, to the darkness and religious undertones and change in perspective of book two, The Dead and the Gone, to the rather forced follow up of book three The World We Live In, these books are not to be missed.

Loathe: The self titled album by the Bow Ribbons. It is far and away, and easily the worst album I have heard in years. It is hard for me to hate music. I love music, and can generally find something redeeming about nearly every noise that people are proud enough to put on a record, but this is horrible meandering whiny drivel. I buy a lot of records, and I never ever write a negative review, but this music is so bad, it actually makes me angry as I type about it. It is the kind of music, that if you were stuck at the bottom of a well with a crazed serial killer standing above you slowing filling it in with water and laughing a sinister laugh, you would hear.
"Let Me Down Easy" by Bow Ribbons

Best Noise in the Northwest, Now.

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So, we here at Listologies have spent more then a few words talking up the up and coming music scene here in the Great Northwest. This entry is here to celebrate the NOW of the northwest. From Canada to Portland, and all else in between. Now, in no way is this an all inclusive list, in fact, I am positive that I have missed more then a few. But, off the top of my head, this is the best noise in the nw right now.

I have them in a very very rough order, mostly just the order I remembered them.

The Head and the Heart (Seattle)

Hey Marseilles (Seattle)

Campfire Ok (Seattle)

The Lonely Forest (Anacortes)

Macklemore (Seattle)

Lemolo (Poulsbo/Seattle)

Pickwick (Seattle)

Youth Rescue Mission (Seattle by way of Bigfork Montana)

The Cave Singers (Seattle)

The Oh Wells (White Rock, BC)

Blind Pilot (Portland)

Loch Lomond (Portland)

BOAT (Seattle)

Typhoon (Portland)

White Hinterland (Portland)

Ravenna Woods (Seattle)

Bryan John Appleby (Seattle)

The Fruit Bats (Portland)

Mimicking Birds (Portland)

The BGP (Tacoma)

Fences (Seattle)

Beat Connections (Seattle)

Shabazz Palaces (Seattle)

Song of the Day: "Two Cousins" by Slow Club

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So, Slow Club have peppered this blog on a regular basis for the last two years, and although I love it, my co-blogger gives me constant shit about it. So, I have been avoiding this entry for a bit now, but I cannot take it anylonger. Slow Club have a new record coming out this year, and although the release has been delayed until sometime in Sept due to illness, I am still super stoked. This is the first single from the record, and if the rest of the album is 1/5 as good, it is going to be spectacular. Enjoy.

"Two Cousins" by Slow Club

Show of the Day: Ivan & Alyosha, Grand Hallway and The Head and the Heart

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So, last night at The Moore, the Head and the Heart, yet again, left me flabbergasted. I just wish that exuberant feeling was provided by the rest of the show aswell. It's not that the other bands did not live up to the billing, it was more of a matter of circumstance. Let me explain....
Below you will see a picture of my co-blogger and her other half Ky, stroking his peachfuzz beard. And know this, they were the only two not annoying people in the crowd during the opening acts. So, while Ivan & Alyosha pushed the indie alt folk out into the room, you could hear it, but not feel it, as the alcohol induced hum of the crowd was just too strong. It was so hard to allow myself to be enveloped by the noise. And it only got worse when Grand Hallway took the stage, more people, more alcohol, louder hum all add up to annoyed Addi, Stevie and Ky.
But that all changed, for the most part, when The Head and the Heart took the stage. They awesomed me nearly to death. No wonder they are selling out shows left and right. Portland, tonight, you are in for a treat.

Ivan & Alyosha

"Glorify"

Grand Hallway

"Seward Park"

The Head and the Heart

"Down In The Valley"

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.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.