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December 02, 2008
Posted by kramer
There were a ton of cd's this year that were far and above expectations. There were also a few that definitely left the rotation of listening quicker than I had anticipated (Counting Crows, unfortunately). Additionally, there are a some discs that I haven't had the opportunity to hear just yet (Lykke Li, Nada Surf, Mgmt, Liam Finn, Anathallo, Islands). I believe that many of these will probably be some of my favorites once I get the chance to hear them but my list is based upon those discs that have in heavy rotation ALL YEAR and for that reason, they are my top 10.
10) Ray Lamontagne "Gossip in the Grain"
Ray's 2nd disc was somewhat of a disappointment for me as he seemed to go away from his heavy blues influence. I LOVED his debut cd and I was hoping that the 3rd one would be more like it. It definitely went more in that direction, with added instrumentation to add it some more kick. It had a little bit of a Harry Connick Jr. feel to it but with Lamontagne's wistful voice to chisel his influence into the sound. He is not breaking out of the mold too much but it is a progression none the less.
9) Juno Soundtrack
The Moldy Peaches are the centerpiece of this soundtrack with the quirky lyrics and stripped down acoustic guitar. They are a big part of what made Juno such a nice change of pace and made the characters in the movie so much more real. You add into the fact that you have some great songs from some of the best artists of today (Belle and Sebastian and Cat Power) and artists of yesterday (Buddy Holly) and you have one of the most well-rounded efforts of the year.
8) Crystal Castles "Crystal Castles"
This disc is good. It is not one of those discs that I can listen to all the way through on any occasion but it has so many catchy tunes that stand out on their own that is impossible not to appreciate it. Electronica music is an acquired taste and I know many people don't feel it is "real" music. The Crystal Castles have also come under scrutiny due to some of the samples they have used in their music. However, it is VERY difficult to do and is one of the most creative genres of music today.
7) Keane "Perfect Symmetry"
Kyle and I have a few discussions about the lead singer of Keane. We have differing opinions on his look but we both agree that he has one of the best voices in music today. It has any outstanding range and he has an uncanny ability to stay on pitch for extended notes. The 3rd Keane album is such a great time because they have fused things that they loved from the 80's New Wave sound, classic rock and their previous album into their best yet. The first half of the album is straight pop and it probably the most accessible of any Keane music so far. The second half is classic Keane ballads that showcase the piano prowess and the pipes of Tom the lead singer. This is easily one of the best of the year that I have heard.
6) Adele "19"
Adele is part of the British invasion that has given us Amy Winehouse and Duffy. She has not received anywhere near as much fanfare. I believe it is that she isn't crazy like Winehouse and she isn't "trendy" like Duffy. I personally prefer her release to Duffy's for a number of reasons. Adele's voice has a warmth to it that is something that can be produced in a studio. You either have it or you don't. In the age of the overly produced and overly hyped starlets, it is a breath of fresh air to have someone that completely makes it on talent alone. From start to finish, this album really has no weak songs. There is a terrific cover of a Bob Dylan song and some definite attention to detail when it comes to song order and album cohesion. Adele is a winner and is worth a look.
I will cover the top 5 albums later on this week. Stay TUNED!!
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COMMENTS How sad - I have only heard ONE of these CDs (although I did see Juno, so I am familiar with the soundtrack). The once CD I have is Crystal Castles, and I have to say - not a huge fan, and I like it even less live. With that said, a couple of songs from it I really enjoy: Crimewave, Untrust Us - the more melodic stuff. |
