Best albums of 2010 (so far)

I am back, having gone missing for the past months due to my particle acceleration work for CERN, being trapped in a mine, and becoming a wedding planner for next year (I can't say who for). Well there is about as much music that has gone missing on this blog as their are pages of leaked war documents on the internet. So here is a quick round-up of the best albums of the year so far (if the title wasn't a give-away).


20. Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti - Before Today 7.5/10

19. Crystal Castles – Crystal Castles (II) 7.5/10

18. Efterklang - Magic Chairs 7.5/10

17. Big Boi - Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty 7.5/10

16. These New Puritans - Hidden 7.5/10

15. The Irrepressibles - Mirror Mirror 8.0/10

14. Sufjan Stevens- The Age of Adz 8.0/10

13. Holy Fuck - Latin 8.0/10

12. The Tallest Man on Earth – The Wild Hunt 8.0/10

11. Tame Impala -Innerspeak 8.0/10

10. Four Tet – There Is Love in You

Kieran Hebden produces one of his best yet, with another stunning masterpiece of electronic music. This may not break ground as some earlier work of his, however this holds as a much more solid album, and definitely deserving a place in my top 10.
8.0/10

9. Arcade Fire - The Suburbs


Is it better than their debut? For me, Funeral represents a more youthful and emotional time, which is not lost in parts of this album. This album is filled with hits however I believe the choice of track numbers was means you easily forget some stellar songs. Nevertheless, this is a must for the MP3 player.

8.0/10
Hear - Ready to Start

8. Titus Andronicus – The Monitor

This album screams out America. It will not be to everyone's taste, and some segments can seem to tedious, and sometimes the singer can whine into an almost self-pitying emo. However the album as a whole is a superb passionate punk tribute to the American Civil war and local heroes.

8.5/10

Hear - A More Perfect Union

7. Yeasayer - Odd Blood

I have already reviewed this album. Here

8.5/10


6. Gorillaz - Plastic Beach

Damon Albarn's Gorillaz produce a fascinating album with a cataclysm of classical, hip-hop, folk, jazz and several other music genres. Of course the success of the album is helped by the number of talented artists that are featured. Another ambitious album that gets its reward.

8.5/10

Hear - Melancholy Hills

5. Deerhunter – Halcyon Digest

I don't remember an album so capable of striking up imagery than this. Halcyon Digest has the ability to give you chills then wrap a blanket around you to keep warm. This is a band centred around the strangeness and genius of one Bradford Cox, who will continue to make remarkable music.

8.5/10

Hear - Desire Lines

4. Sleigh Bells - Treats

Fast-paced, hard-hitting and fucking loud, this is pop-rock noise at its finest. Sleigh Bells are the perfect combination of bitter sweet, with one half being a hardcore rocker, and the other being like something from disney. It is only fitting that they are signed to M.I.A's label, and you can certainly understand the direction taken. This is guaranteed to impress, however please take some steps before playing:

• Put your hood up
• Put some shades on
• Put the volume to the max

Enjoy.

8.5/10
Hear - Infinity Guitars

3. Laura Marling – I Speak Because I Can

Let's get the common compliments out the way - she was only 17 when she made her first album, and 19 for this one. That is astonishing. Forgetting all that, I Speak Because I Can is dark and astonishing. The album is covers love, responsibility and womanhood, passionately narrated making this such an emotional album.

8.5/10

Hear - Rambling Man

2. Beach House - Teen Dream


I must confess, I thought this album was released in 2009, and could compete with any from My Picks of 2009. Teen Dream is in essence, masterful. A beautifully formed selection of dream-pop tracks that hook you in from the first track, and you stay that way till the end. It does not need any bold dominant tracks to try and appeal to you. Beach House had a successful debut album, however that was just part of a learning curve to produce something that they can truly be happy with.

8.5/10
Hear - Zebra


1. Joannna Newsom - Have One On Me


Joanna Newsom's third album was for me the best album, however I accept it will not be everyone's. I disagree with several reviews suggesting that she has changed her style, as instead I believe she has added to her style, yet the album is still unmistakably Joanna Newsom. With a three-disk two-hour marathon of music, Have One On Me is as bold as Joanna Newsom herself, as not many would have done such a thing. Nevertheless, Joanna Newsom produces the most enchanting and magnificent collection of songs that take the listener on an adventure.

9.0/10

Hear - '81

February Round-Up

Well I am alive!! Did take a break from this for one reason or another. But I come back baring gifts... my top songs of the month. And there are some crackers. So lets get going!

Blood Red Shoes - Light It Up
Track Rating: 8/10
After my slight disappointment from their debut album, I didnt expect much from their return. However I am pleasantly suprised. First single from it is a screamer. Sweet sweet melody twisted into a grungy chorus and yells of Light It Up shows exactly why I liked this band so much before. It won't turn too many heads, however for those who were dissatified with their debut, including myself will find this a treat.
Hear

Chew Lips
8/10
Nice song from a band that were certain to dissapoint. Lead singer has a great voice, the song is simple yet good electropop throughout. It does reach a stage where a sudden surge of electro-awesomeness would take over, and the build up is great, but it continues into a delicate melody which is just as enjoyable. Raised my eyebrows in a good way.
Hear

Hot Chip - One Life Stand
7/10
At first listen I thought this was a bog-standard electro-pop song, from a far greater band. However in a way, this is what they were aiming for this, yet still have the dignity of a good band. It has a great bass riff throughout, however that is somewhat overpowered. The vocals are synthesised very cleverly, but the best thing about this song are the lyrics.
Hear

Imogen Heap - Hide and Seek (Roksonix Dubstep remix)
8.5/10
Not too sure when this remix came about, but it has got big for me in the past month. Imogen Heap's vocals from this song have become very well known due to being featured on Jason Derulo's song "Whatcha Say". However what Roksonix does to the tune is simply awesome. I have been catching up on a lot of dubstep, and I think this may be one of the best dubstep remixes around at the moment.
Hear

Joanna Newsom - Good Intentions Paving Company
9.5/10
Simply phenomenal. She has changed her style somewhat, yet this is still inrrefutably Joanna Newsom. A more upbeat song to someothers within the album, this is stunning throughout, from its harmony, chorus, lyrics and vocals. The song takes a melodical turn towards the end that you would not expect from her songs in the past, however this is her reformed, and it is simply breathtaking. It is a love song that is unashamed of itself, and has no right to be.
Hear

The Knife - Colouring of Pigeons
7.5/10
With a collaboration of who I don't remember, The Knife produce an opera-based album, which has split their fanbase somewhat. This is one of the best yet longest tracks of the two CD album. It is a soothing combination of several instruments from around the world, both modern and traditional. I admit I'm not exactly an opera expert, but from what I hear is a lovely track, very different from their older work. For an artist to totally change their style yet still produce rave reviews shows serious talent.
Hear

The Morning Benders - Excuses
7.5/10
A beatiful little song from a band that seems like pretty folk pop crossover. However this song does contain great melody a harmonised vocals, and contains a superb shift mid-song, which is why it gets to go on this list. The use of instruments during this song, and generally the album is very impressive.
Hear

Spoon - Is Love Forever?
8/10
Spoon have been possible the most consistently great bands of the last decade, just take a look at this metacritic article for proof. And this single is certainly an enjoyable start to the teenies, if thats what is going to be called? As you would expect from them, very clean riffs and clear vocals which really identify this band so well. Certainly they can't have another great decade can they? If this is anything to go by, why not!
Hear

Surfer Blood - Swim
7.5/10
Simple rifs with a 80s sound, catchy lyrics and a simple fun in the sun nature. It takes a slight turn in the bridge into a Vampire Weekendesque little intervas, which works very well. It can easily be mistaken for an 80s song, however it will certainly get you shouting the chorus.
Hear

Two Door Cinema Club - Undercover Martyn
6.5/10
It could easily be labelled a generic indie name and be done with, and possibly should, but I did enjoy this song. Its a sing-a-long marathon with an average harmony, but the whole song is held together by the chorus. Don't expect a tremendous amount from this song, but it is certainly worth a listen.
Hear

Jesca Hoop - Hunting My Dress (2009)

Rating: 8/10

Californian born Jesca Hoop has an interesting past, being raised in a mormon family, to stand against its beliefs and pursue a career in music. Her debut album "Kismet" gathered some praise from renounding artists including Tom Waits and Elbow. Her second album must show that Hoop has depth in her music, whilst still holding the magic that her sound seems to have.

The album starts with no introduction, but rather abruptly by a quick vocal harmony folowed directly into the song "Whispering Light". And a great song to start with, its enchanting like a Fiona Apple melody, mixed with some simple yet twisting guitar riff. The only dissapointment with this song is that the chorus doesnt hold you as much as it should, however the bridge does more than enough to make up for that.

Next song "The Kingdom" shows the delicate side of her voice, and it sounds stunning. At first I thought this would be a perfect song to end the album on, however the tune does take a turn which throughout is following her vocals. Lovely song, however I still do not think it fits in well here.

"Four Dreams" is a more upbeat song, with hints of chirpy bluegrass and 90s pop. A very enjoyable song with charming lyrics. Its easy to see why it was chosen as the first single.

We then get another stunning a magical song, "Angel Mom". From the high and beautiful vocals carrying a very deep meaning behind the song, its not hard to see why she has been compared to the likes of Kate Bush. The song consists of a slow build up into the stunning industrial chorus. Luke Murray Allen defines it well as having the subtle blend of two opposites: "industrial yet organic".

Then we get a darker tune in "Feast of the Heart". This song really seems like more of a rock band rather than a single female singer, however the dark sense to this song combined with her voice makes it a good listen as if in the midst of a Blonde Redhead track.

The rest of the album is alot more relaxed, without any strong tracks, however it seems like a more traditional folk album. What it does show perfectly is just how great her song-writing is. "Murder of Birds" is a good example of this, which sounds like poetry.

"Bed Across the Sea" has a strange combination the didgereedoo in the background giving it a weird atmosphere, which is broken from time to time by beautiful highs of her voice.

"Tulip" sounds more like a standard alternative-pop song, with another instrument used that at first wouldnt be considered, this time the electronic organ. It gives this song a mediterranean feel, however just like the previous song, I don't think it works too well. In fact I think it sounds like a Shakira B-side

However the final song, "Hunting My Dress" (doesnt take a detective to see where the album took its name from), is a stunning ballad. Deep meaning and sentimental lyrics, it is understandable why she wanted the album to be named after this.

All in all this album was impressive, and contains something for everyone. Jesca Hoop has been compared to several female artists, from Kate Bush to Bjork to Regina Spektor. I would say vocally, she has similarities to Australian Sarah Blasko, who you should really check out! Still, its easy to compare, however I don't believe it does her justice as she has her own style. Her style to me seems to be vocally led, with simple beats, subtle use of strings and piano which are hooked onto her voice. She has the tenacity to be experimental, which sounds incredible in some parts, and less so in others. As I have mentioned, I was not too impressed on how the tracks were arranged, which seems like very few songs fit in well together. However there are enough tracks to say this album is a great listen, and that is nearly all due to her superb imagination.


Hear - Money (okay its not on this album, but its the only official video I found of hers. And its a cracker)

January Round -Up

Okay so first month of 2010, thought I would do a roundup of my favourite songs out of the month. I must say, these songs have not necessarily been released in January 2010, as they may be a bit older or newer! But these are songs that I have picked up in the past month that are worth a mention.

Owen Pallett - Keep The Dog Quiet
Track Rating: 8/10
I fell in love with this song from the first listen. Throughout the song it has a consistent and very simple rhythm. It sounds perfectly orchestrated with the overlapping of string and brass throughout, which perfect fit around the catchy yet clever chorus.
Hear

Vampire Weekend - Cousins
9/10
Okay, so I may have been dissapointed by VWs new album, however this single is a cracker. It makes your feet tap from start to finish, and is probably the most different of all Vampire Weekend songs. Great vocals, cheeky lyrics and swift guitars, this song shows the best of the band.
Hear

Ke$ha - Tik Tok
6.5/10
An oversaturated market I would have thought, but apparantly not. Kesha is portrayed as a sexy naughty bitch, which I guess is to appeal to the teenage girl listeners to follow and relate to. Extremely catchy lyrics and chorus, unique vocals and a good happy-go-lucky beat, this song is on most peoples party playlist. Those who don't have this will be officially referred to as Party Poopers.
Hear

Yeasayer - Ambling Alp
7.5/10
This track is simply charming. Motivational lyrics that may be too quirky for some peoples liking, however they may forgive this for everything else that this song holds. Especially the great vocals and overall sound. Check out a whole album review here.
Hear

These New Purians - We Want War
8/10
Just like the band, this song is EPIC. A dark and sinister track which begins with huge drum blasts, keyboard and noise. However this 7-minute song develops into a beautifully orchestrated melee, with a perfect combination of high tones from choir, and lower tones from drums, along with brass to intertwine both elements. As I said, EPIC. Also done an album review here. Yay!
Hear

Delphic - Doubt
6.5/10
I hate Radio 1 and the BBCs power to say what artists, albums and tracks we should all go and purchase. Delphic were number 3 in this list. And soon after, they released this track. I think it sounds more like a mash-up of Hot-Chip with the Klaxons rather then anything as innovative as you may expect. Saying that, there is nothing wrong with the track and the band. It is simply an enjoyable listen, however does not make me want to go back for more. Don't Believe the Hype comes in mind.
Hear

Tindersticks - Keep you Beautiful
8/10
When I hear this track, I just wish it was summer and I was dazing in the warmth. As that is what it brings, warmth. This song could be easily mistaken for an old classic mowtown classic, and rightly so. A tender and beautiful song.
Hear

Four Tet - Love Cry
8.5/10
At over 9 minutes, it can be easy for a song to get boring, especially the repetition in dance tunes. This is somewhat repetitive, which is in fact something you wouldn't normally relate to Four Tet. However Love Cry is never boring. This song is the build up of chilled jazz percussion, sampled female vocals and clever interplay. Head bopping music, a great tune from a great DJ.
Hear

Los Campesinos! - There are Listed Buildings
8/10
I have to say, I think Los Campesinos! are quirky little indie-pop shits. However they must be doing something good, as they have magazines such as NME raving. At first I thought this song was a "Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly" cover of punk-rock song. However after a few more listens, I realise that this song is packed full of great lyrics, and are broken down by some complex are ever confusing guitar riffs. The chorus is actually not too bad either, its actually a breather for whats to come. All in all, this track impressed.
Hear

Liars - Scissor
7.5/10
Legends in the making Liars have got to keep up a significant reputation, so released this song early for their following album "Sisterworld". And with this song, they definately do deserve the reputation. It is creepy, dark and daunting, yet it has a Radioheadesque turn with heavy bass and soaring lead and vocals. However there is something missing from this song, which I think is that it does not show the tenacity that can be heard in previous records.
Hear

These New Puritans - Hidden (2010)

Rating: 8/10

These New Puritans are four young Thames-Estuary progressive rockers. With a good debut album, they aim for their second album, Hidden to hit 2010 with a bang. They do not disappoint.

Time Xone is like a simple overture for the rest of the album, with a classical arrangement that is very plain. However this is rudely interrupted by "We Want War", which begins with huge drum blasts, keyboard and noise. However this 7-minute song develops into a beautifully orchestrated melee, with a perfect combination of high tones from choir, and lower tones from drums, along with brass to intertwine both elements.

These New Puritans have always said that hip-hop has made a massive influence on their music, an this is evident throughout the album. "Three Thousand" exemplifies that, with a sort-of medieval twist to it. As weird as that sounds, thats the best to explain it. "Hologram" is a nice contrast, which is led by piano and the lead singers voice, which although is not perfect, works well.

The band then produce a song with an apt name for it, "Attack Music". The song can be dark and direct in parts, yet melodical in others, with stunning backing vocals. The next song "Fire-Power" highlights how the band tend to chant to the music, more than sing to it, similar to MIA. You will also notice the harmony from the introduction nestle in towards the end.

Again, this is interrupted with another heavy drummed symphony, "Orion". Its about time for another breather, with another brass arrangement in "Canticle". Yet again the moment of peace is soon over, with one of the heaviest songs on the album "Drum Courts - Where Corals Lie" with a tribal drum beat, simple orchestral arrangement, dark backing vocals and the typical TNPS chanting. This song gives the imagery of a montage in an epic ancient war film, where the soldiers are marching to their deaths. I'm sure I have heard it in one of those terrible films.

"White Chords" is a melodic song that penultimately ends the album. It is alot more harmonic and relaxing, with a euphoric chorus and sing-along lyrics. The last song "5" seems to be an answer to the introduction. Another instrumental piece, this one is alot lighter and magical. It includes a choir who chant to the harmony of "Time Xone".

This album is can be called many words, but ironically none of them are "Hidden". It is spectacular in some instances, which is helped by the band knowing exactly what they want from this album. It gives a bold start for 2010, just like "Vektamist" and "Merriweather Post Pavillion" did for 2009. This album will not become a mainstream success, as it contains more dark, tribal hits rather than some other artists, however I have to say to those who listen to this album, my jaw did that too.

Hear - "We Want War"

Black Cab Sessions

If you havn't heard or seen them before, then these videos will be a treat!
Black Cab Sessions kind of explain themselves. One song performance by musicians, recorded on the back of a black cab in London and New York, for the viewing pleasure of us internet layabouts.
They have grabbed some great artists in their time, and below are my picks:

Alela Diane
Bon Iver
Dawn Landes
Death Cab for Cutie
Fleet Foxes
Grizzly Bear
Lightspeed Champion
Lykke Li
The Maccabees
Mumford and Sons
The New Pornographers
Noah and the Whale
Scout Niblett
St.Vincent

Yeasayer - Odd Blood (2010)

Rating: 8.5 / 10

It has been nearly three years since Yeasayer's debut album, but it seems like they have used this time very wisely. After a long wait, new album Odd Blood certainly does not dissapoint.

With a dark, deep and peculiar intro song, "The Children", the next song "Ambling Alp" is a complete contrast, with an upbeat tempo and lyrics to match. This is the first single from the album, however it is by far not the best.

The album then takes a more docile turn with the song "Madder Red", which seems to fit more with their first album. It is a bit more 80s pop revival than some may like, which then leads to a more MGMTesque anthem in "I Remember". Here we start to see just what Yeasayer are about, with complex musical arrangements, great vocals and a lot of passion in what they do.

All of sudden we get a total different side to their music, with one of the most energetic songs on the album, "The One", which in typical music of our day, compliments the past in pop. It has a sort of 80s Hollywood movie feel to it, with 90s vocals all complimented with a great hook.

The next song certainly cannot be called pop music. The intro to "Love Me Girl" can be very misleading to the listener, for me it seemed like the start of a Pendulum song. Instead we get a song that seems to have elements of 90s House music, garage and more recently dubstep, all complimented with great vocals that make the song refreshing, and very addictive. "Rome" is a less serious song, with a quirky melody and hints of funk. The song is broken down at periods with clever percussions. However in all it is similar to "Ambling Alp" as being a good single, but doesn't really expose Yeasayers experimental side.

"Strange Reunions" sounds like a caleidoscopic Eastern-Indie mix, similar to that of their debut album. This song is in stark contrast to the quicker tempo song "Mondegreen", which seems to have been a very complicated ensemble of instruments all to have been played at a higher bpm then that was supposed to. This is where we see their experimental side try to take over the music, which is unfortunate.

The final song "Grizelda" however is the perfect ending to an album of this sort. It sounds like a strange mash-up of The Dirty Projectors and MGMT, however it works incredibly well. The melody and vocal are both spellbouding, and makes this final song a suitable encore for the album.

It is true that generally this album can be called more high tempo, upbeat and danceable, however this does not do justice to just what has improved for Yeasayer since the debut album. Being an experimental band, from taking their interest in so many sounds, they seem to have finally found the right formula, and created something very special. Dare I say it, I myself have been a sceptic of bands such as MGMT and Vampire Weekend, however the new Yeasayer album seems to show just how to do it. Kudos

Hear - Ambling Alp (single)

La Blogotheque...

La Blogotheque is a great french website devoted to discussion, interviews and best of all, live music videos of some great artists from around the alt/folk world.

The live sessions (called Soirée de poche) are the best I have seen, held in some obscure venues in France, and are filmed by Vincent Moon, a french filmaker who makes it such a great experience.

Check out these great sessions, believe me, you won't be disappointed:

The Dodos

Kings of Convenience

Beirut

St.Vincent & Andrew Bird

The Walkmen

Bon Iver

There are a few more, but these are my favourites.
Enjoy!

Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)

Rating: 9.5/10

One thing I wanted to do through this blog was to expose albums that I have been brought up by that have made changed me. And from that, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill was hands down the first I wanted to discuss.

So a bit of background on this young lady at the time. Lauryn was going through a torrential time with partners in the infamous group The Fugees. In fact when Lauryn proposed to the band that she were to do a solo album, there was little support from the group, including the father to her future child, Wyclef Jean.

However, it was afflictions such as above that pushed her to produce a solo album. Miseducation was to be made as a personal diary to her, expressing deep emotions on situations that were also affecting young black americans during this period. Lauryn was in fact the humble narrator, enfused with her own personal dilemmas. However this album was not a simple heart-on-sleave representation on Lauryn's life, in fact, it was the opposite.

One of the greatest addictions to this album is its positive perspective on the individual. Lyrically, the album is so succint, that it seems no number of political advisors could redraft what is said as well as Lauryn did, when she spoke her truth. She does not back away from any subject, from abortion and politics, to love and betrayal.

Also from the appeal of Lauryn came some great support in making this record, from internationally known artists such as D'Angelo, Mary J Blige and Carlos Santana. However even they could not overshaddow the clear talent that was expressed by Lauryn Hill who. with or without some exceptional production, excelled.

What is so great about this album is that I truly believe that anyone, no matter what background, can find strong relevance. Miseducation expresses where Lauryn's emotion and devotions in life are, to the extent of carrying us into her world. For me, this album could often not be left on the shelf for a few months, but if I were to be asked "what would be the most influential album in your life?", well you get the point!

Hear - To Zion

Vampire Weekend - Contra (2010)

Rating: 7/10

Vampire Weekend hit the music world with a fascinating debut album, pulling together sounds from all corners of the world. Two years after the debut, their second album Contra arrives with some anticipation. Does it deliver?

Well that depends on what you are looking for from this band. From their debut album, it had a mix of superb individual songs that could either be heard at a party full of the pretentious, or whilst your sipping your frapomapocapochino in the cafe. Superb as those songs were, I don't believe the new album has any to rival with that. So in that sense, no it does not deliver.

However, if your needing a good album to add to your extensive collection, then this is a great choice. Contra is full of charming melodies, that keep it a very entertaining album. However after a while, you may find yourself wanting more from this album. Just like the previous album, it is short, and seriously lacks depth. Hopefully we will see it in their next one, fingers crossed they have more to offer.

Hear - Cousins

Guardian Article: What has the digital decade meant for music?

A very good READ, describing the effects of the digital age for music, bringing both positive and adverse effects to all musicians. However it seems the digital age wouldn't have hit the fat cats as much as we would percieve
If only Neutral Milk Hotel waited 10 years...

My Picks of 2009

Well its a new year and decade

2009 saw the exposure of dubstep to the world, where it got hyped till it got bitten on the ass. New Weird America got a morgage and matured somewhat. MJ died, which led to a great leap in plays for him, exposing it to youngsters who otherwise wouldnt have given it a chance. Whilst there was a fling with hip-hop and commercial dance in the past, 2009 was a proper love fest, with a lot of vomit coming at the later stages of each songs life cycle. With a lot of new music to look forward to, I thought it might be good to sum up for me the great albums of the past year.

1. St.Vincent - Actor


Before you read on, there is something I must confess. I may have a small crush on St.Vincent singer Annie Clark. However listening to her records over and over again, and seeing her live twice, it is understandable why I have a crush on her. I also did meet her at one of the live shows, whilst she was trying to flee to the ladies toilets. But I digress. After a very good first album, Annie Clark stuck herself in a small apartment in New York armed with recording equipment, to come with this astonishing collection of songs. She admits herself that movies were her main inspiration whilst writing this album. And this is evident when listening to Actor. Every songs seems to hold alot of emotion which is echoed into some beautiful yet venomous lyrics. However this offsets from Annie's clear, tone perfect voice, which seems to let the harmony take over her pieces. Its an album full of perfect contradictions and powerful ballads that take your mind into the movies.

Hear - Marrow

2. The Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca

This truly was a great year for New York's experimental rock band, The Dirty Projectors. Their music is as hard to describe as an ameoba's facial expression. The best I can do is to say it is a mix superb guitar riffs, stunning male and female vocals, and written by someone who just found out the purpose of dark energy yet is reluctant to confess. This album ripped away all text books on how music should be written, and created something fresh and very inviting.

Hear - Stillness is the Move

3. Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

Another New York Artist! Must have been a great year for that area! Merriweather Post Pavilion has been cited in most critics top lists of 2009, and is easy to understand why. Animal Collective have produced some great albums in the past, however this one I believe tops them by a reasonable distance. The wonderment and structured waywardness makes it understandable why it has been comparable to the great Brian Wilson.

Hear - My Girls


4. Grizzly Bear - Vektamist


Okay so four of the top five on this list are from New York, this is getting ridiculous. However the Grizzly's third album was always going to be up there. Although personally I have a little love affair with their second album, this new ensemble is seen to fine tune some areas where they were criticised for in the past. Nonetheless this is not patchwork of older work, this album brings new energy and exhilaration into their music, with intelligient and innovative techniques that make this such an enjoyable listen.

Hear - Two Weeks (unofficial video, it's ten times as good)


5. Alela Diane - To Be Still


From California, 2009 saw Alela Diane's comeback from her debut, and boy can she sing. This folk album brings out the best in Alela's pallette. Her style consists of warm vocals, imaginative lyrics and relaxed harmonies. There are no issues of overcomplication with her work, she made this a simple yet beautiful listen for 2009.


Hear - White as Diamonds



Others honourable alums of the past year:

Marissa Nadler - Little Hells
The XX- The XX
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx pt 2
Alessi's Ark - Notes From The Tree House
Real Estate - Real Estate
Regina Spektor - Far
Blue Roses - Blue Roses

Welcome All..

This is a music blog which tries not to drop into any particular type, but obviously inevitably will!
I hope to start making musical reviews, and create debate for all to join in on


I was going to attack the introduction with a load of great quotes about music, but I think this will do the trick:
http://www.quotegarden.com/music.html

If your interested, which I am sure you are, check out my last.fm profile, to understand more about what I like and what I am listening to at the moment!

Enjoy!