The Top 25 Albums/Songs of 2007!
Album #25: Deerhoof - Friend Opportunity
If you recall, Deerhoof are one of my defending champions. They hold the title of "Best Album of 2005" with The Runners Four. And last year was the only year where Deerhoof missed the list, for the sole reason that 2006 was the only year Deerhoof did not release album this decade. Usually, they end up somewhere between 15 and 25. The Runners Four happened to be a great album, and 05 happened to be a weak year. Well, 07 is a much better year, and Friend Opportunity is a normal Deerhoof album. That is, it's pretty damn good. Over the past few years, Deerhoof have developed a lot. 4 or 5 years ago, they were really spastic, and rather abstract. Now they are a lot more acessible, and this is probably their most accessible album. This is the Deerhoof album for everyone. If you hated them before, you may like them now. If you liked them before, this is a good, but not great album.
Song #25: Klaxons - Magick
Once again, we visit Klaxons. And not for the last time. This band has a lot of potential. All they have to do, is keep writing songs like "Magick." It's an incredibly simple song, of which I learned to play on both keys and guitars rather quickly, without sheet music or tabs. But that's not whats important. What is important, is the song is a lot of fun. It's fast, bouncy and catchy as shit. Klaxons may be the band of the future...
Album #24: Deerhunter - Cryptograms
Deerhunter was quite a surprise to me. I've heard scattered songs by them before, but never really got into them. I always thought they were not focused, and sort of all over the place. But I digged the sound. They produced some massive volume, and thats something we've been missing lately. If you look at some of the best bands recently, you'll find very fun bands, dancey bands, talented bands, but very few loud bands. On Cryptograms Deerhunter are much more focused, but didn't turn the volume down. It's just solid guitar rock, and thats something I've been missing. In fact, it's one of 3 solid guitar rock albums released this year. Can you name the other two?
Song #24: Kevin Drew - Lucky Ones
I was a little sketched out by this release. I love Broken Social Scene, and I quite like Stars, but I think everything else out of this school of musicians is a bit bland. Well I suppose this is almost like a Broken Social Scene album. Either way, there are some true gems on this album, and this is one of them. It's catchy, and a little more raw compared to other songs from this group of artist. And of course with Kevin Drews great vocals.
Album #23: M83 - Digital Shades Vol. 1
I have a soft spot for M83. And I like the word Pitchfork used to describe him; maximalist. I think it's quite fitting. Anthony Gonzales takes about every sound he can possibly squeeze into a song, and crams it in. Plus some. There are very few guitars on this album, unlike say Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts which was filled with them. This album is mostly synths and samples. Hence the name of the album, Digital Shades Vol. 1. What is different about this album from past M83 albums, is the absence of the cheeze. His last two albums some really, REALLY cheesy bits. We all remember "Car Chase Terror" from Before The Dawn Heals Us. This album is almost entirely instrumental, so the horrid vocals are gone. Thankyou.
#23: Shout Out Louds - Impossible
This is The Shout Out Louds at their most Cure-tastic. And while they sound shockingly similar to the Cure here, they are not trying to mimic them. They may sound like the Cure, but they don't feel like them. They have their own vibe going on. They are much more fun than the Cure, and that's why I dig them. Though the lyrics are a bit sappy, the vocals are quite nice. I usually hate sappy lyrics, but lyrics are not that important.
Album #22: Justice - t
A horrible band name, with an even more horrible album title. Before even listening to the album, you think it's some sort of like, Prince wannabe bullshit. Well it's quite far from it. I don't know about the rest of the world, but Justice are fucking huge Japan. In January, they are playing a massive gig, which has been sold out for months. They are being looked at as the next Daft Punk, or Underworld here. Well, they're not THAT good, but they are still a good listen. Once again, the running theme this year, and the past couple for me, is fun. In parts the album is quite cheesy, but that seems to be kinda common in French music. Over dramatic. But at the sametime, that is part of the fun. I don't know how this album is being accepted in America, but I bet it will be tagged "party in a box" like so many great, fun albums do.
Song: #22: !!! - Bend Over Beethoven
This song is not single material. On and album with some catchy singles, it's the long driven out dance-off that stands out to me. Though !!! has always been known for longer songs. What they are also known for, is a beat that wont let up. And thats what we have here. We have great instrumentation. Delayed guitars, into chopping guitars, to funk guitars. All with that beat that just won't let you be, until the break down, only for it to pick you up again. Once again, the theme here is FUN.
Album #21: !!! - Myth Takes
I grew tired of !!! a couple of years ago. "Me and Guilliani Down By the School Yard" was a great song, but the album wasn't so hot. But I was into a lot of bands in the same vein as !!!, such as The Rapture and LCD Soundystem. So called "dance punk." So when !!! released a rather good album this year, I wasn't completely surprised. I knew they had it in them. Although there are only a couple of high points on this album, such as "Bend Over Beethoven" and "Heart of Hearts," there are no low points. That's what makes this such a good album. You put it on, it runs for 50 minutes, and you enjoyed it all. Many people call "dance-punk" a stale genre, but I think we're just getting into it. The best is yet to come.
Song #21: Polysics - Catch On Everywhere
OK, when this single dropped in February, this is not what you expected from Polysics. It's led by a bouncy beat, with catchy guitars, and an even more catchy chorus. The lead vocals however, are vocodered to an incredible pitch. It sounds like some sort of like, chipmunk on speed or something. It's really quite funny to watch lead singer Hiroyuki Hayashi sing them. Then of course the sugary female chorus donated by Kayo. Oh wait, this is exactly what we expect from Polysics. And why we love them so very much.
Album #20: Bjork - Volta
Usually, when Bjork releases an album, it's in the top 5 of the year. If not, at least the top 10. Well, sorry Bjork, but you got stopped at #20. Not that the album is bad. It's not bad at all, it's just nowhere near the level of past Bjork albums. Every Bjork album has a certain feel to it. And that's what missing here. The songs themselves are fine. There are some great tracks, such as "Innocence" and "Declare your Independance." However, there are two songs that really bring this album down; "The Dull Flame of Desire" and "My Juvenile," which are led by the ridiculous Antony dude. Seriously, that guy is a load of shit, and his voice drives me out of my mind. I don't know why people are raving him so much. There are not many times out there when an album is actually brought down by a song or two. But, well, that's what we have here. If these two songs were not on here, the album would be higher up. But I cringe during these two songs.
Song #20: 31 Knots - Sanctify
The standout song on what i consider to be an overall great album. The song is quite busy. There are guitars, pianos, bells, all sorts of shit happening. The vocals on the track are through the roof. I don't really know the band that well, but the singer seems to put everything he has into the track. I don't know why it took me song long to discover this band, but they are really interesting.
Album #19: Simian Mobile Disco - Attack Decay Sustain Release
I really have to be in the mood for Simian Mobile Disco. Right now, I'm not really in the mood for them. But when I'm in the mood to dance, drink heavily and it's a dark cold night in the city, this album would be much higher on the list. But now, It's 1:30pm in the afternoon in a Japanese suburb. It's sunny out, unusually warm for December, and I'm going out for a bike ride in a bit. It just doesn't fit. The albums flows wonderfully, and can totally set the mood for a night. It's generally upbeat, but I wouldn't say it's a happy album. There are a couple of annoying songs on the album though, such as "Hotdog." The song is fine until the annoying ass vocal samples come in. But songs like "It's The Beat" and "Hustler" make up for it. "Hustler" has one of the best lines of the entire year on it: "What the fuck is you gonna do about it? Nothing." Also a great, catchy album title. Synth up!
Song: #19: A Place To Bury Strangers - Another Step Away
FUZZ. Don't you just love the fuzz? This song is very reminiscent of The Jesus & Mary Chain, but a little more aggressive. The song has a great mix of the light strumming, and the hardcore lets fuck em' up peaks. I think this band is one of the more promising bands to emerge recently. But then again, I thought Refused and Polysics were going to take over the world, and we all know that didn't happen.
Album #18: Modest Mouse - We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank
I know this album gets a lot of shit. Well, we know the Modest Mouse we used to love is dead. We all know there will never be another The Lonesome Crowded West or The Moon and Antarctica. Some people wish Modest Mouse would just retire. But that won't happen, they're making too much money. I don't blame them. And that aside, they are still releasing some good music. They did an interesting thing here, and grabbed Johnny Marr to play some guitar. And not like a guest guitarist, but as a full time member. I can only really catch his influences here and there, usually on a chorus or an intro. So I'm not entirely sure what he did on the album. Once again, like the Bjork album, and as Sean brought up on a couple of other releases, there is a song that really hurts the album. ONly 3 tracks in I cringe when "Fire It Up" comes on. God dammit.
Song #18: Enon - Mirror On You
I think this song gets a lot of credit for being the first song I heard on this album. It sounds quite similar to most of the album. And that's definitely a good thing. In fact it's a great thing. Except for the fact that there are no Moogs on this song, which is my favorite part of Enon. Instead there is a heavy bass and spastic guitars. But all the energy is there. And its kicked out in under 2 minutes.
Album #17: 31 Knots - The Days and Nights of Everything Anywhere
Earlier this year, I had a extremely boring evening. There was just nothing to do. Everyone was busy, so I just started downloading new music I hadn't heard of. One of those bands was 31 Knots, whom I believe I first heard from Kevin and Chad. I can't quite remember though. The album usually isn't something I'm into. It's definitely the most obscure album on my list. The first thing that caught me on the album, was the vocals. There is no real, control over the vocals, and thats part of the fun. It's completely unpredictable. The guitars sound like an early Sonic Youth. Like REALLY early, pre-Bad Moon Rising, and more on the lines of their self-titled debut EP. Then there are some nice pianos on some of the tracks, making an interesting combination. I think the main reason I liked this album so much this year, was that it was completely fresh to me.
Song #17: Arcade Fire - Keep The Car Running
There are so few songs out there that are led by a music box and a mandolin. But thats why we love Arcade Fire. They can incorporate unusual instruments into great pop songs. This is the catchiest song on Neon Bible, maybe aside from "No Cars Go," which doesn't count because it was originally released in 2003. And once again, like almost all Arcade Fire songs, Win Butler puts everything he can and then some into his vocals.
Album #16: Interpol - Our Love To Admire
I think people cut this album up too much. While it's nowhere near the level of their debut album, I think it's a big step up from Antics. I thought Antics was bloody terrible. On this album though, there are some pretty damn good songs. The opener "Pioneer To The Falls" is fantastic. It does make it hard for the rest of the album to live up to, but then there are still some other great tracks. I personally really liked "Pace Is The Trick." Another good thing about this album, is a lot of the cheesy lyrics of Paul Banks are gone. I think he is a great vocalist, but a fucking terrible lyrics writer. Everything else on the album is pretty consistent. Though I do wish Interpol would turn up the volume. I imagine they would be a great shoegaze band. They just need to mess around with effects and noise.
Song #16: The Shout Out Louds - Normandie
This is the stand out song on the latest Shout Out Louds album. The song is kinda sappy, and sounds ridiculously like the Cure. But thats a good thing in this case. The song is wonderfully catchy. The guitar melody is simple, and the vocals follow quite nicely. Then there is the little string break down in the mix. Just a nice little pop song.
Album #15: Burial - Untrue
Burial had good timing. I have a feeling if the album came out earlier in the year, it wouldn't have made the list. Not so much that I would have grown tired of it, but the album really fit the atmosphere of my life when I first listened to it about a month ago. Burial makes really good hanging out/mild party music. If you want to throw a massive party and wreck shit, this is not your album. But if you're going to have some people over, have a few drinks, and just sort of take it easy, Untrue is perfect. And I've been having a lot of those gigs lately. The songs are relaxing, but at the same time they have a beat to keep you awake. Goes well with a glass of red wine.
Song #15: Capsule - Reality
I think of Capsule as a dance band. I mean, Yasutaka Tanaka (How badass of a name is that?) is one of the premiere club DJs in Tokyo. But here, this is a very poptastic Capsule song. If Capsule wrote more songs like this, they would definitely be topping more charts, instead of being the underground Shibuya-kei band they are now. Also interesting, is that Toshiko does not sing on this song, and her vocals redefine the term "sugar pop."
Album #14: The Tough Alliance - New Chance
I think this album is the most criminally overlooked of the year. The running theme here once again is FUN. I downloaded the album one night via Pitchforks recommendation, which is often hit or miss. This time it was a total hit. Oddly enough, I didn't hear much talk about The Tough Alliance, but I suggest we start that now. They produce a lovely blend of ridiculously catchy synthetic pop, which the Swedes are ever so popular for. (It's either blissful synth-pop or death-metal for the Swedes, right?) The vocals on the album were kinda annoying at first, but they grew on me and now I quite like them. The album ends with a great song called "1981," which was the year I was born, and oddly enough Simian Mobile Disco ended their album with a song simply entitled "Scott."
Song #14: Polysics - Shizuka is a Machine Doctor
The lyrics to this song are in English, but it makes no sense. Though even in Japanese, Polysics make little to no sense. The term "Shizuka" means quiet in Japanese, but it can also be a girls name. Here I'm questionable as to what meaning they are getting at. The song is something like a first-person narrative about being a robot which is broken, and can no longer play guitar. But then It's fixed, and can jam again. So, it sounds like this person, Shizuka, is the machine doctor. But then, it also seems like it was done quickly and with no pain, and the Japanese often use "is a" to include adjectives. In other words, I don't know what the hell is going on. But it doesn't matter. The song purely rawks.
#13: Apples in Stereo - New Magnetic Winter
This was the surprise album of the year for me. I always liked Apples in Stereo, but I wasn't that much into them. I was quite taken by this album though. First thing that caught my attention was the fantastic song, "Energy." When I heard the song, I didn't know what to think. It's both modern sounding, and vintage at the sametime. Then it is followed by "Same Old Drag," which really reminds me of the Olivia Tremor Control, who really remind me of The Beatles. In fact, the whole album is reminisent of Dusk At Cubist Castle by OTC. It's a nice mix of pop songs and quirky electronica, but it's a lot more straightforward than Dusk At Cubist Castle, and less epic. Nontheless, it's a great album with some fabulous songs.
Song #13: LCD Soundsystem - North American Scum
Why this song wasn't a monster single is beyond me. Perhaps it's the subject matter? I mean, for a good-ol-boy, this song would be quite offensive. Even though it kinda sticks up for Americans, without any thinking it can be a bit difficult. That aside, the lyrics are fucking hilarious. James Murphy has a great sense of humor, and he uses it well in his great music. This song has the beat, the bass, the catchiness and the hooks. Thus, everything you need for a hit single. Oh wait, it's interesting and involves some thinking.
Album #12: Kevin Drew - Spirit If..
It's not quite a Broken Social Scene album, but it's still pretty good. OK, so it might as well be a Broken Social Scene album, with the only difference being that Kevin Drew wrote all the songs, instead of just a few. For some reason I didn't have high hopes for this album. I never like it when artists from a band have solo projects. But then again, Broken Social Scene is a collective, and everyone has their own thing. And now Kevin Drew has his very own thing. The album drags a bit in my opinion, but there are some wonderful indie songs on here, such as "Safety Bricks" and "Lucky Ones." In fact, I don't really care for this type of sound usually. I find it bland and overplayed. But here we are told that it can not only be interesting, but generally good at the same time.
Song #12: Arcade Fire - Ocean of Noise
This is the highest Arcade Fire song on this list. But it is only the 3rd best on the album. How does that work? Well, the second best is "Intervention," which is the #1 song on my 2006 list. And the best, naturally, is "No Cars Go," which was first released in 2003, thus it is not on this list. But Neon Bible is a good album, and the 3rd best song is still one of the best of the year.
Album #11: Capsule - Sugarless Girl
I got into Capsule last year. Most of you are probably not familiar with them. They are one of the premier Shibuya-kei bands in Tokyo. In the past they've had more of a sugar-pop vibe going on. You know the sound, that ridiculously happy Japanese theme, which is always odd because the Japanese are the least happy people on the planet. But time, they've dropped that and gone for more of a Euro-pop sound, with the heavy bass and thumping beats. This year has seen the return of electro-pop, with Justice, Simian Mobile Disco, ect. And I put Capsule in this group now. Toshiko's vocals are still there, so the Shibuya sound isn't completely gone. From start to finish it's just a fun album, and I recommend it for anyone who has gotten into that sound this year. Oh and the album artwork is through the roof. And yes, that is Toshiko's chest.
Song #11: Sigur Ros - Hljomalind
This is by far the most normal sounding Sigur Ros song ever. That sounds like it might be a bad thing, but it is in fact, a good thing. I never got into the live version of this song, but when it was released on the EP this year, I really dug it. It has a full chorus and everything, which is something quite rare for Sigur Ros, a band more known for writing linear songs.
Album #10: Dinosaur Jr. - Beyond
This is how all reunited bands need to do it. Instead of slopping together a half ass album to make a few bucks, think it out, and release something you are proud of. (Pay attention, Stooges) Dinosaur Jr never missed a beat. They rocked when they were originally together, and they rock now. The deal is, J Mascis never stopped. He's been releasing solid guitar rock since his old band split. He just got the original lineup together. The opening song is the one that gets you. Right in the same vein with "Freakscene," "Almost Ready" kicks the album right into gear. Although I never really cared for J's vocals, and on this album I still don't really. But what is important here, is the guitar rock. Welcome back.
Song #10: Klaxons - Atlantis to Interzone
This was the first Klaxons song I heard. I downloaded the single, really confused. I mean, the band is called Klaxons, and the song is called "Atlantis to Interzone." It just sounds fucking weird. But what we have, is a total kick you in your teeth blast of a song. The song starts out with the "DJ!" yell, before the bass hooks you in. The vocals are terrible, but perfect. This is a song that must be listened to at full volume.
Album #09: Dan Deacon - Spiderman of the Rings
One of the most fun albums of the year, and at the same time one of the most confusing. It's one of those albums that I listened to and loved at first, and assumed I'd get tired of. But alas, I didn't. Though it's not an album I would necessarily listen to on my own at home. It's definitely a party album. It's good in the mornings though, to get you going. Basically, it's just really silly. And I love silly. So I love this album. The opener, "Woody Woodpecker," is the silliest song on the album, but then it's picked up with a little more straightforward song, "Crystal Cat," which is still not without it's silliness. The album is centered around the epic middle song, "Wham City," which clocks in at just about 10 minutes. It's 10 minutes of sort of randomness, but that's why we love it. Dan Deacon, you're the man. Keep up the good work.
Song #09: Apples in Stereo - Energy
If you look up the term "catchy motherfucker" in the dictionary, you'll find a sample of this song. I mean, the hooks are through the roof, the chorus is ridiculous, and vocal harmonies, synths and the tremolo guitars at the end all work together to make this song one of the best pop songs of the year. I haven't been in the states in a while, but I would expect this song to be in loads of television commercials. If it's not, it so should be.
Album #08: Blonde Redhead - 23
Arguably the most consistent band on the planet. I mean, when was the last time (if ever) Blonde Redhead did something wrong? Their first few albums were good, but not great. But the last 3 have been brilliant, and they've backed it up with a stunning live show. I first got into Blonde Redhead with Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons. When I first heard it, I loved it. Then I heard Misery is a Butterfly, and I loved that even more. And now, 23 is my favorite Blonde Redhead album. The progression on this album is great. This time around, Blonde Redhead have turned up the volume a little more, a little more reminisent of Sister/Evol era Sonic Youth, as opposed to the their last couple of albums, which were more in the vein of very early Sonic Youth. Not that this album is a Sonic Youth rip, it is definitely a unique sound, but has a Sonic Youth influence. Blonde Redhead have often been known as a great vocal band, but they are also a guitar band, and this is their best guitar album.
Song #08: Wire - 23 Years Late
How old are these dudes now? Lets see, Pink Flag came out in fucking 1977. And they're still writing music like this? Wire were always known for their progression on their first 3 albums, and this song definitely has the feel of 30 years of progression. The song is near 10 minutes long, and is centered around an organ piece, and a talking monologue done by bassist Graham Lewis, before Colin Newmans signature wail chimes in. Fucking through the roof, I love it.
Album #07: Enon - Green Geysers... Carbon Louds
Enon will forever have the difficulty of living in the shadow of Brainiac. And as amazing as Brainiac is, we really should look at Enon in their own light. The deal is, this is a fantastic band, who has been making great music for some time, and continues to do so. They combine spastic guitars, distorted bass, and great analog synths, along with both male and female vocals. It all mixes very well. Though on this album, there may be more of a concentration on guitars than their old pal Mr. Moog, which I normally wouldn't like, but it plays out great. Every song is a blast of energy, usually clocking in at about 3 minutes, which is perfect for music of this nature. Not many people paid a lot of attention to Enon this year. Not quite sure why. But I highly recommend this album. And this album also has one of those songs this year that oddly relates to me; "Colette," which is my mothers name, and not a common one at that.
Song #07: Radiohead - Nude
OK, so how long did it take for this one to come out? 11 years? I think it was originally played live in 1996. Maybe 1997. This song has taken many different shapes in the past decade. At first it was a Brit-pop masterpiece, utilizing the organs and keys. I believe it was played once in 2002, and was played out more as a straight forward song, though I believe it was unrehearsed. Then, it was played regularly on the 2006 tour. By this time they had slowed the song down a bit. And now, it's become a dreamy masterpiece, and probably Thom Yorkes most sincere vocal performances. Now, we just need "Lift" to be released...
Album #06: Polysics - Karate House
Much in the same vein as Enon, except a little more nuts. In fact both bands are open supporters of each other, and Polysics list Brainiac as one of their heaviest (And obvious) influences. Polysics took a bit of a turn on their last album, Now Is The Time, which gave them commercial success not only in their motherland of Japan, but also got them some recognition in Europe. Still, they just can't cut it in the US. This album however, was only released in Japan. Instead they released another take of Polysics Or Die!!!! in the US. I don't get it, because this a fantastic album. It's quite different from the structured pop songs of Now Is The Time. In fact it sounds much more like their very early songs. I believe it isolated a lot of their fans in Japan. And certainly, if they were trying to gain fans in the US, songs like "Catch On Everywhere" were not going help. Polysics have interesting ideas sometimes...such as they do here. Definitely going back to more Devo-esque guitars, but starting to get rather complicated with their electronic configuration. Either way, Hiro, Kayo, Fumi and Yano definitely know what they are doing.
Song #06: A Place To Bury Strangers - To Fix The Gash In Your Head
The first thing that gets you on this song, is the beat. Utilizing a drum machine on this one, ATBS crank up the tempo, getting all new wave up on it. The bass is also key on this song, very Peter Hook-esque. But like all ATBS songs, it's the guitars that make the song. Oliver Ackerman blasts solid fucking volume with massive distortion, with quite simple leads. In other words, the way guitars should be played. So to imagine this song if you never heard it...imagine like, Primal Scream meets New Order, meets the Jesus & Mary Chain. Fuck yeah.
Album #05: A Place To Bury Strangers - A Place To Bury Strangers
Oliver Ackerman is exactly what the music world needs, at exactly the right time. We need a new guitar hero. Not the ridiculous video game. And not some asstard meta-head picking away like a madman. What we need, is someone who can produce some fucking volume. Sure Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo are still swinging away. Along with J. Mascis, and now we are seeing the return of Kevin Shields. But we need something fresh. And I believe Oliver Ackerman and the man for the job. The album is a bit messy, and sort of unfocused, but the reason it cracks the top 5 is simply because of the massive sound on this album. Oliver Ackerman actually produces his own pedals, and whatever they are, they are insane. And of course he uses my axe of choice, the Fender Jaguar, and on certain songs that floating tremolo is clearly heard, very reminiscent of My Bloody Valentine. They are the power trio of the future. Guitar, bass, drums. And although the guitars get most of the attention on this album, we can't forget the drums and bass, both of which I feel get heavy influences from Joy Division/New Order. So yeah, thats their sound. Those great beats and bass hooks, with ridiculous guitars. It's a sweet combo. I expect big things from this band in the future.
Song #05: Sigur Ros - I Gaer
I'm told this song was played live back around 2000. I don't know, but I hadn't heard the song until now. This song sounds flat out amazing. Starting out with the subtle chimes, before the bowed guitars roar in. Jonsi's vocals are incredible on this song, even for him. I mean, his voice is always great, but it's really something else here. I think he needs to sing like this more often, and not so much in his falsetto. What makes this song so great, is the atmosphere. It's one of those songs where it's hard to do anything else while listening to it.
Album #04: Radiohead - In Rainbows
Radiohead score big with the surprise on this one. On October first, they announced it was being released in 10 days? That's pretty damn smooth. And for some reason I didn't have high hopes for this album. Hail To The Thief was good, but not great (at least compared to their previous albums) and it took them 4 bloody years to get this one out. And well, lets face it: Radiohead are getting old. (Not as old as James Murphy, though) But I was pleasantly surprised on this album. There is definitely a unique feel to this album, which Radiohead is so damn good at. (Also see Bjork, who failed to do that this year, and why she was only #20) As Chad stated in the Radiohead forum, this is possibly their most emotional effort. I think second, behind The Bends which I think is one of the most moving albums ever recorded, which still makes this album very emotional. They finally got around to properly recording "Big Ideas" (I refuse to call it "Nude") and it came out great. There are though, some kinda boring songs, which keeps this album from being even higher on the list. For example, "Weird Fishes/Arpeggi" doesn't do anything for me. I never liked the old live version either. And on "Jigsaw Pieces Falling Into Place," they seriously need to turn down the reverb. But tracks like "Bodysnatchers," "All I Need" and "Videotape" more than make up for it. And the complete re-tooling of "Reckoner" is pretty cool.
Oh and the second disc also helps out a lot here. The MK tracks are quite cool filler, I think that should have been used on the actual album. "Down Is The New Up" is a bit disappointing, but I never did get into the old version. And "Go Slowly" is pretty weak. But it's a bonus disc, so like, I can't really complain about those songs. Especially when there are some great tracks like "Last Flowers," "4 Minute Mile," and "Up On The Ladder," which got the same treatment as "Reckoner." Pretty cool bonus disc.
Song #04: Dinosaur Jr. - Almost Ready
Rock. Just, fucking rock. Thats all there is to say about this song. This song comes right out and just kicks your teeth in. The opener to the album lets you know that J hasn't missed a step. Despite the long grey hair and the several pounds he's put on, the man knows how to swing an axe. It reminds me of "Freakscene," the opener to Bug. They just waste no time, and you're in. I know J always gets all the credit for Dinosaur Jr. I mean, he does write the song, but also the bass donated by Lou Barlow is key on the song. He keeps the rhythm together, which allows J to do his thing.
Album #03: Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
I think this album will be treated much like Second Coming by The Stone Roses. And that's not really fair. It is literally impossible to follow up a debut album of that caliber. Funeral is one of the greatest albums ever recorded, and we can't expect a band to do that. So, instead of looking at this album as "not as good as Funeral," we should look at it as a completely separate album. And it's really damn good. Of course there are the songs that get all the attention, such as "Keep The Car Running," the single "Intervention," and of course the already classic "No Cars Go." But there isn't a bad song on this album. I know "Neon Bible" gets a lot of shit, but I like it. And "My Body Is A Cage" does as well, and yeah it is the worst song on the album and the opening is pretty nauseating, but the end of the song ends the album greatly. The reworking of "No Cars Go" is brilliant, but oddly placed on the album. I think if you listen to the album with "Windowsill" as the closer, with "No Cars Go" as a bonus single and "My Body Is A Cage" as the odd b-side, the album makes more sense. But as I stated before, the lyrics are great on this album. I usually don't care about lyrics, but I think Win Butler is a great poet. The lyrics on songs like "Black Wave/Bad Vibrations," "(Antichrist Television Blues)" and "Windowsill" are great.
Song #03: Jens Lekman - A Postcard To Nina
Ah Jens, is there anything you can't write about? You take subject like pretending to be the boyfriend of your lesbian friend so she can fool her father into thinking she is straight and she can run away with her female lover, a subject I'm sure we can all relate to, and turn into a beautiful little tune. Musically, this song is really simple, and there really isn't much to it. But lyrically it's the best song of the year. And perhaps the catchiest chorus of all time...
Enjoy..
Nina I can be your boyfriend
So you can stay with your girlfriend
Your father is a sweet old man
But it is hard for him to understand
That you wanna love a woman
Nina I can be your boyfriend
If it puts an end to all this nonsense
First time I see you in Berlin
And you don't tell me anything
Until outside your dad's apartment
Oh, God! Jesus Christ!
I try to focus on your eyes
We're having dinner with your family now
Keep a steady look at your left eyebrow
If it's raised, it means yes,
If it's not it means take a guess
Hey! You! Stop kicking my legs
I'm doing my best
Can you pass the flakes?
Your father puts on my record
He says: so tell me how you met her
I get a little nervous and change the subject
And put my hand on some metal object
He jokes and tells me it's a liedetector
He takes out the booklet and starts reading
So i heard you're moving out next season
I say: Yeah, New York is nice that time of year
Almost as green as it is here
He says: I thought you were moving to Sweden?
Oh.
Oh, God, what have I done?
I came to Berlin to have some fun
And clock on the wall strikes 4:56
My eyes can't buy a big crucifix
Guess that's why he won't let you go
His catholic heart is big and slow
You know I'll do anything for love
But Nina what were you thinking of?
But Nina I can be your boyfriend
So you can stay with your girlfriend
Your father is mailing me all the time
He says he just wants to say hi
I send back "out of office, auto-replies"
Nina I just want to check in
'Cause I think about you every second
So I send you this postcard just to say
Don't let anyone stand in your way
Yours truly, Jens Lekman
Don't let anyone stand in your way
Don't let anyone stand in your way
Don't let anyone stand in your way
Don't let anyone stand in your way
Album #02: Jens Lekman - Night Falls Over Kortedala
This album came out of left field for me. I had heard Jens Lekman before, and enjoyed his CDs, but not at this level. Usually I'm not into this sort of music, but Jens does it right. He brilliantly rides a line between the wonderfully intelligent, and the just plain silly. All I have to say, is he one charming bastard. Oddly enough, the opening song to this album is my least favorite of this collection. It's not bad, but a little too theatric or something. But it's all solid gold from there. "Opposite Of Hallelujah" is the first song that really grabs your attention, and "A Postcard To Nina" makes sure you're not going anywhere. If you want to dance around a bit, "Into Eternity" is there for you. "I'm Leaving You Because I Don't Love You" makes sure you're still paying attention with it's obscure samples thrust upon beautiful pop, then "Shirin" saves your soul with one of the most moving pieces of the year. (Really should have been on my song list, but I opted for only one Jens song on the list) "Kanske Ar Jag Kar I Dig" has one of the catchiest intros of the year. And of course it's all brought down by "Friday Night At The Drive In Bingo," a bouncy little vintage number that leaves you smiling as the albums ends. Lyrically the album is wonderful. Jens tells us stories about his sister, lesbian friends, getting his haircut, to Friday nights in rural Sweden. Generally, I find the vibe of this album to be very happy. And thats what I like about it most. Once it finishes, you can't help but smile. Thank you, Jens.
Song #02: Asobi Seksu - Stay Awake
Asobi Seksu's self-titled debut album got mixed reviews, but I thought it was quite good. Good enough to be the #3 album of 2004. Their sound was a bit messy, but everything was there. Their second album, Citrus got them the critical acclaim they deserved, and I bloody loved it. In fact I loved it so much that it was my #1 album of 2006. (Not to take away from Asobi Seksu, but 2006 was a weak year) It had all the brilliant elements of their debut, but it was much more refined. And now, we have "Stay Awake." The progression of this band is stunning. They have all the elements, refined it, and are now giving it their own style. The guitars are tremoloed to hell and back, making them the dreamiest yet from this band (and thats a bold statement) Yuki's vocals are really something else here too. Instead of going the more shoegazey route we would expect here, she is taking more of a sonic lounge approach to the music. Then it all blows up. And finally fades away at the end. I seriously cannot wait to hear what this band will do next year.
Album #01: LCD Soundsystem - Sound Of Silver
I heard LCD Soundsystems latest about this time last year when it leaked. It was the second album of 2007 I heard, after The Shins disappointing effort. I had already started a running 2007 list. So I put LCD Soundsystem on top of it. And thats where they stayed all god damn year. Nobody could dethrone Mr. Murphy. "Losing My Edge" was a contender for song of the year in 2002, and "Yeah" again in 2003, but they didn't quite have that list topping vibe. The self-titled debut album was pretty good, with some catchy songs like "Tribulations" and "Movement," but there were a lot of holes. What we have here, is just a solid album from start to finish. 9 fantastic songs, that flow together beautifully. Only LCD Soundsystem and Jens Lekman were able to produce such albums this year. The album starts out with the bubble to get you into it. The vocals on "Get Innocuous!" throw you off at first. Very sort of Eno/Bowie-esque. It wasn't what we were expecting, but it was pulled off perfectly. The big single on this album was the witty "North American Scum," which I don't believe got the international attention it deserved. "Someone Great" is the most touching song on the album, and when you move around overseas, the song makes a lot of sense. "All My Friends" is the centerpiece of the album, and the #1 song of the year. A lot of people give the title track a lot of shit, but I think it's quite good. The opening is a bit silly, but once the initial vocals die off, it turns into a great song. The albums ends with the cheesy yet perfect "New York I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down." It's an overall great experience, one that is quite rare to find on an album this decade.
Song #01: LCD Soundsystem - All My Friends
This song has received more than it's fair share of praise this year. It's topped loads of lists, it's been covered (quite well, actually) by Franz Ferdinand. It's sold quite well as a single in Europe and Japan. A lot of it has to do with the lyrics. I agree with Sean. I think a lot of people in their late 20s can really relate to this song. We're not young anymore. But then, we're not quite old, are we? Perhaps, it will inspire us to take advantage of our remaining youth, and spend some quality time with our friends while we can. Before we get old. So, maybe thats why so many people, and myself, love this song. Or...perhaps...it's just that the song fucking rocks like there's no tomorrow. Yeah, that's it.
posted by Scott!!! at 12:49 午後
|
0 comments
