Category Archive

A friend of mine (and great designer) - his name also happens to be Chris (Kornmann) put out a list of some great tracks/albums/notes from 2009

You can click on the link below to preview songs from the albums and if you like, you can buy the mix:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewIMix?id=349717866
20. Dan Auerbach “Keep It Hid”
On his solo debut, Auerbach (one half of The Black Keys), doesn’t stray far from the blues-rock music the band is known for. However, songs like “When The Night Comes” show some real tender moments that you don’t get from the duo. Sometimes less is more.
19. Dirty Projectors “Bitte Orca”
This is one of those records that is really hard to describe. At times experimental, folky and funky. Don’t waste time trying to categorize it, just listen and let the music do the talking.
18. Julian Casablancas “Phrazes For The Young”
On his solo debut, the lead singer for the Strokes finds himself sounding like an 80s throwback. There are traces of New Order, A Flock Of Seagulls and even Cyndi Lauper. But don’t despair, he makes the synthesizer work in his favor.
17. Andrew Bird “Noble Beast”
On his fifth solo album, the multi-instrumentalist and whistling fool crafts songs that are both subdued and affecting. Subtlety at its finest.
16. Rocco DeLuca & The Burden “Mercy”
Channeling his inner Jeff Buckley, Rocco uses his impressive voice to explore some real range throughout his songs. The result is captivating.
15. Imogen Heap “Ellipse”
Following up her superb album “Speak For Yourself” was no easy task. On this one, she sticks to the same formula of layering vocals, beats and samples, and it works, yet again.
14. Animal Collective “Merriweather Post Pavilion”
It took me a while to get into this album…good thing it came out in January. There is a lot of space on this record and often times I would get lost, but ultimately, the music would draw me back in. Not always an easy listen, but one that is definitely worth the effort.
13. Miike Snow “Miike Snow”
This is the album fellow Swedes Peter, Bjorn & John wished they had made. Full of fun, upbeat melodies, this one just makes you smile.
12. Wilco “Wilco (The Album)”
Another great record from a great band. While it’s not quite the perfection they reached on “Sky Blue Sky,” this album is a testament to their craft. Like a fine wine, they continue to get better with age.
11. The Avett Brothers “I And Love And You”
Produced by Rick Rubin, this album features piano-based songs which have both heart and substance.
10. Florence & The Machine “Lungs”
This years critics’ darling delivered. Florence Welch leads a soul inspired indie rock band which provides the perfect accompaniment to her bluesy vocal style.
9. The Bird & The Bee “Ray Guns Are Not The Future”
This album has an underlying retro vibe with modern beats layered over it. They cover all genres here including pop, dance and even ragtime. Is there nothing they can’t do?
8. Fanfarlo “Reservoir”
Yes, this London-based indie pop band sounds like a mix of Arcade Fire and Beirut, but there’s nothing wrong with that. A strong debut from a band that I’m sure we’ll be hearing a lot more from in the years to come.
7. Phoenix “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix”
There was so much hype with this band that I almost didn’t give them a chance. I’m certainly glad that I did. While it didn’t grab me right away, when it did, it didn’t let go. Believe the hype.
6. Yeah Yeah Yeahs “It’s Blitz!”
I normally wouldn’t consider myself a big fan, however, they mix things up on their third release with Karen O channelling her inner Terri Nunn (à la Berlin). The songs would be at home on the dance floor, a rock club or a tv series. Lots of range from a band showing some maturity.
5. Bat For Lashes “Two Suns”
Haunting, sparse, ethereal and danceable? This record has it all and it goes together beautifully.
4. Grizzly Bear “Veckatimest”
This Brooklyn-based band hit their stride in 09 mixing the lush, floating, psychedelic sounds of the Beach Boys with melodies and harmonies reminiscent of CSN. Strangely beautiful but weirdly accessible.
3. Built To Spill “There Is No Enemy”
For many, this album flew way under the radar. While it didn’t seem all that special at first, that changed on repeated listens. For a band that has been making music for the past 16 years, they kept the focus where it’s always been: Melodies and guitars.
2. Tori Amos “Midwinter Graces”
For those that don’t know, I am a big fan of holiday music. I also a big fan of Tori Amos and this combination creates some real holiday magic. This is not your typical rendering of seasonal songs. In her own unique way, she takes on the traditional holiday songs (along with a few originals), melding them into one another, and making them her own. At times, you forget you’re listening to holiday music as these gorgeous arrangements captivate you, making this one of Tori’s best albums in a long time and one that you can enjoy all winter long.
1. Regina Spektor “Far”
What started out as a great soundtrack to the summer became much more as the year progressed. The catchy melodies, her soaring vocals, the spot-on production, will all stay with you. Always one to embrace her quirky side, Regina continues to push the boundaries while still staying true to herself.
Most Overlooked Album Of 2008 (Tie)
Rachael Yamagata “Elephants…Teeth Sinking Into Heart”
The Ting Tings “We Started Nothing”