Originally, I posted this as a Facebook note…but, after a comment from the fazha, have decided to include it here on my blog (probably where it should have been in the first place). So, I give to you…my favorites for 2010.
Music
1. Grace Potter and the Nocturnals – S/T
This album marks the true return of a female powerhouse to blues-styled rock. Potter’s vocals will shred your ears in the best way possible, and the Nocturnals are somehow able to never compromise a guitar lick, while at the same time respecting that Grace’s vocals are what drive the songs. This is an outstanding album, and easily topped my list for the best of 2010. Her back-catalogue is quite a listen, as well.
2. Frightened Rabbit – The Winter of Mixed Drinks
Every year an album comes around that captures my mood perfectly for a freeze-frame moment…this year Frightened Rabbit hold the prize. “The Winter of Mixed Drinks” is full of indie-rock anthems that will tug at your heart-strings and kick you in the ass at the same time.
3. The National – High Violet
Okay, so I am a little late getting into The National. I listened to The Boxer years back, but really did not jump on the bandwagon. Thanks to High Violet though, I am hooked. The National is a band that sneaks up on you – their songs really shine on repeated listens to catch the subtle vocal nuances and percussive genius. From “Blood Buzz Ohio” to “Lemonworld”, High Violet is near perfection.
4. River City Extension – The Unmistakable Man
This band might not have a huge following yet, but if this album is any indication, 2011 will be a big year for River City Extension. The Unmistakable Man is one part Avett Brothers, one part Beulah, with a healthy dose of something all their own. Amazing lyrics, catchy hooks, but a simplicity that gets right to the point, River City Extension are on the verge of some great things.
5. The Avett Brothers – Live, Volume 3
Speaking of The Avetts, here they are! Honestly, the only reason this album is not higher on the list is the fact that it is a live release of previously recorded songs – I have probably listened to this one more than any other album this year. Normally, bands fall flat on live releases – in trying to put out a good product they cover up blemishes that make live albums so interesting. Not the Avett Brothers. All of the energy, every note, broken banjo string, and lyrical mishap is captured. “The Ballad and Love and Hate” really shines.
6. The Hold Steady – Heaven Is Whenever
Holy summer soundtrack, Batman! “The Weekenders” is easily one of the best songs they have put out. If there has ever been a complaint I have had with The Hold Steady, it is a lack of real melody in their songs. This album brings the catchy hooks and giant power chords together for a genuinely energetic album.
7. Gayngs – Relayted
Let’s face it, the set-up for this group sounds like a joke: members of respected indie-rock bands (including Bon Iver) make an album recorded entirely at 69 bpm in the vein of 80’s R&B. Yet, somehow they create a modern “baby-makin’” classic in the process. We might not see anymore new music from this group, but I think that is okay – Relayted can stand on its own as a very interesting, experimental take on a classic style.
8. Coheed and Cambria – Year of the Black Rainbow
Oh, Coheed. There was a time when all I really listened to was this band. After three tremendously impressive albums (Second Stage through Good Apollo I), I was really let down by the last release. Blame it on band problems, line-up changes, and a loss of direction, but Good Apollo II did not have what the other albums did. YOBR shows the band naturally progressing, while at the same time reaching back to what made their first albums so memorable: roots in progressive rock with pop-rock flare. While there are a few tracks of filler on YOBR, it still shows the band coming out swinging, and hopefully is only the beginning of a rebirth for the ‘Heed.
9. Ray LaMontagne - God Willin’ and the Creek Won’t Rise
Again, I know I am a little late getting into Ray LaMontagne, but after my roommate played a clip of the album, I was definitely intrigued to check it out. Another album with the feel of summer, God Willin’… grooves along with Ray’s raspy vocals to the last note.
10. S. Carey – All We Grow
Yet another release featuring a member of Bon Iver (will they just put out some new music, already?), Sean Carey’s solo debut is just as hauntingly beautiful. While Vernon’s falsetto conveyed a picture of snowy landscapes, Carey’s music paints an image of leaves falling and seasons changing. This is great music to drift to sleep to…and I do not mean that in a bad way.
Honorable Mentions: Local Natives – Gorilla Manor; Josh Ritter - So Runs the World Away
Both of these are fantastic albums…just the idea of saying ‘Top 12’ sounded weird. Be sure to check them out.
Also, Sleeping At Last’s Yearbook EP series has been simply perfection. I am sure the entire series of EP’s will be on next year’s list.
Movies
Inception / Toy Story 3 / The Social Network
Television
Community
I mean really, it features Chevy Chase and the writing is original and hilarious…this was an easy pick.My resolution for next year’s list is to read some more current books to include.That’s all, happy 2011 everyone!
