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Best Albums of 2012
This was a great year for music, at least for this listener. My list below is a random list of what I played the most this year.
The Raveonettes – Observator
This album remains a firm favorite and is in fairly constant rotation in my Spotify playlist. I love the spooky reverb and the 50’s girl group vibe that permeate this release. It is quite possibly their best album, and is recommended for all.
Bob Mould – Silver Age
Bob Mould only seems to get better with age. He’s on point throughout Silver Age and is at the top of his melodic, punk rock game. Those who love his band Sugar will also like this.
Hammock – Departure Songs
I keep returning to this mesmerizing double album from Tennessee space rockers, Hammock. All their music is gorgeous, but the majesty of this release towers even higher than past achievements. Even as the music sparkles with grandeur, it may simultaneously overwhelm you with sadness. It’s Yin and Yang for the aural senses, and indelibly leaves its mark on you. My go to track is “(Let’s Kiss) While All the Stars Are Falling Down”. Simply an amazing release from start to finish.
Shoes – Ignition
Not only is this the first album in 18 years from this Zion, Illinois power pop ensemble, it’s quite possibly their best album ever. I don’t say this lightly, for I’ve been a fan since Present Tense days, and I enjoy all their music. But something about Ignition stays with you, whether it’s the impeccably crafted sonic textures, or the still enchanting harmonies from original members Jeff Murphy, John Murphy, and Gary Klebe. Sometimes the music is loose, as in the Rolling Stones tinged “Hot Mess”, but more often it’s sentimental (“Out of Round”). These guys make the swooning harmonies and delectable melodies look easy, but it’s painstakingly engineered in their own studios. That has always been the way for Shoes, and let’s hope it continues with future releases. As a long time fan, I can only hope.
Nada Surf – The Stars Are Indifferent to Astronomy
This insanely catchy and thoughtful album came out last January. For me, it picked up momentum as the months went by. The songs resonate with me, for they’re a testament to middle age and the changes that come along with that. I also appreciate Matthew’s take on global warming, “No Snow On the Mountain.” It reminds me that scant attention was paid to that subject in the recent election. All that aside, I had the great pleasure of seeing these guys for the first time ever in April, and made a great friend while standing in line. Here’s to at least another 18 years, guys! Thanks for brightening my day with your wonderful music.
Frankie Rose – Interstellar
This gorgeous album from drummer/vocalist Frankie Rose was an aural treat. As a former member of Vivian Girls and Dum Dum Girls, you expect the heavy reverb and it’s here. But this album is more moody than upbeat, and seems like the perfect soundtrack for a day in outer space. Ranging from the opener, “Interstellar”, to my favorite, “Moon In My Mind”, Frankie has quite the bag of sonic tricks at her disposal. On the latter, I really dig the heavy bass and surf guitar. Married to her spacey vocals, it’s a creepy but beautiful song. This one’s a sleeper, as is my next artist on the list, “Sharon Van Etten”.
Sharon Van Etten – Tramp
Sharon’s ethereal vocals rain down on you, slightly tinged with acid. I don’t know enough about her to speak in volumes, but she reminds me of a focused Cat Power channeling Radiohead. I am sure everyone hears something different. Her minor key masterpieces stay with me, and if you want scary, check out “Serpents”. I first heard it in a show about witches, and boy, it sure fit. I think Sharon’s star will continue to rise, and may she remain untarnished by the record industry miasma.
Maximo Park – The National Health
I loved this release from the first moment I heard it. Between the sprightly piano and strings to Paul Smith‘s impassioned vocals and on to roof raising anthems, these guys really trot out the goods on this flat out great album. What can I say except go out and buy it?
Melody Gardot – The Absence
This cheerful mix of Brazilian-influenced jazz and pop really brightened my days all summer, a time during which I lost my oldest brother. For that reason, and many more, I often find myself returning to Melody’s sultry vocals and skillfully played music. She is a true gem.
M. Ward – A Wasteland Companion
I listened to this constantly last spring when it came out, and I return to it occasionally. Matt Ward plays a familiar, old-time mix of folk, country, and blues, and he sure doesn’t need Zooey Deschanel (so not a fan) in tow to make his mark. Sure, she is on here, along with Steve Shelley and Howe Gelb, but all that aside, it’s a really good piece of work that stands up next to any of his previous albums.
