Well it's that time of the year again where all critics and non-critics alike find the time in their busy lives to spout off a list of their favourite records and songs of the year. As has been the case in the past, I find myself compiling some of my favourite songs of the past year into a convenient set of CDs for your enjoyment. However this year things will be a little different as instead of offering people the option of getting a physical CD set or being able to download their own, I'm making this only available via digital download to save on the time/labour it takes me to create/package all the CDs but also to save on the amount of waste created by burning a bunch of CDs for people. If you want to burn these discs onto CDs of your own you may be my guest but otherwise feel free to enjoy them however you choose to do so, whether it's on CD, mp3 player or PC. Another new feature this year is the addition of a THIRD disc of music which was downright necessary after I made my shortlist of all the great songs/albums/7"s that I came across this year, to be honest I even had difficulty cutting this bad boy down to three. As usual, I came across quite the diverse mix of things over the past 12 months and thus a good variety of songs are represented ranging from songs that'll make you want to dance, listen to in complete silence or maybe even smash someone in the neck (and everything in between). Below are the tracklists for the three discs complete with extended linear notes that include artwork and my thoughts on the tracks themselves. Please note that you'll need WinRAR to uncompress these folders in able to get the mp3s themselves. I hope you enjoy this as always and please feel free to leave feedback if you're so inclined to do so.
Merry Xmas,
Daniel
Disc One
Merry Xmas,
Daniel
Disc One
From The Album: "Merriweather Post Pavillion"
Released: January 6th - Domino
Thoughts: I think I had a pretty good clue when I first heard this record all the way back at the end of 2008 that it'd end up being one of the best things to come out this entire year. Heralded to the max and deservedly so, the newest from Animal Collective is easily their most accessible and dare I say greatest piece of work consisting of countless songs that find a way to be simultaneously beautiful, danceable and downright weird. This song makes me want to never stop dancing...
Released: January 6th - Domino
Thoughts: I think I had a pretty good clue when I first heard this record all the way back at the end of 2008 that it'd end up being one of the best things to come out this entire year. Heralded to the max and deservedly so, the newest from Animal Collective is easily their most accessible and dare I say greatest piece of work consisting of countless songs that find a way to be simultaneously beautiful, danceable and downright weird. This song makes me want to never stop dancing...
From The Album: "Why There Are Mountains"
Released: January 20th - Self Released
Thoughts: If you're not careful, this song is going to catch you off guard as this Brooklyn based band are bringing their own brand of gutiar based indie rock in a similar vein to some more established Northwest bands namely Modest Mouse and Built to Spill. Quiet and serene one moment, screeching and furious the next, this song is a great representation of the rest of this amazing self released album, later re-issued by Sister's Den Records.
Released: January 20th - Self Released
Thoughts: If you're not careful, this song is going to catch you off guard as this Brooklyn based band are bringing their own brand of gutiar based indie rock in a similar vein to some more established Northwest bands namely Modest Mouse and Built to Spill. Quiet and serene one moment, screeching and furious the next, this song is a great representation of the rest of this amazing self released album, later re-issued by Sister's Den Records.
From The Album: "Grand"
Released: January 20th - Fader
Thoughts: This song is just way too fun, a really unique duo from Brooklyn who apparently put on super energetic live shows and I don't doubt it based on this song alone. A great mix of a really catchy keyboard hook, a snappy rhythm section and endearing, personal, bordering on nerdy lyrics/vocals. These two really pack a lot of punch into the relatively small frame of their band.
Released: January 20th - Fader
Thoughts: This song is just way too fun, a really unique duo from Brooklyn who apparently put on super energetic live shows and I don't doubt it based on this song alone. A great mix of a really catchy keyboard hook, a snappy rhythm section and endearing, personal, bordering on nerdy lyrics/vocals. These two really pack a lot of punch into the relatively small frame of their band.
From The Album: "The Pains of Being Pure at Heart"
Released: February 3rd - Slumberland
Thoughts: These guys have had a super busy 2009 putting out an album, EP, numerous 7"s and touring their butts off. Somewhat bookish pop songs with really pretty guy/girl duel vocals at the forefront. The music is fun, jangly guitars that are bathed in reverb with a nice steady beat and some fun keyboard accents. Man I love the "Oooh Oooh Ooh"s on the chorus of this standout track from one of my favourite albums of 2009.
Released: February 3rd - Slumberland
Thoughts: These guys have had a super busy 2009 putting out an album, EP, numerous 7"s and touring their butts off. Somewhat bookish pop songs with really pretty guy/girl duel vocals at the forefront. The music is fun, jangly guitars that are bathed in reverb with a nice steady beat and some fun keyboard accents. Man I love the "Oooh Oooh Ooh"s on the chorus of this standout track from one of my favourite albums of 2009.
From The Album: "Wavvves"
Released: February 3rd - Fat Possum
Thoughts: Even though Wavves primary songwriter/guitar player Nathan Williams is a bit of a fuck up (look it up if you're interested), I will give him credit where credit is due because man does he sure knows how to write 2 minute lo-fi punk blasts that are heavy on the distortion and SUPER heavy on melody. This song is just fun, not much else I can say about it.
Released: February 3rd - Fat Possum
Thoughts: Even though Wavves primary songwriter/guitar player Nathan Williams is a bit of a fuck up (look it up if you're interested), I will give him credit where credit is due because man does he sure knows how to write 2 minute lo-fi punk blasts that are heavy on the distortion and SUPER heavy on melody. This song is just fun, not much else I can say about it.
From The Album: "...For All The World To See"
Released: February 17th - Drag City
Thoughts: If this song sounds like it wouldn't be out of place amongst The Stooges, MC5 and that whole late 60s/early 70s proto-punk scene it's probably because this album was recorded in 1975 but never released for a variety of reasons. The fine folks at Drag City rectified this earlier this year with this trio of brothers from Detroit finally being given their due for being amongst the forefathers of punk rock with their masterpiece finally seeing the light of day "for all the world to see."
Released: February 17th - Drag City
Thoughts: If this song sounds like it wouldn't be out of place amongst The Stooges, MC5 and that whole late 60s/early 70s proto-punk scene it's probably because this album was recorded in 1975 but never released for a variety of reasons. The fine folks at Drag City rectified this earlier this year with this trio of brothers from Detroit finally being given their due for being amongst the forefathers of punk rock with their masterpiece finally seeing the light of day "for all the world to see."
From The Album: "Dark Was The Night: A Red Hot Compilation"
Released: February 17th - 4AD
Thoughts: This was a bit of an odd pick because these guys (sans David Byrne) put out one of the best records of 2009, June's "Bitte Orca" which this song is not a part of. As amazing as that record is, I just couldn't pass up putting this amazing collaberation with a fun jangly piano line, a wide range of amazing vocals (what these guys are really known for) and what must've been like a child's biggest fantasy coming true for head Dirty Projector Dave Longstreth in the form of working with Talking Head's mastermind David Byrne. The rest of this compilation is really amazing and for a worthy cause so check it out.
Released: February 17th - 4AD
Thoughts: This was a bit of an odd pick because these guys (sans David Byrne) put out one of the best records of 2009, June's "Bitte Orca" which this song is not a part of. As amazing as that record is, I just couldn't pass up putting this amazing collaberation with a fun jangly piano line, a wide range of amazing vocals (what these guys are really known for) and what must've been like a child's biggest fantasy coming true for head Dirty Projector Dave Longstreth in the form of working with Talking Head's mastermind David Byrne. The rest of this compilation is really amazing and for a worthy cause so check it out.
From The Album: "Years Of Refusal"
Released: February 17th - Attack
Thoughts: Even years after The Smiths have ceased to exist, Morrissey hasn't begun to slow down putting out another stellar record, probably his best since 2004's "You Are the Quarry." This number, the opener off the record kicks things into overdrive right off the bat with a straight ahead rock song anchored by some amazingly biting lyrics by the Mozzer himself. "I know by now you think I should have straightened myself out... Thank you drop dead" is probably my favourite lyric from any song to come out this year.
Released: February 17th - Attack
Thoughts: Even years after The Smiths have ceased to exist, Morrissey hasn't begun to slow down putting out another stellar record, probably his best since 2004's "You Are the Quarry." This number, the opener off the record kicks things into overdrive right off the bat with a straight ahead rock song anchored by some amazingly biting lyrics by the Mozzer himself. "I know by now you think I should have straightened myself out... Thank you drop dead" is probably my favourite lyric from any song to come out this year.
From The Album: "200 Million Thousand"
Released: February 24th - Vice
Thoughts: This song is a good ol' fashioned blues based guitar rock toe tapper that shouts out the quality of BC based marijuana (for those interested in that kinda stuff). Short, simple and to the point, a whole heck of a fun packed into 2 1/2 minutes that absolutely breeze by so smoothly, you'll swear that you're riding shotgun in the "Plymouth Barricuda."
Released: February 24th - Vice
Thoughts: This song is a good ol' fashioned blues based guitar rock toe tapper that shouts out the quality of BC based marijuana (for those interested in that kinda stuff). Short, simple and to the point, a whole heck of a fun packed into 2 1/2 minutes that absolutely breeze by so smoothly, you'll swear that you're riding shotgun in the "Plymouth Barricuda."
From The Album: "Mama, I'm Swollen"
Released: March 10th - Saddle Creek
Thoughts: Having been a huge fan of Tim Kasher's lyricism for many years now, I was a big fan of this song's continuation of a theme that's seemed to burden him forever, that being the concept of our origin and the conflict between religion and living one's life to the fullest. Great imagery, a nice driving beat and a sweet lil' horn outro, "Mama, I'm Swollen" may not've been Cursive's strongest release but it still featured some downright great numbers like this one.
Released: March 10th - Saddle Creek
Thoughts: Having been a huge fan of Tim Kasher's lyricism for many years now, I was a big fan of this song's continuation of a theme that's seemed to burden him forever, that being the concept of our origin and the conflict between religion and living one's life to the fullest. Great imagery, a nice driving beat and a sweet lil' horn outro, "Mama, I'm Swollen" may not've been Cursive's strongest release but it still featured some downright great numbers like this one.
From The Album: "Bromst"
Released: March 24th - Carpark
Thoughts: On his newest release, Dan Deacon assembled his own freaked out orchestra to bring to life his new series of compesitions. Starting simply with a xylophone, adding layers of instrumentation and vocals and eventually turning it all on its' head in a manner that won't be unfamiliar to fans of Deacon's past work, "Bromst" is truely his opus and sounds like nothing I've ever heard before. This is some seriously weird dance music but I don't know how you couldn't listen to this without a giant smile on your face.
Released: March 24th - Carpark
Thoughts: On his newest release, Dan Deacon assembled his own freaked out orchestra to bring to life his new series of compesitions. Starting simply with a xylophone, adding layers of instrumentation and vocals and eventually turning it all on its' head in a manner that won't be unfamiliar to fans of Deacon's past work, "Bromst" is truely his opus and sounds like nothing I've ever heard before. This is some seriously weird dance music but I don't know how you couldn't listen to this without a giant smile on your face.
From The Album: "The Hazards Of Love"
Released: March 24th - Capitol
Thoughts: Portland's favourite literary loving folk rockers are back at it with perhaps their most ambitious release to date, a rock opera concept record that finds them branching out from their usual comfort zone to truely rock out. This song isn't really a "single" in the traditional sense of the word but it gives a good idea of what's going on here showcasing the balance of beautiful acoustic instrumentation as well as crunchy electric guitars and it contains one of the refrains from the album that I find to be incredibly catchy. On top of that it also features Shara Worden aka My Brightest Diamond, one of the many guest players on the record, who really 'shines' on this track. I don't think I really appreciated this song much until I saw them play this live from start to finish and it totally won me over.
Released: March 24th - Capitol
Thoughts: Portland's favourite literary loving folk rockers are back at it with perhaps their most ambitious release to date, a rock opera concept record that finds them branching out from their usual comfort zone to truely rock out. This song isn't really a "single" in the traditional sense of the word but it gives a good idea of what's going on here showcasing the balance of beautiful acoustic instrumentation as well as crunchy electric guitars and it contains one of the refrains from the album that I find to be incredibly catchy. On top of that it also features Shara Worden aka My Brightest Diamond, one of the many guest players on the record, who really 'shines' on this track. I don't think I really appreciated this song much until I saw them play this live from start to finish and it totally won me over.
From The Album: "Hymm To The Immortal Wind"
Released: March 24th - Temporary Residence
Thoughts: I don't think there's a band on the face of this planet who can evoke so much emotion and imagery without the use of vocals... maybe these guys' labelmates 'Explosions in the Sky' but who's to say. The latest collection of beautiful post rock by this japanese based group is their first to utilize an entire 29 piece orchestra which takes their already epic, 10 minute+ songs that manage to crescendo like no on else and make them even more epic. This song has a really nice feeling of winter solitude to it, perfect for this time of the year and a welcome addition to their already stellar catalogue of work.
Released: March 24th - Temporary Residence
Thoughts: I don't think there's a band on the face of this planet who can evoke so much emotion and imagery without the use of vocals... maybe these guys' labelmates 'Explosions in the Sky' but who's to say. The latest collection of beautiful post rock by this japanese based group is their first to utilize an entire 29 piece orchestra which takes their already epic, 10 minute+ songs that manage to crescendo like no on else and make them even more epic. This song has a really nice feeling of winter solitude to it, perfect for this time of the year and a welcome addition to their already stellar catalogue of work.
From The Album: "Paranoid Delusions/Paradise Illusions"
Released: March 24th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: I had heard of Baltimore's Pulling Teeth before but didn't really know what to expect until I saw them in concert earlier this year and found myself blown away by their use of atmospheric guitar lines that built and brood eventually commencing with dark, menacing hardcore. The underlying theme of this album is that of misconception, running throughout the lyrics as well as the artwork and overall packaging. One of the better hardcore albums I heard all year.
Released: March 24th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: I had heard of Baltimore's Pulling Teeth before but didn't really know what to expect until I saw them in concert earlier this year and found myself blown away by their use of atmospheric guitar lines that built and brood eventually commencing with dark, menacing hardcore. The underlying theme of this album is that of misconception, running throughout the lyrics as well as the artwork and overall packaging. One of the better hardcore albums I heard all year.
From The Album: "It's Blitz!"
Released: March 31st - Interscope
Thoughts: New York's favourite indie rock trio returned this year and they forgot their guitars at home, instead bring the world their own take on new wave in a electronic and effect heavy album. The straight forward rockers that would've dominated past albums of theirs were replaced with more dancey numbers while the more ballad-y numbers still exist but with completely different feels to them. I've followed these guys since their first EP and this was a logical progression for their music to take and I for one loved it.
Released: March 31st - Interscope
Thoughts: New York's favourite indie rock trio returned this year and they forgot their guitars at home, instead bring the world their own take on new wave in a electronic and effect heavy album. The straight forward rockers that would've dominated past albums of theirs were replaced with more dancey numbers while the more ballad-y numbers still exist but with completely different feels to them. I've followed these guys since their first EP and this was a logical progression for their music to take and I for one loved it.
From The Album: "Post-Nothing"
Released: April 28th - Polyvinyl
Thoughts: Another duo graces this CD with their prescence, this time it's Vancouver's own Japandroids who are 'lo' on the 'fi' and 'hi' on their writing songs about 'girls.' Sure their songs aren't going to blow you away when it comes to fidelity or super deep lyrics but these guys sure know how to incite a riot with their persistant beat and fuzzed out guitars and their "worrying abou those sunshine girls." A total sleeper record that managed to take the indie world by storm, a lot of fun for sure.
Released: April 28th - Polyvinyl
Thoughts: Another duo graces this CD with their prescence, this time it's Vancouver's own Japandroids who are 'lo' on the 'fi' and 'hi' on their writing songs about 'girls.' Sure their songs aren't going to blow you away when it comes to fidelity or super deep lyrics but these guys sure know how to incite a riot with their persistant beat and fuzzed out guitars and their "worrying abou those sunshine girls." A total sleeper record that managed to take the indie world by storm, a lot of fun for sure.
From The Album: "Actor"
Released: May 5th - 4AD
Thoughts: The opener off of St. Vincent's sophmore effort was the standout for me on a very stellar record of beautiful vocals, string arrangements and severely underrated guitar dynamics. Annie Clark aka St. Vincent has done it again and I was lucky enough to catch a set of hers, dominated by songs off of this record earlier this year at the Sasquatch festival. A really pristine song that kicks it up a notch with some distorted guitars in the back half of this track but never loses its focus.
Released: May 5th - 4AD
Thoughts: The opener off of St. Vincent's sophmore effort was the standout for me on a very stellar record of beautiful vocals, string arrangements and severely underrated guitar dynamics. Annie Clark aka St. Vincent has done it again and I was lucky enough to catch a set of hers, dominated by songs off of this record earlier this year at the Sasquatch festival. A really pristine song that kicks it up a notch with some distorted guitars in the back half of this track but never loses its focus.
Total Running Time: [77:01]
Disc Two
1) Big Business - "Found Art" [3:34]
From The Album: "Mind The Drift"
Released: May 12th - Hydrahead
Thoughts: 2009 was the year that Seattle's sludgey duo known as Big Business became a trio and put out one of the best metal records of the year in my estimation. The drums kick this one off right from the bat, joined eventually by a solid bass line before a squeeling lead guitar line, a new addition to the mix joins in. The vocals sound so incredibly epic and big on this song that has an overall epic feel to it for such a small band.
From The Album: "Mind The Drift"
Released: May 12th - Hydrahead
Thoughts: 2009 was the year that Seattle's sludgey duo known as Big Business became a trio and put out one of the best metal records of the year in my estimation. The drums kick this one off right from the bat, joined eventually by a solid bass line before a squeeling lead guitar line, a new addition to the mix joins in. The vocals sound so incredibly epic and big on this song that has an overall epic feel to it for such a small band.
From The Album: "End Of A Year" 7" EP
Released: May 12th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: When I first thought of this project, this was one song that I couldn't get out of my head as having to be included in it. Repetitive but the guitar line that repeats for the near 5 minutes as the singer laments in his raspy voice about his place in life and how maybe he should be further along has such a beautiful and meloncolie feel to it, I find myself getting this song stuck in my head. This band formed as a side project for a group of friends from Long Island, NY who wanted to play hardcore in a similar vein to Washington, DC's 'Revolution Summer' era bands. If you like this, I suggest you look up such bands as Embrace and Rites of Spring as they're the ones who really developed this style which was the origin of the word/style 'emo.'
3) Isis - "20 Minutes/40 Years" [7:04]
From The Album: "Wavering Radiant"
Released: May 19th - Ipecac
Thoughts: Having followed this band for many years I was pleasantly surprised to see them return somewhat to their routes on their latest release "Wavering Radiant", using their guitars to set a nice atmospheric tone before vocalist Aaron Turner attempts to tear it all down with the sheer power of his growl. Simply plucked guitar strings turn to roaring walls of distortion and turn back to guitar lines that soar when complemented with Turner's clean vocals. After the disappointment that was "In The Absence of the Truth", Isis made a really strong comeback with this record which helped further cross their brand of post-metal over to the mainstream. Although that's not always a good thing, certainly not if you want to attend any of their shows without having to deal with a sea of retards, but it certainly excites me that there are people out there who can make a living playing such thought provoking music.
Released: May 12th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: When I first thought of this project, this was one song that I couldn't get out of my head as having to be included in it. Repetitive but the guitar line that repeats for the near 5 minutes as the singer laments in his raspy voice about his place in life and how maybe he should be further along has such a beautiful and meloncolie feel to it, I find myself getting this song stuck in my head. This band formed as a side project for a group of friends from Long Island, NY who wanted to play hardcore in a similar vein to Washington, DC's 'Revolution Summer' era bands. If you like this, I suggest you look up such bands as Embrace and Rites of Spring as they're the ones who really developed this style which was the origin of the word/style 'emo.'
From The Album: "Wavering Radiant"
Released: May 19th - Ipecac
Thoughts: Having followed this band for many years I was pleasantly surprised to see them return somewhat to their routes on their latest release "Wavering Radiant", using their guitars to set a nice atmospheric tone before vocalist Aaron Turner attempts to tear it all down with the sheer power of his growl. Simply plucked guitar strings turn to roaring walls of distortion and turn back to guitar lines that soar when complemented with Turner's clean vocals. After the disappointment that was "In The Absence of the Truth", Isis made a really strong comeback with this record which helped further cross their brand of post-metal over to the mainstream. Although that's not always a good thing, certainly not if you want to attend any of their shows without having to deal with a sea of retards, but it certainly excites me that there are people out there who can make a living playing such thought provoking music.
From The Album: "Veckatimest"
Released: May 26th - Warp
Thoughts: 2009 belonged to these guys as they showed up everywhere and managed to sell a whole stack of records of their chamber pop accented by amazing harmonies and abstract instrumentation. Narrowing my choice down to one song off of this record was super tough as it features a ton of beautiful songs with really amazing vocal parts and chorus', it's no wonder that they have an ever expanding fan base. Just great stuff all around.
Released: May 26th - Warp
Thoughts: 2009 belonged to these guys as they showed up everywhere and managed to sell a whole stack of records of their chamber pop accented by amazing harmonies and abstract instrumentation. Narrowing my choice down to one song off of this record was super tough as it features a ton of beautiful songs with really amazing vocal parts and chorus', it's no wonder that they have an ever expanding fan base. Just great stuff all around.
From The Album: "The Eternal"
Released: June 9th - Matador
Thoughts: Although they're not very 'youthful' anymore, nearly 30 years into their career and all, Sonic Youth don't seem to know how to slow down as they keep their pace of putting out a new record every other year. "The Eternal" won't be remembered as one of their classic releases although it contains enough oddly tuned guitars layered upon one another to satisfy most fans and nonfans of the band. I've always preferred songs sung by Thurston Moore when it comes to these guys and this is easily his best song on this record.
6) Paint It Black - "Salem" [1:53]
From The Album: "Amnesia" 7" EP
Released: June 16th - Bridge 9
Thoughts: Dan Yemen is probably the most pissed off man in hardcore today and unlike a sea of kids putting out 7"s across this continent, I believe for every second the fury that he broadcasts and the fact that if there's something he doesn't like, he's going to do something about it. Paint It Black didn't managed to put out a new album this year although between the two 7"s they released, they cranked out a series of pissed off tracks that rage on and are a fitting continuation of their previous work.
7) Dinosaur Jr - "Over It" [3:48]
From The Album: "Farm"
Released: June 23rd - Jagjaguwar
Thoughts: Having put out one of my favourite albums and one of the best shows I attended all year, the reunited Dinosaur Jr don't seem to understand the word 'quit.' This song would fit right in amongst their classic catalog, with an easily memorable riff as well as J Mascis' classic mopey vocals. The only downside to putting this song on the CD is that it doesn't feature one of his infamous mind melting guitar solos but the song is so wicked that I'm willing to overlook that. This is amazing music made by underdogs that overachieves, one of the greatest indie rock bands of all time, still going strong in their 40s.
8) Regina Spektor - "Laughing With" [3:17]
From The Album: "Far"
Released: June 23rd - Sire
Thoughts: Sure Regina Spektor's records are becoming more and more polished as she becomes more of a mainstream darling but that doesn't change the fact that she still writes really beautiful piano music and matches it with her quirky vocals. This song's a bit of a downer, that is of course until she namedrops "Jiminy Cricket" and "Santa Claus" in the same sentence in the chorus and reminds us all to laugh along with god during some of the more simpler moments in life.
9) Sunset Rubdown - "Silver Moons" [4:45]
From The Album: "Dragonslayer"
Released: June 23rd - Jagjaguwar
Thoughts: This song is the perfect example of how I can not be all that crazy about a record but still managed to find at least one amazing song contained on it. Sunset Rubdown is a side project of Wolf Parade's Spencer Krug and this album and more specifically this song is definitely quirky building up to a climax before calming down and building itself back up in a beautiful moment that really caught my attention.
Released: June 9th - Matador
Thoughts: Although they're not very 'youthful' anymore, nearly 30 years into their career and all, Sonic Youth don't seem to know how to slow down as they keep their pace of putting out a new record every other year. "The Eternal" won't be remembered as one of their classic releases although it contains enough oddly tuned guitars layered upon one another to satisfy most fans and nonfans of the band. I've always preferred songs sung by Thurston Moore when it comes to these guys and this is easily his best song on this record.
From The Album: "Amnesia" 7" EP
Released: June 16th - Bridge 9
Thoughts: Dan Yemen is probably the most pissed off man in hardcore today and unlike a sea of kids putting out 7"s across this continent, I believe for every second the fury that he broadcasts and the fact that if there's something he doesn't like, he's going to do something about it. Paint It Black didn't managed to put out a new album this year although between the two 7"s they released, they cranked out a series of pissed off tracks that rage on and are a fitting continuation of their previous work.
From The Album: "Farm"
Released: June 23rd - Jagjaguwar
Thoughts: Having put out one of my favourite albums and one of the best shows I attended all year, the reunited Dinosaur Jr don't seem to understand the word 'quit.' This song would fit right in amongst their classic catalog, with an easily memorable riff as well as J Mascis' classic mopey vocals. The only downside to putting this song on the CD is that it doesn't feature one of his infamous mind melting guitar solos but the song is so wicked that I'm willing to overlook that. This is amazing music made by underdogs that overachieves, one of the greatest indie rock bands of all time, still going strong in their 40s.
From The Album: "Far"
Released: June 23rd - Sire
Thoughts: Sure Regina Spektor's records are becoming more and more polished as she becomes more of a mainstream darling but that doesn't change the fact that she still writes really beautiful piano music and matches it with her quirky vocals. This song's a bit of a downer, that is of course until she namedrops "Jiminy Cricket" and "Santa Claus" in the same sentence in the chorus and reminds us all to laugh along with god during some of the more simpler moments in life.
From The Album: "Dragonslayer"
Released: June 23rd - Jagjaguwar
Thoughts: This song is the perfect example of how I can not be all that crazy about a record but still managed to find at least one amazing song contained on it. Sunset Rubdown is a side project of Wolf Parade's Spencer Krug and this album and more specifically this song is definitely quirky building up to a climax before calming down and building itself back up in a beautiful moment that really caught my attention.
From The Album: "New Distances"
Released: June 30th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: YES! Finally the full length from this hardcore supergroup hit the street after I eagerly awaited it for most of 2008. After putting out an amazing 7" last year as well as seeing them play their first two shows ever in Seattle and Portland respectively, I was amazed by what I found when I picked up Narrows' initial LP as it contains the same dynamic of angular guitar noise overlayed on top of straight ahead punk sensability. Probably the most important element of this band is the vocals of Dave Verellen, formerly of Botch, maybe my favourite vocalist in hardcore/metal of all time, this guy has some serious pipes and if this band can find time to record new material consistently, they're going to further cement themselves as one of the best in hardcore today. Oh and the breakdown that brings this song to its conclusion is SO HEAVY, fuck this rules.
11) The Rural Alberta Exchange - "Don't Haunt This Place" [2:35]
From The Album: "Hometowns"
Released: July 7th - Saddle Creek
Thoughts: I stumbled upon a review of this record when it was first released earlier this year and was attracted to the fact that they were a Canadian band on a label that I respect so I checked out a few songs and this was the one that stood out automatically. A really fun electronic-esque drum beat with beautiful strings and slacker vocals that I love. These guys' are featured in an olympic commercial currently and I hope it leads to more opportunities for them.
Released: June 30th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: YES! Finally the full length from this hardcore supergroup hit the street after I eagerly awaited it for most of 2008. After putting out an amazing 7" last year as well as seeing them play their first two shows ever in Seattle and Portland respectively, I was amazed by what I found when I picked up Narrows' initial LP as it contains the same dynamic of angular guitar noise overlayed on top of straight ahead punk sensability. Probably the most important element of this band is the vocals of Dave Verellen, formerly of Botch, maybe my favourite vocalist in hardcore/metal of all time, this guy has some serious pipes and if this band can find time to record new material consistently, they're going to further cement themselves as one of the best in hardcore today. Oh and the breakdown that brings this song to its conclusion is SO HEAVY, fuck this rules.
From The Album: "Hometowns"
Released: July 7th - Saddle Creek
Thoughts: I stumbled upon a review of this record when it was first released earlier this year and was attracted to the fact that they were a Canadian band on a label that I respect so I checked out a few songs and this was the one that stood out automatically. A really fun electronic-esque drum beat with beautiful strings and slacker vocals that I love. These guys' are featured in an olympic commercial currently and I hope it leads to more opportunities for them.
From The Album: "Planets Of Old" 12" EP
Released: July 19th - Hydrahead
Thoughts: Finally after a layoff of nearly 4 years, Boston's own Cave In returned with a kick ass EP that mixed up their wide varieties of styles expressed over their vast discography. Using elements of Steve Brodsky's powerpop with the space rock they perfected on "Jupiter" and killer metalcore and bellowing of Caleb Scofield that they first showcased on their metalcore classic "...Until Your Heart Stops." I love the section that just sort of meanders and feedbacks until finally kicking back in for the last minute or so of this song. Super heavy stuff and hopefully this means more new Cave In.
Released: July 19th - Hydrahead
Thoughts: Finally after a layoff of nearly 4 years, Boston's own Cave In returned with a kick ass EP that mixed up their wide varieties of styles expressed over their vast discography. Using elements of Steve Brodsky's powerpop with the space rock they perfected on "Jupiter" and killer metalcore and bellowing of Caleb Scofield that they first showcased on their metalcore classic "...Until Your Heart Stops." I love the section that just sort of meanders and feedbacks until finally kicking back in for the last minute or so of this song. Super heavy stuff and hopefully this means more new Cave In.
From The Album: "The Sleeping Eye"
Released: August 4th - Teepee
Thoughts: I first saw these guys in an apartment 3+ years ago play to maybe 40 people and they were a straight forward hardcore band along the lines of the Cro-Mags. Now I find myself buying their newest record in a shop in Portland and being completely blown away by the straight up metal band they've become. This song chugs along at a frenetic pace with some dark ambient passages thrown in for good measure... I really like the direction these guys went in.
14) Radiohead - "These Are My Twisted Words" [5:31]
From The Album: N/A
Released: August 17th - Self Released
Thoughts: I love how for the opening minutes of this song you can't even tell whether this is Radiohead or not. It sort of meanders along with programmed drums and electronic meanders in a really nice and spacey way. It's not really until Thom Yorke's trademark wobble comes in that you're fully aware that the song that you downloaded for free without much fanfare actually is the work of one of the most amazing and dynamic bands in the last 20 years, maybe ever. "These Are My Twisted Words" does not sound out of place amongst the recent work of Radiohead and is a good sign that they're still writing and working on music which keeps the hope within me that one day I may just turn my computer on to find out that they've done it again and a new unannounced Radiohead record is just around the corner.
15) Destroyer - "Bay of Pigs" [13:37]
From The Album: "Bay Of Pigs" 12" EP
Released: August 18th - Merge
Thoughts: Anyone familiar with Destroyer's Daniel Bejar will not be disappointed with his latest 12" EP titled simply "Bay of Pigs." Bejar's trademark vocals that self loathe and project his poetic, hyper-literary lyrics are here and in full effect right off that bat with the line "Listen, I've been drinking as our house lies in ruins..." This continues with little accents of electronic squibbles and radiating ambiant noise permeating ever so often... that is of course until it turns into a full on house song, a 13 minute dance song that borders on disco and couldn't come more out of left field. Bejar's no stranger to writing long songs, some of his most beloved songs hit the 8 or 9 minute mark but I have to say I was a tad surprised when I found out that this track was as long as it was and sounds the way it does. The one thing that didn't surprise me and still doesn't... how awesome it is.
Total Running Time: [77:59]
Click Here (Right Click/Save As) To Download "Danielage! Presents: Best of 2009 Mixtape Disc Two"
Released: August 4th - Teepee
Thoughts: I first saw these guys in an apartment 3+ years ago play to maybe 40 people and they were a straight forward hardcore band along the lines of the Cro-Mags. Now I find myself buying their newest record in a shop in Portland and being completely blown away by the straight up metal band they've become. This song chugs along at a frenetic pace with some dark ambient passages thrown in for good measure... I really like the direction these guys went in.
From The Album: N/A
Released: August 17th - Self Released
Thoughts: I love how for the opening minutes of this song you can't even tell whether this is Radiohead or not. It sort of meanders along with programmed drums and electronic meanders in a really nice and spacey way. It's not really until Thom Yorke's trademark wobble comes in that you're fully aware that the song that you downloaded for free without much fanfare actually is the work of one of the most amazing and dynamic bands in the last 20 years, maybe ever. "These Are My Twisted Words" does not sound out of place amongst the recent work of Radiohead and is a good sign that they're still writing and working on music which keeps the hope within me that one day I may just turn my computer on to find out that they've done it again and a new unannounced Radiohead record is just around the corner.
From The Album: "Bay Of Pigs" 12" EP
Released: August 18th - Merge
Thoughts: Anyone familiar with Destroyer's Daniel Bejar will not be disappointed with his latest 12" EP titled simply "Bay of Pigs." Bejar's trademark vocals that self loathe and project his poetic, hyper-literary lyrics are here and in full effect right off that bat with the line "Listen, I've been drinking as our house lies in ruins..." This continues with little accents of electronic squibbles and radiating ambiant noise permeating ever so often... that is of course until it turns into a full on house song, a 13 minute dance song that borders on disco and couldn't come more out of left field. Bejar's no stranger to writing long songs, some of his most beloved songs hit the 8 or 9 minute mark but I have to say I was a tad surprised when I found out that this track was as long as it was and sounds the way it does. The one thing that didn't surprise me and still doesn't... how awesome it is.
Total Running Time: [77:59]
Click Here (Right Click/Save As) To Download "Danielage! Presents: Best of 2009 Mixtape Disc Two"
Disc Three
1) Shook Ones - "For Collards" [2:23]
From The Album: "The Unquotable A.M.H."
Released: July 28th - Paper + Plastic
Thoughts: Representing the Pacific Northwest for the better part of the last decade, Bellingham, WA's Shook Ones play super catchy, super melodic hardcore that makes you want to move your feet and circle pit around your basement (regardless of whether or not there's a show going on in it). They continue to put out stellar record after stellar record along the lines of Lifetime, a band they look up to very much so and have been lucky enough to play with on numerous occasions. Besides being super catchy, I love with lyrics refer to actual parts of a song within the song itself ie "after the chorus we push on..."
2) The Antlers - "Sylvia" [5:27]
From The Album: "Hospice"
Released: August 18th - Frenchkiss
Thoughts: Easily my favourite album of 2009, The Antler's "Hospice" is one of the most beautiful, haunting and sad records I've ever heard in my life and "Sylvia" is the most standout track amongst a record filled with amazing tracks. A concept record about someone dealing with a loved one who's terminally ill, I find myself personally relating to this record this year and it was through that experience that I garnered such a bond with this record that's probably responsible for me loving it so much. This record will go unheard by far too many ears and that really is a shame but if you take anything away from this mix CD, I truely hope it's a love for this record. The Antlers are a modest three piece from Brooklyn that truely deserve all the success in the world after they managed to create such an amazing record that evokes such strong feelings.
3) Pissed Jeans - "Spent" [7:32]
From The Album: "King Of Jeans"
Released: August 18th - Sub Pop
Thoughts: Besides being the "king[s] of jeans," Pissed Jeans are the current kings of abstract, dingy hardcore and noise rock that follows in the foot steps of such heavy hitters as Black Flag and The Jesus Lizard. Pounding bass is matched with wailing distorted guitars that spends more time feeding back than actually playing. Mix in some of the weirdest vocals in recent memory that focus on menutiae, most of it things that people don't tend to write lyrics about or even talk about in public for that matter. Nothing seems to embaress these guys though as they have no problem bombarding their audiences with off putting lyricism and then following it up by blowing them away an assault of noise and feedback. As great as their straight up barnstormers are, I love their songs like this that take their sweet time and make you wait before they kick your head in.
4) Vivian Girls - "When I’m Gone" [3:28]
From The Album: "Everything Goes Wrong"
Released: September 8th - In The Red
Thoughts: This trio from Brooklyn burst onto the scene last year with their self titled debut that gained a ton of attention from the press. Their sophmore effort wasn't nearly as heralded yet I (and some friends of mine) found it to be a much better record. Picture the Ramones with really nice female harmonies buried in a mountain of reverb and you'll get an idea of what's going on here. This is more of a midtempo song as compared to some of their songs that are total rippers but the vocals on this are a great example of those amazing harmonies I spoke of. Great band.
5) The Almighty Defenders - "Cone of Light" [3:22]
From The Album: "The Almighty Defenders"
Released: September 22nd - Vice
Thoughts: I was so excited for this album to come out when I heard a few of the preview songs that were unleashed on the internet a few months ahead of time such as this one and "Bow Down and Die." I will have to admit that I was a tad disappointed with the full length from this side project consisting of the Black Lips, King Khan & BBQ but it doesn't change the fact that thing song is an amazing piece of punk rock gospel that's bound to get any dance floor shaking. Part of the charm of this number is in the vocals of Mark Sultan (aka BBQ) who has such a great voice and a knack for writing these kind of songs. A total throwback number and a lot of fun in general.
6) Girls - "Lust for Life" [2:25]
From The Album: "Album"
Released: September 22nd - True Panther Sounds
Thoughts: Maybe the hardest band ever to google, Girls burst out from everybodies' speakers this year with a series of songs that borrow heavily from shiny, glimmery rock from the 60s & 70s California where they themselves hail from. This song is just really fun and nice to sing along with even though it has kind of depressing lyrics albeit with a glimmer of hope in there. Definitely my favourite song with the title "Lust for Life" (sorry Iggy).
From The Album: "The Unquotable A.M.H."
Released: July 28th - Paper + Plastic
Thoughts: Representing the Pacific Northwest for the better part of the last decade, Bellingham, WA's Shook Ones play super catchy, super melodic hardcore that makes you want to move your feet and circle pit around your basement (regardless of whether or not there's a show going on in it). They continue to put out stellar record after stellar record along the lines of Lifetime, a band they look up to very much so and have been lucky enough to play with on numerous occasions. Besides being super catchy, I love with lyrics refer to actual parts of a song within the song itself ie "after the chorus we push on..."
From The Album: "Hospice"
Released: August 18th - Frenchkiss
Thoughts: Easily my favourite album of 2009, The Antler's "Hospice" is one of the most beautiful, haunting and sad records I've ever heard in my life and "Sylvia" is the most standout track amongst a record filled with amazing tracks. A concept record about someone dealing with a loved one who's terminally ill, I find myself personally relating to this record this year and it was through that experience that I garnered such a bond with this record that's probably responsible for me loving it so much. This record will go unheard by far too many ears and that really is a shame but if you take anything away from this mix CD, I truely hope it's a love for this record. The Antlers are a modest three piece from Brooklyn that truely deserve all the success in the world after they managed to create such an amazing record that evokes such strong feelings.
From The Album: "King Of Jeans"
Released: August 18th - Sub Pop
Thoughts: Besides being the "king[s] of jeans," Pissed Jeans are the current kings of abstract, dingy hardcore and noise rock that follows in the foot steps of such heavy hitters as Black Flag and The Jesus Lizard. Pounding bass is matched with wailing distorted guitars that spends more time feeding back than actually playing. Mix in some of the weirdest vocals in recent memory that focus on menutiae, most of it things that people don't tend to write lyrics about or even talk about in public for that matter. Nothing seems to embaress these guys though as they have no problem bombarding their audiences with off putting lyricism and then following it up by blowing them away an assault of noise and feedback. As great as their straight up barnstormers are, I love their songs like this that take their sweet time and make you wait before they kick your head in.
From The Album: "Everything Goes Wrong"
Released: September 8th - In The Red
Thoughts: This trio from Brooklyn burst onto the scene last year with their self titled debut that gained a ton of attention from the press. Their sophmore effort wasn't nearly as heralded yet I (and some friends of mine) found it to be a much better record. Picture the Ramones with really nice female harmonies buried in a mountain of reverb and you'll get an idea of what's going on here. This is more of a midtempo song as compared to some of their songs that are total rippers but the vocals on this are a great example of those amazing harmonies I spoke of. Great band.
From The Album: "The Almighty Defenders"
Released: September 22nd - Vice
Thoughts: I was so excited for this album to come out when I heard a few of the preview songs that were unleashed on the internet a few months ahead of time such as this one and "Bow Down and Die." I will have to admit that I was a tad disappointed with the full length from this side project consisting of the Black Lips, King Khan & BBQ but it doesn't change the fact that thing song is an amazing piece of punk rock gospel that's bound to get any dance floor shaking. Part of the charm of this number is in the vocals of Mark Sultan (aka BBQ) who has such a great voice and a knack for writing these kind of songs. A total throwback number and a lot of fun in general.
From The Album: "Album"
Released: September 22nd - True Panther Sounds
Thoughts: Maybe the hardest band ever to google, Girls burst out from everybodies' speakers this year with a series of songs that borrow heavily from shiny, glimmery rock from the 60s & 70s California where they themselves hail from. This song is just really fun and nice to sing along with even though it has kind of depressing lyrics albeit with a glimmer of hope in there. Definitely my favourite song with the title "Lust for Life" (sorry Iggy).
From The Album: "Japanese Heavy Rock Hits Vol 1" 7" EP
Released: September 29th - Southern Lord
Thoughts: Even though I didn't get a new Boris full length this year, I was pleased with the series of 7"s that this Japanese power trio put out this fall with 2 songs per release that covered such a wide variety of styles of rock music as these guys are known to do. This, the a side off the first of those releases is the real standout to me as it starts with this really heavy dredge a la labelmates Sunn O))), and then kicks into a total poppy metal jam that blisters along with a catchy chorus (another one featuring "Oooh"s) before we're played out by the requisite laser beam soundalike guitar solo courtesy of Wata.
8) Damages - "A Failing Cell" [3:49]
From The Album: "Scars" 7" EP
Released: September 29th - Clue No. 2
Thoughts: This is a local band that I've been pushing like nobodies business as they're the most refreshing and groundbreaking hardcore band to hit the northwest scene in years. Instead of playing youth crew or straight ahead pissed off three chord hardcore like so many around here do, these guys are more influenced by Revolution Summer hardcore as well as Touch and Go noise rock. Really jarring guitars poke and prod as a super heavy bassline anchors the song all the way through and the vocals alternate between almost spoken word and shouting. One of my favourite 7"s of this year and the funny thing is that these guys are SO much better live than they are on record.
Released: September 29th - Southern Lord
Thoughts: Even though I didn't get a new Boris full length this year, I was pleased with the series of 7"s that this Japanese power trio put out this fall with 2 songs per release that covered such a wide variety of styles of rock music as these guys are known to do. This, the a side off the first of those releases is the real standout to me as it starts with this really heavy dredge a la labelmates Sunn O))), and then kicks into a total poppy metal jam that blisters along with a catchy chorus (another one featuring "Oooh"s) before we're played out by the requisite laser beam soundalike guitar solo courtesy of Wata.
From The Album: "Scars" 7" EP
Released: September 29th - Clue No. 2
Thoughts: This is a local band that I've been pushing like nobodies business as they're the most refreshing and groundbreaking hardcore band to hit the northwest scene in years. Instead of playing youth crew or straight ahead pissed off three chord hardcore like so many around here do, these guys are more influenced by Revolution Summer hardcore as well as Touch and Go noise rock. Really jarring guitars poke and prod as a super heavy bassline anchors the song all the way through and the vocals alternate between almost spoken word and shouting. One of my favourite 7"s of this year and the funny thing is that these guys are SO much better live than they are on record.
From The Album: "Darkness Comes Alive"
Released: September 29th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: Nate Newton of Converge fame's side project known simply as Doomriders put out a record in the same year as his more famous band and managed to not pale in comparison. Mixing up a more classic rock approach a la Thin Lizzy with hardcore and a mid 80s Danzig-like sound, this song rips along at a furious pace as Nate howls for all to hear, a howl that's usually playing second fiddle to Jacob Bannon but really shines when given the time and place to do so. This album was long overdo and such an improvement from their first record which is saying something because the first record, 2005's "Black Thunder" was pretty kick ass in its own way.
Released: September 29th - Deathwish Inc
Thoughts: Nate Newton of Converge fame's side project known simply as Doomriders put out a record in the same year as his more famous band and managed to not pale in comparison. Mixing up a more classic rock approach a la Thin Lizzy with hardcore and a mid 80s Danzig-like sound, this song rips along at a furious pace as Nate howls for all to hear, a howl that's usually playing second fiddle to Jacob Bannon but really shines when given the time and place to do so. This album was long overdo and such an improvement from their first record which is saying something because the first record, 2005's "Black Thunder" was pretty kick ass in its own way.
From The Album: "There Is No Enemy"
Released: October 6th - Warner Bros
Thoughts: Wow is all I have to say about this song. The opening is completely haunting as the various guitar lines poke at each other, delaying and echoing around as the familiar high pitched voice of Doug Martsch croons. This song only consists of one real verse with really biting lyrics courtest of Martsch before it kicks into an extended solo that sounds like it's has the power to tear down buildings before fading into the silence from which it initially developed. Coming from another one of my favourite records from this year, this song is really pretty.
Released: October 6th - Warner Bros
Thoughts: Wow is all I have to say about this song. The opening is completely haunting as the various guitar lines poke at each other, delaying and echoing around as the familiar high pitched voice of Doug Martsch croons. This song only consists of one real verse with really biting lyrics courtest of Martsch before it kicks into an extended solo that sounds like it's has the power to tear down buildings before fading into the silence from which it initially developed. Coming from another one of my favourite records from this year, this song is really pretty.
From The Album: "Losing Feeling" 12" EP
Released: October 6th - Sub Pop
Thoughts: Even though this LA duo's 2009 output doesn't quite match the intensity or amazingness of their 2008 output, "Losing Feeling", the 4 song EP they put out in October of this year and specifically the closer "You're A Target" still ring true to their amazing sound. While most of the EP focuses on loops and ambient sound, building a more mellow sound than their previous full length "Nouns", they still saved some of their gusto for this one as it races right out of the gates in traditional No Age fashion. One of the best live bands I saw all year who continue to create an amazingly full sound out of nothing more than a guitar and some drums.
Released: October 6th - Sub Pop
Thoughts: Even though this LA duo's 2009 output doesn't quite match the intensity or amazingness of their 2008 output, "Losing Feeling", the 4 song EP they put out in October of this year and specifically the closer "You're A Target" still ring true to their amazing sound. While most of the EP focuses on loops and ambient sound, building a more mellow sound than their previous full length "Nouns", they still saved some of their gusto for this one as it races right out of the gates in traditional No Age fashion. One of the best live bands I saw all year who continue to create an amazingly full sound out of nothing more than a guitar and some drums.
From The Album: "Exploding Head"
Released: October 6th - Mute
Thoughts: On numerous occasions these guys have been called the loudest band in New York and although they do play very loudly, they don't write songs that you would traditionally think as being loud. At the root of their songs is catchy pop hooks but it's through the filtering process where you add in the super distorted guitars that slide and grind all over the place, and the heavy reverb that these guys' work begins to stand out on its own. Has almost an industrial feel to it at times but their admiration of The Jesus & Mary Chain is unmistakeable.
Released: October 6th - Mute
Thoughts: On numerous occasions these guys have been called the loudest band in New York and although they do play very loudly, they don't write songs that you would traditionally think as being loud. At the root of their songs is catchy pop hooks but it's through the filtering process where you add in the super distorted guitars that slide and grind all over the place, and the heavy reverb that these guys' work begins to stand out on its own. Has almost an industrial feel to it at times but their admiration of The Jesus & Mary Chain is unmistakeable.
From The Album: "Blue Record"
Released: October 13th - Relapse
Thoughts: It wasn't enough for Savannah, GA's Baroness to put out one record named after a colour that landed themselves on the top of numerous best of lists a few years back, they had to repeat that task again this year. "Blue Record", the follow up to 2007's "Red Album", is an amazing mix of sludge metal with southern rock and straight up arena rock bombast but played in a scuzzy club somewhere. I love how epic the vocals are and how accessible they are even for someone who wouldn't call themselves a fan of metal yet this album is sure to please most headbangers who needs something they can sink their teeth in. The near three minute build in this song before vocals keeps you anticipating until the meat of the song kicks in and just as soon as it arrives, it fades away and leaves you wanting more.
Released: October 13th - Relapse
Thoughts: It wasn't enough for Savannah, GA's Baroness to put out one record named after a colour that landed themselves on the top of numerous best of lists a few years back, they had to repeat that task again this year. "Blue Record", the follow up to 2007's "Red Album", is an amazing mix of sludge metal with southern rock and straight up arena rock bombast but played in a scuzzy club somewhere. I love how epic the vocals are and how accessible they are even for someone who wouldn't call themselves a fan of metal yet this album is sure to please most headbangers who needs something they can sink their teeth in. The near three minute build in this song before vocals keeps you anticipating until the meat of the song kicks in and just as soon as it arrives, it fades away and leaves you wanting more.
From The Album: "Embryonic"
Released: October 13th - Warner Bros
Thoughts: The last three Flaming Lips records have produced some of the most amazing and weird pop singles worthy of singing along with a crowd of complete strangers who have since become your best friends as you find yourselves being showered in confetti and oversized balloons. Never being satisfied to play it safe and put out another record filled with sing-a-longs worthy of pot smokers and consumers (be it car, computer or salad dressing) alike, these guys returned to their roots and released a record of freakouts, sounds and distortions that would for sure alienate any lesser bands' fan base but in traditional Flaming Lips fashion, "Embryonic" was instead embraced by their diehard fan base. Such a great convergence of sounds both dark and somewhat menacing and flighty and peaceful, the Flaming Lips can truely do no wrong.
Released: October 13th - Warner Bros
Thoughts: The last three Flaming Lips records have produced some of the most amazing and weird pop singles worthy of singing along with a crowd of complete strangers who have since become your best friends as you find yourselves being showered in confetti and oversized balloons. Never being satisfied to play it safe and put out another record filled with sing-a-longs worthy of pot smokers and consumers (be it car, computer or salad dressing) alike, these guys returned to their roots and released a record of freakouts, sounds and distortions that would for sure alienate any lesser bands' fan base but in traditional Flaming Lips fashion, "Embryonic" was instead embraced by their diehard fan base. Such a great convergence of sounds both dark and somewhat menacing and flighty and peaceful, the Flaming Lips can truely do no wrong.
From The Album: "Logos"
Released: October 20th - Kranky
Thoughts: It wasn't enough that Atlas Sound's Bradford Cox was capable of making beautiful loop based pop music with shimmery vocals, he had to add Panda Bear, of Animal Collective fame to the mix. Of course Panda Bear (aka Noah Lennox) is someone who knows a thing or two about beautiful loop and sample based music having produced perhaps the record of year this year as well his own solo record in 2007, "Person Pitch" which captivated people with its sunny Beach Boys' esque vocals over catchy beats created out of numerous samples and sounds. This is one of the best headphone records of this year, something to be expeienced through your headphones all by your lonesome as you find yourself immersed in this world of sound that they create around you in the short span of four minutes time.
Released: October 20th - Kranky
Thoughts: It wasn't enough that Atlas Sound's Bradford Cox was capable of making beautiful loop based pop music with shimmery vocals, he had to add Panda Bear, of Animal Collective fame to the mix. Of course Panda Bear (aka Noah Lennox) is someone who knows a thing or two about beautiful loop and sample based music having produced perhaps the record of year this year as well his own solo record in 2007, "Person Pitch" which captivated people with its sunny Beach Boys' esque vocals over catchy beats created out of numerous samples and sounds. This is one of the best headphone records of this year, something to be expeienced through your headphones all by your lonesome as you find yourself immersed in this world of sound that they create around you in the short span of four minutes time.
From The Album: "Axe To Fall"
Released: October 20th - Epitaph
Thoughts: This is about as opposite as it gets from that last song as this song gallops right out of the gates and doesn't slow down much for nearly 3 minutes straight. Converge are back with a fucking vengeance and this may be one of their best records ever, probably just falling short of 2001's metalcore classic "Jane Doe." The verse is just fierce with Kurt Baillou's power metal on speed riff furiously trudging along. The chorus is so huge with gang vocals that take over and Jacob Bannon's somewhat newfound ability to mix up his vocal delivery is a breath of fresh air. Don't get me wrong though, because when his famed Banshee Howl returns to form over the epic breakdown that's ever so heavy, it's picture perfect.
Released: October 20th - Epitaph
Thoughts: This is about as opposite as it gets from that last song as this song gallops right out of the gates and doesn't slow down much for nearly 3 minutes straight. Converge are back with a fucking vengeance and this may be one of their best records ever, probably just falling short of 2001's metalcore classic "Jane Doe." The verse is just fierce with Kurt Baillou's power metal on speed riff furiously trudging along. The chorus is so huge with gang vocals that take over and Jacob Bannon's somewhat newfound ability to mix up his vocal delivery is a breath of fresh air. Don't get me wrong though, because when his famed Banshee Howl returns to form over the epic breakdown that's ever so heavy, it's picture perfect.
From The Album: "Opiate Sun" 12" EP
Released: October 27th - Caldo Verde
Thoughts: I'm so glad that Justin Broadrick doesn't enjoy having any sort of downtime in his life whatsoever because it means that I get to enjoy his records on a regular basis and hopefully introduce him into more people's lives. A definite step up in quality from the more electronic and instrumental based releases of 2008, Jesu's output in 2008 featured the beautifully heavy Opiate Sun EP which was a return to form for Broadrick who has released numerous great EPs under the Jesu moniker, other standouts being "Silver" and "Lifeline." Never has heavy music been so easy to listen to with such palatable underlying textures and Broadrick's smooth vocal delivery to go with the heavier than heavy guitar riffs.
18) Cold Cave - "Love Comes Close" [4:25]
From The Album: "Love Comes Close"
Released: November 3rd - Matador
Thoughts: Wes Eisold is used to wearing his heart on his sleeve although in the past it has been as the front man of hardcore groups American Nightmare and Some Girls. He's traded in his throaty rasp for his best Ian Curtis impersonation and surprisingly it's really, really good. Really catchy keyboard hooks and programmed beats are the basis for these songs with Eisold projecting his baratone over top. I liked this record way more than I was expecting to and I find a lot of people who are fans of Eisold's previous work in hardcore bands are also enjoying it a lot, in addition to a more widespread indie fanbase.
19) The King Khan & BBQ Show - "Invisible Girl" [4:00]
From The Album: "Invisible Girl"
Released: November 3rd - In The Red
Thoughts: I don't know what the final total of duos represented on these CDs is but last and certainly not least is the garage/soul/R&B troupe known as The King Khan & BBQ Show. I almost put a more upbeat, catchy and downright crude song on this CD instead of this one but when it comes down to it, this song has a really charming quality to it. It's a really steady beat with a nice little guitar hook before each verse and a catchy little chorus. A simple song for sure, but a fun one nonetheless and a nice way to close things out.
Total Running Time: [78:06]
Click Here (Right Click/Save As) To Download "Danielage! Presents: Best of 2009 Mixtape Disc Three"
Released: October 27th - Caldo Verde
Thoughts: I'm so glad that Justin Broadrick doesn't enjoy having any sort of downtime in his life whatsoever because it means that I get to enjoy his records on a regular basis and hopefully introduce him into more people's lives. A definite step up in quality from the more electronic and instrumental based releases of 2008, Jesu's output in 2008 featured the beautifully heavy Opiate Sun EP which was a return to form for Broadrick who has released numerous great EPs under the Jesu moniker, other standouts being "Silver" and "Lifeline." Never has heavy music been so easy to listen to with such palatable underlying textures and Broadrick's smooth vocal delivery to go with the heavier than heavy guitar riffs.
From The Album: "Love Comes Close"
Released: November 3rd - Matador
Thoughts: Wes Eisold is used to wearing his heart on his sleeve although in the past it has been as the front man of hardcore groups American Nightmare and Some Girls. He's traded in his throaty rasp for his best Ian Curtis impersonation and surprisingly it's really, really good. Really catchy keyboard hooks and programmed beats are the basis for these songs with Eisold projecting his baratone over top. I liked this record way more than I was expecting to and I find a lot of people who are fans of Eisold's previous work in hardcore bands are also enjoying it a lot, in addition to a more widespread indie fanbase.
From The Album: "Invisible Girl"
Released: November 3rd - In The Red
Thoughts: I don't know what the final total of duos represented on these CDs is but last and certainly not least is the garage/soul/R&B troupe known as The King Khan & BBQ Show. I almost put a more upbeat, catchy and downright crude song on this CD instead of this one but when it comes down to it, this song has a really charming quality to it. It's a really steady beat with a nice little guitar hook before each verse and a catchy little chorus. A simple song for sure, but a fun one nonetheless and a nice way to close things out.
Total Running Time: [78:06]
Click Here (Right Click/Save As) To Download "Danielage! Presents: Best of 2009 Mixtape Disc Three"
I love this!!! What a great post!
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