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Mardenhill's Best of 2011 CD Releases

2011-12-19T21:36:00.001-05:00

25. Dum DumGirls – Only In Dreams

I went back and forth withthis one. I liked the cd but wasn’t sureit would make it long term. After a fewmonths I returned to it still enjoying it so here you go. Fuzzed out 60s surf with great melodies andsing along choruses. Musically, the DumDum Girls improved since their debut and if this growth is to be maintainedlook out for their next release. This isreally a summer album but it can still be enjoyed on a sunny winter day.

24. Jesse Sykes& The Sweet Hereafter – Marble Son

On her 4^th fulllength Jesse Sykes turns up the distortion and tears through a dark and bluesy8-minute opening track. For the next fewsongs, Jesse settles into her standard Folk Rock/Americana style with hypnoticand swirling sounds. Jesse’s vocals aresoft, dusty and haunting adding to the mystique of the music. This one rocks harder than previous ones butafter a few listens you welcome the change.

23. Low – C’mon

On their 9^thstudio release, Low continue to play their slowcore style of music with tweaksto it at times. The music is soft,melodic, somber and perfect for late night or rainy day listening. Married couple Alan and Mimi alternate vocalsand compliment each other on backup. Since “The Great Destroyer” Low haven’t been afraid to use moredistortion to complete their sonic landscape. These changes add to the variety of music and one that is great in thebackground of any conversation.

22. R.E.M. –Collapse Into Now

No one thought this would beR.E.M.’s last cd when it was released but looking back it makes sense. They did a great job at revisiting many oftheir unique sounds throughout the last 31 years. Instead of blowing up in a huge fight, theband released their last music together, parted ways and thanked all their fansfor their support over the years. I amvery happy with the cd, I think it’s a fair assessment of the band’s career andhope one day for some reunion.

21. Vetiver –The Errant Charm

Hailing from San Franciscoand on their 5^th release, Vetiver play some amazing music. Quiet and melancholy with soft and whisperingvocals layered over some beautiful melodies. This is not wimpy emo, just lighthearted Indie Rock that can be enjoyedon lazy Sunday mornings.

20. Beirut –The Rip Tide

Blending World Music withIndie Rock, Beirut travel down a curious path that balances competing genreswith an interesting and enjoyable result. The Eastern European gypsy influence adds texture to the folksy vocalsand keeps the listener from tuning out. There are a number of bands playing in this genre but I have to sayBeirut are one of the best.

19. Portgual.The Man – In The Mountain In The Cloud

This one took a few listensto sink in. I wasn’t sure what to expectand thought it might just be too gimmicky for its own good. A few months later, I was still interestedand came to appreciate the band. Youhave lots of 70’s glam going on with Elton John and David Bowie popping up overand over.

18. TheJayhawks – Mockingbird Time

It was 1995 when Mark Olsenleft the band, 16 years later and reunited with Gary Louris, the Jayhawks don’tmiss a beat. Amazing alt country full ofstrings, steal pedals, keyboards and perfectly crafted melodies. The band set out to make the best Jayhawksrecord and I believe they did it.

17. Florence& The Machine - Ceremonials

UK’s latest siren releasesher 2^nd cd “Ceremonials” undercutting any naysayers who think shewas a one hit wonder. On this cd,Florence streamlines her style into a dark and haunting full bodied and richsound. Layers of organs are reminiscentof Sarah McLachlan but Florence’s voice is strong that any comparisons reallyfall flat. The songs are full ofcrescendos, sweeping melodies and soul. On headphones this cd creates a firestorm of enjoyment inside your head.

16. Ryan Adams– Ashes And Rain

It had been 3 years since thelast official release, which is an eternity in Ryan’s world. We did see a Cardinals record at the end oflast year but that had been recorded back in ’06. Anyways, Ryan returns to the music scene witha stripped down and introspective release. Lots of acoustic guitar and hushed vocals here along with a return tothe Alt Country of Ryan’s past. This onetakes a bit of getting used to but well worth it when you spend the time.

15. GillianWelch – The Harrow And The Harvest

It had been 8 years sinceGillian’s last release but that time was well spent. Pulling from the past, Gillian along withDavid Rawlings revives the country duet for a new generation of listeners. With the minimalist approach, each listenfeels like a personal concert gathered around a fire.

14. The HeadAnd The Heart – The Head And The Heart

The first time I heard theirsong “Rivers And Roads” I couldn’t get it out of my head. They are one of those toe tapping, headbobbing infectious bands that burrow deep into your brain and never letloose. They are not a cheesy jam bandbut more a reflection of the new brand of Americana.

13. Beady Eye –Different Gear Still Speeding

Oasis minus Noel is prettymuch Beady Eye but Liam, Andy and Gem do their best to separate the two. Liam plays homage to many 60s bandsthroughout the release while hoping to find a place he can call home. By running in the opposite direction ofOasis, Beady Eye created a cornucopia of sound with many directions they cantravel and hone for release #2.

12. CrookedFingers – Breaks In The Armor

Eric Bachmann returns with a brilliantnew release that focuses more on him and his guitar than the whole ensemble ofmusic. This isn’t a bad thing, previouscds tended to be concept or full music ensembles. This one feels like a solo record with a fewpeople backing him up with a bit of atmosphere. There is a nice mix of crunchy and acoustic guitar, with Eric’strademark vocals playing tour guide throughout the cd.

11. Kasabian –Velicorapter

On their 4^threlease, Kasabian strive to create their own sound and show some growth fromtheir previous releases. In doing so,the band have probably released some of their best songs to date. Yes its fun to sing along to “Club Foot” and“Reason is Treason” but those were blatant rip offs of all the best sounds fromthe UK late 80’s early 90’s. Many of thenew songs are moodier with lots of orchestration and world music vibes. Production quality is amazing which makes wereally excited for their US tour next year.

10. Josh RouseAnd The Long Vacations – Josh Rouse And The Long Vacations

Josh ditches the Spanishinfluences and heads back to the Americana roots rock with this release. Sunshine emanates from many of the songs withinteresting and subtle orchestration filling in the rest. Simple at first but after a few listens youcan really pick up on Josh’s vast musical past.

9. NoelGallagher’s High Flying Birds - NoelGallagher’s High Flying Birds

Unlike Beady Eye, NoelGallagher doesn’t shy away from being in Oasis. Many of the songs could have appeared throughout the years but it seemslike Noel kept these close to his chest waiting for the right time. There is a bit of freedom poking thru onmany of the songs with bits of the Beatles surfacing at times. Noel spared no expense and added lots oforchestration and layers to each song.

8. Babybird –The Pleasures Of Self Destruction

As usual Stephen Jonescreates some form of controversy, this time pissing off the American FamilyAssociation with the help of Johnny Depp on the song “Jesus Stag NightClub”. The rest of the cd does settleinto the normal Babybird formula, love songs, hate songs, songs about death,drugs, drinking, more love loaded with vivid imagery and satire. Stephen Jones does know how to write theperfect love song, just expect a few turns to the left, a swerve across theroad then back on track.

7. AmandaShires – Carrying Lightning

Young, fresh and feisty withan old soul and the knack for some good fiddle playing pretty much sums upAmanda Shires. On her 2^ndsolo, Amanda expands her sound and delivers some amazing Alt Country thatanyone can enjoy. The music ranges from tender to lonely to rockin showcasing Amanda's wide range of talent. Check out Amanda playing fiddle on Jason Isobell's latest release as well.

6. Buffalo Tom– Skins

Classic BT here withperfectly crafted songs balanced between Bill and Chris’s. Songs about women, love, loss, aging andeveryday things wrapped around simple melodies with raw guitar. 25 years later, the guys still have it andare wonderful musicians and songwriters. This is not a mid life, lets throw a few songs together to make somecash record, instead its perfectly crafted representation of where the guys arein their lives.

5. The CivilWars – Barton Hollow
I will start with Erika toldme about this band after seeing them on CMT one day. I fell in love with their sound, thealternating vocals layered over beautiful Country and Americana. There is no Country twang, no beer drinkingsing along anthems just simple and gorgeous melodies.

4. The Kills –Blood Pressure

Alison Mosshart & JamieHince take The Kills in a new direction with “Blood Pressure”. Yes they are still a 2 piece with a drummachine but this release moves somewhat away from the garage sound of the pastand dives deep into a rich sonic landscape. It’s a grower so give it a few listens.

3. J Mascis –Several Shades Of Why

J Mascis turns off thedistortion pedal and goes soft with this release. While its lighthearted and melancholy, it hassome interesting layers and textures that come out after a few listens. J’s voice is still unique and one that canalways be picked out of a lineup. Jproves that you don’t always need feedback to write a great song.

2. The War OnDrugs – Slave Ambient

I first heard this band onSirius XM while driving one day and was blown away. All I could think of was Bob Dylan playing inmodern Indie Rock band. You have somecomplex layers with lots of atmosphere going on but not too much to make itunlistenable. The sound fills the roomand sounds even better on a nice set of headphones.

1. TwilightSingers – Dynamite Burns

Greg finds his stride withhis latest release “Dynamite Burns”. Tension, emotion, anger, beauty and attitude permeate from all the songsreminding us why Greg was so amazing a decade ago and why he is still relevant. Mark Lanegan lends his vocals to one trackwhich is to be expected but Greg handles the rest. These songs are amazing live which is why theband released their 1^st live cd from the tour just last month. It’s a perfect companion to an amazingrelease and Greg’s finest Twilight Singers to date.

Mardenhill's Best of 2010 CD Releases

2010-12-07T21:52:00.011-05:00

25. Josh Ritter – So Runs The World Away

I went back and forth between this and 3 other cds for my last spot but finally settled on Josh. It was a hard decision since I had to stop at 25 and just add the rest as honorable mentions. Anyways, Josh is back with some classic American folk rock full of pianos, strings, organs and stories. The music sways between soft piano melodies to gritty backroom jams with Josh tying it together with his interesting narratives.

24. Grinderman – Grinderman II

Nick Cave returns with a 2^nd release from his side project Grinderman. On the surface, this cd sounds like a middle age crisis playing out in front of your eyes. Upon additional listening, you can see where Nick has explored his freedom from the Bad Seeds and created an environment where all social norms, decency and respect are thrown out the window. Yes its sleazy, gritty and offensive at times but it’s Nick Cave and we all know what that means.

23. Tame Impala – Innerspeaker

Another debut release made it into my best of which I found myself listening to quite frequently this past summer. Tame Impala come to us via Australia with a mix of psychedelic guitar rock with hints of the Beatles wrapped around a fuzzed out California sound. The heavy atmosphere sounds fuzzy but not amateur, which is why I was attracted to the release. While most bands may use noise and distortion to hide imperfections, Tame Impala uses it to create beautiful music.

22. Ed Harcourt – Lustre

Splendid orchestral arrangements neatly folded around a simple piano start off “Lustre”. Ed sings softly over the music gradually increasing the tempo backed up by lovely chorus of female vocals. Church organs are a staple in Ed’s world; the ability for him to incorporate elements like this into his world of music is one of his strengths. On “Lustre”, Ed embraces some darker sounds and down tempos. When paired with his voice and brilliant piano melodies, Ed writes some of his best work to date.

21. The Bluetones – A New Athens

The Bluetones exploded onto the Brit Rock scene back in 94 with their Stone Roses/Oasis style of melodic and shoegazing songs. Throughout the years the Bluetones experimented with their sound, borrowing a lot from US bands that angered some. “A New Athens” brings the Bluetones back to that early sound while keeping a sense of originality developed throughout the years.

20. Stereolab – Not Music

This release just came out about a month ago but had been written a couple years ago during the Chemical Chords sessions. The cd runs a wide path across the history of Stereolab with the early drones followed by the introduction of live horns and organic sounds. The music isn’t overly complicated to the point where it cannot be played live. It is arranged in a way that when on stage band members can recreate the sound without having to rely on programmed beats.

19. The Tallest Man On Earth – The Wild One

This was another sleeper release this year. It snuck up on me and kept me interested throughout multiple listening over the months. Stripped down and bare, the Swedish troubadour Kristian Matsson’s unique voice impressed me with his ability to pull of an Americana/Alt Country/folk record. While it was not his debut cd, it was the one that put Kristain on the US Music scene courtesy of Sirius radio.

18. Chromeo – Business Casual

ElectroDiscoHouse infused with 80’s over the top Rhythmic Soul and a dash of Hall n Oats thrown in for good measure. These contagious grooves get you shaking and dancing the nite away. The bass is fat, the beats organic dripping with sweat. This is no cold electronic release; this is the type of electronic music that convinces people its not all that bad. With the heavy borrowing this cd is one that can still sound fresh a couple years down the road. Put this one on at your next house party, you will be surprised how many people start dancing and complimenting you on your music selection.

17. Gogol Bordello – Trans Continential Hustler

Rowdy, filthy, invigorating and entertaining are just a few words that can describe Gogol Bordello. These gypsy punks grab you; rough you up, slap you around yet leave you wanting more. This record is more restrained than previous ones but this is a blessing since it provides a solid song structure that can be listened to over and over.

16. Deadstring Brothers – Sao Paulo

One of the best and underrated bands from Detroit release an amazing cd that will suck you in and take you for a ride down a dusty gravel backwoods road. Mix of Garage and Alt Country, the Deadstring Brothers incorporate the south into a burned out industrial city that loves good old rock n roll. Whiskey drenched slide guitars, female back up vocals and Hammond organs complete the sound.

15. Mumford And Sons – Sigh No More

This one took a few listens to really appreciate. Not really expecting to hear good British folk rock, Mumford And Sons surprise and succeed. The bluegrass style guitars, horns and toe tapping beats create a unique sound and something quite different than the usual British faire.

14. Jenny & Johnny – I’m Having Fun Now

Another side project of Jennifer Lewis, Jenny & Johnny feature her along with Jonathan Rice on a number of summer loving, pop songs. The infectious melodies transport you to a summer of fun, devoid of responsibility and care. Perfect California sunshine pop with duets most people could only dream of.

13. Babybird – Ex Maniac

Stephen Jones returns with a new full length under his band Babybird. Full of dry wit, cynicism, love and desperation Stephen takes you on a journey thru the human experience from a tortured soul’s perspective. Stephen balances the heaviness and whimsical nature by poking fun at the self-loathing and narcissism of some. Beautiful melodies and brit pop are interweaved thru stories only Stephen Jones can pull off.

12. Weekend – Sports

Pulling from the 90s shoegazing scene, Weekend pays homage to JAMC, Ride and My Bloody Valentine with their debut cd. Haunting vocals weave between fuzzed out distortion and blistering wall of sound. Not something you want to listen to on headphones, well unless you are a glutton for punishment, the high-pitched feedback is painful but just like JAMC necessary to set the mood.

11. Warpaint – Warpaint

Dark, hypnotic, intoxicating are just a few words to describe the debut from Warpaint. This female quartet weaves beautiful melodies throughout layers of cloudy and atmospheric rhythms that take shape when listened thru headphones. The brooding and droning guitars warm you and create a cocoon of soothing bliss. Vocals are not pronounced; they lay at the same level as the music as to keep the wall of sound strong and secure. I am still blown away that this is their debut and have only been a band for a few years. Expect great things from them in the future.

10. The Black Angels – Phosphene Dream

2010 had resurgence of psychedelic music but with a modern twist. The Black Angels hit this one out of the park with the heavy drones, fuzzed out guitars and mind stretching sounds. You swear Grace Slick is running around looking for the white rabbit when listening. The mood varies from dark to eccentric taking the listener on a massive acid trip throughout the decades.

9. Isobel Campbell & Mark Lanegan – Hawk

Surprising, this is the 1^st Isobel/Mark release to make my best of list. Not that I hated the previous 2, something about them just kept them from my line up. The dusty Americana is served up with a good dose of Alt Country and genuine music not manufactured in some fancy studio by a bunch of hacks. Isobel does shine here, she takes control and doesn’t play 2^nd fiddle to the project. She has really come into her own and shown the world that she understands music, history and where she sees herself. This has become more of Isobel’s vision than Mark’s and I hope they continue this unique and talented partnership.

8. James – The Night Before The Morning After

Originally released as 2 separate EPs, the latest James effort combines influences from their back catalog into a well-structured and satisfying cd. Tim Booth doesn’t disappoint, his ability to run the spectrum of styles speaks volumes to his as well as the band’s talent. Wide sweeping crescendos, soft introspective hymns and majestic arrangements are all featured and delivered with precision and grace.

7. Massive Attack – Heligoland

Along with Morcheeba, Massive Attack returned with some groundbreaking Trip Hop for all you junkies. The beats are heavy, full of dark, complex layers and peppered with bits of world music influences. Martina Topley Bird provided vocals on a number of tracks along with Tunde Adebimpe, Horace Andy, Guy Garvey and Hope Sandoval. The songs are well crafted, paying homage to reggae, drum and bass and tortured Bristol sound. Unfortunately we didn’t have a trifecta here, Tricky released a cd but it fell flat yet another disappointment from a talented individual.

6. Badly Drawn Boy - It's What I'm Thinking (Part One Photographing Snowflakes)

I haven’t been too impressed with the last couple cds but Badly Drawn Boy returned to form with this one. The soft spoken, introspective and muted sound compliments Damon Gough’s music vision. Like Beck, Damon lives and thrives in complex, atmospheric music that engages the listener without becoming boring and monotonous.

5. Fran Healy – Wreckorder

I have always been a fan of Travis and was very excited when Fran released his solo. You have some moody songs full of violins followed by some melancholy lullabies. Hidden throughout the somber atmosphere are some uplifting gems that get your toe tapping and remind you why Fran is a master at his craft. While many 1^st solos tend to be thin and weak, Fran storms out of the gates with some impressive songs that will only strengthen his future endeavors.

4. Interpol – Interpol

I was very concerned I would have to decide between this and the National for number one but I was somewhat disappointed upon 1^st listen. It took a few more for it to settle in when I finally understood what Interpol was going for. The heavy layers with the lack of sing a long chorus turned off many and I have to admit myself at the beginning. I see this as a progression, a transition cd into a new stage and mindset of the band. At times if feels incomplete and deficient but this was what the band wanted.

3. Morcheeba – Blood Like Lemonade

Morcheeba had stumbled the last few releases and it’s easy to figure out why. The absence of Skye Edwards was the problem, now that she is back; new life has been introduced into the band. For fans of the Trip Hop scene, you will not be disappointed. Morcheeba transports you back to the mid 90s with long, hazy beats, layered over soft and soulful voices. By far the most beautiful vox in the world of Trip Hop, Skye delivers and reminds the world why she is the queen and no one can compare.

2. Josh Rouse – El Turista

A departure from his previous work, Josh Rouse took influence from his current home in Valencia, Spain for this release. Underneath the Mediterranean vibe is the classic Americana/singer songwriter who knows how to write some of the best songs of his generation. Shades of Martin Denny set the mood with Josh following up with his best Spanish impression. Josh builds on this atmosphere with continued island influences and classical guitar tones. This is no “Nashville” or “1972” but it shows how Josh is able to take inspiration from his surroundings and incorporate them into an impressive set of songs.

1. The National – High Violet

Dark, brooding, layered intelligent indie rock from one of the best bands out there. The National excelled with “High Violet”, a beautifully written masterpiece that can be enjoyed at home or live on stage. Few bands can pull off such feats but The National did which is why I love this cd. Taking elements from “Alligator” and “Boxer” the band thread the needle and produced a magnificent thirty something soundtrack for life in current times. Some faulted the overproduction but it was necessary and well worth the wait. Matt Berninger’s vocals are strong as ever and weave in and out of the intricate layers of piano, guitar, horns and drums.

Honorable Mentions in no particular order

Goldfrapp – Headfirst

The Pernice Brothers – Goodbye Killer

Brian Jonestown Massacre – Who Shot Sgt. Pepper?

Superchunk – Majestic Shreading

Band of Horses – Infinite Arms

She & Him – Volume 2

Jack Johnson – To The Sea

Martina Topley Bird – Some Place Simple

Pete Yorn – Pete Yorn

The Sights – Most Of What Follows Is True

Good Old War – Good Old War