The best you say? Hands down, the Vancouver 2010 Olympic theme, Nikki Yanofsky’s “I Believe.”
Okay, I’m obviously kidding.
It’s no joke though how difficult it’s going to be outshining 2009, the year that produced amazing works by the Raveonettes, Justin Townes Earle, Camera Obscura, Phoenix, Junior Boys, Deastro, Annie and more. And let’s not forget the brilliant talent of the XX, Washed Out, and Neon Indian who've all made their debuts in 2009. So the question that begs to be asked is, how will 2010 compare?
Very well, actually! We’re only eleven weeks into the year and already there is more great music than I have time to write about. Here’s a quick overview of what’s making a splash:
- The year started off with a second studio album by Brooklyn’s Yeasayer titled Odd Blood. And odd it is, but in the best way imaginable. Experimental but accessible, relaxed but dance-y. Unlike the band’s first release, All Hour Cymbals (2008), this one inspires good vibes and—without taking anything away from their first album—Odd Blood just seems more palatable and easier to listen to. From this album, check out “Madder Red,” “ONE,” “Love Me Girl,” and “Grizelda.”
- You would think that after six solid albums, the quality of song from a band will plateau, if not decline, but Spoon, the ‘indie’ poster boys from Texas are living proof that the aforementioned statement is untrue. I don’t know how they do it, but they consistently make rockin’ tunes. Transference, Spoon’s 2010 release, is packed full of gems. What I really appreciate, is the band’s willingness to grow and push the envelope while keeping their signature raw sound and haunting lyrics. The most notable tracks on this release are “Who Makes Your Money,” “I Saw the Light,” and “Out Go the Lights.”
- Not long after that release, Baltimore’s Beach House, the duo with the sad psychedelic sound released their third and possibly greatest studio recording. This one is titled Teen Dream, and it is every bit dreamy and melancholy and yet, in some strange way, optimistic. This makes for the perfect soundtrack to a rainy day, or just one of those days that one can use a hug. Teen Dream will hug and console you and tell you that everything will be okay. My favourites on this album are “Silver Soul,” “Walk in the Park,” and “10 Mile Stereo.”
- Moving on to something a little more upbeat, Hot Chip’s One Life Stand is guaranteed to make your heart dance and your body move. The English electro-pop wizards deliver another spellbinding record reminiscent of 1990s house music and laced with euphoric and melodic vocals. It’s nothing they haven’t done before though; their Coming On Strong (2004) and The Warning (2006) are both amazing albums. This new release evidently builds on the band’s previous experience and, though difficult to say, it surpasses their older works with its coherence, flow, and simplicity. “Hand Me Down your Love,” “Slush,” “Alley Cats,” and “Take It In” are must-hears!
- Next up is the third studio album by another group of English musical masters. Damon Albarn’s Gorillaz collaborate with such talent as Snoop Dogg, Bobby Womack, Mos Def, De La Soul, and the unlikely Lou Reed and Paul Simon to create what is by far the band’s greatest record. Plastic Beach features a wonderful blend of glittery sounds, synth-pop, world beats, hip-hop, somber lyrics, and familiar voices, mixed masterfully together to make this an instant classic. I really can’t say enough good things about this album. Check out “Rhinestone Eyes,” “Empire Ants,” “Plastic Beach,” and “To Binge.”
I can’t wait to see how the rest of the year unfolds, and I’m sure there’ll be more to write about; in the meantime here are a few things to look forward to: new releases by Justice, New Young Pony Club, Goldfrapp, Fatboy Slim, MGMT, and Beastie Boys. And something to daydream about is the rumored release of Radiohead, Daft Punk, and Scissor Sister’s next albums! I’m also going to dream about the release of Dr. Dre’s Detox (it’s never too late, doc).
