Favorite Music of 2010
Another year comes to a close, and its been a truly amazing year for music. So many good bands have released albums, some to widespread popularity, others are just gems waiting to be discovered. Here are my favorites:
Predator / Prey - Fort Wilson Riot
I first saw Jacob and Amy, who make up Fort Wilson Riot, at an impromptu performance at Independents' Day in Columbus this summer. Tucked away on one of the side streets during this day long festival, they had a stage presence that had captured a growing crowd, and had me completely entranced for their entire set. I've since seen them twice more as their touring schedule has brought them to Columbus.
Their live show is absolutely infectious, and it's a joy to watch the two of them manage to put out a sound that is more common of a 5-6 member band. Watching Amy juggle the harmonica, trumpet, keys, and drum machine throughout a song is amazing.
While a brisk 31 minutes, Predator / Prey is a rare mix of catchy pop hooks and musical depth. The vocal harmonies shine, with Amy and Jacob sharing lead vocal duty throughout.
Predator / Prey is easily my favorite album of year.
Sigh No More - Mumford & Sons
Proving that banjo folk music can rock. This album frequently starts off the drive from Ohio to Indiana. The album starts off strong, and really doesn't quiet down until the last few tracks. These guys are just blowing up right now, and if you haven't bought the album yet, do so.
Brothers - The Black Keys
I've always dug The Black Keys, but Brothers rocks my world. She's Long Gone is the standout track for me, and is a great blend of blues and rock. While a bit more radio friendly than their previous albums, Brothers excels at modernizing dark blues lyrics and guitar riffs.
High Violet - The National
You might have heard the single, Bloodbuzz Ohio, on the radio. It's catchy, but get the album and skip to Runaway. That song alone could carry the entire set. Matt Berninger's baritone makes this band unique, and it keeps High Violet moving at a pace perfect for a slow Sunday morning.
The Suburbs - Arcade Fire
Concept albums still happen. This one is awesome, especially to a city kid that now has parents that have settled into a suburban community in Iowa.
Stuck on Nothing - Free Energy
Free Energy has captured a sound that is perfect for listening to in the summer, driving to the beach. I first heard "Bang Pop" on XPN, and they've become yet another promising band out of Philly. Don't go looking for anything deep or intellectual in this album, it's just plain, simple fun.