posted August 2nd, 2010
2010 has been an subpar year so far when it comes to music. More than any other year in recent memory, I have found myself listening to the same thing repeatedly or consuming more older stuff. So, I did some online research to remind me of what came out this year and went through my iTunes library and compiled a small list of music I have really been digging that came out this year. I know I am forgetting something, so sound off and let me know. Also tell me how wrong I am about something I chose. Hope you discover something on here. These are all worth checking out.
BROKEN BELLS - Broken Bells
While this list is not in any particular rank or order, this album from the creative minds of James Mercer (lead singer of The Shins) and Brian Burton (aka Danger Mouse) is easily my favorite of the year. The clear chemistry of this duo shines through as the album's atmosphere of unique independent sounds shines through.
LCD Soundsystem - This Is Happening
James Murphy is rumored to believe that this will be the last album he does as LCD Soundsystem because he feels like he is losing his edge. Hopefully this is not true because no matter how hard he tries to not believe, he is still near the forefront of cool.
SHARON JONES & THE DAP KINGS - I Learned the Hard Way
The latest sound making a comeback is the old school R&B/Motown sound and no one, absolutely no one, is doing better than Sharon Jones. Her voice is as perfectly classic as it comes and she is rumored to put on an amazing live show. I hope to see her in a couple months. Until then, this album will more than hold me over.
THE MORNING BENDERS - Big Echo
The Morning Benders is a band from Berkeley, California who released what is technically their sophomore album, "Big Echo", this year. I say "technically" because their debut album flew under the radar and while it was critically praised, I believe "Big Echo" will push it back into oblivion. The Morning Benders are one of the ultimate "indie bands" and have supported such acts as Broken Bells and Grizzly Bear. I look forward to what they will bring in the future.
THE BLACK KEYS - Brothers
The Black Keys are a brother duo made up of drums and guitar. Kind of like the Right Guard to The White Stripes' Sure deodorant. They are very consistent in the quality of music they produce and "Brothers" is no exception. Plus, its got the greatest album cover EVER.
LOCAL NATIVES - Gorilla Manor
"Gorilla Manor" is the debut album from a band that has hit the scene hard. Buzz has building about this LA-based band since last year and they have not disappointed. It hasn't maintained its strength as the year has gone on for me but when it pops up on shuffle, I quickly grow a smile.
SLEIGH BELLS - Treats
Sleigh Bells album "Treats" would be my choice for debut album of the year if it wasn't for the first and last selections on this list. This is pop/rock/indie/dance at its best. You can't help but bob your head and move to the groove when this band comes on. This is the band I am most excited and curious to see perform live.MUMFORD & SONS - Sigh No More (note: some explicit lyrics in the video)
Coming in a close second for my favorite, most played album of the year is England's "Mumford & Sons." What's great about this band is that even though they are British, "Sigh No More" is the most Americana-sounding album in a long, long time. This is real music; talented musicians who can all play and sing beautiful harmonies while being inventive and classic at the same time. I can't be more excited about a band right now and this whole album is amazing.
