Looking back on 2014 finds a surprising number of excellent releases! Veterans (Bob Mould, Beck, Tom Petty), Rookies (Alvvays, Cheatahs, Temples) and everyone in between (Raveonettes, New Pornographers, The Rifles) created a wealth of memorable music! My #1 - 5 are pretty firm but after that the order could change by the hour so really give these honorable mentions a good listen!
1. Cloud Nothings - "Here and Nowhere Else"
Imagine the world's steepest, fastest roller coaster. Feel the incredible rush of speed combined with sudden dips, turns and constant sensation of flying right off the tracks. From the first flurry of "Now Hear In" to the proud pop closer "I'm Not Part of Me" you'll be in awe of this ride, struggling for breath, smiling and racing right back in line!
2. TV on the Radio - "Seeds"
Utilizing loops of beats and music alongside traditional guitar, bass and Adibimpe's flawlessly shimmering vocals results in an improbably beautiful album dripping with emotion. A stunning achievement!
3. Bob Mould - "Beauty & Ruin"
More "Sugar" era crunchy fuzz from the former Husker Du frontman. Making music as vital as ever with Jon Wurster on drums and bassist, Jason Narducy. Inspired!
4. The New Pornographers - "Brill Bruisers"
The Canadian collective returns to brilliantly rocking form! A.C. Newman and Dan Bejar's songs are contagiously unique and Neko Case's voice is a force of nature that elevates each song into the stratosphere!
5. Beck - "Morning Phase"
A stylistic companion to my favorite Beck album, the mellow and melodic "Sea Change" lives up to all the expectations. Hard to believe it would be possible to record a more beautifully crafted album than this.
6. Ty Segall - "Manipulator"
The prolific San Francisco rocker puts out the most polished collection of his career. With Mikal Cronin assisting it is a big shiny garage/psych/glam guitar workout! My favorite Ty Segall album...by far!
7. The Rifles - "None the Wiser"
Fourth release from one of England's best kept secrets (wake up America). Razor sharp songwriting in the tradition of the Jam and Kaiser Chiefs.
8. Real Estate - "Atlas"
It takes a lot of work to make songs sound this effortless. These bright, sparkling, catchy, upbeat tunes reflect the band honing their writing and playing skills to the next level.
9. Lykke Li - "I Never Learn"
Swedish singer returns with another helping of nicely produced girl group heartache. Every melodic verse is followed by a chorus soaked in reverb. Great stuff!
10. Temples - "Sun Structures"
New Psychedelic rock band from England led by a couple 20-somethings who sound like they just crash landed from the summer of love. Cool vibes abound! In the same vein as Australia's "Tame Impala".
Very Honorable Mention; Cheatahs - "Cheatahs", Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers - "Hypnotic Eye", Sugar Stems - "Only Come Out at Night", Alvvays - "Alvvays", Raveonettes - "Pe'ahi", The See See - "Days, Nights & Late Morning Lights", First Aid Kit - "Stay Gold", Ryan Adams - "Ryan Adams", Interpol - "El Pintor", David Crosby - "Croz", Bryan Ferry - "Avonmore"
