Bry Webb – Free Will
Obviously one of my favorite songwriters. “Let’s Get Through Today” is about as good as it gets for me. File under: I would listen to this guy recite a technical manual.
Steve Gunn – Way Out Weather
More spacey/folky guitar music from Philly/NY. This sound doesn’t get old to me, no matter how many artists seem to be doing it at the moment. Everybody thats come out of this sub-scene is just on a whole different planet.
Strand of Oaks – Heal
I’m a huge fan of Tim’s, and its great to see him branching out here. The record’s a little all over the place, but its the sound of somebody having a fucking blast. “Shut In” is my favorite track (and video) this year. Glad to see him finally getting the attention he’s deserved for so long. Philly, Philly, Philly.
Nils Frahm – Spaces
I left recording early to go see his show earlier this year (don’t tell @sideonedummy). Beautiful modern piano compositions. I listened to this take of “Said and Done” on repeat during our tour of Europe. Drive through Switzerland at 1,000mph while listening to this.
Horseback – Piedmont Apocrypha
The best part of following along with Janks Miller is that you never know what you’re going to get with a new release. Doom, neo-folk, noise, classic rock? This is a bit of everything all on one album with a better sense of pacing than normal. One day this hermit will play a show near Philly.
Bob Mould – Beauty & Ruin
I want to be this good this far into my career. Same sentiment as that Swans album – the sound of somebody slowly perfecting their craft. Still kills live, too.
Zammuto – Anchor
Innovative pop music. The Books was one of the most interesting bands I’ve ever heard, and the first Zammuto record was a fascinating transition out of that. He’s letting the vocals lead more this time around, though its his home-made instruments that I love most. Ever see that video where he makes a drum machine out of a vinyl LP? Google that shit.
Sun Kil Moon – Benji
Which was sadder this year? This record, or the turn Mark Kozelek’s career has taken with all these PR stunts? I can overlook it if we get more songs like “I Watched The Film The Song Remains The Same”.
The Smith Street Band – Throw Me In The River
These people are family to me. Purchase this.
—————
Honorable mentions:
Ryan Adams – 1984
More of this, please.
A Winged Victory For The Sullen – Atomos
Take your hammock to Mars.
Tashi Dorji – S/T
Learn how to play guitar all over again.
Yob – Clearing the Path to Ascend
This band finally clicked for me here.
Counting Crows – Somewhere Under Wonderland
A crowd-pleasing record almost to a fault. Glad to have them back.
+ The War On Drugs, Pallbearer, The Austerity Program, Self Defense Family, Pianos Become The Teeth
I am Really Excited for this new Mock Orange record.
