As if I
haven't given you enough lists already, here's the
first part of my Top 25 albums of the year.
Hopefully it inspires you to make at least 25
purchases for yourself or someone you care about.
Enjoy.
- 25 Through 21 -
#25) The Hold Steady - Stay Positive
It doesn't seem like it was that long ago that I was carrying around the
Hold Steady's debut and recommending it to as many people as possible, so
the fact that their releases are now anticipated is just crazy to me.
Anyhow, this isn't my favorite effort by them, but it's definitely got that
particular quality that keeps dragging me back for listen after listen.
:The
Hold Steady - Sequestered In Memphis:
#24) Pas/Cal - I Was Raised On Mark, Matthew, Luke And Laura
This is an interesting pop effort that I don't think is necessarily for
everyone. Sure, there are some easily accessible tunes (like the one
below), but there's just as much that rests comfortably way out in left
field. In other words, only seek it out if the prospects of a new year
have you feeling adventurous in ways that 2008 couldn't possibly fathom.
:Pas-Cal
- You Were Too Old For Me:
#23) The Gentle Guest - We Are Bound To Save Some Souls Tonight
As I said when I put them in my Top 50 songs list, I don't know exactly how
I feel about this band. I'm only aware of the fact that this album is
the sort of listen that inspires good times (the kind that features too much
drinking and loud singing), and because of that you should seriously
consider giving it shot. Amble Down is where they call home.
:The
Gentle Guest - She Devil:
#22) Be Your Own Pet - Get Awkward
It's possible that this is my guilty pleasure album of the year, but since
it happens to be the band's final effort I won't give it such a novelty-esque
title. Instead, I'll just point out that when played in its entirety
it might cause you dance around wildly in your underwear. Or
something. Is it obvious yet that I miss Jemina Pearl? That girl
was fun.
:Be
Your Own Pet - Becky:
#21) Menahan Street Band - Make The Road By Walking
In last year's list there were three soul albums that I found to be rather
impressive. This time around there's just this one, but it's such a
snazzy listen that I forgive the rest of the world for not providing
anything else. Just in case you don't already know, these guys are
part of the Dap-Kings (or the greatest soul band ever, if you prefer).
:Menahan
Street Band - Make The Road By Walking:
- John Laird -
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