So it’s that time again...the time for Best Ofs and Top 10 lists. This blog is no exception as there are many things that excited me about 2009 that other years haven’t. 2009 was the year of the synthesizer, art infused pop and the return of strong ladies in pop and rock. There were many disappointments...Britney you can stand up for this part but overall the music was awesome.
Before I start my list I’d just like to say that I have read a few articles lately that have talked about music and the last decade. Yes, music has changed especially in the way we get it. I no longer browse and buy from a CD shop but I can do it from the comfort of my home on Itunes. There, I browse hundreds of bands and artists and then buy their stuff. I am also recommended bands because I bought something similar. It’s FANTASTIC! But other than that I beg to differ that music is getting worse or going downhill, many of the same type of songs appeared in previous decades as they did in the naughties. There will always be cheesy pop songs every decade has them, I mean c’mon the YMCA isn’t brilliant song writing and neither are any of Jessica Simpson’s songs. Even I must admit that the idea of the songwriter in the studio writing for the artist was very prevalent during the 00s and probably will continue well into the future. However; teen pop will exist as long as teenagers roam the earth and rock, hip hop and electro have continued to push the boundaries. This is nothing new from the past.
2010 has now begun, what will this decade bring us?
1. It’s Blitz! – Yeah Yeah Yeahs. The return of NYCs finest. As soon as I heard it I knew it would be in my top 5. This record is a complete change to their previous work but is right on the money. Led by the charismatic and just plain awesome, Karen O they continue to reach massive success with amazing live shows (for the record I have yet to go to a YYYs show) and an incredible sense of style. Key Track: Heads Will Roll
2. The Resistance – Muse. I have not put up my full review of this album but in short it’s a musical odyssey...a space opera. These guys continue to be innovative with music and lyrics. They are willing to experiment in many styles that include classical, rock and electronic and use non-English lyrics but above all of this I love the musicianship that goes into all their work. Key Track: I Belong to You (+ Mon Cœur S'ouvre à ta Voix)
3. La Roux – La Roux. Electro-pop at its best. I’m seeing her in March super excited! I am in love with the subtle seriousness of the record. On the surface it seems like pop for the sake of pop but there are some serious issues dealt with on this record particularly in regards to relationships. Key Track: Colourless Colour.
4. In This Light and On This Evening – Editors. The darkness of the previous two albums is still there but this one shows a marked change from straight guitars and drums to the use of the synthesizers. I believe this has a lot to do with producer, Flood. I feel his influence greatly on this album. Also, there is a more Joy Division feel than the previous two which I adore and Tom Smith’s voice is hypnotic just like Ian Curtis’ was. Key Track: The Boxer.
5. No Line on the Horizon – U2. Their finest work of the decade. It’s definitely not a chart topping album which can be seen to be either good or bad but their U2 so they can do whatever they want. A return to experimentation and more subtle sounds but there 1 or 2 U2ish tunes which have kept the casual listeners happy. We can only hope that they continue to maintain the creative control they have and write amazing songs that give the listener the credit they deserve. Key Track: Moment of Surrender.
6. It’s Not Me It’s You – Lily Allen. I adore here. I love the sarcasm in the songs as well as the cheekiness. There is nothing wrong with good ole’ fashioned pop. Hopefully Lily does stay in the music business because there is no one like here. She makes good ole’ fashioned pop listenable because let’s face it the Britney’s of the world are ruining it for everyone. Talent is required to make good pop. Key Track: Not Fair
7. Horehound – The Dead Weather. A supergroup featuring Jack White and Alison Mosshart will always get a big tick in my book! I mean supergroups can be a bit crap but this is just pure genius blues infused rock and roll. It almost feels like early Rolling Stones stuff which is great since not many bands take on the blues. By the way, did I tell you I adore Alison! Key Track: Rocking Horse.
8. Music For Men – Gossip. I didn’t think anything could top ‘Standing In the Way of Control’ but this definitely comes close. This was produced by Rick Rubin and generally with his work I feel he makes it more commercially viable. First, single ‘Heavy Cross’ was played all over the radio here and are a much more mainstream band than before. Good for them they deserve success. This album is a must for those that can’t deal with their rock too heavy as it has a pop element mixed with a bit of punk and of course, the blues with Beth’s unbelievable voice. Also, please not the awesome album cover. Key Track: Dimestore Diamond.
9. To Lose My Life... – White Lies. A brilliant debut album probably the best one of the year. My heart beats a little faster when hearing ‘Death’. Geez...these guys have some much potential it makes me sick but let’s hope they can continue their good fortune for their follow up. Key Track: To Lose My Life.
10. Backspacer – Pearl Jam. This is the band’s most pop sounding record. The band themselves recognise that they are borrowing sounds from New Wave. As far as I can tell Backspacer is a far more melodic album than previous efforts but it obviously worked for them as it was their first album to hit number 1 in 13 years. It sounds amazing and different whilst still maintaining their status as a good ole’ fashioned rock band that has managed to come out of the grunge era successfully.
Key Track: Just Breathe.
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