Year in review 2010
January 6th 2011 01:40
Hi
So it’s that wonderful time of the year where we weigh ourselves to discover all that food and grog we consumed over xmas has added a few kilos to the waistline and the new years resolution to lose that weight has started to take affect. It’s also a time of reflection on the year just gone. Aaahhhh 2010, what a good year you were, so here’s my thoughts on the last 12 months music wise.
albums 2010
1. The Flatliners - Cavalcade
A solid punk album from a band who have found their groove through constant touring and continually improving their musicianship. Stand out tracks the anthemic 'Carry The Banner', 'Jazzman' and 'Count Your Bruises'
2. The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang
Of course this one was going to make the list. Quite possibly one of the best bands to emerge in the last five years, their 3rd album and follow up to hugely successful "The 59 Sound" saw the Brian Fallon explore a simpler more personal lyric approach while maintaining that New Jersey/americana rock n roll sound. Stand out tracks 'American Slang', 'Bring It On' and the ethereal sounding 'We Did It When We Were Young'.
3. Birds Of Tokyo - Birds Of Tokyo
Having written this band and album off before I listened to it, I can say with upmost shame that I was wrong. The best Australian release of the year. This album is full of great songs with passion, emotion and drive that grabs you in and encompasses you. Stand out tracks 'Wild At Heart', single 'Plans' and the powerful 'The Gap'.
4. Off With Their Heads - In Desolation
Like The Flatliners, one of this year's better punk rock records. The open rawness of Ryan's lyrics backed by a mix of post hardcore/melodic punk rock riffs ensure you can sing along and completely relate. A good guide for young men and their emotions without sounding whiny. Stand out tracks 'Drive', 'My Episodes' and the final desperate plea of 'Clear The Air'.
5. Emma Dean - Dr Dream and The Pop Cabaret/The Black Keys - Brothers
I hate ties. But I really couldn't leave one of these off the list. The Black Keys released possibly their best record since their brilliant debut almost ten years ago. Blues influenced garage rock with a dose of 70's soul made this a commercial success and deserving of their Grammy nominations. Stand out tracks 'My Next Girl', 'Everlasting Love' and the beautiful 'These Days'.
Emma Dean was recently announced by the New York Times as one of 2011 top ten artists to look out for. And there is a very good reason for this. Her mix of piano pop and cabaret make her sound fresh and entertaining. The Dr Dream record is a light and fun affair that translate perfectly into a live cabaret performance. Highlights are 'Bigger Than Me, Bigger Than You', 'Stuck In The Mud' and 'Thunder'.
Gigs 2010
1. Soundwave @ Eastern Creek
Have you ever played the game where you created your ultimate festival bill? I don't need to as mine is created every year in the form of Soundwave. Not only is it better value for money than say, Big Day Out, but the quality of people who attend is much nicer and less yobboish. (you know what I mean, the amount of people who go to BDO just to get wasted and be a complete dick) This year, the reformed Faith No More headlined and stole the show. There was not a disappointing performance that I saw. From The Gallows to AFI to Alexisonfire (in the middle of sweltering heat) to Janes Addiction. It was the best day of live music.
2. Regina Spektor @ Opera House
Anyone who knows me or has a had a semi regular interest in this site will know of my infatuation with Miss Regina Spektor. Her sweet demeanor, sultry voice and beautiful music filled the Opera House and entranced all that attended. There was never going to be any doubt that she would be on this list. Even if the performance was shit, I was going to love this.
3. Mumford & Son @ Enmore
Sometimes the hype in a band is justified. Mumford & Sons exploded with their folk pop that saw them top Triple J's hottest 100. Their live show is just as awe inspiring as their record "Sigh No More". Simple, powerful, unforgettable. The band blew the roof off The Enmore with a thousand strong singing to every word and dancing in their seats. The band reciprocated the love with energy and passion in a brilliant performance.
4. Revival Tour @ Annandale/Joey Cape & Tony Sly @ Annandale
The brainchild of Chuck Ragan, the Revival tour features acoustic solo performers sharing the stage for a unique musical experience. Joining the Hot Water Music frontman was Avail's Tim Barry, Lucero's Ben Nicolls and Frank Turner. The four took over the Annandale stage for two hours of singalong campfire songs. The set allowed the individuals to shine on their own on the stage and then join forces to enhance the sound and experience. One of the more fun shows of the year where everyone left in a good mood and drunken singalong spirit.
Then there was Joey and Tony. What started off as a flat and lifeless affair turned into a great singalong once booze was introduced and the two played fan favourites from their respective bands Lagwagon and No Use For A Name.
5. Dan Sultan @ Manning Bar
Again, the hyped needs to be believed. ARIA award winning Dan Sultan has not only an amazing voice but brilliant guitar licks and stage presence that draws you into his show. The man is natural entertainer without the egotism and can mix it up whether it be a country ballad, to a hip swiveling rock tune, Dan's show at the Manning Bar completely blew me away and one of his best sets I've seen from him all year. (and I've seen him a few times this year)
Singles 2010
Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na) - My Chemical Romance
I defy anyone who does not get hooked in by this catchy riff and singable chorus. MCR returned with a new look and a new sound and a great album, but this song was one of the catchiest rock songs all year
Magic - B.O.B feat River Cuomo
This song I dug alot only because it is some of Rivers best lyrical work in a long time and all it is a few lines in the songs chorus. And I love the line “all the girls come snappin’ at me”, brilliant irrelevant genius!
Fuck You - Cee Lo Brown
Got to love this song. A real kick in the face for jilted men across the world. And again, some ridiculous similes in comparing himself to an Atari and his ex girlfriend to Nintendo. Fun song
American Slang - The Gaslight Anthem
I remember when this was first posted online by the band, I listened to it for about an hour on repeat. I knew the album would be good and this song shows how great this band is.
The Cave - Mumford & Son
The whole album was a gem and releasing this song, in my opinion the best on the album, was a smart move. Can’t wait to see what these guys come up with in 2011.
This year has been another cracker in music. So many awesome bands, awesome albums and fantastic music out there across all genres. For me, personally, I got the opportunity to speak to some wonderful musicians and bands this year, attend about a gig every week and listen to a lot of new albums. A few people I need to thank for allowing me these privileges:
the wonderful people at musicfeeds.com.au and fasterlouder.com.au
Will @ Heapsaflash
Allana @ SGC media
And anyone who has taken the few minutes out of their day to read this, come along to gigs with me and generally put up with my poor spelling and grammar. You guys fucking rock!
So it’s that wonderful time of the year where we weigh ourselves to discover all that food and grog we consumed over xmas has added a few kilos to the waistline and the new years resolution to lose that weight has started to take affect. It’s also a time of reflection on the year just gone. Aaahhhh 2010, what a good year you were, so here’s my thoughts on the last 12 months music wise.
albums 2010
1. The Flatliners - Cavalcade
A solid punk album from a band who have found their groove through constant touring and continually improving their musicianship. Stand out tracks the anthemic 'Carry The Banner', 'Jazzman' and 'Count Your Bruises'
2. The Gaslight Anthem - American Slang
Of course this one was going to make the list. Quite possibly one of the best bands to emerge in the last five years, their 3rd album and follow up to hugely successful "The 59 Sound" saw the Brian Fallon explore a simpler more personal lyric approach while maintaining that New Jersey/americana rock n roll sound. Stand out tracks 'American Slang', 'Bring It On' and the ethereal sounding 'We Did It When We Were Young'.
3. Birds Of Tokyo - Birds Of Tokyo
Having written this band and album off before I listened to it, I can say with upmost shame that I was wrong. The best Australian release of the year. This album is full of great songs with passion, emotion and drive that grabs you in and encompasses you. Stand out tracks 'Wild At Heart', single 'Plans' and the powerful 'The Gap'.
4. Off With Their Heads - In Desolation
Like The Flatliners, one of this year's better punk rock records. The open rawness of Ryan's lyrics backed by a mix of post hardcore/melodic punk rock riffs ensure you can sing along and completely relate. A good guide for young men and their emotions without sounding whiny. Stand out tracks 'Drive', 'My Episodes' and the final desperate plea of 'Clear The Air'.
5. Emma Dean - Dr Dream and The Pop Cabaret/The Black Keys - Brothers
I hate ties. But I really couldn't leave one of these off the list. The Black Keys released possibly their best record since their brilliant debut almost ten years ago. Blues influenced garage rock with a dose of 70's soul made this a commercial success and deserving of their Grammy nominations. Stand out tracks 'My Next Girl', 'Everlasting Love' and the beautiful 'These Days'.
Emma Dean was recently announced by the New York Times as one of 2011 top ten artists to look out for. And there is a very good reason for this. Her mix of piano pop and cabaret make her sound fresh and entertaining. The Dr Dream record is a light and fun affair that translate perfectly into a live cabaret performance. Highlights are 'Bigger Than Me, Bigger Than You', 'Stuck In The Mud' and 'Thunder'.
Gigs 2010
1. Soundwave @ Eastern Creek
Have you ever played the game where you created your ultimate festival bill? I don't need to as mine is created every year in the form of Soundwave. Not only is it better value for money than say, Big Day Out, but the quality of people who attend is much nicer and less yobboish. (you know what I mean, the amount of people who go to BDO just to get wasted and be a complete dick) This year, the reformed Faith No More headlined and stole the show. There was not a disappointing performance that I saw. From The Gallows to AFI to Alexisonfire (in the middle of sweltering heat) to Janes Addiction. It was the best day of live music.
2. Regina Spektor @ Opera House
Anyone who knows me or has a had a semi regular interest in this site will know of my infatuation with Miss Regina Spektor. Her sweet demeanor, sultry voice and beautiful music filled the Opera House and entranced all that attended. There was never going to be any doubt that she would be on this list. Even if the performance was shit, I was going to love this.
3. Mumford & Son @ Enmore
Sometimes the hype in a band is justified. Mumford & Sons exploded with their folk pop that saw them top Triple J's hottest 100. Their live show is just as awe inspiring as their record "Sigh No More". Simple, powerful, unforgettable. The band blew the roof off The Enmore with a thousand strong singing to every word and dancing in their seats. The band reciprocated the love with energy and passion in a brilliant performance.
4. Revival Tour @ Annandale/Joey Cape & Tony Sly @ Annandale
The brainchild of Chuck Ragan, the Revival tour features acoustic solo performers sharing the stage for a unique musical experience. Joining the Hot Water Music frontman was Avail's Tim Barry, Lucero's Ben Nicolls and Frank Turner. The four took over the Annandale stage for two hours of singalong campfire songs. The set allowed the individuals to shine on their own on the stage and then join forces to enhance the sound and experience. One of the more fun shows of the year where everyone left in a good mood and drunken singalong spirit.
Then there was Joey and Tony. What started off as a flat and lifeless affair turned into a great singalong once booze was introduced and the two played fan favourites from their respective bands Lagwagon and No Use For A Name.
5. Dan Sultan @ Manning Bar
Again, the hyped needs to be believed. ARIA award winning Dan Sultan has not only an amazing voice but brilliant guitar licks and stage presence that draws you into his show. The man is natural entertainer without the egotism and can mix it up whether it be a country ballad, to a hip swiveling rock tune, Dan's show at the Manning Bar completely blew me away and one of his best sets I've seen from him all year. (and I've seen him a few times this year)
Singles 2010
Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na) - My Chemical Romance
I defy anyone who does not get hooked in by this catchy riff and singable chorus. MCR returned with a new look and a new sound and a great album, but this song was one of the catchiest rock songs all year
Magic - B.O.B feat River Cuomo
This song I dug alot only because it is some of Rivers best lyrical work in a long time and all it is a few lines in the songs chorus. And I love the line “all the girls come snappin’ at me”, brilliant irrelevant genius!
Fuck You - Cee Lo Brown
Got to love this song. A real kick in the face for jilted men across the world. And again, some ridiculous similes in comparing himself to an Atari and his ex girlfriend to Nintendo. Fun song
American Slang - The Gaslight Anthem
I remember when this was first posted online by the band, I listened to it for about an hour on repeat. I knew the album would be good and this song shows how great this band is.
The Cave - Mumford & Son
The whole album was a gem and releasing this song, in my opinion the best on the album, was a smart move. Can’t wait to see what these guys come up with in 2011.
This year has been another cracker in music. So many awesome bands, awesome albums and fantastic music out there across all genres. For me, personally, I got the opportunity to speak to some wonderful musicians and bands this year, attend about a gig every week and listen to a lot of new albums. A few people I need to thank for allowing me these privileges:
the wonderful people at musicfeeds.com.au and fasterlouder.com.au
Will @ Heapsaflash
Allana @ SGC media
And anyone who has taken the few minutes out of their day to read this, come along to gigs with me and generally put up with my poor spelling and grammar. You guys fucking rock!
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