In Part and in Whole

1) Ryan Adams - Ashes & Fire

When I first heard the song “Lucky Now”, it instantly became one of my favorite Ryan Adams songs ever.  And the rest of this record did not disappoint.  It’s completely stripped down and concise.  Not a double LP or 19 song release like so many of his previous releases.  He finally learned to use the “edit” button on his creative output, and released a brilliantly simple, yet incredible record.  And it’s sad as fuck too.

2) Fireworks - Gospel

I’m just going to come right out and say it: This record completely blows every other record released in this “scene” this year out of the fucking water.  This thing raises the bar a good 100 notches when it comes to pop-punk bands “maturing”.  I cannot say enough good things about this record, and I truly feel I would be saying the exact same thing even if they didn’t happen to be some of my best friends in the world.

3) Trapped Under Ice - Big Kiss Goodnight

TUI succeed where so many other hardcore bands fail: Putting out not only a good 2nd LP, but a 2nd LP that is FAR superior to the 1st.  I mean, just listen to the song “Jail”, you’ll understand.  I would also just like to state that I completely back Justice saying the name of his band in as many songs as possible.  Pure ignorance in the best way.

4) Cold Cave - Cherish the Light Years

This record is another example of a 2nd LP far surpassing the 1st.  Wes gets more creative with his singing and melodies, and thus the songs become more interesting and catchy.  This record has a great Depeche Mode/New Order vibe and I love it.  And on that note, I hope AN plays Chicago in 2012.

5) Bon Iver - Bon Iver

I’m having a hard time thinking of how to describe why I like this record.  Its just good, chill, sad guy music.  Take a long night drive, put this thing on, and you’ll be missing her in no time.

Honorable mentions: Drake - Take Care, Nick 13 - S/T, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - Belong, Transit - Listen & Forgive