I’ve spent much time contemplating this (mostly at work) and you know its really hard to fairly rank the albums of 2007 especially since I haven’t heard everything. I mean music is endless and there is so much of it out there. Nevertheless, here is a list of albums I’ve listened to this year and thought highly enough of to put them on my elite list of albums for 2007.
Albert Hammond Jr – Yours to Keep
How have I never heard of the solo work of Albert Hammond Jr until this year? With the contributions of this guitarist its clear to see why the Strokes have such catchy rifts and great hooks. On Albert Hammond’s most recent solo album he seemingly crafts each song with the idea that every instrument should be heard. This immediately draws your attention to each sound as the song builds until all the instruments play together in harmony. I listened to this album over and over until I got sick of it and then I listened to it more.
Iron & Wine – The Shepherd’s Dog
This is quite the follow up to Iron & Wine’s last full length album, Our Endless Numbered Days, in 2004 with greater mixing and an unusually high number of track layering for this group. Despite the conscience musical changes they’ve made its worked out for the better and has given the album more musical depth while not subtracting from the classic Iron & Wine listening experience.
Metric – Grow up and Blow Away
Even though this album was recorded in 1999 and 2001 it wasn’t officially release until this year. It captures an early Metric with just two members instead of four. Its got great flow, is easy to listen to and has hip beats and catchy lyrics.
Wilco – Sky Blue Sky
Pitchfork rips this album for its lack of creativity. I don’t mind because this has turned out to be a great laid back album. For me some of Wilco’s previous work has been eerie at times but at the same time genius. But perhaps this album attacts a new group of listeners. Or maybe it was that commercial one of their songs was on. Overall this album may have been a slight disappointment for long time Wilco fans but I am pleased with the outcome.
Radiohead – In Rainbows
Just when you think Radiohead has passed the point of no return in incorporating technologically enhanced rhythms and beats into their songs they turn around and throw you a curve ball. Don’t get me wrong, these fellas still fiddle with electro beats here and there but their new album seems to be heavily focused on the acoustic guitar. Its like this band is continuously reinventing themselves taking us all along for the ride while retaining the excitement and energy.
The White Stripes – Icky Thump
You’ve got to respect Jack White’s unique guitar playing ability. He is hands down one of the greatest guitar players of our time. He’s also not afraid to head in a new direction as can be heard on the White Stripes newest album. This LP is distinctly different from any other album they have ever made but clearly a logical progression from their last album Get Behind Me Satan. Although this album can get a little repetitive at times a handful of great songs more than make up for that flaw. And although Meg’s drum beats may not be flashy, as always, they get the job done and compliment Jack’s talent.
Feist – The Reminder
What can I say? I guess I’m a sucker for poppy, catchy and not overly driven songs every once in a while. This year Feist came out of left field, caught me by surprise and won me over. This album has a great tempo and makes you want to either light a candle or tap your feet when you listen to it.
The Cobbs – The Deathcapades
This is my sleeper pick this year. This east coast band has a great title track that sets a mellow and chilly yet comfortable mood. However after the first track the band hits you hard with subtle retro rock and that sounds Wilco and Zeppelin influenced and sometimes they even sound like the Beatles (after they stopped touring but before their “experimental” days). Its not a flawless album but you won’t be skipping around on the track list too often either.
The Arcade Fire – Neon Bible
This band made the difficult transformation of being musically introverted to focusing their songs and lyrics outward on this dark sophomore album. Although this album was a slight disappointment for me from their first album there are still a few songs you want to turn the volume up and rock out to. Despite its short comings this album is a bold and perhaps groundbreaking endeavour.
The New Pornographers – Challengers
The album is less ambitious than previous albums and has the feeling that they wanted to play it safe this time around. The decision to allow a more vocals from one of their female band members has emerged as one of this album’s strengths but it is clear that AC Newman still has the largest influence on the band’s musical direction.
Close Calls. Albums that almost made the top ten.
Modest Mouse - We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank
Blonde Redhead – 23
Possible Contenders. Albums I still need to listen to.
The Shins – Wincing the Night Away
Sigur Ros – Hvarf/Heim
The Go Team – Proof of Youth
Hot Hot Heat – Happiness Ltd
Disapointments. Albums that just didn’t cut it.
Rilo Kiley – Under the Blacklight
Modest Mouse – We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank
Honorable Mention.
Interpol – Our Love to Admire
Bright Eyes – Cassadaga
Elliott Smith – New Moon
The Good the Bad and the Queen
