Archive for December 19th, 2009

List #2. Albums from 2000-2009

Ok, like the previous list most of these albums weren’t number one, nor the “Greatest Album” of it’s time. But these albums had something that spoke to me. I know it’s corny, but I have to quote J.K. Rowling as she spoke through one of her best written characters, Dumbledor. He said “Ah, Music, a magic beyond all we do here.” All this being said, I urge all my readers to give a listen to the music on my list, I just hope you hear what I hear.

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Roll On – The Living End – 2001

A fantastic follow up to their 1999 self-titled record. Like with all music that gets you out of your seat, and thrash about, it’s hard to explain the cause, but there is not a single song on this album that keeps me in my seat. The Living End introduced me to Rockabilly and Psychobilly, that is why this album makes my list.

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Cheer Up – Reel Big Fish – 2002

If there is one thing I like more than Rockabilly, is Ska. This is Reel Big Fish’s first album that is sans Parental Advisory, and oddly enough it’s some of their greatest stuff. There were quite a few personnel changes from the previous albums but the music never suffered. My favorite track is actually a hidden track at the very end of the record, a cover of J. Giles Bands “Give It To Me.” Little known fact, the first track on the album “Good Thing” was played and well enjoyed at Jane’s and my wedding.

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Second Stage Turbine Blade – Coheed and Cambria – 2002

Coheed and Cambria is by far my favorite band of the decade. This is the album that started it all for me. Between us this is why I really wanted to name our baby girl Cambria. I grew up listening to Pink Floyd and Rush, and I’ve always had a passion for concept and theme albums, and this music is raw and pure gold. I learned just recently that the final copy of the album was actually the original 8 track basement recording. Listen and Enjoy.

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Give Up – Postal Service – 2003

An indie masterpiece! I don’t know what else to say, other than I’m shocked that “Give Up” never won any awards or greater recognition. I swear, everything that Ben Gillard touches is gold. I’m still holding my breathe for a follow-up.

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Neon Bible – Arcade Fire – 2007

This album leaves me at a loss for words. For me the only words that keep coming to mind are “Auditory Erotica.” Listen when you want an auditory thrill ride. Listen alone, unless you are married, then listen with your partner.

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The Else – They Might Be Giants – 2007

They Might Be Giants have been in my life since birth. I don’t see how or why they wouldn’t be on my list for this decade. Sure TMBG have had many albums this decade, but this one by far was my favorite. Best track on the album is about a fictional ancient rock band called “The Mesopotamians.” Listen and Geek Out.

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We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank – Modest Mouse – 2007

I’ve just noticed that almost all of my picks have been based on my affinity for and comparison to other bands. Modest Mouse with their modern eclectic style reminds me so much of The Talking Heads style, with all the art house grooves. This album was a breath of fresh air to a rapidly stagnating music scene in 2007.

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Vampire Weekend – Vampire Weekend – 2008

All my regular readers know of my love for Vampire Weekend. The phrase “All killer no filler” is very frequently used when describing this recording. I typically listen to this album after a long week of work. I turn the volume to “11″ and sing a long all the way home. Whenever I run into traffic I turn it onto track 5, “M79″ and put it on repeat; it keeps me calm during the stressful times.

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The Seldom Seen Kid – Elbow – 2008

I’ve been sitting here for 20 minutes trying to figure out what to say about this album. Other than “Viva La Vida” this has been the best album to come out of UK since Pink Floyd “Pulse.” I have nothing to say, except just listen to it. There is something different about Elbow and their sound… something unusual, but everything seems to work. I can’t explain it. I think it’s worth the $9.99 on iTunes. Heck it’s worth the $30.00 import through amazon.co.uk.

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LeftRightLeftRightLeft – Coldplay – 2009

Coldplay’s first live album, and it’s 100% free. I figured that I had to have at least one live album on my decade list. Jane and I earlier this year went to see Coldplay, and they rocked so hard. (Sidenote: Elbow was their opening band, and rocked HARDER than Coldplay.)  LeftRightLeftRightLeft conveys the chemistry that Coldplay has with their audience. They are wonderful showmen and excellent musicians.

Hope You Enjoyed,

Ciao,

Ry The Robot