fig. 1 Priests
I'm stealing from the boys over at Sound Opinions and making a mix tape instead of a Best Of list.
The sound of a emo band creeping up on 40 (in a good way).
2. Wussy - Teenage Wasteland
3. Angel Olsen - Forgiven/Forgotten
4. Sharon Van Etten - Taking Chances
Wow, this part of the mix is a tad depressing.
5. The New Pornographers - War on the East Coast
6. Priests - New (fig. 1)
Katie Alice Greer is at the same time the most unnerving and captivating performer I saw all year.
7. Alvvays - Archie, Marry Me
8. J. Robbins - Abandoned Mansions
This is a new song from an acoustic album J. recorded that otherwise contains Jawbox, Burning Airlines and Office of Future Plans songs. I heard the full band version a few weeks back with Office of Future Plans and let's just say it translates well. Not on Spotify so listen here.
9. Phantogram - Fall in Love
10. Bob Mould - Hey Mr. Grey
Unapologetically 1992 - the sound of getting old (in a good and self aware way)
11. CANCERS - Be Cool
Speaking of 1992...Also not on Spotify, mp3 here.
12. Ex Hex - New Kid
My favorite song from my favorite album of the year.
13. Cymbals Eat Guitars - Warning
Joe D'Agostino describes his best friend looking like David Bowie on Soul Train in the first verse - brilliant.
14. Cloud Nothings - I'm Not Part Of Me
Is this the best song of the year? Probably.
15. Protomartyr - Come & See (mp3)
16. Haley Bonar - Last War