50. Animal Collective - Feels
Highly praised by Pitchforkmedia and other indie music authorities, Animal Collective's follows their equally "different" album Sung Tongs with another equally "different" album. I never really liked Animal Collective but this album made me realize how great they truly are. No other group can make yips and yaps like these guys.
49. Stellastarr* - Harmonies for the Haunted
Stellastarr* follows up their great album two years earlier with Harmonies for the Haunted. What disappoints me about this album is that they didn't follow the winning formular from their debut. Also, most of the songs are dry, and very typical. However, there is a certain beauty in the harmonies that this record gives to its listener. And it's this beauty that makes this one of 2005's top albums
48. Antony & The Johnsons - I'm a Bird Now
At first, I wasn't too keen on this record. It sounded like blues meets gospel. However, after a few listens, I stand corrected. Antony's voice is just amazing, and the way he hits the right notes at the absolute right time is just astounding. It's a beautiful record that's deep in meaning and rich in sound.
47. The Clientele - Strange Geometry
The problem with the Clientele is that all their albums sound alike. Indeed, if you were to put your Clientele tracks on shuffle, you probably couldn't tell which songs are from which album. Although this is a problem, The Clientele still makes one of the finest music 60's dream pop around. Alasdair's voice is like no other, and just the richness and symbolic overtones here can make any macho man turn into a pussy.
46. The Dirty Three - Cinder
I was first introduced to Dirty Three this year by a couple of friends and I can't believe that they were not even in my radar. How could I miss this great band that just plays beautiful strings? As my friend put, music that is like an "aural seastorm." Their music creates this air of wonder and melancholy in any confined space. I'm disappointed that I missed their two great shows at GAMH, but that's for reasons beyond my control. This album, although not as great as their previous releases, still carries that same signature Dirty Three sound. A definite must-buy if you're into the wonder and melancholy stuff.
45. Doves - Some Cities
I was a bit worried that Doves will not create an album as good as Lost Souls. Although Some Cities is still but a shadow of their debut, it's still a fantastic album. "Black and White Town" is a direct rip off from that "Heatwave" song, but it's still a great single. Other parts of the album are pretty strong. If anything, this album resuscitated their career.
44. Hard-Fi - Stars of CCTV
Definitely one of the better bands this year, Hard-Fi's debut arrived unnoticed in this part of the Atlantic. While NME was hyping up this band (as they are accustomed to doing to every other new English band out there), Hard-Fi live up to the hype. Their mix of guitar and synths is the perfect accompaniment to any night out.
43. Hot Hot Heat - Elevator
Hot Hot Heat's sophomore relase is a lot like their first. If it ain't broke, why fix it, right? "In the Middle of Nowhere" is a great single, along with "Pickin' It Up" which is reminiscent of "Bandages."
42. Iron & Wine and Calexico - In the Reins
Sam Beam and Co. collaborate with indie mainstays Calexico to create one of the most underrated albums this year. The shear beauty of this album will make you want to cry and be happy at the same time.
41. Ivy - In the Clear
Ivy's latest attests to their staying power as one of the most established bands in the indie pop circuit. Mrs. Durand's beautiful voice remains the same here, with great songs like "Thinking About You" and "Tess Don't Tell" interspersed throuhgout this great album.
40. Maximo Park - A Certain Trigger
One of the many bands who rode in the coattails of Franz Ferdinand, Maximo Park's debut album is an absolute gem full of great songs girls can dance to. "Apply Some Pressure" is definitely the best track in the album, with its bangin' drums and scratchy guitars that immediately catches your attention. However, like that song says, I do hope that Maximo Park is "still alive next year." I don't see much longevity for this band, but this album will at least maintain some of their legacy for a few years.
A beautiful album full of melancholy melodies and impressive musicianship. The National's sophomore debut debunks the sophomore slump theory. As great as this album is, they made one miscalcuation -- choosing to promote this album with Clap Your Hands Say Yeah! as the opening band.
38. Out Hud - Let Us Never Speak Of It Again
An odd pick, but I do think that this album is pretty damn good. It's dancey, and it shows this band improving their sound and creativity with each successive release.
37. Shout Out Louds - Howl Howl Gaff Gaff
Another great band that hails from Sweden. Shout Out Louds' "Comeback" song is definitely one of the better singles of 2005. This album is solid, and emits the right amount of pop that won't drive you crazy like Wannadies or depress you like the Cardigans.
36. Sons and Daughters - The Repulsion Box
While some bands rode the Franz Ferdinand bandwagon, this band was actually hailed by Franz Ferdinand. So much so that they are in the same record label. Sons and Daughter's debut sounds like a mix of rock ala Johnny Cash with some hints of Franz Ferdinand in there. An album that is a little rough around the edges, but that's the way we like it.
35. Spoon - Gimme Fiction
I don't know if Britt Daniel actually intended to create an album that is very dancey, but, hey, it works. A definite surprise from Spoon.
34. Stephen Malkmus - Face the Truth
Ex-Pavement front man proves that there is still life after Pavement. Several albums later, Stephen Malkmus still knows how to make a great LP. I mean, this album really is just another Pavement record. But that's just my opinion.
33. The Tears - Here Comes the Tears
Anderson & Butler re-unite to create an album that should have been Suede's third album. But after such a long hiatus with one another, does anyone still care? Well, I do!
32. Metric - Live It Out
Metric somewhat deviated from their synth based sound to something more guitar driven. Emily Haines still knows how to sing and act accordingly on-stage. Songs like "Handshakes" and "Patriarch on a Vespa" makes this album a must buy. However, it still pales in comparison to their debut.
31. Okkervil River - Black Sheep Boy
This album is one of the most underrated releases of this year. Absolutely beautiful. Do yourself a favor and catch this band live.
30. M83: Before the Dawn Heals Us
Another triumphant release from this band. Despite losing his other half, Anthony Gonzalez still creates a fantastic album that emits a wall of sound. Not to mention the ominous horror movie like voice overs in some of the songs.
29. Field Music - Field Music
What do you get when you have one former Futurehead and one current Maximo Park member in a band? Well, you'll have Field Music. This album is not yet out domestically in the U.S., but it's definitely a good one. Has that post punk sound, but is sort of melodic. Does that make any sense? I guess you just have to listen to it to believe it.
28. M.I.A. - Arular
Definitely one of the breakthrough albums of the year, M.I.A.'s debut is a strong one, with lyrics, rhymes and hooks that are just downright catchy. Her voice might take a little getting used to, but I can't help but dance a lot to this album. Equally good is her "Piracy Funds Terrorism" bootleg, with good mash-ups of M.I.A.'s songs with classic tracks such as The Eurythmics' "Sweet Dreams."
27. Xiu Xiu - La Forêt
Compared to his previous albums, Xiu Xiu's current release is their darkest work to date. Jamie's haunting and crass lyrics about politics and life are even more prevalent here. This is definitely one of Jamie Stewart's most honest and, probably, his most brilliant.
26. Clor - Clor
A very dancey record that starts off strong, but eventually weakens solely towards the end. One can only take 80's style synth pop so far, you know. But for what they have in the beginning, such as "Outlines" and "Danger Zone," you won't really mind.
25. Kaiser Chiefs - Employment
They are hailed as the new Blur of our generation. With such catchy songs like the now overplayed "I Predict a Riot" and "Modern Way," this album is a good one. Although I'm skeptical on whether they'll have the longevity of Blur, their live acts definitely emit Blur's former energy.
24. The Boy Least Likely To - The Best Party Ever
Some say that twee is dead. With Belle & Sebastian leaving the twee sound and going towards something more 60's Donovan catchy. However, Boy Least Likely To are trying to revive the twee sound - and I think it's working. Don't let the cute song titles like "I'm Glad I Hitched My Apple Wagon To Your Star" fool you. Within that cute framework and twee voice is an excellent song with subtle musical nuances. Definitely one of the great finds of 2005.
23. Ladytron - Witching Hour
Electroclash is dead. Fischerspooner tried to revive their electroclash fame by re-making their sound, but that failed. Adult. is still trying, but they fell by the wayside. I don't think Miss Kittin's done anything signifcant, nor has Felix Da Housecat. However, England's Ladytron is still chugging along despite the end of the genre. Their third album doesn't deviate much from Light & Magic, but I think that's the good thing. Instead of re-making themselves so they can ditch the electroclash backlash, they continued to create songs indie kids can dance to. Songs like "Everything You Touch" is a great example, so much so that lots of my friends call it their "jam" song. So, cheers to Ladytron for still being alive, despite being associated with a subgenre that's dead.
22. Youth Group - Skeleton Jar
Oh, oh! It's another band that eerily sounds like Death Cab for Cutie. So, why is that a bad thing? What's wrong with strong lyrics, great harmonies, solid guitar melodies and a nice voice? Yeah, I don't see anything wrong with that. Even Death Cab endorses this band.
21. The New Pornographers - Twin Cinema
My goodness, this album is just oozing with indie pop goodness. A.C. Newman's vocals accompanied by Neko Case's spunk and backing vocals is a formula that's hard to fuck up. Add to that a dizzying array of three chord pop progressions and an ode to Valencia St. somewhere in your songs, and your album is guaranteed to be in my Top 50. They're great live as well.
20. LCD Soundsystem - LCD Soundsystem
There's more to this album than "Daft Punk is Playing in My House." There are some fantastic tracks in this great DFA record such as "Tribulations," "Yeah" and, in the bonus disc, "Yr City's a Sucker." Just the constant beats in this record, and the cowbell action, will make you want to dance a whole lot. Fantastic album!
19. Sleater-Kinney - The Woods
I have to admit, I never really liked Sleater-Kinney until this album was released. I refused to listen to their other records, but for some reason, I liked this one. Why? I have no idea other than, maybe, because my ear has matured enough in years. Yes, I'm underdeveloped, but this great album of female angst is less loud and dissonant than their previous records.
18. Sigur Ros - Takk...
Damn. These Icelanders continue to make great fucking music. When I first got a hold of this album, I couldn't find any tracks worth skipping. A few months later, I still don't have any disliked tracks. Takk means "thank you" in Icelandic, so "Takk" Sigur Ros for another great release.
17. Bright Eyes - Digital Ash in a Digital Urn
I guess every artist is allowed to have their "concept album" and this is probaby the closest that Conor will have in his ever expanding discography. Even though these songs didn't translate that well live during his tour, this album still has some excellent songs such as "Gold Mine Gutted" and "Take It Easy (Love Nothing)." Whether you like it or not, Oberst is the Dylan of our time.
16. The Bravery - The Bravery
This is the cheeziest album of the year. However, it's also one of the most catchiest. Yes, the Bravery just take the whole 80's synth pop thing and get away with bloody murder. But you know what, songs like "Honest Mistake," "No Brakes" and "Unconditional" are some of the songs that I can catch myself tapping my toes to and then dancing like crazy. Yeah, I like to dance to the Bravery. You got a problem with that? Didn't think so.
15. Gorillaz - Demon Days
Who would have thought that the next Gorillaz album would be this good? Damon and his new collaborators, namely Danger Mouse, really have outdone themselves this time. There are some fantastic singles in this album, like "DARE," "Feel Good Inc." and "Dirty Harry." Bravo to Damon. I hope he can do the same to the upcoming Blur album.
14. Low - The Great Destroyer
This is a radical departure from previous Low records. They basically abandoned their super melancholy sound and opted for something that is borderline indie pop music. Well, I like this album a lot. "California" and "Everybody's Song" are the stand out tracks in this album. Oh, and is it just me or does it sound like Damon Albarn singing?
13. We Are Wolves - Non-Stop Je Te Plie en Deux
I found out about this band later in the year, and I'm kicking myself in the arse for missing them at Bottom of the Hill. Stupid! How can I miss this band that's just full of great noise. Like their canine counterparts, Wolf Parade, these guys also hail from Canada and are just the epitome of cool sounds. Awesome.
12. The Decemberists - Picaresque
My friend turned me on to the Decemberists after hearing their epic, 10+ minute song from The Tain EP. I then got a hold of this album and it's just fantastic. Colin Meloy is a smart cookie with lyrics that are just so literary that...it's just beyond me how he makes this shit up. Fantastic album!
11. Franz Ferdinand - You Could Have It So Much Better...
This album has been in my car CD changer for months now and I just can't get sick of it. Every time I listen to it, I first put it on "Do You Want To." The single that makes me go crazy on the dance floor and makes me do the Indie Shake in the car, "Do You Want To" is a very simple song that has one of the most infectious lyrics and guitar hooks that Franz Ferdinand has ever made. It's this album's "Take Me Out." Then, I switch to "Outsiders" because of the catchy bass and drum parts in the very beginning. Infectious. Like The Strokes, Franz Ferdinand doesn't really deviate much from their debut formula, except for the "slow" songs "Walk Away" and "Eleanor Put Your Boots On."
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These are my 10 most favourite albums of 2005. Let the debate begin:
10. Broken Social Scene - Broken Social Scene
It was hard for me to believe that BSS will come up with another masterpiece like "YOu Forgot It In People." I mean, how can they? Well, they proved me wrong. I've already heard of "Shoreline" when they played it live, but the other songs in this album shows how much more BSS has to offer.
9. Coldplay - X & Y
Elijah Wood doesn't think too highly of this album. So I read. But, he doesn't know jack shite. This album is fantastic even if there is only one or two tracks in here that stand out. "Fix You" is the song that will make Coldplay's legacy live in perpetuity. It's the song where every sad sap on planet Earth can relate to. It's so versatile that you can apply it to any situation such as a lost love, a mistake you did in an exam or that one time you left your keys in the car and was stuck for hours upon end...in the snow...during Christmas...with a dead body in your trunk. Yeah, it's that good.
8. Death Cab for Cutie - Plans
My goodness, what is Ian thinking? He turned all O.C. on us by picking Colpdplay and NOW DCFC. Well, screw you guys. I like this album. "Marching Bands of Manhattan" is one of the best DCFC songs I've ever, ever heard. Like Coldplay's "Fix You," "Marching Bands..." is another song that you can apply to any situation. I applied this song to a time in 2005 where I was in my most depressed state. "If I can open my arms.." Yes. I want to open my arms to hug you. "Sorrow drips from your heart, through a pinhole." Yes. There was plenty of sorrow dripping out of my heart. It was gushing like Niagra Falls though. "It slowly rises, your love is gonna drown." Yes. It's drowning. I'm drowning. Help me! Thank goodness my sanity is back, but this song alone made this album great for me. Of course, there's "Crooked Teeth" and "What Sarah Said," but "Marching Bands..." Oh, "Marching Bands..." But, "Crooked Teeth" kept me in check. "'Cos you can't find nothing at all, if there was nothing there all along." That line kept me in check. Because, it makes sense, right?
7. Bloc Party - Silent Alarm
One of the most hyped bands of 2005, Bloc Party delivered the goods when others, included myself, doubted whether they'd make it big. They're a hard working bunch, constantly touring the U.S. and playing every venue imaginable in San Francisco. They are such nice boys too that are against moshing and any sort of shenanigans that will injure people at their show. Their album is just a mish-mash of dancey songs like "Banquet" and "Helicopter" that delivers a social message. Although, I admit, the social message gets lost when your feet are doing the thinking for you.
6. Oasis - Don't Believe the Truth
A lot of people have written off Oasis especially since they haven't released a significant album since 1996's (What's the Story) Morning Glory. What people fail to acknowledge is that Morning Glory only has 4 super solid songs while the rest seems like filler. Be Here Now, Standing on the Shoulder of Giants and Heathen Chemistry are good albums, but none of those post-Morning Glory releases compares to Don't Believe the Truth. Oasis are back in true form with this album, with just pure rock n roll as their formula. Gone are the pretentiousness of Be Here Now and the re-invention sounds on Giants. Oasis went back to their roots and made an album that epitomizes those roots. They even went back to the old Oasis logo, which I'm so happy to see yet again grace their album and single covers. The tear jerker song "Let There Be Love" is a testament to Noel's song writing abilities. The man still has it in him to write such great ballads. Liam's song writing is also getting better with "Meaning of Soul" and "Guess God Thinks I'm Abel." Overall, a fantastic album that probably saved Oasis from the brink of extinction. They're not just a nostalgia band, they are a band that will last a lifetime.
5. Sufjan Stevens - Illinoise
I doubt that Sufjan will get to write an album about all 50 states. Especially at the rate he's going. Unless he releases a 3 song EP about the lesser populated states like the Dakotas, West Virginia and Montana, Sufjan has a lot of work to do between now and when he dies. Illinoise is a fantastic album that just moves you. Sufjan's soothing voice just makes you sit still. It relaxes me too. I can't explain why I love this album so much. I just do. And that's all I need to say.
4. Wolf Parade - Apologies to the Queen Mary
Ahhh...the many "Wolves" bands out there. Out of the lot, this is the band that matters. Wolf Parade were already hyped up in Canada. So much so that TIME magazine Canada featured them along with the Arcade Fire and Stars. I heard "It's a Curse," a song that has an intro that eerily sounds like Arcade Fire's "Laika," and I was sold immediately. I can't wait to see these guys live again.
3. Art Brut - Bang Bang Rock & Roll
This is the band that sounds like the Sex Pistols. Right? Well, at least the spoken word part of it sounds like Johnny Rotten. This album is just amazingly good. The hooks are catchy and the lyrics are even catchier. Apparently, their live shows are just out of this world raucous. Please come to S.F. Art Brut!
2. Bright Eyes - I'm Wide Awake It's Morning
Every single track in this album is a Conor Oberst classic. That's why me, and several others, penned this guy as our generation's Bob Dylan. His folksy, indie rock is just amazingly good and the lyrics definitely come from the darkest, most deepest emotions in his heart. Also, the songs have this energy that is missing in some of his earlier releases. This is just a fantastic album that will be hailed as Conor's classic.
1. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
This album is also in my car CD player for months now and I just can't stop playing it. Someone please take this CD away. It's so infectious and amazing that I just can't stop listening, dancing and tapping my fingers to every word that comes out of my speakers. And their live shows? Oh, fuck yeah I can't wait to see them again on 31 December in New York!!! "...Young Blood" and "Yellow Country Teeth." Those are the songs that first got me. Then everything else followed suit. THE BEST ALBUM OF 2005 HANDS DOWN! A no-brainer.
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