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Here we are once again, the start of a new year; and so, naturally, it follows that I should post the top five albums that I enthralled me during 2009.
I was without an outlet last year, but thanks to the wonders of internet technology, I now do. So feast your eyes (and ears) on my five favourite musical treats from 2009…
5. Arms and Sleepers – Matador
I only heard of this band (or duo) this year; however they grew on me very quickly. Offering up some very chilled out, electronica-inspired indie, Matador is a discreetly eclectic aural outing which I can’t recommend highly enough. If you’re a fan of bands such as Sigur Ros or Explosions In The Sky, you should lap it up.
Click here to give them a listen.
4. Set Your Goals – This Will Be The Death of Us
Prior to 2009, I admit that I had never quite given Set Your Goals the attention they so deserve. A hard-hitting, fast-paced punk band with a pop sensibility, This Will Be The Death Of Us never fails to keep you entertained. Even when a certain Miss Williams pops up in an almost cringe-inducing cameo.
Give your ears a treat right here.
3. Brand New – Daisy
After having released one of the seminal albums of the last decade in the form of Deja Entendu, it was hard to predict the path of a band like Brand New. Luckily, they’ve not let us down yet; and the latest offering in the form of Daisy is no exception. From the bizarre ’straight outta the 40’s intro to some of the most intriguing samples used in an alternative album during 2009, Daisy is a trip that you’ll be glad you took.
Click here to check some of it out.
2. New Found Glory – Not Without A Fight
New Found Glory have been on my ‘top bands’ list for well over a decade now, and they’ve never let me down. The release of Coming Home blindsided me and I spent some time adapting to their ‘new-ish’ sound (which I now love by the way). Fast-forward to early 2009 and I’m treated to what can only be described as a NFG reboot. This is possibly due to the departure of ivory-tinkler James Dewees, but regardless, Not Without A Fight is a great slice of pop punk goodness that simultaneously harks back a decade and pushes things forward.
Remind yourself of why you love NFG here.
1. The Dangerous Summer – Reach For The Sun
Another new addition to my 2009 music roster saw The Dangerous Summer rocketing into the top spot with their album Reach for the Sun. There are going to be many a folk who’ll disagree with me, but (as with my choice of Anberlin a couple of years back), I’ve not enjoyed any 2009 album more than this little beauty.
I had a slow start with it – it’s a real grower - so I actively encourage everyone to give it at least five spins over the course of two weeks before passing judgement. From the highly relatable lyrics to the tight musicianship, the masterful nature of this pop punk gem is undeniable.
Treat yourself to a sample of my criminally underrated album of the year 2009, right here.
Honourable Mentions:
Here’s a few albums that were pipped to the post for the top five, but are more than deserving of your ears’ time.
Cartel – Cycles
Manchester Orchestra – Mean Everything to Nothing
Relient K – Forget and Not Slow Down
fun. – Aim and Ignite
