As usual, it’s been a year of ups and downs in the music industry.
Some of the lowlights included Weezer’s red album (and I’m no Weezer-naysayer, I loved Make Believe and everyone else in the world seems to despise it); that Take That song which sounds like it was written specifically to be used in ads and as background (sorry, you won’t convince me that it wasn’t) what a hideous way to approach songwriting; the fact that Razorlight, Scouting for Girls, The Feeling and The Hoosiers still insist on making records and yes, X Factor - where do I start about what is wrong with that miserable twatfest?
But on the bright side there has, as always, been some great music released. In terms of new bands yet to make an album, I’ve banged on all year about Married To The Sea and I hope and pray they get signed soon. I think Sparkwood & 21 are in the process of making an album, so I can’t wait for that either. Over the pond I’m looking forward to first albums from The Iry and The Brobecks among others and watch out for Magic Magic - they’re ace.
But here in reverse order (of course) are 2008’s...............
Top Ten albums in Ten Words
10. ‘Holy’ - Love as Laughter
Virtually unknown veteran US, alt-popsters relax and come good.
9. ‘Keep Your Eyes Ahead’ - The Helio Sequence
Sub Pop boys add big sounding layers to shoegaze ethic.
Download: The Helio Sequence - ‘Hallelujah’
8. ‘Narrow Stairs’ - Death Cab for Cutie
DCfC push on with spanking tunes and welcome rough edges.
7, 6 and 5 coming soon...
Wednesday, 31 December 2008
