So at the end of every year, I look back and choose my favourite records, those albums that I listened to, end to end, obsessively. While some of my most loved tracks of the year came from Fun. and Japandroids, I couldn't get through the entire album in either case. And although I enjoyed the whole record put out in 2012 by Of Monsters and Men, and the fantastic return of Neil Young & Crazy Horse with Americana, they didn't grab me and hold on, so they were out as well.
Given that criteria, here are my records of 2012, based entirely on my taste and nothing more:
Admiral Fallow - Tree Bursts in Snow
I discovered this band on the suggestion of a Twitter friend who was shocked that I loved Frightened Rabbit, but had never heard of these guys. They're straightforward, solid, Scottish rock in the tradition of Travis and the Delgados, among so many others. And their 2011 offering Boots Met My Face might even be better than this record.
First Aid Kit - The Lion's Roar
Two Swedish sisters, idolising Simon & Garfunkel, and kicking much ass. That's all you need to know.
Frightened Rabbit - State Hospital ep
OK, it's only a five song ep, but it's still one of the best things to come out this year. Yes, they're among my very favourite bands, but they're also that good. In fact, based on the first single, their upcoming record Pedestrian Verse is certain to be on many Best of 2013 lists.
K's Choice - Little Echoes
A band I've loved since the 90s is back together, and releasing their records in the US again. Here they've created an acoustic collection of covers and remakes of their own songs, which all turned out beautiful. Sarah Bettens can make anything haunting, trust me.
Radio Radio - Havre de Grâce
Brilliant rap/electronica/unclassified awesomeness from Montreal. It's not for everyone, but if you get it... Damn, it's good.
The Real McKenzies - Westwinds
Punk Vancouver-style, except with Scottish accents, bagpipes, and some traditional tunes thrown in. This band has been getting better with every record for many years, and this one rocks.
SonReal & Rich Kidd - The Closers
Americans have it all wrong when it comes to hip-hop. The best stuff continually comes out of Canada (mainly Toronto), and the collaboration of these two is a perfect example. They both produce great stuff on their own, but the combo is absolute dynamite.
Robbie Williams - Take the Crown
Yes, I'm a huge fan, and I'd probably put this on the list if it sucked. But it doesn't. This is the best record Rob has put out in years; he's at the top of his game. It's a bit hard to get in the States, but it's well worth the effort if you have any interest in the greatest Brit pop going.
So that's my list, which went from a top five in 2011 to eight in 2012... let's hope the 2013 class is even bigger. Happy New Year!
