Best Albums of 2010: #10-1 (John's Picks)

In the site's more recent, less updated form, we've failed to really cover music the way we have in the past. While that will not be changing for the time being, we still felt compelled to put together some lists to coincide with the end of 2010. Also, just because we haven't been blogging mean we haven't been listening to this year's slate of new releases. On the contrary, writing less about what's new has allowed us to better enjoy it. And now, we'd like to invite you to enjoy our much scaled-down 2010 end-of-year coverage.

John's Top Albums of 2010: #10-1

10. How I Got Over -- The Roots

Top Track: "How I Got Over" (Feat. Dice Raw)

9. Wild Smile -- Suckers

Top Track: "It Gets Your Body Movin'"

8. King Of The Beach -- Wavves

Top Track: "Post Acid"

7. The Suburbs -- Arcade Fire

Top Track: "The Suburbs"

6. Contra -- Vampire Weekend

Top Track: "Cousins"

5. Halcyon Digest -- Deerhunter

Top Track: "Revival"

4. Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son of Chico Dusty -- Big Boi

Top Track: "Shutterbugg" (Feat. Cutty)

3. High Violet -- The National

Top Track: "Bloodbuzz Ohio"

2. Teen Dream -- Beach House

Top Track: "Zebra"

1. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy -- Kanye West

Top Track: "Runaway" (Feat. Pusha T)

Best Albums of 2010 (So Far)

If it feels like Animal Noises has been gone for awhile, it's because it's true. There are various reasons for this-- a disenchantment with reviewing music, a floundering music scene and a dearth of good music are a few. What encourages this post however also has meaning behind it. This past week was our second birthday as a blog; an eternity on the internet, really. Our first post was a list just like this one, albeit more crudely and haphazardly constructed. Matt wrote about album art, I wrote hack reviews (some might say I still do), and the site was not yet molded into its 2009 form. Almost 700 posts (mostly in 2009), a senior editorship at 20 Watts and (at one time) a surprising surge in notability later, this probably isn't what most (myself included) envisioned for the blog at this point. But such is life.

I won't make any promises as to what our format will be going forward. I honestly don't know. Nonetheless though, here are our (mostly my) picks for the top 15 studio albums of 2010 thus far (through June 30).

15. Avi Buffalo, Avi Buffalo
For a band made mostly of under 20-somethings, Avi Buffalo delivers a surprisingly expansive album experience on their first go-around. Of course, there are moments where they can, and do act their age, but for the most part, it's a real show of emotions, without being too sappy or immature.

14. Transference, Spoon
By my account, Spoon's most experimental effort to date, Transference seems to forgo the radio-friendly, locked-in nature of 2007's Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga for a rougher, gruffer exterior. The results are a surprising change of pace that deliver few singles, but a very complete and complimentary collection of songs.

13. Treats, Sleigh Bells
Sleigh Bells were discovered by M.I.A., something that shouldn't surprise you at any point during Treats. Their brash electronic pop is a burst of raw energy, electrifying and different with an air of youth typified by the cheerleader themed album cover.

12. Before Today, Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti
Before Today may be the only appropriate title for Ariel Pink's latest effort, with a sound that grabs at 70s and 80s pop conventions as if they were gold. Though it may be more polished than his previous work, it also manages to display more outward emotion as well-- the biggest draw on an album full of them.

11. Swim, Caribou
Harsh, melancholy and removed all at once, Caribou's Daniel Snaith seems to outdo himself on Swim. More worked-over than what we've heard from him to this point, its seamless juxtaposition of various textures and elements keep it engaging and interesting throughout.

10. Thank Me Later, Drake
Drake's highly-anticipated debut ends up here mostly on the strength of production value and a bevy of memorable radio singles. In spite of all his detractors and critics, the entertainer has still accomplished quite a bit in a very short time, and this album seems to be just the first in a string of solid outputs we'll see from him in the years to come.

9. Cosmogramma, Flying Lotus
A cacophony of sound, Cosmogramma may be the most difficult record on this list to wrap your head around. That said, the stunning collection of hip-hop, jazz and electronic experimentation will reward any and all listeners willing to put the time in.

8. How I Got Over, The Roots
It would seem counter intuitive that The Roots would deliver one of their better albums at this point in their career. Then again, maybe mainstream exposure doesn't have to ruin every artist. The hip-hop veterans couple with various out-of-genre collaborators here to put together a highly optimistic, and internalized collection of songs.

7. Innerspeaker, Tame Impala
In spite of their early psychedelic influences (which ring very apparent), Tame Impala manage to make Innerspeaker an energetic, modern tour de force. With nary a lull in sight, the band grabs your attention from the start, and holds on throughout, as only an expertly engineered album can.

6. Fang Island, Fang Island
Fang Island's self-titled debut is decidedly jovial, and almost childish-- a trait that actually sounds better in practice than it does in print. Still, the endless enthusiasm they provide is something of an anomaly in today's scene, so infectious that you have no choice but to join them in exuberance.

5. Astro Coast, Surfer Blood
Astro Coast is a technical gem, with a level of guitar work far surpassing anything a debut album should be capable of. And yet, you are helpless to believe it from the record's opening notes all the way to the end. Thrashing wildly amidst a summer vibe, it's a storm worth sitting through.

4. LP4, Ratatat
Devoid of many of the club bangers that have made them famous, Ratatat's LP4 still manages to excite the senses with a much more closed-in approach. Even within the contained sound though, you are consumed by its textures, which harp far more on composition with (from my vantage point) a decidedly Latin flavor.

3. Contra, Vampire Weekend
I deserve criticism for my initial evaluation of Contra, which was less than favorable. That being said, it's a record that thoroughly grows on you, as each listen uncovers a new intricacy and songs gain new meanings. Rife with experimentation and intrigue, Contra never ceases to add a new dimension to your experience with it.

2. High Violet, The National
Abandoning a sound that can best be described by me as "cozy," The National go for a darker transition on High Violet, and pass with flying colors. Textured, brooding and thoughtful, the moody collection of songs is a saga-of-sorts, with a damaged and flawed cast of characters you are unlikely to tear yourself away from.

1. Teen Dream, Beach House
A floating, sensational commentary on young love, Teen Dream is airy and downright gorgeous. Each note sparkles and shines, whether happy or sad, dragging you closer and closer into the feelings that created it. When the final notes of closer "Take Care" fade away, you have only once choice but to hit play once again.

Music Video Monday: Vampire Weekend's "Giving Up the Gun"

Track: Giving Up the Gun

Artist: Vampire Weekend

Album: Contra

Year: 2010

It's safe to say this can be filed under "ridiculous," or perhaps will just stand as more evidence of Vampire Weekend's continued encroachment into the mainstream public's consciousness. Either way, the video for Vampire Weekend's latest single "Giving Up the Gun" serves as an entertaining, albeit confusing look into what's been going through the band's mind as of late.

There's a lot to take in with this one, so we'll get right to it. RZA is playing line judge to a tennis match between band pal Jenny Murray and Joe Jonas, who's not even the least-likely participant in the affair (somehow). Running through her competition, Murray eventually gets to play a whiskey-swigging Jake Gyllenhaal (how? why? all of the above?), yet defeats him handily. Lastly, she faces her own self-- usually the largest obstacle for most. After Lil' Jon gives her a pep talk in French she gets all charged up and destroys her alter ego. What follows is a celebration out of a Japanese game show. Mass confusion ensues as the internet explodes over searches for all the aforementioned role players, specifically Murray who just put herself on the map big-time. Enjoy below.

[Previously on Animal Noises: Pre-Screening: Vampire Weekend's Contra]

Weekly Top 10: Out-Of-Genre Covers

Everybody does covers. Be it for an album, or just a live set, every artist has a few songs which aren't there own, that they love to play. However, what takes real talent is executing an out-of-genre cover. That is, a cover of a song or artist completely unlike the music you play. Example-- an alternative band playing a hip-hop song with their own spin. Those who perfect this art are the best of the best, and to them, we dedicate this collection. Check out the out-of-genre covers collection below, and enjoy.

[Previously on Animal Nosies: Weekly Top 10: Canadian Bands]

Coachella Announces 2010 Line-Up

Just as we did last year, we're happy to report the lineup for 2010's Coachella Festival. It's probably better than last year, depending on your vantage point. Among the most notable acts (according to this blog, not the festival) per day:

Friday, April 16-- Jay-Z, LCD Soundsystem, Passion Pit, Vampire Weekend, Grizzly Bear, She & Him, Yeasayer, Ra Ra Riot, Wale

Saturday, April 17-- Muse, MGMT, Dirty Projectors, Major Lazer, Mew, Portugal. The Man, Girls

Sunday, April 18-- Gorillaz, Thom Yorke, Phoenix, Spoon, De La Soul, Sly and the Family Stone, Julian Casablancas, Sunny Day Real Estate, Yo La Tengo, Deerhunter, Local Natives

So there it is. An epic collection of artists this year, really. I'm excited, as I'm sure you are too. To Indio, California we go.

Tuesday's Releases (1/19): Now Streaming

As 2010's releases start to pick up a bit, so will this section. For this week, there will be a combination of streams-- some from last week's collection, while others are from this week's batch of new albums. However, for the listener, the results are equally positive I'm sure. Check it out below, courtesy of Spinner unless otherwise noted. And as always, credit for the original idea goes out to LargeHeartedBoy.

• Transference -- Spoon (via NPR)
• Astro Coast -- Surfer Blood
• Contra -- Vampire Weekend
• Heartland -- Owen Pallett
• The Music Scene -- Blockhead
• Shlohmoshun Deluxe -- Shlohmo
• Hustler's Son -- Jason Boesel
• Of The Blue Colour of the Sky -- OK Go
• Youth In Revolt OST -- Various Artists

[Previously on Animal Noises: Tuesday's Releases (1/12): Now Streaming]

Tuesday's Releases (1/12): Now Streaming

Slowly, but surely, our weekly features are returning. Today, we've got the first (small) collection of releases for 2010. Among them, some favorites, as well as newcomers as well. Either way, all are worth a look, especially if you plan on purchasing. Check them out over on Spinner. As always, credit for the original idea goes to LargeHeartedBoy.

• Astrocoast -- Surfer Blood (out January 19th)
• Contra -- Vampire Weekend
• Youth In Revolt OST -- Various Artists
• Of the Blue Colour of the Sky -- OK Go
• Hustler's Son -- Jason Boesel
• Shlomoshun Deluxe -- Shlohmo

Pre-Screening: Vampire Weekend's Contra

Album: Contra

Artist: Vampire Weekend

Label: XL

Rating: 7.5

As the first big album of 2010, Vampire Weekend's Contra has a lot of expectations levied on it. Coupled with the already high hopes that would follow a debut like 2008's self-titled effort, it's almost staggering what Contra has to live up to. So with that in mind, perhaps that's why the album seems a bit underwhelming in comparison. Or perhaps that's why it fails to really perform to the standards set by its predecessor-- an over-confidence in its abilities. Siding with the ladder, the album also holds a fair share of strengths, even in spite of these shortcomings.

Immediately, one sees there is a distinct change in Vampire Weekend's approach on Contra, in comparison to their debut. The album harps on less afro-pop and squeaky clean indie sounds. Instead, we see more experimentation and daring, and a definitive California influence on songs like "Horchata" and "Run," that team with a tropical and carefree vibe. Contra does what it can to distance the band from the prep school imagery which gained them equal amounts of acclaim and scorn just two years ago, and at times, the results are encouragingly positive. It takes some daring to go outside of your comfort zone, and suddenly start incorporating synths, auto-tune and brass, so for that, the group should be commended. But of course, it's not all positive either.

The same aforementioned chances the band took are also a lot of what dooms them here too. Leaving their comfort zone as many times as the band tries to do on Contra results in confusion for listeners, and a sense of over-reaching on their part. "Giving Up the Gun" sounds like something more suited to Discovery than Vampire Weekend, as the synthy dance track bounces around unlike completely separate of the rest of the album, residing in some kind of distant, sing-songy dream land. This, along with the next track, "Diplomat's Son" seem to lack the substance of the album's singles, and anything the band has done before this point. Of course, this could be used as the central issue of the record as a whole-- ten tracks that barely fit together due to their stark differences in style and texture, so much so that they hardly create the cogency an album should comprise.

Contra's saving grace actually ends up being its singles, all of which we've at least gotten glimpses of prior to the album's release. "Horchata" properly embraces the album's tropical intentions, while still remaining true to the playful, coy nature of Vampire Weekend's original sound. Same could be said for "White Sky," though with the appearance of a more airy approach, still manages that space properly to create a scenic pop joy ride. Then there's "Cousins." If the band truly wanted to try and remake itself with this record, this was the song to do it with. Brash, bold and possessing an edge unlike anything else in the band's short catalogue, the punk-influenced track would have been the perfect tone setter. Yet, instead, it just rests as a footnote of what could have been. A single resounding track over a body of work that alternates between slightly enthusiastic and downright depressing.

Going into this album, Vampire Weekend was known for their cocky and slightly humorous delivery, interwoven with upbeat pop sensibilities. What they gave us here sort of acted to the contrary of that, which is why many listeners are not as thrilled as they'd hoped to be. As mentioned earlier, expectations played a large role in peoples' reception of Contra, for this writer included. However, bar set high or not, the fundamental differences, and lack of real flow do a bit to harm the album, which actually possesses a quality collection of individual musical arrangements otherwise. Combined with a surprising void of energy though, the album becomes a series of hits and misses that could have been so much more.

Best Track: "Cousins"

[Previously on Animal Noises: Best of 2009: Most Anticipated Albums of 2010]

Best of 2009: Most Anticipated Albums of 2010

Once again, another list that's not necessarily the best of 2009, but in this case, we're looking at the most anticipated of 2010's releases. Obviously, none of these are completely guaranteed to come out next year. However, they've been at least hinted at, if not confirmed by the artists or labels, so I'd say that's about as reliable a source as we can get at this point. Enjoy the list below.

10. TBA, Interpol (Early 2010)

9. Congratulations, MGMT (Spring 2010)

8. Transference, Spoon (January 26, 2010)

7. TBA, The Strokes (Late 2010)

6. TBA, Arcade Fire (May 2010)

5. TBA, Bright Eyes (Fall 2010)

4. TBA, OutKast (Late 2010)

3. TBA, The Walkmen (Spring 2010)

2. Contra, Vampire Weekend (January 12, 2010)

1. Thank Me Later, Drake (March 2010)

[Previously on Animal Noises: Best of 2009: Biggest Disappointments]

New Vampire Weekend Video, "Cousins"

Well, if this track and the previously-released "Horchata," are any indication, we're in for quite a time when Contra comes out. "Cousins," the first official single off of Vampire Weekend's second album, is a crazed mix of California pop and garage punk. The video below actually does a great job of reflecting this fact, with continuous cuts and randomness throughout. Needless to say, I'm excited. And you should be too. Check it out below, and stay tuned for Vampire Weekend's Contra, out January 12th via XL.

[Previously on Animal Noises: Weekly Top 10: Songs Featured on How I Met Your Mother]

Weekly Top 10: Songs Featured on How I Met Your Mother

This week's Top 10 is inspired by one of my favorite shows on television, How I Met Your Mother. Basically, I was watching a marathon's-worth of the show, and decided that this would work fairly well as a theme. Though it's not based entirely on music like some other sitcoms, it does have its moments where music plays a central and deciding role in the action. Trust me, you'll enjoy this, just like the show.

[Previously on Animal Noises: Weekly Top 10: Greeting Songs]

New Vampire Weekend, "Horchata"

So Monday was Vampire Weekend day on the interwebs. Sorry to say, I wasn't able to participate due to a myriad of other responsibilities getting in the way. Still, it's definitely worth noting in hindsight.

As many already know, Vampire Weekend will be releasing their highly-anticipated second album, Contra, on January 12th via XL Recordings. Probably seeing how well the hype machine worked for Animal Collective going into the new year, the band figured they could do similarly? If it's true, I think the strategy will work. They've just released first single, "Horchata" to the masses, and the response is extremely positive-- not unlike our initial thoughts on "Brothersport" and "My Girls."

For those fearing a drop-off on Contra, as compared to their first album, fear not. All the energy's still there, just channeled differently. As the guys have told most media outlets, there's a huge California influence as part of the new sound, and you can hear it immediately. "Horchata" is infectiously-catchy, definitely in the mold of breakout hit "Oxford Comma." If you'd like to see for yourself, you'll want to check it out below, courtesy of the band themselves. Or, if you'd like, head to their site, and sign up for their mailing list before downloading.

"Horchata" -- Vampire Weekend

[Previously on Animal Noises: Miike Snow Remixes Vampire Weekend]

Weekly Top 10: Island Songs

As per usual on Thursdays, we've got a playlist of sorts. This week, due to us being on vacation in a fairly coastal area, we decided to use island songs as our theme. What constitutes an island song in this case? A song which is more of a stand-alone track from an artist who normally wouldn't be classified as reggae, surf rock or any other type of tropical music (though there is one artist here who could fall either way, but we decided to include him). Hopefully that clears up any concerns about the omission of certain artists. Enjoy below.

Weekly Top 10: Summer Songs

In keeping with the feature we relaunched last week, we'll be posting up 10-track playlists on Thursdays every week from now on. These playlists are themed in some way, and this time we chose summer. So enjoy. Oh, and my apologies for not having the actual Beatles version of "Here Comes the Sun". Imeem doesn't have most of the band's catalog, so hopefully George Harrison and Paul Simon will suffice.

Best of 2008: #5, Vampire Weekend

Rank: #5

Album: Vampire Weekend

Artist: Vampire Weekend

Label: XL Recordings

We've finally arrived at the top five of our countdown.  At #5 is Vampire Weekend's self-titled debut.  Now I'm sure nearly everyone reading this knows at least something about these guys, but I suppose I'll explain anyway. These guys reached a fever pitch here on the interweb over the past year, as most blogs, and even Spin magazine were hyping them up before they even released an album.  After meeting up at Columbia University, the four-member group started making their enjoyable brand of indie, baroque-inspired, afro-beat pop, or as they'd rather refer to it, Upper West Side Soweto.  No matter what you call it though, Vampire Weekend is one fun record.

From the opening notes of "Mansard Roof," you can sense the afro-pop influences, soon followed by more caribbean sounds, and lastly, Ezra Koening's made-for-indie voice.  The fun and different sound continues thereafter, with each of Vampire Weekend's quick pop songs.  Each track fills itself with witty observations and some entertaining cultural references at times, too.  The record's second track, "Oxford Comma," sees a discussion about rapper Lil' Jon, paraphrasing his hit song "Get Low"'s signature line, "to the window, to the wall".  The building energy here is probably what I most enjoy.  Each song starts off lively, then comes to fast and noisy peak, then drops back down.  Repeat as necessary for basically all 11 tracks.  It actually surprised me that the album saw no Grammy nods, but then again, we can only ask so much of the mostly out-of-touch music awards.  They've taken such large steps this year.  You can't expect them to catch everything.  For similar artists to Vampire Weekend, I'd suggest Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Islands and Ra Ra Riot.

Best Track: "Campus"

P.S.-I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas.  We'll be taking a two-day break here at Animal Noises, and will be resuming the countdown on 12/26.  Be sure to stop back in.

Our Top Albums of 2008

The Year 2008 is halfway over.  With that in mind, we figured we'd discuss what we thought were the top 10 albums of the year so far.  Note: Though we loved In Rainbows, we're not going to include them in this, since it was considered by many (including us) to be the best album of 2007 already.  Anyone who didn't hear it by the end of last year obviously wasn't paying much attention.  Anyway, here goes...

1. Narrow Stairs, Death Cab for Cutie

Ben Gibbard and the gang rightfully start off this list with their best work since Transatlanticism.  The album maintains the somber mood which Death Cab always keeps, while still delivering a bright sound at the same time. Remorse never sounded so good.

Top Track: Cath...

2. Vampire Weekend, Vampire Weekend

Indie, Baroque-inspired, afro-beat pop?  A year ago, nobody would have a clue what you were talking about.  Now, chances are people would start up a conversation with you about Vampire Weekend, those Columbia University over-privileged youths who are about to be launched into the MTV stratosphere by the head ass clown himself, Pete Wentz, & Co.  Until that nightmare fully takes shape though, enjoy all the fun this band has to offer.

Top Track: Oxford Comma

3.með suð í eyrum við spilum endalaust, Sigur Rós

Hopelandic (n.): a term used to describe the gibberish sung by the band Sigur Rós (Wikipedia paraphrase, 2008). What the band lacks in grammatical structure and normal lingual conventions though, they have in sensibility, and their concept for the post-rock genre which they are near the forefront of. Oh, and they like being naked a lot too...weird.

Top Track: Ára bátur

4. The Odd Couple, Gnarls Barkley

To be honest, we felt St. Elsewhere was kind of hit-or-miss, but this album is a triumph, through-and-through. If you're looking for something easy and enjoyable to listen to, find yourself a copy of this energetic and intelligent recording. You won't be disappointed.

Top Track: Going On

5. Elephant Shell, Tokyo Police Club

Another fun record for this year. These Saddle Creek-ers have a similar sound to Death Cab for Cutie, sans regret, but with a great dose of energy. The record is a quick listen, but chances are, you'll just hit repeat when it's over anyway.

Top Track: Your English Is Good

6. Viva La Vida Or Death And All His Friends, Coldplay

At first we thought that Chris Martin was trying to desperately to make his own Kid A, to which I would have laughed. However, it ends up it bares little resemblance to Radiohead's fourth studio album, and instead simply sound like Coldplay going in a different direction. This could all change if it ends up they stole "The Songs I Didn't Write" from Creaky Boards though (haha...sorry, had to mention it).

Top Track: Viva La Vida

7. Falling Off The Lavender Bridge, Lightspeed Champion

Dev Hynes is one weird dude. That said, he knows how to make music, and make it well. Though admittedly whiny at times, it doesn't feel wrong to like it, and it doesn't feel wrong to say that it sounds right. He's also honest, which is getting harder and harder to come by these days. His penchant for profanity also seems to be a positive, rather than a negative, and doesn't take away

from anything.

Top Track: Midnight Surprise

8. Weezer (Red Album), Weezer

When first hearing Pork and Beans", we were ecstatic. The return of the old Weezer, a return to what made them great (or at least good), and their re-establishment in the hearts and minds of music aficionados everywhere. And then, of course, I heard the rest of the album. What used to work as "so bad, it's good" now functions as "so bad, it's still just kind of bad". Outside of the previously mentioned Pork and Beans, there are smatterings of positives here. Enough to get it onto this list, but not enough to get it onto the year-end list, I'm sure.

Top Track: Pork and Beans

9. Water Curses, Animal Collective

Either this is on here or N*E*R*D's new album gets thrown a bone. We decided that "Water Curses" (the song) alone, gave this four-track release enough street cred to make the grade and get on the top 10. All the songs are a bit stripped-down, reminiscent of their pre-Strawberry Jam style, and all of them get you thinking, which we believe is one of the main purposes behind their music.

Top Track: Water Curses

10. Tha Carter III, Lil' Wayne

I'll usually truly enjoy one new hip-hop record per year, and since we won't count Gnarls Barkley as hip-hop, I guess this is Lil' Wayne's lucky day. Great rap acts usually weed out the hit-or-miss type stuff by the third album, and for the most part, Weezy delivers, save a song or two. He is a great rapper though, so at least he's got that up on one Kanye West.

Top Track: Mr. Carter

And there it is. If you wanted to know, N*E*R*D's Seeing Sounds was #11. Also, just a note: we don't endorse MySpace, but had to use it as the link for some of the artists who didn't have songs up from their respective new albums on Last.FM. Enjoy, and see you on Wednesday.