With the start of something new, I suppose it is best to create one of those lists to reflect on the year as a whole. The blog's revival starts a new year and the start of a record label that wants to hear what you have to say. I also didn't include either of our releases due to the obvious bias. Here is my top ten favorite releases of 2011. I'd love to hear if you guys have similar artists on the list or what happens to be on yours. Happy new years everyone!
10) Jet Set Sail - Jet Set Sail Free
Look for these guys in the future. They've been playing a lot of shows with a lot of amazing bands, yet have somehow snuck under the radar too many times.
9) We All Have Hooks For Hands - Girls Free
A twenty seven piece band from Michigan. Okay, I don't think either of those are correct. South Dakota with 9 members that will make you feel really happy with upbeat good vibes.
8) Arrah & the Ferns - Soldier Ghost EP Free
Actually a pretty long EP. They've been up on my charts for a while but started listening to them rapidly after booking the first stop on their last tour. A lot of fun to see live, a lot of fun to listen to.
7) Mallard - Mallard "of the Thick" Free
This band brought some next level depth to my listening experience. I was hooked from the first song on this album and wanted more when it was through. I can't get enough of these dudes. They are even more fun live than listening home alone in your mom's basement.
6) You'll Live - Things Would Change If You Heard This Free
Non-generic stuff you can scream along to that people you hang out with probably won't know the words to so you'll end up feeling really awkward at shows.
5) Fucked Up - David Comes to Life Buy
I've heard this band's name so many times and passed it off as "one of those bands". I finally listened to them this year upon the release of this album and I regret all those times I failed to give them a chance.
4) Dowsing - All I Could Find Was You Free
Really, they are wonderful. I don't have much to say on them on why I like them because I like everything.
3) Joyce Manor - Joyce Manor Try/Buy
Did not disappoint, reminded me why I like Joyce Manor so much.
2) Algernon Cadwallader - Parrot Flies Try/Buy
Although Fun and Some Kind of Cadwallader hold a place in my heart, the album caught on quicker than most. I finally managed to see them live this year which is embarrassing.
1) Deer Leap + The World is a Beautiful Place & I am No Longer Afraid to Die Are Here to Help You Try/Try/Buy
This split was flawless. I blew off everything by TWIABP until I heard the songs off this split live. I've had this on loop for the last 2 months. Rediculous.
