6. Jonsi-Go, 82
At first I though Go was Sigur Ros, but less so. But as I became enraptured with the final four tracks, I saw much more. They have wave after wave of crashing sound, glorious strings, and bright vocals. I simply cannot stop listening to Kolnidur and Hengilas. Hengilas makes me feel as if I'm standing alone in Sainte Chappelle, surrounded only by pure beauty. Truly wonderful stuff.
7. David Ford-Let The Hard Times Roll, 78
David Ford is one of my all-time favorites. His music is brutally honest and vulnerable. He exudes joy and passion on the stage. He's creative and unbelievably talented. "Panic" is a ripping diatribe of all sorts of things. "Making Up For Lost Time" is classically lovelorn, but littered with wry humor and an aw 'shucks attitude.' "Waiting For The Storm" is a personal cry, full of despair. "To Hell With The World" is one part separation from many things in this world and many parts an anthem to his girl, who's been 'crazy to stay by his side.' A favorite lyric: 'So let's stand and let's sing, and there are beautiful things, if you know the places they hide.' "Nothing At All" is full of personal reflection and probing questions. "Call To Arms" begins soft, and builds in both volume and emotion. It's a fitting way to end another great album.
8. Josh Ritter-So Runs The World, 77
Ritter is another one of my all-time favorites. I've had the privilege of seeing him in concert twice in the last year, both times amazing. This album did not measure up to his previous efforts, and even though his music grows on me more than almost any other, I don't see it rising too much. "The Curse" and "Southern Pacifica" mess up the flow for me; I can't seem to get into either one. I also didn't love love any specific track. That said, it shows the high standard and immense respect I have for Ritter, that I can write something seemingly negative and still love his album more than every album of 2010 but 7.
9. Hold Steady-Heaven Is Whatever, 77
Hold Steady is another artist I really hadn't listened to until this year. But prompted by the recommendations of two friends, I gave them a big try. Craig Finn's voice reminds me of the sound of Sum 41, American Hi-Fi, Stroke 9, Frickin A, and those types. Hold Steady produces a fun, fun sound that's easy to listen to. "Hurricane J" is a great song: 'but they didn't name her for a saint, they named her for a storm.' I also enjoy "The Weekenders."
10. Broken Social Scene-Forgiveness Rock Record, 76
I was first introduced to Broken Social Scene in London, where I listened to a bunch of their music in preparation for a concert that I never attended. (I think the terms "60£, and "sold out" nixed that plan). They write grand music that lasts for a while. Right off the bat "World Sick" catches your attention: 'We got a minefield of crippled affection.' The album flows really well and lends itself to seamless listening rather than jumping around the tracks.
11. Arcade Fire-The Suburbs, 76
I've always been a fan of Arcade Fire, but most of their albums fell in the 60's for me. The Suburbs had an advanced and more sophisticated sound, one that I loved. "Ready To Start", "Modern Man", "City With No Children" and "Sprawl" are my go-tos.
