2007 ROCKS

I'm a musician, but more importantly, I'm a music lover. With that said, I must impose my musical taste on all of you who are bothering to read this blog. I'm in my 30's, but I'm not one of those they-don't-write-'em-like-they-used-to types. I think that there is always great music being made, and those who disagree are either bitter, boring, not paying attention, or simply not looking in the right places. So far, 2007 has been a fantastic year for music. This is my list of great albums (in my oh so humble opinion) up to now this year.

Feist - The Reminder -- Canadian singer songwriter with a voice that can make you melt. The songs are playful, yet moving.

Dntel - Dumb Luck -- The electronic beatmaster from The Postal Service. There are lots of collaborations on this one. I'm particularly fond of Breakfast in Bed, sung by Conor Oberst, which leads us to.......

Bright Eyes - Cassadaga -- He's back! I don't think this album is as good as I'm Wide Awake It's Morning, but pretty great. It almost has this dislocated traveling Americana feel, which I'm more than sure Mr. Oberst is going for.

Son Volt - The Search -- Same old, same old, but it works

Air - Pocket Symphony -- Always nice. And a great song with Jarvis Cocker on vocals. Yes, leading us to...

Jarvis Cocker - Jarvis -- What can I say, this guy just has style. When everyone was warring between Oasis and Blur for who were the masters of Britpop in the 90's, I was like "What about Pulp? They can beat 'em both down!"

The Arcade Fire - Neon Bible -- Oh my God! is all I can say on this one! SO GOOD!

Wilco - Sky Blue Sky -- I saved the best for last. It amazes me how these guys just keep topping themselves. Their sound changes with every record, but it is for the better. The musicianship is in tiptop shape. This has to be by far the best guitar work I've heard on record in a long time. Praise be to Nels Cline. I really love these guys. This is a summer album that I know I'll be enjoying for many seasons.

There are other great artists who have put out albums since January, but I haven't had a chance to absorb them. These include Bjork, The White Stripes, Sinead O'Connor, and the Smashing Pumpkins. Also, the new Rilo Kiley is out in August. I'm sure I'll let you know what I think.

Toodles