Last Weeks Music

A review of albums that came out a week or so ago.

[lastweeksmusic]

Best Music of 2017

(in my superior, over inflated, musical opinion)(Yes, my list is better than your)                              You can listen to the entire list here

 https://open.spotify.com/user/122455551/playlist/52XUwrxl83ySiH9e8qUOtk?si=-i3Lz1AvToqiFZ3yeKi56g

Here are the top 10 in not particular order.

Real Life – Aaron Sprinkle – This was an unexpected album for 2017. Then I first listen to this 90’s rock master and realize he put out a pop record.  How dare he!  Then I continued to listen, and listen, and listen.  I did not stop listening to the album all year.  Invincible and Real Life are great songs.  Why aren’t these songs all over the radio?  Why is he not a guest performer on every daytime and nighttime talk show?  Well what ever the reason you really really should be listening to this record, a lot.   https://open.spotify.com/album/035w5ex0PdMihhra3mL6EM Only the Lonely – Colony House -  An album that was supposed to release in the fall of 2016 but ended up getting pushed.  This was the first good release of 2017 for me and it has stuck with me for the entire year.  Solid lyrics, great hooks and over all catchy toons makes for a great album.  I look forward to this band making music for years to come and I hope they find commercial success as well.   https://open.spotify.com/album/5vBnIcG7nD3XEt8ErHpytO

Play Dead – MuteMath – The final album with their drummer Daren King does not disappoint.  It is a solid blend of their previous two albums Odd Soul and Vitals.  With great 70’s guitar riffs and sounds with the synth pop of the 80’s all done with modern production and sensibility.  You can’t go wrong with this album.   https://open.spotify.com/album/2UE2en0YSItvqj5hkyIapP?si=45A3aDPDQiW-B6MS679xMA

Folk Hope n Roll – Judah and the Lion – Never heard of these guys you probably will soon.  This special edition album released this year with so many great improvements over their previous release of the album it is almost a whole new album.   The music is a strange folk beat rock that works on all levels for this band, providing an original sound all around.   https://open.spotify.com/album/7vLmY8rLjLvOTQ0wk7Hqeh?si=-RTfmGTHSg2XWVKREdQVuA

Pulses – The Fast Feeling – Who you ask?  Never heard of these guys.  Yeah, most people haven’t but you should check them out.  A great pop synth rock sound led by Jeff the Girl from Five Iron Frenzy.  I don’t know if they will ever release another record, but they should. This album is great fun. https://open.spotify.com/album/6Zk8EisXGz2IGnhYTqRbBg?si=jLfJE_EwS5-S2w50iHCmGQ

Hello Maker – Bright City – Why this album isn’t as big as United’s latest release I will never know, it is just as good and in my opinion better.  While in the same vain sonically as United they are not a clone or copycat.  These are wonderful synth pop worship songs with some great and original lyrics that try to break from the current clichés.  Bright City is also a bit more upbeat that United and not so contemplative. They even show a little joy in their worship songs. https://open.spotify.com/album/22pKUdahZtdO78K72hNK1j?si=Bmu4mpZVS7K4UlgpC1ZVHw

Jonah – KJ-52 – You mean he is still making music.  Yep and it is fun.  This is probably the most fun I have had listening to a Hip Hop album in years.  They beats are great and the lyrics are fun and funny.  This is KJ-52 at his best.  He makes light of people mistaking him for Toby Mac and points out other crazy things in culture as well.  This is a party album if there ever was one. https://open.spotify.com/album/4QV2mi2cNxeRH2O15zIkTz?si=t5Hkzn5yQOW2U_Yh9meWTw

I See You – The XX -  These guys make great minimalist albums, while this one is not a minimal as their previous albums, it is great to listen to while kicking back in the evening. I dig their voices and how they work together.   https://open.spotify.com/album/7jrxBbSIpwZnOd7kuAYFHG?si=hB2n6C5PRKK1oHOtwAgvAg

Signs – Jonny Lang – I love this guys music and this is his most accessible album in years.  The riffs are great, the lyrics solid, and there is a general return to the blues sonically, which just speaks to me.  Lang keeps showcasing his talent on his albums and this one really brings it all together with a bit more pop rock since add to his gospel blues sound.   https://open.spotify.com/album/4SPbtzCATQqeHmN2Evs26H?si=2r7iwvE-SIe3NFD2MFWx0w

Mercury & Lightning – John Mark McMillan – I have been following McMillan for a while and this is his strongest release to date.  This is great lyrics and songwriting he as added a little bit of pop stylings to make things a little more accessible.  The mix is fantastic and I do believe this is his best album sonically and the lyrics have not suffered either.   https://open.spotify.com/album/6zKk1qsXNvOqAjy9cfzE2Q?si=NAjoRAQfSLiwdbVcLkCqgw

 The Next 10  

Move – Jerry Fee – Check out this music.  He just keeps getting better and better and has release an albums worth of singles since releasing this album. https://open.spotify.com/album/1PNxShUgyi4Ef4nApth6YG?si=GKQ2ql0yQCKRHwI69PysgQ

Evolve – Imagine Dragons – Yes you have herd this album, you know it is good. https://open.spotify.com/album/51s30K7a36ORx6AAaPBRRY?si=F5ulFYamQo2GBzZBJaiVEA

Something to Tell You – HAIM – I really like most of this album but there a couple of meh songs on here that kept it out of the top 10. https://open.spotify.com/album/5m9rXTBF7mHFGQlFsiEHrY?si=AkFJLBIVRZSOmk7CGy8vVA

Magic & Bird – Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed – The best and most fun album about basketball ever made. https://open.spotify.com/album/0hBOcvWIqqIyFIVLaAvylC?si=CrbKvsJNShidhskqcBzaqA

Blue Eyed Devil – Krum – Hip Hop meets garage rock, nuff said. https://open.spotify.com/album/7uJqs1C6WsOUZDbCNTWmqn?si=fjy8FeLRSwubybOLBFPVGg Crooked – Propaganda – Spiritual and social hip hop at it’s best. https://open.spotify.com/album/3HmkL2AENDW4XO9Da0NGy9?si=b6TiBHlCSPqsdaM6qhbXDg

All Things Work Together – Lecrae – Musically I think one of his better releases.  The lyrics are also very thought provoking.  No candy coating here.   https://open.spotify.com/album/5DPZqC3ySZkJClCvZlIq6K?si=d5s1DF7fT8K7jFNq3PDddQ

Lifer – MercyMe – This is a group of fun loving and funny guys that live life.  This album finally reflects that.   https://open.spotify.com/artist/6APm8EjxOHSYM5B4i3vT3q?si=Ui2ueTj_SGGmMV_WSgqVxw

Got Soul – Robert Randolph & The Family Band – The master of the peddle steel is back with a kicking album. https://open.spotify.com/album/2WWqqmFSB4jFEnnRwngeSB?si=00HeuRrLS-Ccp3NjIxE1LQ

Sheep Among Wolves – Project 86 – Hardcore rock at its best.  Love these guys still. https://open.spotify.com/album/4rfoY0fTN99JZYvecHVVVC?si=AfSzjH34SkW6xZPzcquQ9w

 The Final 20.  You really should still listen to these albums

Colliding by Design – Acceptance - https://open.spotify.com/album/2SQRCnp429NkB8McGvIV6H?si=PlFtA0fnQga1uiHTddcIiw

Hopeless Romantic – Michelle Branch - https://open.spotify.com/album/0KQoc67ApuKSx5qBPtrXJt?si=vuQX9qDeSxSrhPVBJr7wZA

Peaks – Rival - https://open.spotify.com/album/5kShm6rsbfFG48Td3Je3O7?si=ifDNwQIIS_ydk-HCfnqK6w

Waiting on a Song – Dan Auerbach - https://open.spotify.com/album/0OSYZ7EMRs14RPvwowd13F?si=lhItpsWYQrCn_tsrb-I4Tw

EP - Blank Books - https://open.spotify.com/album/6lA4et2BiYdQsphzwrNcgV?si=4eEYfhy_TLGf7OI2c4uHrw

Army of Bones – Army of Bones - https://open.spotify.com/album/2r5nVGJTAByyxMLmxc3keL?si=8-ppQJJJQFmKMGEjvkgpFw

Worthy – Beautiful Eulogy - https://open.spotify.com/album/4uCh3rhWiPaBouezM4PD3I?si=w3DTt0N9SmqF5bpCUCcZqw

A Deep Understanding – The War on Drugs - https://open.spotify.com/album/4TkmrrpjlPoCPpGyDN3rkF?si=UPUUdqW7Swe-izMUB9FMRQ

Farewell to Midnight – As We Ascend - https://open.spotify.com/album/2Lq6F3PJgcTuQHs5nRULfH?si=7mseO5ovS9evE9jjx_xT5w

Can’t Curse the Free – Jetty Rae - https://open.spotify.com/album/3VizwLt8pVjDbo7OkPP5ML?si=qM6v80BYSsyrh4c4Dci-Tg

Colors – Beck - https://open.spotify.com/album/6BOQkxcHspMoRWEwEexf4l?si=ns9FQDD4Rj6QioCPMch1QQ

The Search for Everything – John Mayer - https://open.spotify.com/album/0jZFu2tihRJ65iYAo0oOtP?si=AeIXX3HqTyCbsBuoz5PugQ

Pain – The letter Black - https://open.spotify.com/album/5SQnp6ujMnSkSCOQg2g0PV?si=3DQfG4rRR3Cd6lhCjVrNog

The Transition of Mali – Mali Music - https://open.spotify.com/album/00kU4HzJ0Uvr3PGBxrqt14?si=eDO38sVXSvy1e-8-QYQ7zg

Resistance – Songhoy Blues –https://open.spotify.com/album/4Ihzwun58CM5vmphpBngFG?si=RzVOvG8GTHSh4o05mkHT-g

Songs of Experience – U2 - https://open.spotify.com/album/6S9YaGXnmRe8tWJ0e457HP?si=QepAm49DR_GaqVUKNqqaUA

Sky Beats Gold – Young Fox - https://open.spotify.com/album/5LBBJo1rs0RYjahaAO7jAl?si=4ewrQ4lsQOWWwgJ2yIKGYQ

Suddenly (Or the Nuclear Sunburst of the Truth Revealed) – Young Oceans - https://open.spotify.com/album/1NnzAkcue0YdEzLWKb8bfp?si=pHk2INViSVGpvtXb6aOOQw

Wonder – Hillsong United - https://open.spotify.com/album/5ZWmzqJe0RH6HdT4ntNaX2?si=n-bcWIySRwm_ahl1vws6Rw

Two Parts Viper - ’68 - https://open.spotify.com/album/5fLNoR3OoIbiNhYlkqxcDD?si=j9p3RU-KSlyFfh7otcsCcg

The Beauty Between - Kings Kaleidoscope - https://open.spotify.com/album/22dJNerbGPZtrsoAjyTy9y?si=Rl9PF6pFTxSJ6aUYpYtoCA

[lastweeksmusic]

The Best Music of 2016

Another year is down and the music industry continues to spiral down.  I listened to fewer albums this year then I have in several years.  Rock continues to struggle in the market place as good new groups are harder and harder to find and the old standbys continue to age or breakup.  If you want to hear the entire list here it is as a spotify playlist.  https://open.spotify.com/user/122455551/playlist/20JE9CFwhRWFbig2dfQKA6 Here are my top 10 pics for the year, in a loose order.  

Switchfoot - Where the Light Shines Through - I have always liked this legendary group that continues to churn out great music.  For me Where the Light Shines Through was a bright spot in a musically bland year.  The album is solid, a bit poppy and fun.  If you haven’t listened to them in a few years it’s time to check them out again. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Euf3uk0QIaY Lacey Sturm - Life Screams  - This is the hard rock album of the year.  Hands down.  It is powerful, both musically and lyrically.  While the few singles Lacey had released for various projects landed squarely in CCM genera, this album brings here squarely back into the rock fold.  This album will melt your face in all the right ways. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVddwjEJ3Qk Needtobreathe - Hard Love - While the critics didn’t like this album as much as Rivers in the Wasteland I loved this album. I loves the fact the band stretches their musical legs.  The Motown influences are fantastic and I really loved the changes in direction they made.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bhKo1z0Jz0 Norah Jones - Day Breaks - Finally.  Jones has come back to her Jazz roots and it is a glorious return.  The big difference this time is Jones handles more of the song writing duties quite successfully.  If you like her freshman release you will love this album.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqA25Ug71Mc Amos Lee - Spirit - Another album that is a return to from for me.  After exploring his Americana or Country side in his last album he is back to making great Singer Songwriter music with slight Jazz bent.  It is a fantastic recording that is intimate, just put this record on and enjoy.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PL0I0AXaZ6k Future of Forestry - Awakened by the Sound - This is an amazing movie soundtrack.... with no movie to go with it.  This album has the feel of an epic adventure of a guy on a journey to rescue someone.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0L9pd_BFnFQ Sho Baraka - The Narrative - Now on Humblebeast records and it’s almost like he has found new freedom.  This is a gutsy and experimental album.  Every song represents a different time period musically or more specifically a year. It is a fantastic musical and social journey.  A must listen. https://youtu.be/qN3jbjfVLlU?list=PLUCDXiwrlfc3f-RSTuGZaHSnlBt2iANxn Crowder - American Prodigal - Crowder is back, after the release of Neon Steeple I didn’t have much hope for this album.  This time though it is way less Ho Down, and much more Dirty Delta Blues still blended with his unusual and signature electronic bent. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=US1-R-R9lYQ Audrey Assad - Inheritance - There are so many other albums I want to put in this spot to be honest but I cannot deny how great his record is or how much I have listened to it.  I listen to it while reading my bible, or just relaxing with a good book.  It is expertly executed and beautifully arranged.  These covers of classic and ancient hymns is near perfect. https://youtu.be/84YASWe3_2Q Disciple - Long Live the Rebels - Another solid hard rock album from a solid rock band.  These guys continue to rock and bring great music.  They also are unabashed and unashamed of their message.  If you want in your face music and lyrics this is the album for you.  https://youtu.be/DPe9fgkOHDU         The top 20 albums are also good records that didn’t just make it into the top 10.  These are in no particular order.

Andrew Bird - Are Your Serious - A great singer songwriter with intelegnece.  https://youtu.be/cL58CXgl4xE?list=PLcJPCYp4AvoDJ0gdh3K0FCJjU6FWwB_Q3 Thousand Food Krutch - Exhale - These rockers continue to make great music.  https://youtu.be/3ZlrWZf-22Y Arrested Development - This World Was Never Home - The legendary Hip Hop starts still know how to make an album.  https://youtu.be/pGwkM6dOfmg Skillet - Unleashed - This album is good but just not quite what I was looking or from these guys.  https://youtu.be/Qzw6A2WC5Qo The Heavy - Hurt & the Merciless - The funky, R & B, British garage rockers are back.  https://youtu.be/qrw3Su6TFxg?list=PLkFfcU2sP6kZa-ge3Els5NxTNaNynq22K Jerry Fee - Move - Pop powered awesomeness.  https://youtu.be/lLxYQwBYF78 Fight the Fade - Fight The Fade - Finally a newer group.  This sophmore release is well worth the rock listen.  https://youtu.be/g-51XS8D87c Thrice - To Be Everywhere is to be Nowhere - They are back and this album does not dissappoint.  https://youtu.be/g-51XS8D87c Set for the Fall - Three Nails - This bands first full length album shows great potential.  https://youtu.be/g-51XS8D87c Lecrea - Church Clothes 3 - The Hip Hop master continues to dazzle.  https://youtu.be/7h_BD5r04Ck       The Top 30, These are also good albums.  Some deserve to be higher, some don’t.  Still Good to listen to. Birdy - Beautiful Lies - She has a great voice and should be a bigger hit.  https://youtu.be/tCP6sXi33JE Decyfer Down - The Other Side of Darkness - This the album we knew they could make.  https://youtu.be/1z9PUlfFpCs Kevin Max - Playing Games with the Shadow - It’s weird 80′s modern pop music.  What you should expect from Max.  https://youtu.be/PiR0USBWmZI NF - Therapy Session - Intense, real, dark, hopeful, solid hip/hop.  https://youtu.be/KgMzxQW2raE Paper Route - Real Emotion - Solid pop rock album.  https://youtu.be/wiRUYWCIfjc Radiohead - A Moon Shaped Pool - It has been a few albums since I really enjoyed listening to a Radiohead album.  https://youtu.be/yI2oS2hoL0k Kandace Springs - Soul Eyes - Fantastic Jazz album.  I love this record and it should be higher.  https://youtu.be/kAba9aRgVLM The Rival - Waves - Sands - two ep’s in a series of three.  All great pop albums.  https://youtu.be/OYLcJ7j20VU Islander - Power Under Control - There is power here and lots of it.  https://youtu.be/kyixQrJOwOc Twenty-One Pilots/MuteMath - TOPxMM - The surprise at the end of the year.  It’s is great.  https://youtu.be/JfEFq_NRZu4 The top 40.  They may be on the bottom of the list but they are not to be missed.

Leagues - Alone Together - Solid Pop but they were better as rock.  https://youtu.be/KZGrSrJT7cw Derek Minor - Reflection - Great hip/hop.  https://youtu.be/qBzZi6J-4I0 The Boxer Rebellion - Ocean by Ocean - Pop rock to dream to.  https://youtu.be/UBGvRRBZ12Q Rend Collective - Campfire II: Simplicity - Pure joyus Worship. https://youtu.be/1gZE_hAlrJo MuteMath - Changes - a Great remix album.  https://youtu.be/CWWFKHPyeq4 Wolfmother - Victorious - The 70′s rock era continues.  https://youtu.be/PZDg_MLmp7M A Tribe Called Red - We are Halluci Nation - Native American Techno Hip/Hop.  https://youtu.be/4_5VAKdHMek  Dogs of Peace - Heel - The master producers are back with their brand of rock.  https://youtu.be/M4wB6GYCbKw Social Club Misfits - The Misfit Generation - These guys will be huge in Hip/Hop.  https://youtu.be/Gj5uvkgW5yM James Blake - The Color in Anything - Singer/Songwriter with an electronic bent.  https://youtu.be/NHPJ8tRZsus So there you go my top 40 albums of 2016.  Many people say 2016 had been terrible for many many reasons.  Generally musically I will have to agree, except for some albums like these. I hope you give these albums a listen. Here is the link to the Spotify Playlist again.  https://open.spotify.com/user/122455551/playlist/20JE9CFwhRWFbig2dfQKA6

[lastweeksmusic]

Music 2016 so far...

Let’s be honest, 2016 has started off really slow musically for me.  Releases that interest me have been few and far between and new artist are even harder to find.  I have listened to several new artist and artist outside my normal genres and it has not much has stuck with me.  I think I’m just getting old and music is stale right now.  So I pulled 10 albums I have liked so far this year.  Even putting together a list of 10 albums has been hard for me but here it is anyway. Lacy Sturm - Life Screams - The first album this year that really really stuck with me and struck me as awesome.  Lacy pulls no punches on this album and hits you with everything she has got both sonically and lyrically.  This is the one album so far this year that I can’t recommend enough and I know for a fact it will end up on my list of best albums of the year. Lecrae - Church Clothes 3 - Another hit release from this Hip Hop veteran, yet so many see him as the new guy on the block.  I really like this release while still hard hitting with it’s subject matter and lyrics it just seems like Lecrae is having more fun this time around. Thousand Foot Krutch - Exhale - These rockers are back after what many consider a letdown with Inhale.  This album is definitely more in your face that the last.  I have found that the lyrics are not hitting me as hard as before a couple of songs are not sticking to me but still in a time where good hard rock is hard to find this album is good and leaps and bounds above much of the rest. Arrested Development - This World Was Never Home - This group has been written off by almost everyone, but they need to listen to this latest album.  Solid lyrics, great beats and musically interesting.  This album caught my attention and I really haven’t stopped listening to it.  A great summer album and a great album for 2016. Thrice - To Be Everywhere Is To Be Nowhere - Except for the Alchemy Index I am not a huge Thrice fan but have continued to give their music a chance.  This album really surprised me and I find myself listening to it much more than I expected.  Black Honey is a great song and the imagery of much of the lyrics is great and invites more listens to see where the singer is taking you. NF- Therapy Session - This is actually a hard album to listen to yet you want to listen to it.  The album is comprised of songs that are deeply personal to NF and he tackles so many subject matters it is hard to keep up.  You might need to come up for air while listening to this album.  It is not one to miss. The Heavy - Hurt & The Merciless - I wanted to like this album more than I do as I love The Heavy.  It is still a really good album and I enjoy their Bluesy, R&B, Jazz, Funk, and Rock blend.  No one else really sounds like these guys and I really enjoy this album, it just hasn’t stuck with me like their previous one and I’m not listening to it as much as I expected. Dogs of Peace - Heel - If any album on this list is going to fall off by the years in it might be this one.  While I like the album and think it is really good it is not my favorite.  I like the 70′s prog rock vibe and the some time kitchie lyrics but I don’t know there is just something about it that keeps me from loving it.  Decyfer Down - The Other Side of Darkness - Finally a hard rock band that decided to go harder and it pays off.  This is one of the bands stronger albums both lyrically and musically.  I am afraid it is going to get lost later in the year due to higher profile releases like TFK and Skillet.  Don’t let this album pass you buy. Audrey Assad - Inheritance - Hey look a truly soft album.  This album is amazing though.  Relaxing and creative.  I really like her takes one these old hymns and the couple of new songs fit really well within the context of the album.  This is a really solid release from a very talented artist.  

[lastweeksmusic]

The Best Albums for me in 2015

Sorry, I am really, really, late getting this up..  Time for the list of my favorite albums of 2015.  These probably are not the most popular albums of the year, they may not be critically acclaimed or technically perfect but these are the album that I have continually come back and listened to over and over again.  This has been a strange year for music.  I got the fewest albums this year that I have gotten in several years, to the point I almost made this a top 20 not top 40.  Also this is probably the list with the most Pop or Pop/Rock or Pop/Synth albums for me ever.  Rock is really struggling right now but it’s not doing too bad as the number one album is a full on rock album.  Anyway on with the list.

Top 10 – This year I went ahead and ranked the Top 10 albums.

1.       Ravenhill – Soul – This album came out of nowhere for me this year.  I had never heard of the group and only through a podcast and a few net articles did I decide to give it a listen.  Soul is a great Rock, Soul, Blues album.  This is not your standard album either the style is not conventional and neither is their song structure sometime leaving out parts and focusing on the story being told.  This is a down and dirty rock album as well with crunchy guitars and gravely vocals.  I really dig this album and have listened to it pretty consistently since getting the album. On another note these guys are amazing live as well.

2.       Mutemath – Vitals – This album nearly got the number one spot.  I love Mutemath’s music and really enjoy this latest album as well. They have followed the current trend of creating a modern 80’s synth pop rock sound, but while this may be the trend these guys don’t sound like they are copying anyone.  Mutemath can take any sound and turn it on its ear, spin it around and flip it over making it instantly recognizable as Mutemath and unlike anyone else.  This is a great album so enjoy.

3.       JGivens – Flyexam – Hip Hop is in a state of flux in my opinion.  Main Stream is stagnant and fighting the decline like the rest of music industry with the same tired subjects and lyrics.  Faith based or Christian or positive Hip Hop is growing with fresh sounds, fresh lyrics and fresh subjects.  JGivens is one of the freshest out there with some crazy ideas and crazy beats.  He has a solid flow and tackles a wide variety of subjects from different angels. I really dig this one and it is my favorite Hip Hop album of the year.

4.       Pacific Gold – Sing My Welcome Home – This one took me by surprise.  A worship band taking ancient hymns and putting them to the musical stylings of the 60’s and 70’s…..  What more can I say.  It’s cool, well done and quite wonderful to listen to.  

5.       Kevin Max – Broken Temples – This is a great comeback album of sorts though I don’t think Kevin Max ever really went away.  His stint in Audio A. really seemed to help him to refocus his musical talents and help him bring forth a new album that is both creative and radio worthy.  If you haven’t heard this record you are really missing out.  

6.       Songhoy Blues – Music In Exile – I know what you are thinking.  Who the heck are these guys.  Who they are is a band from Mali that making an excellent blend of American Garage rock and African music native to Mali.  I don’t understand a word they are saying and as of now haven’t found any translations to the songs but the music is really good.

7.       KB – Tomorrow We Live – Another great Hip Hop album from Reach Records.  This is probably the most eclectic album from that label as well.  KB explores several styles throughout the album not only styles of Hip Hop but various music styles in general.  The lyrics are hard hitting and in your face as well.  KB doesn’t pull any punches and tells some great stories as well.

8.       Dustin Kensrue – Carry the Fire – Kensrue is the former lead singer of Thrice and has been releasing several solo albums as well. Most of his solo work has been very Americana and Folk styles.  This album though he explores good ole fashion rock.  Not heavy, but not soft.  Think Segar or Miller.  This album did surprise me with how good and rock’n it is.  

9.       Mat Kearny – Just Kids – Yeah I know another pop record but man is this thing good. Kearny has moved on from a Folk/Hip Hop artist to a Pop/Synth artist.  This album is really fun and great for a party.  It’s an upbeat, happy sounding, fun album.  

10.   Toby Mac – This is Not a Test – No this in not a test.  The master of Pop/Hip Hop is back with a new album that is a return to form for Toby.  He blends the pop sensibility of his last few records of the Hip Hop of DC Talk and his earlier solo albums.  Also the DC Talk reunion song is really good.

Top 20 – Ok to be honest these albums are all album that I wanted to put in my Top 10 but just didn’t quite make it.  These are all excellent albums in their own rights I just didn’t listen to them as much more they didn’t catch my attention as much as the top 10.  These are in no particular order either.

*Jon Foreman – Wonderlands – A wonderful collection of acoustic songs on 4 Eps.  Each song represents one hour of the day. *Collective Soul – See What You Started By Continuing – I love collective soul.  They are still making great music and I really like this album.   *Josh Garrels – Home – Josh is an amazing artist and I dig this album it’s just a little bit to mellow and I miss the Hip Hop influences which wouldn’t work on this album anyway.  Still it’s a really good record. *Andrew Peterson – The Burning Edge of Dawn – Peterson is an amazing singer songwriter and has been doing it much longer than it has been popular.  This another solid release from him and it is great release of stories and antidotes.   *Adele – 25 – What else is there to say that hasn’t been said already.  It’s great. *Jerry Fee – We are the Voices – Great Pop record with catchy hooks and solid lyrics.  This is a solid EP from a hard working musician that you should listen to. *Papa Roach – F.E.A.R. – Never been a fan of them in the past but gave this album a try and really liked it.  Solid hard rock release. *The Word – Soulfood – I’m a sucker for Robert Randolph and his lap steel.  This is a collaboration with the *Rend Collective – As Family We Go – Great fun folk revival worship but it’s a transition to something else album and it’s a little to Chris Tomlin at time for me. *Imagine Dragons – Smoke & Mirrors – Still good power pop rock.

Top 30 – More albums that I kept in heavy rotation.  

*Andy Mineo – Uncomfortable – This is a great hip-hop record but it just doesn’t have the hooks for continuous playback. *Star Wars: The Force Awakens – How could this not be on here. *Jose Gonzales – Vestiges & Claws – Really good stripped down singer songwriter acoustic music. *Silversun Pickups – Better Nature – great solid pop rock. *Winery Dogs – Hot Streak – 80’s rock legends come together for a second killer album *Drew Holcomb- Medicine – Another singer songwriter album but less stripped down. *Burlap to Cashmere – Freedom Souls – The boys are back with a new solid album. *Disciple – Vultures EP – Killer hard rock ep, now if only it was a full album. *Kopecky – Drug for the Modern Age – solid pop rock once again. *Derek Minor – Empire – Tennessee hip hop at it’s finest.

Top 40 – The last few bright spots in a rather musically dim year.

*Brilliance – Brother – singer songwriter worship *Alabama Shakes – Sound and Color – R&B Garage rock. *Florence + The Machine – How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful – Haunting pop rock. *Future of Forestry – Pages – An acoustic effort from a great band. *Hillsong United – Empires – Continuing to define modern worship *Gary Clark Jr. – The Story of Sonny Boy Slim – the dirty blues. *Leon Bridges – Coming Home – A return to the R&B of the 50’s & 60’s *POD – The Awakening – The Nu Metal rockers spin a concept tail. *Silent Film – Silent Film – more pop rock. *NYVES - Unleashed  - Dark brooding industrial.

 One last note.  I just discovered the group Caravan Palace and their album robot.  Amazing.

[lastweeksmusic]

Best Albums I Got in 2014

This a list of the best 40 albums that I got this year in no real order.  So I listed them in alphabetical order in two lists of 20.  The top 20 and 20 more that are really good. Anberlin - Lowborn - A rock'n farewell album that is really good and pretty much lived up to expectations.   The Black Keys - Turn Blue - I love this band.  I love the blues.  I came into this album with low expectations and really didn't like it much on the first few listens but over time it has grown on my and now it's on my best list. Colony House - When I was Younger - These guys blew me away with their power pop rock.  These guys are really, really good and once I listened to the album I really couldn't get enough of it.  Disciple - Attack - The boys are back with their first crowdfunded album and it rocks, rocks hard.  It's a great album for this band and I really like it. Foreknown - Ornithology - This has been another big year in hip/hop for me.  This guys is amazing, and blew me away his combination of hard hitting relevant lyrics and a comedic bend on suburban life.   Guardian - Almost Home - This classic rock band still has it and has released their first crowdfunded album.  These guys still have their chops and have released a great fun album. John Mark McMillan - Borderland/Borderland Sessions - This was a great year for crowdfunded albums and here is another great one.  I really dig this guys down to earth style and Dylanesqe qualities.  The Sessions album is re-recordings of the first album reimagined with various guest vocalists.  It's cool as well. Kye Kye - Fantasize - Cool, atmospheric, electronic, good.  Looking for something to kickback and relax to then this is it. Lecrae - Anomaly - The man is back with another great hip/hop album that is more open and and transparent than ever before.  With great beats and amazing lyrics.  You want groundbreaking lyrics and cutting edge beats then this is for you. Liz Vice - There's a Light - I love, love, love this album.  A throwback to the R&B sounds of the 60's and 70's with Vice's amazing voice and a feel for the gospel, what is there not to like about this album. Mali Music - Mali Is... - Now for a modern R&B album.  I kept hearing about this guy and finally gave the album a listen and it blew me away.  This is not usually my style of music to listen to but I really really dig what this guy is doing. Project 86 - Knives to the Future - Melt your face music with thought provoking lyrics that tell a story.  This concept album is really great and is a solid continuation of their previous album.   Pink Floyd - The Endless River - This band's final album Well sort of anyway.  Mostly instrumental and well it's what I like about Floyd.  If you like atmospheric acid rock from the 70's then give this a listen. Propaganda - Crimson Cord - More amazing underground hip/hop that I just can't get enough of.  This album is great and the lyrics really make me think and challenge me.  I just love what this guys is doing. Rend Collective Experiment - The Art of Celebration - Energetic worship music that is fun... Isn't that against some church law?  These guys are great and bring joy back to worship music. Steve Taylor & The Perfect Foil - Goliath - The legend is back and making great music.  For me this album lives up to all the hype and I really love what this band is doing.   Switchfoot - Fading West - For me the first great album of the year.  This band continues to amaze me and the music continues to change and evolve.  Love, love, love this album. Thousand Foot Krutch - Oxygen:Inhale - While I was hoping for a more hard hitting album over all I really like this album.  The rocking songs are rocking and the mellower songs are good and I like them.   The Choir - Shadow Weaver - Another great atmospheric album by a classic band.  I look forward to every album these guys put out but this one is their best in years. Young Oceans - I Must Find You - I love these guys airy sound and relaxed style.  No one sounds like these guys right now and they do their sound really well.

This is the next 20 albums.  No real reason these are not in the top 20 I just listened to the top 20 a little more than this 20.  These are great albums as well and should be listened to.

Bellarive - Before There Was - Solid worship Album Birdy - Fire Within - Female acoustic pop from Britain, what more do you want? The Crystal Method - The Crystal Method - The Electronic masters release another great album. Flyleaf - Between the Stars - New lead singer, slightly different sound, still great. The Fray - Helios - solid power pop rock from some well seasoned musicians.  Hillsong United - The White Album - Remixes of some the groups best songs, and it's really good. Jackie Hill Perry - The Art of Joy - This female hip/hop artist is amazing. Love her stuff. Kenny Wayne Shepherd - Goin' Home - Playing the blues classics, and playing them well. NeedToBreathe - Rivers to Wasteland - A bit more introspective and less rocking than the last album.  Still great music to listen to. Shonlock - A Night to Remember - Great pop dance hip/hop R&B.  Fun stuff. Sumerlin - Runaways - Rocking you.   Tedashii - Below Paradise - This album is amazing, and hard to listen to as Tedashii lets the pain of the last year flow into the lyrics. U2 - Songs of Innocence - Everyone seemed to complain about this album and many think it stinks.  Except me.  I like it. Chevelle - La Gargola - These hard rockers keep turning out solid music. Coldplay - Ghost Stories -  Another album panned by many but I found to be pretty good.  I do like it. Demon Hunter - Demon Hunter - These guys usually are way to heavy for me but this album really showed them stretching their styles. Dirty Loops - Loopified - Amazing musicians make really cool music. Jars of Clay - 20 - These guys keep making great music but to the time to go back and re record some fan favorites acoustically. P.O.D. - SoCal Sessions - A surprisingly good acoustic album by these Numetal veterans.  Several of the songs have surprisingly great rearrangements. Heath McNease - Among Thieves - While not my favorite of his albums this is still a great album of singer songwriter tracks.

[lastweeksmusic]

Thousand Foot Krutch - OXYGEN:INHALE review

I must admit, there has been much anticipation leading up to the release of this album for me.  I loved their previous album, The End is Where We Begin and the remixes that followed.  So does this album live up to all the hype?  Yes and No.  I'll be honest I am a little bit disappointed on the first few listens.  It just didn't smack me in the face with awesomeness and shredding.  Then I get over all that and listen to the album again, then find myself wanting to listen again and again.  It is by no means as killer as The End is Where We Begin but it is by far not their worst album or a bad album and even better it is not a bad clone or retread of The End is Where We Begin.  So we will stop comparing the two.  

OXYGEN:INHALE find TFK trying some new things, experimenting a bit, slowing it down some, testing different styles, and taking a few chances.  That is what makes this album interesting and good.  From the Southern Rock tinged "Born this Way" to the wonderful ballads of "In My Room" and "Glow" this album runs a gamut of styles and tempos.  Some have been complaining that there are only 4 rocking songs on the album, but that does not mean all the other songs are soft, 3 of them run more the mid tempo rout and are not dominated by heavy guitars and leaving 3 final balladish songs.  I do wish they would have ended the album on a heavy beat but that is just me.   I have several friends that love TFK but really enjoy their slower stuff more than the heavy rockers and the second half of the album will make them very happy.  I think this album will reach a broader audience and keep current fans happy while reaching new ones. So how does this album rate.  I say if you like TFK or like rock music with an edge in general than GO GET THIS ALBUM. 

[lastweeksmusic]

Foreknown: Ornithology

I just got some free music from Foreknown and thought you might enjoy it. You can download it here: http://noisetrade.com/foreknown/ornithology

This album is great.  Smart Lyrics, and great beats.  The low end on this album is killer and will make any system bump.  The lyrics are thought provoking and fun at the same time.  A deeper review should come soon.

[lastweeksmusic]

Watched the documentary on Big Star the other night and found it interesting and a bit sad.  So I'm giving them a listen.  Good stuff, no reason they could not have been huge.  I can see why the critics like them so much.  

[lastweeksmusic]

Kick'n it Old School and New School. 06-21-2014

So I have been on a music journey of sorts for the past couple of weeks.  Basically there haven't been any albums that have come out that have grabbed my attention.  Sure Jack White's new album, Linkin Park, and a while back The Black Keys which is by far the best of the three.  Still these either I am not a huge fan of the album or the album while good is just not holding my attention.  So what to do what to do?

I decided to go back in time musically and listen to the hits of the 1950s.  I checked out the charts on Billboard for each year and build a playlist using a streaming service.  While the hits from 1950 to 1955 were interesting, I even knew some of the songs but over all I was unfamiliar with the songs I just found it to be OK but could appreciate why they were popular. When I got into the late 50's, 56 to 59 that is the fun stuff for me.  The birth of Rock n' Roll, R&B had both Rhythm and Blues not just Rhythm and sex like it is today and Doo Whop was big as well.  It was an interesting time in music as so many varieties and style where bit hits, Rock, Easy Listening, Jazz, R&B, vocal Groups, Country/folk, it was really a blender of music on the radio at that time.  I have really been enjoying all the variety.  Yes, even the country music which had yet to develop the sound that is popular today and was more of what folk is now.  There is some good stuff there.

While I have been enjoying the classics I still was searching for something new to me.  I had been hearing about this R&B artist Mali Music, repeatedly and only hearing really good and amazing things about his new record.  So I pulled it up and gave it a listen.  I was blown away.  He put some blues back in the Rhythm and Blues as well as Soul back in the Soul music.  To top off all the great production and killer beats his lyrics are spot on.  Speaking to the listener through a grace lens and speaking how he feels about society, faith, the world, and music.  This guy has the goods and I can't seem to get enough.  You need to check out his album Mali is....

that all said Go back and listen the classics, you will get schooled and learn a lot about where music came from and see what has been lost as well.  But don't give up on new music either, eventually something will come along and blow you away.

[lastweeksmusic]

Propaganda, Swoop, JGivens, DJ Effecto Live 05-07-2014

I know I am very late with this but things have been crazy busy.  I must say I really enjoyed this concert.  The only thing I would change is I wish I had gone to this before seeing the awesome stage production put on by Switchfoot.  This was a minimalist show when it comes to stage production.  Just a few red gel par cans and some without gels.  That said everyone on this tour put on a great show.  I got to attend a Q and A before the show as well which was cool and got to chat face to face with all the artist.  

Unfortunately the show only had a few hundred in attendance but they put on show like a million were there.  Local artist B. Cooper opened up the evening with a good set of original material that caught my interest and I checked him out later.  He has some good stuff.  

Next up Humble beast's newest artist JGivens came out and gave us a taste of his talent mixing it up with some new material and tracks off his album released last year.  I am excited to see what his first Humble Beast album sounds like.  He also served as the show's MC and did a great job keeping everything flowing.

Swoop came out on stage and truly blew me away.  Another artist I was not familiar with and man he totally grabbed the crowds attention and held it.  Top quality production on his tracks and he never missed a beat live.  I really must say this is one artist you should all check out.  He was fantastic.

Finally Propaganda graces the stage with his humble awesomeness.  The guys know how to grab and hold an audience, We all knew the songs and sang or rapped along with him.  His energy was amazing as were his songs.  He did a few spoken word pieces as well as this hip hop stuff which was a great treat.  I really can not say enough good about Propaganda.  The guy has a gift and has been blessed to know how to use it.  

Overall it was a great show but I must say I did miss the light show....

[lastweeksmusic]

Switchfoot Live - 4-27-2014

I don't normally do concert reviews but then again I haven't been going to very many concerts lately.  For the past couple of years my concert experience has been limited to the WinterJam tour which I attended once again this year.  Quick review of WinterJam 2014, the production was great, the mix on the sound was bad.  

So I discovered Switchfoot was going to play War Memorial Auditorium and I just had to go.  I have been wanting to see them for years and have always dug their music and the new album is really fantastic to me.  So I got a ticket and made the trip to Nashville on a pretty dark and stormy night.  I went by myself as I could not find anyone willing to make the trip with me.  

Opening band the Kopecky Family Band was quite entertaining and won the crowd over after about three songs with their fun vibe and more rocking twist on folk revival music.  The variety of instruments used on stage kept things interesting and the band was tight no matter what instruments were being played.  They also had about a 45 minute set which I consider quite decent for an opening band.  All I can say is they won a new fan and I have enjoyed their music since the concert.  

Switchfoot came on stage next and showed Nashville why they have a good reputation and why so many people love their music.  Even with lead singer Jon Foreman fighting off a cold the energy on stage was amazing as the band powered through both new and old songs alike.

I don't remember the entire set list exactly but all I can say is wow.  The songs of their latest album Fading West were slightly heavier and even more energetic than on the album.  One thing I really loved was when they would do a different arrangement of one of their classic hits.  I always like it when bands try new things with older songs but at the same time miss the original versions.  Switchfoot found a solution.  They opened up two or three songs with vastly different arrangements, usually more acoustic than originally recorded, then at the break in the song they whole band would come back in playing the original version.  It was really cool.  

Jon also really let the audiance help sing the songs as we all knew the lyrics to almost every track.  This may have also been due to the strain on his voice from the cold but it also added to the uniqueness of the experience.  He also got out into the crowd and sang about a song and a half, and would stop to tell some stories in between songs.  He really knows how to work the crowd and keep them happy.  It was really a joy to see a band have so much fun on stage. 

Another great thing about this show was the production values.  The lights and sound were great.  Switchfoot used lasers on stage to great effect as well as some LED screens in the back to show graphics, scene from their movie and add effects lighting.  I remember two songs into their set thinking, wow this is already way better than WinterJam, and overall it really was.   I have been going to the touring festivals so much lately that I forgot how great a headline concert can be when done right and this one was done right.  It was flat out great.  

[lastweeksmusic]

A Change of sorts.... Oh and passion.....

This blog has been mainly a music review blog and that will be true still to a point but I'm going to open it up to just my thoughts and ideas in music.  Things I like, don't like and all that jazz.  So yes less reviews.

                      First up a review of sorts of the new Passion live album Take it All.  I must be honest I have been highly disappointed in the last few albums put out by Passion. These albums are live recordings taken from the Passion conferences, where multiple artist associated with the organization preform throughout the 2 to 3 day conferences.  So why have I been disappointed in the last couple of albums, when I should know what I'm getting?  Easy they became Chris Tomlin and friends live albums.  For the last two or three albums almost every song on the album was performed by Tomlin or he appeared on the song.  For someone who is not a big Tomlin fan this was frustrating.  

Now that that rant is over Passion has gone back to the way things were with multiple artist getting two songs each on the album, except Tomlin who gets three, but that's OK, he is the biggest star.  Still I found the album lacking.  The two songs by Crowder are nice and I am looking more forward to his upcoming album but overall I found the album to be very vanilla. Since that is the most popular flavor of icecream this album should sell great. I found it bland predictable and well yeah.  In general I find worship music to be stuck in one style like it was in the early 90's.  Fortunately there are some exception and they are great.  

OK, Back to Passion, if you have heard any of their live albums before then you have heard this one. I can't really recommend it though.

[lastweeksmusic]

Casting Crowns and Jamie Grace - 2-04-2014

Casting Crowns - Thrive - This group is huge, selling millions of albums with every release.  Their one standout attribute is some really great lyrics.  Their biggest flaw, although probably one of the reasons they are so popular, is their ultra bland vanilla music.  The music is never really bad but boring and well bland.  It is so much true on this album I am having a hard time listening to the lyrics before losing interest for falling asleep.  If you like their last 4 albums and don't want anything to change then you will like this one.  LISTEN IF YOU WANT.

Jamie Grace - Ready to Fly - Grace is a talented artist that has gotten a lot of help and support from her mentor Toby Mac.  Her sophomore album is good and well produced.  The music is fun and thoughtful when appropriate with all the pop trappings but also features her personal flairs and style that help make it a bit fresh.  To be honest I expected a bit more from her this time out so I have not been impressed but I do think the target audience will love it.  Like pop music GIVE IT A LISTEN.

[lastweeksmusic]

Nine Lashes, Kye Kye, Pawnshop Kings - 01-28-2014

Nine Lashes - From Water to War - The first heavy release I have gotten this year and it is pretty good.  I must admit it is a bit more pop hard rock and softer overall than I expected from this band.  They have added several more layers of synth than I remember them having in the past. That is not to say they have gone soft. This album will melt your face if you want it to with their flavor of modern hard core rock.  If you like your music on the heavier side then GIVE IT A LISTEN.

Kye Kye - Fantasize - This ambient electronic group has gathered quite a following and recognition so I decided to check it out.  It's good stuff.  I dig the vocals and the ambient music style.  It's good music to relax to, read a book to, or just to have on.  I do find the vocal a little up in the mix from time to time taking away from the ambient feel of the album but overall I like the style and sound.  The production is solid and I can see why so many have come to love this band.  GIVE IT A LISTEN.

Pawnshop Kings - PSK (ep) - With name like Pawnshop Kings I was hoping for a bluesy rootsy musical style.  The first track does not disappoint and give hope for greater things. While they do keep a blueish and roots feel to the album it is very polished.  The grit and grime that is inherent to the style is gone.  While the album is good and the lyrics well written, the production choices to try to make a more commercial album keeps it from landing on greatness and greater commercial success.  GIVE IT A LISTEN.

[lastweeksmusic]

Switchfoot and The Crystal Method - 01-21-2014

Finally some new music worth writing about has come out for 2014. Switchfoot - Fading West - I must admit I still haven't seen the documentary/concert movie the music on this album was written for and during, but I really want to, but the album is flat out great.  I can tell you now this will make the top 40 albums of the year at the end of the year.  Now to the music.  This album is poppier than their last couple of albums but that is not a bad thing.  With power hooks and great vocal the songwriting on this album really comes to life.  The first two tracks "Love Alone is Worth the Fight" and Who We Are are great power pop rock tracks that get the blood flowing and send a great message to the listener.  Don't fear rock fans the band has not forgotten their roots and foundation with track "Say it LIke You Mean it".  Every track on the album sounds like a great rock anthem.  This is by far one of the best albums I have heard in a while.  GO GET THIS NOW!!!!

The Crystal Method - The Crystal Method - While nothing this electronic duo puts out will ever be as great as their album Vegas, what they do put out is still better than most of the electronic music out there today, and this album is no exception.  I dig the beats on the album, the duo incorporate some guest vocals on several tracks quite well.  I dig how they have a unique sound and know when to change things up before a beat or sound gets old.  Want to get your groove on then this is for you.  GIVE IT A LISTEN, I think you will like it.

[lastweeksmusic]

Pictures of Silver - Paper Lanterns

Pictures of Silver is a worship rock band from Russellville Arkansas that has been garnering quite a following through out the state.  Paper Lanterns in the bands second release and a marked improvement over their freshman release.  The songs a tighter, the production more polished, the mix smoother, you can tell they have learned much over the past year of play live.  The lead singer sounds more comfortable and confident providing more passion and honesty to come through.  Most of the improvements come from the band having a year together under their belt and gelling as a band.

The album consists of 6 originals and 5 covers. The covers are solid with several having a nice spin put on them, but the originals shine more on this album bringing a different worship experience to the listener than what is heard in many churches.  It is good to hear a worship band not completely emulate the current sound of worship music so popular in churches today and try to set themselves apart.

For those who have enjoyed the bands first album, they will not be disappointed with the this album one bit.  New comers will enjoy the energy and quality brought on this album.  My only complaint about the album is they chose to cover 10,000 reasons a song I love, love, love and is done well here but has been over covered in the past year.  

If you are looking for some fresh and over all rock'n worship music then check this album out it is for you.

[lastweeksmusic]

The 40 best albums I got in 2013

So everyone has their own opinion on what the best albums released this year are.  Guess what so do I.  Now these may not be the absolute best albums but they are the ones I found myself listening to the most. Lets get started. 1-10 - OK I don't really make a list of 1-40 I do groupings of 10.   The Rend Collective Experiment - Campfire - I just love, love this album.  It is very unique.  It's a live, studio album of sorts.  They recorded this album around a campfire on a beach in Ireland, but it sounds like it was recorded in studio.  Yep, and it has an energy about it that is infectious and required repeated listens.  To add to that awesomeness this music is really good and catchy in a folk revival vein without sounding like a knockoff. This collection of original worship anthems is also positive and provides new imagery desperately needed in worship music today.   Bombino - Nomad - Probably my other favorite international album of the year and much more obscure.  This guy is a talented guitar player and I find it refreshing and interesting he is singing in his native tongue being from Niger.  Produced by Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys the album has a very raw garage band sound to it that matches Bombino's style and feel.  This is an album you are just going to have to listen to to understand so go find it now. 

Heath McNease - Weight of Glory Second Edition - Normally I don't include remix albums  but this is unique.  McNease does a hip-hop remix of his amazing acoustic album based on the works of C.S. Lewis.  It is really good with some solid production and thought out lyrics and beats overlaying the foundation laid down on the original Weight of Glory.  It is also a pay what you can album and I highly recommend everyone check it out.

Jars of Clay - Inland - I have always liked and had respect for the music created by JoC.  This album is not exception.  Leaving behind the now very popular 80's synth sound and finding them exploring a more indi rock sound with suits them quite well.  I really like this album, the sounds, the lyrics, the moods, the band does a great job of layering them all together here.  Another solid release from a solid band.

Leagues - You Belong Here - This band consisting of singer/songwriter Thad Cockrell, former Audio A. guitarist Tyler Burkum and drummer Jeremy Lutito is magical.  They are the perfect mix creating solid power rock with great hooks and fun yet though provoking lyrics.  This album has really been in constant rotation on my iPod.  This album seriously blows away most anything on pop radio today. Junip - Junip - Another band started by a singer/songwriter and some friends.  This is a solid acoustic rock album with a flair for the experimental and Pink Floyd.  It just has a great groove through out.  The lyrics are solid as well and the album call to be listened to over and over.  

The Civil Wars - The Civil Wars - Probably the leased listened to album in the top 10.  Not because it shouldn't be here but it is kind of depressing to listen to as the band basically self destructed before the album released.  It is a masterful and beautiful album to listen to and the lyrics bring to light some of the struggles that took place internally within the band.  The magic is still there though it doesn't shine quite as bright. Still this is a fantastic album and wonderfully produced. Eisley - Currents - Ahhh the voices of angels.  I love the voices from this band and the music is unique and intriguing as well.  I am so glad this band is back after being away for a few years.  The album is what I could hope for an ever evolving sound and maturing of the lyrics without losing the sound that makes this band who they are.  Great female fronted alternative rock that is thoughtful and respectful while not shying away from the problems in life. Beautiful Eulogy - Instruments of Mercy - Even if you don't like rap or hip-hop you need to give this group a try.  The music is not your standard hip-hop sound it's more like garage, coffee shop, hippy hip-hop and the lyrics.  Oh, the lyrics.  Thought provoking, challenging, insightful, meaningful, and mind blowing.  One of the best hip-hop group around today. Five Iron Frenzy - Engine of a Million Plots - What you thought we would get through the top ten without FIF making the cut.  Yeah right.  While the album is not quite what I expected from FIF I cannot deny the awesomeness that is this album.  It is a modern pop rock album with horns and it is really solid.  The lyrics while not quite as fun and silly over all still shine with wit and tongue in cheek but also more mature and covering a wide range of topics.  I really do like this album is I think it is great. 11-20 - After the first 10 the info is going to be getting less and less.  Hey I need to get this posted and I don't have all year. John Elefante - On My Way to the Sun - To be honest and progressive rock album is the last thing I expected from Mr. Elefante after is previous solo albums.  This thing is amazing and really good.

Jonny Lang - Fight for My Soul - I have been a fan since his first album and still think he turns out great blues/rock/gospel/jazz fusion music.  It may not be radio friendly but it is killer good. Skillet - Rise - Another band I have loved for a long time and think the new album is great.  They haven't lost their edge.  My only complaint is I am no longer the target audience for their lyrics but I cannot deny the music.

Robert Randolph & The Family Band - Lickety Split - You want a party pop this album in.  It is rock'n and fun not two ways about it.  The lyrics are bit generic but the tunes are great.   The Digital Age - Evening & Morning - So what would the David Crowder band sound like without Crowder.  Turns out great.  I really dig this album.  The worship anthems are solid and catchy while they still take the time to explore music and experiment.  

The Ember Days - More than You Think - This female fronted alternative worship band shows you there is more to worship music than just power choruses or ballads.  This is an intimate and personal worship album James Blake - Overgrown - What if Dubset went singer/songwriter?  You would get this album.  While it is programming and loops and an interesting vocal style, Blake take care to think about his lyrics and structure his songs. The Winery Dogs - The Winery Dogs - You want shredding guitars, classic rock vocals, and pure awesomeness then this is for you.  A supergroup made up of three musicians that have been around for years this album is everything you want if you dig the guitar solo. Gungor - I am Mountain - Another album for songs of worship of God that is not your traditional worship album.  These are not anthems to be sung in church persay but songs for you to worship God where you are at and provide a soundtrack for your day. Hillsong United - Zion - The opposite of Gungor this is all about corporate worship.  Strong anthems, great hooks while adopting the 80's synth revival sound.  It catchy and will have you listening over and over again. 

21-30 We are getting there. Audrey Assad - Fortunate Fall - You always take a small risk of backing albums on Kickstarter.  This was one of my better investments.  I really love this album.  It is worshipful and relaxing.  I enjoy listening while doing my bible study. Andy Mineo - Heroes for Sale - Adding a bit of a latin flair to the hip-hop sound Mineo is a killer rap artist.  Solid top notch production, mad beats and lyrics that you don't want to miss this is one of premier hip-hop albums of the year. Charlie Hall - The Death of Death - Being independent has been good for Hall.  While he still brings his signature style and sound to the Church through his worship choruses the album just as an edge and eagerness missing from so many worship albums today. Citizens - Citizens - Want to add a bit of rock to your worship music?  Citizens is a solid rock band that also brings worship lyrics to their sound.  It's great stuff that should be jammed out to. Daniel Bashta - The Invisible - Another Worship song writer that doesn't try to write for the large church meeting though some songs work in that setting, these songs are about connecting you to God and being an channel for your personal time and worship.   Kendra Morris - Mockingbird - I had never heard of Kendra Morris until I heard her cover of Shine On You Crazy Diamond during the credits of a TV show.  She can Flat sing and this album of cover provides you with some amazing renditions of classic songs. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club - Specter at the Feast - To be this album is the almost Black Keys album.  It's good just not as good as.  Still If you want some dirty blues rock that is of great quality then this is the album for you. Olafur Arnalds - For Now I Am Winter - This is some crazy good mostly instrumental music that sounds like it should be in a movie.  Creative, stirring, relaxing, and even creepy at times this beautiful collection of songs was one of the great finds of 2013. Midlake - Antiphon - I heard this band recommended on a podcast and I am so glad I checked it out.  Solid alternative pop rock with a psychedelic bend to it.   Heath McNease - Jesus Shuttlesworth...The Mixtape - This guy keeps making great music.  This mix tape take some of the most popular mainstream hip-hop songs and they get McNease'd which in the end makes them better.

31-40 Almost done. Tedeschi Trucks Band - Made Up Mind - Solid blues rock with one of the best album cover of the year. The Slide Brothers - Robert Randolph Presents the Slide Brothers - These are the guys that taught Randolph to play. Some Guy Named Robb - 7 - This is a great album by Robb a singer/songwriter from Russellville, AR.  The songs are well thought out with lyrics both challenging and thought provoking.  Not ashamed to speak the truth and not afraid to stretch himself musically this is a great album to discover Robb with and become a fan. Gustavo Santaolalla - The Last of Us soundtrack - A hunting and wonderful soundtrack to a video game.  If the game is half as good as this music it is amazing. Fiction Family - Fiction Family Reunion - More cohesive and poppier than their previous album this is a solid follow up for this group. Dustin Kensrue - The Water & The Blood - Former lead singer of Thrice brings a solo album of original worship songs that bucks the system. Soul of the Matter - A collection of independent urban artist that let their music shine and lets you explore musical styles and sound that you may not normally listen to, or help you discover new artist in the styles you already like.  This album is well worth the listen. Matt Redman - Your Grace Finds Me - One of the most blessed songwriters of our time is back with a new album of worship anthems.  Stand up, listen to the lyrics, Sing at the top of your voice and worship. Ben Harper with Charlie Musselwhite - Get Up! - Da Blues and nothing but da blues.  Also featuring the expected killer harmonica solo. Derek Webb - I was wrong, I'm sorry & I love you - Webb is not afraid to say he has made some mistakes and that he has grown and changed.  Have you?

The Getaway Car - Maps - I know it's 41 but I'm adding this in last second because technically it released this year and is an amazing album.  Full of power pop hooks, great lyrics and solid production this is definitely an album to track down and get.  I wore it out at the end of last year and the beginning of this year.  It is a great album and I think everyone should get it.  

Those are the 40 albums that really caught my attention this year.  I hope you like and that you take the time to give some of them a listen. Also I would be remiss if I didn't mention these EP's that are worth your time as well. Harvest - Curtains - Just a beautiful album of songs to God and about God by the sister of Daniel Bashta Heath McNease - American Snake Oil Salesman Visit the Great White North - A great folk hip-hop blend EP about McNease's tour in Canada. Sleeping at Last - Atlas - This series of 4 ep's so far is really great and provide a great addition to any music collection.

Thousand Foot Krutch - Metamorphosiz: The End Remixes, Vol. 2 - Solid, great, interesting remixes brought to you by some of the remix masters.

Rock on in 2014.