So – I haven’t posted on here in a while. I’ve been very busy over at True North Records and Linus Entertainment, where I’ll remain on contract to the labels for a little while longer. I’m loving my time over there, but that doesn’t mean you can’t drop me a line. Though I won’t be working any more freelance projects for a while, if you think I might dig your music, or it might be a good fit for True North or Linus, please get in touch!
That said, 2011 has been a wonderful year for music and I can’t help but share my top picks for the best 20 songs of the year. Coming in at #20, in a very arbitrary order that changes as often as I change my hair colour, is James Vincent McMorrow’s “Hear The Sound That Moves So Soft and Slow.” Basically, Early In The Morning is one of my favourite records — as a whole. It doesn’t have any one song that particularly stands out from another. They’re all very, very good. James Vincent McMorrow’s voice is so entirely ethereal that you can’t help but be whisked away on a soft, warm cloud of sound. I know. Lame. But I swear it’s true. It’s truly a case of “he could sing me the phone book and it would be beautiful.” Personally, I just happen to like “Hear The Sound…” the best. I’m not sure why. I’ve always been more of a melody than lyrics person, so I think the pretty, simple, melancholic melody just sucks me in and makes me want more. It was also my first introduction to James Vincent McMorrow, after my favourite Music Director suggested him to me.
Check out the video below, filmed by one my favourite live video series, Wood & Wires.
Also – I should mention I had some very serious honorable mentions. In process of elimination, they didn’t make the cut.
Nicki Minaj – Super Bass
- Yes, I realize this record came out last year. It’s a 2011 single though and that counts. I will, for the rest of time, dance around in my underwear around my room to this song.
Cannon Bros – Out of Here
- I seriously love this song. This Winnipeg duo remind me of the indie rock I missed out on because I listened to the radio too much in high school. It’s just fucking cool. It’s simple, but with an undeniably catchy, infectious hook. It really is one of my favourite songs this year and I can’t wait to watch this band grow.
The Rural Alberta Advantage – Two Lovers
- I think I have a penchant for simple, pretty songs. This is one of those.
The Ettes – Excuse
- I love kick-ass female fronted rock and roll bands. Especially when they play some mean, dirty guitars and thumping drums. More women need to play kick-ass rock and roll like this.
Dawes – A Little Bit Of Everything
- Taylor Goldsmith is probably the one of the best songwriters to come out of the last 5 years. His songwriting sensibilities are so timeless. This track didn’t make the cut because I think the Middle Brother album is better than Dawes’ release, but this song is so intense, I probably should have found room for it on the list. He’s also one of the best guitar players and most intense performers I’ve ever seen live. So genuine and believable.
ALRIGHT. I’m sure I could go on. Must. Stop. Making. Top. 20. List. It. Started. Out. As. A. Top. 10.
See you tomorrow.
