Top 5 of 2011!
Welcome to my Top 5 albums of the year. I loved listening to music this year. I got married and did all sorts of life changing things this year and music led the way. I hope you enjoy these albums for yourself. I have included sample tracks too! Enjoy!
5) Eddie Vedder - Ukulele Songs
Eddie Vedder is soulful and his solo album devoted to the tiny ukulele delivers big. A collection of originals and cover songs, this album is the perfect backdrop for an evening curled up in a blanket. Much like his Into The Wild soundtrack, this album is chill, but still manages to make my heart beat faster. Bonus points for covering “Tonight You Belong to Me” which is one of my favorite scenes in the movie “The Jerk”. Listen to it above.
4) Childish Gambino - Camp
In a year that featured another strong album by Jay-Z and Kanye West, comedian Donald Glover (of Community fame), delivers an honest and thoughtful rap album about growing up black and becoming successful under the moniker, Childish Gambino. The formula isn’t all that different from the likes of Kanye or Drake, but Childish Gambino makes it accessible, even to a Cracker. Check out one of his more edgy tracks, “Firefly” above.
3) Fountains of Wayne - Sky Full of Holes
It makes me so happy to see Fountains of Wayne release another album after 4 years. They specialize in pure power pop and this album does not disappoint. The charming lyrics and the stylish vocals makes any drive to work a summertime cruise with the top down. The first track on the album, “Summer Place” is deep and clingy, but fun and catchy all at the same time. Check it out above.
2) Mike Birbiglia - Sleepwalk with Me (Live)
Number 2 on the list is a comedy album. Comedy Radio came to town this year and as a result I have had the chance to listen to comics I might not have. BirBigs is one of them. His new album (which turned into a one-man broadway show) is essentially one long story with many many tangents. I have included track 1 to get you started, I promise you his awkward take on life will make you laugh!
1) Saintseneca - Last
My top album of the year by a LONG shot is Ohio band, Saintseneca. Their first album Last is an amazing folk explosion. His vocals weave in and out of the music like a dart and I love every second of it. This album has been on repeat since it was given to me. I would love to see them live!
