10. Algiers, Calexico
A Calexico album is always good. I miss the more cinematic, sweeping, Cormac McCarthy-esque instrumentals of their first albums, but
Algiers is solid. It is pristine and beautiful in its orchestration and production. Definitely my favorite Calexico record since
Feast of Wire.
9. Mr. M, Lambchop
Just like Calexico, I will always have spot in my heart and in my year-end list for a Lambchop release. Kurt's voice has somehow softened even more than his usual breathy delivery (a Lambchop hallmark). There is a vunerability to each line that glows along with the delicate orchestration that sways with each song.
8. There's No Leaving Now, The Tallest Man on Earth
There seems to be a theme developing here. Another album that shines from the delicacy and tenderness it displays. This album deserves multiple plays. Easily this Swedish songwriter's best album.
7. In Our Heads, Hot Chip
Hot Chip is in full house-dance-mode here. These songs are densely electronic and processed. But in a good way.
6. Lonerism, Tame Impala
I admit it. At first, I was not slurping the Pitchfork Kool-Aid on this album. I listened to the first single "Elephant." Blah blah, meh. But later I heard the sublime "Feels Like We Only Go Backwards." Then I rushed out to hear this record, and I'm glad I did. "Elephant" is still weak though. Hipster stuff...
5. Tempest, Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan is on a roll. He has made nothing but wonderful albums ever since
Time Out of Mind. Subtract the last two songs from this album and it might have ranked even higher.
4. I Know What Love Isn't, Jens Lekman
Upon first listen, I admit I did miss the quirky samples Jens would spice his songs with. But on second and third and fourth listens, I am definitely attracted to the charming songwriting, arrangements and sentiments here.
3. Kill For Love, The Chromatics
Listen to this album and write. Listen to this album and paint. Listen to this album and make out. Listen to this album.
2. Celebration Rock, Japandroids
This album is everything that indie rock is supposed to be. Retreat away from the computer rock that has been dominating the indie scene the past three years. Travel back to the days when the kids were influenced by Husker-Du. This album rocks.
1. Attack on Memory, Cloud Nothings
Steve Albini produces masterpieces. This album ran the table for me in 2012. It was my favorite album the first time I listened to it. I'm sad to see that it hasn't been getting much love lately. They're overlooking you, Dylan Baldi.
