Smitty posted on December 22, 2011 00:00
It is that time of year again, a chance to look back at everything that made this past year special in 2011. This year for me it was the trips I made to Bonnaroo, Beale Street, and Kanrocksas Music Festivals, and the multiple great local concerts I attended. It is also that time of year where the “year-end” lists start popping up all over the place. For me, the ones that I am most interested in are the year-end music lists put out by the top music websites I like to frequent on the Internet. Over the past month I have looked over plenty of lists for “Best Albums of 2011”, and like most people I am sure, found myself disagreeing quite often. However, instead of complain about it and comment on how wrong someone’s list was, I decided to create my own. That is the beautiful thing about music. It appeals to and effects everyone in a different way. And who am I to tell you whether your particular tastes in music are right or wrong? No critic in the world today is right or wrong, everyone is entitled to an opinion. This is one reason why I do not write about artists I do not like in my blog or on insideSTL.com. I understand that while I may not like a particular artist or their music, there are plenty of people out there who do. These artists put their hard work, time, money, and entire lives into their passion to try and make a living doing what they love to please music fans everywhere, so why would I criticize them just because I may not like the product of their efforts? It is much easier to simply not listen and to not talk about it. In contrast, focus on what I do like and appreciate. So with that said, here are my top 50 albums for 2011. I can guarantee you that you will disagree with this list. Remember, this list is a reflection of only one person’s particular taste in music this year…myself. If you do not like it, I encourage you to try making one yourself. It is not as easy as you would think…
50. Bombay Bicycle Club - A Different Kind Of Fix46. Reptar - Oblangle Fizz, Y'All
27. Wilco - The Whole Love
17. M83 - Hurry Up We're Dreaming
It was extremely difficult (almost impossible) to pick a #1 album out of my entire top 10 albums actually. Every single one is stellar in its own way and I can listen to on any particular day depending on what mood I am in. But in the end, I gave the top spot to the lesser known underdogs from North Wales, 'The Joy Formidable', edging out two of my favorite bands in 'Coldplay' and 'The Black Keys'. Their thunderous debut album The Big Roar is unbelievable top to bottom and I found myself listening to it the most in 2011. Dave Grohl of the 'Foo Fighters' this year tweeted and personally thanked the band for "writing the song of the year in "Whirring"". You won't see me arguing with Mr. Grohl. Not to mention, The Joy Formidable puts on one hell of a live show, which I saw all three times in Saint Louis this year. I just can’t get enough of this band’s raging rock! Hopefully 2012 brings more of the same from this talented trio.
(The Joy Formidable - "Whirring" - The Big Roar)
Comments? Agree/Disagree? I'd love to hear it! Hit me up on my Facebook Music Blog Fanpage HERE or comment below. Don't worry, I can take it :) I'm also always looking for new music to look up myself. Help me out!