My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 5-1

5. Eternal Summers, Correct Behavior

Correct Behavior is a killer rock record that manages to sound both completely effortless and like a new classic already. Nicole Yun really comes into her own as front woman, crushing the delivery on both snot-nosed anthems like "Wonder" and gentle rockers like "Summerset." The band's newly expanded line-up means songs are deeper and more complex, and the sequencing of the record is just brilliant, transitioning from punk-y rockers to dark, new wave-y sounds before ending on a low-key note. This is a record I can listen to over and over and never tire of.

See also: Music Video Mondays: Eternal Summers Get Ready to Rage; What I'm listening to: Eternal Summers (via Philly.com)


4. Tame Impala, Lonerism

Lonerism's thick, swirling psychedelics surprised me the first time I listened to this record, which sounds more like The Beatles than anything I've heard in years (which is a good thing.) This record is so dense and so encompassing; listening always feels like entering into some trippy fantasy world. I love the way this record makes me feel -- so open, and relaxed -- and I love the way the songs flow together effortlessly. What really sets Lonerism apart though is the fact that it's not just a dreamy journey -- Kevin Parker touches on topics like love, isolation, and happiness while covering everything in a blanket of clouds.

See also: Haiku Review: Tame Impala; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 25-21

3. King Tuff, King Tuff

King Tuff -- the debut record from LA-via-Vermont rockers King Tuff -- is a record that knows better than to take itself too seriously. It's peppered with hand claps, and jaunty power chords, and lyrics about hanging with friends and smoking pot. It's low-key, and fun, and shuffles along at midtempo, offering easy-going jams  that you feel like you've heard a million times before. And that's exactly why I like this so much: when I'm listening to music in the car, or on my stereo as I hang out in my apartment, this is exactly what I want it to sound like. It's comfy and familiar like a worn-it hoodie, and I could laze about listening all day.

See also: Music Video Mondays: King Tuff; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 20-16


2. Savoir Adore, Our Nature

Savoir Adore have something special going. There are tons of bands out there making similarly dreamy, sparkly pop, but none doing it quite as well as Savoir Adore. It's an energy, I think, that allows core duo Paul Hammer and Deidre Muro to craft these magical, floaty songs imbued with passion and  energy. Perhaps it's the overarching storyline that ties Our Nature together -- the story of an unlikely love between a girl and a monster -- but I think it's something more. It's a nuanced understanding of dance beats (which underscore exuberant ragers "Loveliest Creature" and "Sparrow"); it's an ability to craft melodies that progress in ways you don't expect; and to draw out emotion genuinely, with music that expands and contracts like a heart beat. This record is so beautiful and so transportive, it's hard to believe these guys aren't huge.

See also: INTRVW: Savoir Adore; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 10-6


1. Django Django, Django Django

Of all the records I listened to this year, none seemed as unique and enveloping as Django Django, the debut record from the Edinburgh foursome of the same name. Django Django exists completely in its own world: a world of windswept deserts and futuristic cowboys; where the future meets the past as classic rock tropes are reinvented with electronic flourishes and collaged together into something new and interesting. This is a record that reminds me that music can still be new and creative, and it helps that it actually sounds good, and isn't angular and inaccessible (like early Dirty Projectors). There's so much I love here: the lush harmonies atop relentless chugging on "Hail Bop"; the quirky, bloopy bounce of "Default"; the thick, drippy refrain of "Zumm Zumm." Mostly though I love that this record is such a fun listen -- which always keeps you guessing and intrigued.

See also: Best New Music: Django Django; Music Video Mondays: Kaleidoscoping with Django Django; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 5-1


See also: My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 10-6
My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 15-11
My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 20-16
My Top 30 Songs of 2012

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My Top 5 Under the Radar Acts of 2012

Every year the "music machine" (if you will) controls so much of what we listen to and read about...that sometimes it's nice to spotlight the little guys. Over at The Key, I break down my top 5 under the radar acts of 2012. These are bands you won't read about on Pitchfork...but are DEFINITELY worth your time to explore. Head over there to check it out!

Google image result #17 for "Under the Radar LoL"

My cat does the exact same thing when she has misbehaved

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My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 10-6

10. Work Drugs, Absolute Bearing

Work Drugs definitely score the top spot in the local band category for me this year, and this record rules because it does such a great job establishing a mood and a feeling. Work Drugs have long proved masters at creating smooth, hazy, dance floor jamz, and this record plays like a twinkling fantasy, where late night grooving always leads to sex, and your chosen partner still looks attractive the next morning.

See also: What I'm listening to: Work Drugs (via Philly.com)




9. Guided by Voices, The Bears for Lunch

The Bears for Lunch is one of the most sonically-cohesive records GBV have released in years and contains some absolutely gorgeous songwriting, from Tobin Sprout's "The Corners Are Glowing" and "Waving at Airplanes" to Pollard's "White Flag" and "She Lives in an Airport." Compared to other GBV records, Bears is also gentler and mellower -- a record to wake up to slowly, rather than rock out -- with psychedelic flourishes than recollect Neutral Milk Hotel, or even The Beatles. It's not new territory for these prolific giants -- but it's probably their best release in a decade.

8. Japandroids, Celebration Rock

Celebration Rock is, in many ways, the exact opposite of The Bears for Lunch -- while the latter is quiet and demure, Celebration Rock explodes with the fury of years of pent-up angst and confusion. This is a record fueled by youth, and restlessness, by the open road and possibilities. Brian King draws from a variety of sources, but all of them epic, rousing and cathartic: Bruce Springsteen, emo, power ballads -- and pushes each song to its sweat-soaked limit. These songs aren't the result of fun studio experimentations -- they're the result of an absolute need to rock, and as a result they feel hard-earned and earnest. The record also contains my absolute favorite song of the year in the rollicking, anthemic "The House That Heaven Built."

See also: My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 5-1; What I'm listening to: Japandroids (via Philly.com)


7. Cloud Nothings, Attack on Memory

20 years after Nevermind --  a record that practically defined angst and grunge -- we get Cloud Nothings' Attack on Memory, a raw, manic, and sometimes heavy affront from a band whose first record played like a tribute to late '90s pop-punk. Much like Celebration Rock, Memory is propelled by angst and aggression -- but while Japandroids explode in bits of fiery passion, Cloud Nothing's Dylan Baldi prefers to let songs simmer and stew -- from the slow growth of opener "No Future/No Past" to the 9-minute rager that is "Wasted Days." And in between these moments of intensity are lighter -- although still passionate -- punk-rock nugs, like the harmony-laden "Fall In" and the catchy, irreverent "Stay Useless."

See also: Music Video Mondays: Witch Gardens Go Blindfolded + Cloud Nothings Exploit Synchronized Swimmers; Best New Music: Cloud Nothings; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 15-11


6. Thee Oh Sees, Putrifiers II

Putrifiers II is a great rock record; it's also a great rock record that has some freakin' balls. John Dwyer and co. released 13 records before this one, which gave them plenty of time to perfect their sound, and indeed, Putrifiers II is nearly perfect, from volatile opener "Wax Face" to symphonic, low-key closer "Wicked Park." And nestled in between are melodic garage rock charmers like "Hang a Picture" and "Flood's New Light," and math-y post punk jammers like "Lupine Dominus."

See also: My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 10-6; What I'm listening to: Thee Oh Sees (via Philly.com)


Check out nos. 15-11 here, and nos. 20-16 here, and stay tuned for the final 5 on Monday, December 31.

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My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 15–11

15. Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti, Mature Themes

Mature Themes might lack the clear take-away single that listeners found in 2010's "Round and Round," but there's no doubt that this is one of the most creative and unique records of the year, from the '70s sleaze of "Is This the Best Spot?" to the disco beat (and horse whinnying) of "Symphony of the Nymph." And in between are straight-up radio charmers -- like the lush, romantic "Only in My Dreams" and a cover of blue-eyed soul number "Baby." Ariel Pink might be a weirdo but he's a weirdo who writes some damn good tunes.

See also: Ariel Pink's Haunted Photos; Best New Music: Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti (via Philly.com)


14. Chairlift, Something

Compared to its predecessor Do You Inspire You, Something is more of an icy pop record, which occasionally effervesces into moments of pure exuberance. Not surprising, it's these numbers that I'm drawn to most -- the fantastical, free-wheeling "Have We Met Before"; the gorgeous, cloying "I Belong in Your Arms"; the insanely catchy "Amanaemonesia." And while the rest of the record lacks the same immediacy, it also provides needed contrast, allowing the pure pop moments to really sparkle.

See also: Music Video Mondays: Chairlift's "Choose Your Own Adventure" Adventure; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 5-1; Best New Music: Chairlift


13. Spiritualized, Sweet Heart Sweet Light

Sweet Heart Sweet Light is a massive album, both in terms of scope and sound: these are not mere songs but grandiose anthems, dealing with themes like death and redemption with the help of full choirs and strings. Front man Jason Pierce has always had a tendency toward melodrama, but this record works so well because it never feels forced. And while songs like driving single "Hey Jane" approach 9 minutes, their length feels earned, as Pierce weaves a complex and engaging tale.

12. Woods, Bend Beyond

Bend Beyond, the 7th full length from Brooklyn's Woods, plays like a laid-back, sunny drive through the California forests: full of easy-going melodies and gently sparkling harmonies. The most refined record yet, both in terms of production and vision, Bend Beyond was actually recorded far from the city in upstate New York, which explain the limitless, soaring melodies. From the bright harmonica and falsetto on lead single "Cali in a Cup" to the spooky, windswept percussion of "Size Meets the Sound," this a record for lazy days and easy nights, hanging out and enjoying good tunes with good friends.

11. Allo Darlin', Europe

If Woods' Bend Beyond is mellow and easy-going, Allo Darlin's Europe -- their second and best LP to date -- is a slice of pure summer pop, with gentle, earnest melodies and catchy refrains that get stuck in your head for days. Elizabeth Morris's voice is soft and soothing, and she has a way of infusing each line with so much emotion that these songs wash over you like a warm wave -- from the effortless refrain of opener "Neil Armstrong" to the sparkling guitar of "Capricornia" and the restless energy of "Still Young."

See also: My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 10–6


Check out nos. 20–16 here, and stay tuned for 10–6 tomorrow.


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My Top 20 Records of 2012: Nos. 20–16

Every year, coming up with my top 30 songs is easy -- because at 3 minutes a piece (give or take a minute), songs are easy to digest, and my favorites are the ones that get stuck in my head all year. Coming up with my favorite records however is much harder, because there's so much more to think about. It's not just the songs themselves, but how well they fit together, and the overall mood and feeling of the record. In my mind, a perfect record should be composed of all perfect singles, which -- when played one after another -- result in something greater than the sum of its parts.

This year though, there's less overlap than usual between my favorite songs and my favorite records -- which proves that sometimes it really is the whole record -- and not the singles -- that matters. Thus I present:


20. Alex Winston, King Con

Detroit songstress Alex Winston has a gorgeous + unique voice, and on debut record King Con, she employs it to stunning effect. From perfect radio singles (the honeyed "Locomotive") to clappy throwbacks ("Choice Notes") and moments of pure pop exuberance ("Medicine"), King Con manages to hit all my sweet spots, without sounding cloying.  Stream it for free via Spin.

See also: Best New Music: Alex Winston


19. The Bastards of Fate, Who's a Fuzzy Buddy

I've already written about Who's a Fuzzy Buddy at length here and elsewhere, noting its ingenious marriage of disparate sound effects, fractured melodies, and rock-meets-psych-meets-jazz-meets-noise sensibilities. This weird, schizophrenic record is certainly not for everyone --  but for lovers of advant-garde (or simply music that doesn't sound like everything else), this record kills.

See also: Music Video Mondays: The Bastards of Fate + Reptile Youth; Best New Music: The Bastards of Fate; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 5-1


18. Islands, A Sleep & A Forgetting

One thing I love about Nick Diamonds, Islands front man, is that he constantly keeps you guessing. After 3 records of lush, quirky indie pop, Diamonds strips down on his 4th LP to offer a moving record of heartache and heart break. From hummable singalong "Lonely Love" to jaunty piano jawn "Hallways" -- this record resonates with sincerity and simplicity: a record for early mornings or whenever you're feeling down.

See also: Best New Music: Islands; My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 25-21


17. Divine Fits, A Thing Called Divine Fits

The Handsome Furs and Spoon are two of my all-time faves, so it should come as no surprise that I also dig Divine Fits, a collaboration between Dan Boeckner and Britt Daniel, with New Bomb Turks' Sam Brown on drums. As Divine Fits, they mine elements from all these groups, resulting in a straight-up rock record full of nervy guitars, sputtering melodies and dramatic, high-stakes wailing. Their live show was pretty epic too.

See also: Haiku Review: Divine Fits; What I'm listening to: Divine Fits (via Philly.com)


16. Crocodiles, Endless Flowers 

 Critics seems apt on comparing Endless Flowers, the third LP from San Fran rockers Crocodiles, to Dum Dum Girls' End of Daze -- a comparison based solely on the fact that Crocs' Brendon Welchez is married to (Dum Dum Girls') Dee Dee Gundred. Said comparison often results in DDG coming out on top, if only because Dum Dum Girls keep evolving, while Crocs remain relatively stagnant...but the truth of the matter is, I like this Crocodiles record a whole lot better. There's something to be said for picking a genre and really perfecting it, and Endless Flowers plays like a lost tribute to 60's psychedelia, full of lush harmonies, big flourishes, and easy-going melodies. It might not be the most creative record of the year, but it's still an enjoyable and absolutely satisfying listen, particularly on cathartic rockers like "Sunday (Psychic Conversation #9)" and the absolutely euphoric "My Surfing Lucifer."

 

See also: Music Video Mondays: Creepy Consciousness

Stay tuned for nos. 15–11 tomorrow.

See also: My Top 30 Songs of 2012

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My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 5–1

5. Chairlift, "Amanaemonesia"
Seeing Chairlift live this winter confirmed one thing in my brain: Caroline Polachek is very strange, and very brilliant, and "Amanaemonesia" is proof of both. On the surface, this is straight-up '80s revivalist pop, but there are so many great little details here that really elevate it: the computerized vocal echoes, the steel drum and ghostly background voices in the breakdown, the vaguely menacing bridge -- all contrasted with lush, feminine vocals. "I Belong In Your Arms" is pretty great too, but it was this weird gem that nestled in my skull all winter.

See also: Music Video Mondays: Chairflift's "Choose Your Own Adventure" Adventure; Best New Music: Chairlift


4. Django Django, "Hail Bop"
Of all the songs on this list, Django Django's "Hail Bop" definitely does the best job of establishing its own little world: in this case, a warm, futuristic desert full of animated gifs and psychedelic drugs (or at least that's how I see it), where space cowboys ride alien seahorses over the horizon. This song is so unique and uniquely enveloping, sometimes I forget I'm listening to music, and imagine I'm actually there (in the futuristic desert that is.)

See also: Best New Music: Django Django; Music Video Mondays: Django Django


3. Passion Pit, "Constant Conversations"
2012 was a tough year for Passion Pit front man Michael Angelakos, full of breakdowns and canceled tours -- but it also produced "Constant Conversations," an affecting slow-jam from a man who, up to this point, I thought was only capable of overblown dance ragers. "Constant Conversations" is raw; it's heart-breaking; it's bluesy and soulful and honest. But more than that, it's an affirmation that yeah, shit be crazy, but we can make it through.

See also: Haiku Review: Passion Pit



2. The Bastards of Fate, "Fan Fiction Writer"
This strange, schizophrenic nug might be the weirdest on the list, but that's part of why I like it so much. In just 3 minutes, The Bastards of Fate seem to capture the fractured essence of Life in the 21st Century: disparate sounds clashing together like the clamor of the city, the bleeps and bloops of video games and cell phones; the sensory overload of logging into Facebook. "I"m not the only one who sits at home and stares at the Internet instead of going out and having fun," wails front man Doug Cheatwood at the start, only to forgot this mantra seconds later to declare: "If it's your birthday, we'll throw you a party!" Is not the modern 20-something defined by Twitter and partying? He concludes by  insisting, maniacally "Everybody's on drugs, everybody's on drugs!" Maybe not, but we certainly need SOMETHING to entertain us.

See also: Music Video Mondays: The Bastards of Fate + Reptile Youth; Best New Music: The Bastards of Fate


1. Japandroids, "The House That Heaven Built"
Japandroids might have had a rocky climb to the top, full of perforated ulcers and temper tantrums -- but damn it, this song rules so hard, it shouldn't even be a called a song. It's a freaking anthem -- about doing what's right for you, even when the odds are stacked against you -- and it sounds best belted into a hairbrush or out a car window, cruising down the highway, leaving your cares behind. "And if they try and slow them down," declares Brian King. "Just tell 'em all to go to hell." Rager of the year + words to live by to boot.

See also: What I'm listening to: Japandroids (via Philly.com)


Stream the whole thing for free via 8tracks or Spotify (although note: some songs are not available on Spotify) and stay tuned for my top 20 records of 2012, starting on Wednesday,  December 26.


See also: My Top 30 songs of 2012: Nos. 10–6
My Top 30 songs of 2012: Nos. 15–11
My Top 30 songs of 2012: Nos. 20–16
My Top 30 songs of 2012: Nos. 25–21
My Top 30 songs of 2012: Nos. 30–26


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My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 10–6

10. Guided by Voices, "Class Clown Spots a UFO"
Of the three GBV records released this year, Class Clown Spots a UFO is not my favorite (that would be the more sonically-consistent The Bears for Lunch), but there's no denying that the title track is basically a perfect pop song, complete with sunny harmonies, hand-claps, and an easy-going melody that never tries to hard. Bob Pollard might be old, but he hasn't lost his ability to absolutely kill in a 3-minute pop song.

9. Allo Darlin’, “Capricornia” 
“Capricornia," the first single from London popsters Allo Darlin's second record, Europe, is one of those tunes that feels instantly familiar, even if you've never heard it before. There's something so satisfying about the combination of fuzzed-out vocals and jangly tambourine + guitar -- and while the band might wear its influences on its sleeves (Belle & Sebastian, The Shangri-Las, twee), the result is a song as sweet and easy as a hug. "Capricornia" was actually written as a tribute to front woman Elizabeth Morris's homeland (Capricornia, it turns out, is a term for Northern Australia) -- although the theme of always being there for loved ones certainly transcends national boundaries. Home might be far away, but listening to "Capricornia," it  feels within reach.

8. Thee Oh Sees, “Flood's New Light”
Much like #18, "Keep on Movin,'" "Flood's New Light" resonates with vintage sensibilities, from its major chord chorus to its rollicking rock beat. It's not a surprising choice for Oh Sees front man and longtime scene vet John Dwyer per se -- his output has run the gamut from inaccessible scuzz punk to psychedelic pop nugs -- but it's certainly a welcome one. This song is so fun, it makes me jam out on air guitar every time I hear it.

See also: What I'm listening to: Thee Oh Sees (via Philly.com)


7. Savoir Adore, “Regalia”
Savoir Adore really surprised me with this one, which was released a few months before their stunning sophomore record Our Nature. This song is so lush, and so complex: I love the way it starts with this burst of tropicalia before the bass comes in and lays down this funky, undulating rhythm; I love how strong and biting Paul and Deidre's vocals sound; and I love the way this song keeps transitioning -- from quirky pop offering to dance floor jam to beautiful, electronic symphony. So good!

See also: Interview: Chatting with Brooklyn's Savoir Adore about wood nymphs, Whole Foods, and their stunning new record Our Nature (Via The Key)


6. La Sera, “I’m Alone”
At just 2 minutes and 30 seconds, "I'm Alone" is a but a brief air kiss of a song; a short, warm burst of lovely, lush melody courtesy of Viv girl Katy Goodman. Every time this song comes on shuffle on my iTunes, I can feel my insides fill up with elation; it's so simple and so powerful, and possibly the most gorgeous song of the year.

Twenty-five down, which means just 5 more to go!  Stream nos. 30–6 right here -- and stay tuned for the final 5 tomorrow. (Check out nos. 15–11 here.)

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My Top 5 MUSIC VIDEOS of 2012

It doesn't take much more than a glance at my "Music Video Mondays" picks to gather that I'm obsessed with vids. This year tho there were SO many great videos that picking a favorite was tough. But since that's kinda the whole point of these year-end lists...I finally whittled it down to 5. Wanna see what made the cut? Head over  to The Key to scoop the goods.

Google image result #10 for "Lol Music Video." Lol this guy!!

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My Top Songs of 2012, Nos. 15–11

15. Hot Chip, “Night and Day”
One thing I love about Hot Chip is that in real life, they are these two super dorky guys...who somehow manage to get behind the synth and create these super unique, sexy, dance floor freakouts. "Night and Day" rules because it consistently subverts your expectations: the chords never move in the way you expect them to, and the chorus has a fury that elevates it to true rager. Also, only Hot Chip can get away with a line like "I want to be inside you baby" and not sound like complete d-bags.

14. Cloud Nothings, “Stay Useless” 
Cloud Nothing's sophomore record Attack on Memory is a fiery trove of angst and emotion that seems to represent the views and feelings of an entire generation rather than one man in particular. The whole thing  resonates with righteousness and disillusion...and while 9-minute tour de force "Wasted Days" might be the more obvious pick here, I like that this tune is so neatly packaged, like a perfect nug of punk rock angst. Don't we all need time to stay useless? At least Dylan Baldi should get a few hours on the tour bus.

(See also: Best New Music: Cloud Nothings)

13.Crocodiles, “Sunday (Psychic Conversation #9)” 
“Sunday (Psychic Conversation #9)," the standout single from Crocodile's third record Endless Flowers is a sprawling, exuberant rocker that practically explodes with lush harmonies -- bursting forth like a wave of positivity. It's inspiring, and expansive, and stirs feelings of invincibility. Listening to this song, i feel like I can do anything! I love it when music makes me feel this way.

(See also: Music Video Mondays: Creepy Consciousness)

12. Reptile Youth, “Shooting Up Sunshine” 
It's only a matter of time before "Shooting Up Sunshine" finds placement in a TV commercial or sitcom -- the   lush, poppy refrain is commercial gold, and the bouncy keys truly make you feel like you're surfing -- dodging multi-colored waves as puppies wearing sunglasses and cats playing the piano drift by. No really. There's something so bright and fantastical about this song, it's like living in a Lisa Frank poster. Which I mean in the absolute best way possible.

(See also: Music Video Mondays: The Bastards of Fate + Reptile Youth)

11. Tennis, “Origins”
"Origins" is without a doubt the best song Tennis have ever released and damn is this a mighty fine jam. I love the interplay between the horns (jazzy and blatty) and Alaina's vocals (sweet and casual), and I love the constant, underlying keys anchoring it all down. Mostly though I love how the band is not afraid to tackle big questions here, which is a nice departure from their (sailing-focused) debut. "Is it so hard to forgive the way that we've been made to live?" croons Alaina inquisitively on the refrain. It's a great question, and one I'm not sure I (or Tennis) can answer.

   

Another 5 down, just 10 more to go! Stream tracks 30–11 here, then stay tuned for 10–6 tomorrow. (See 20–16 here.) .

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Haiku Review: The Polyphonic Spree

Lights twinkle, balloons

rain down and eighteen friends bring

warm, holiday cheer

photo Matthew Davis for The Key

Check out my full review (Friday night, Trocadero) here.

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My Top 30 Songs of 2012, Nos. 20–16

20. The Walkmen, “Heaven” 
The Walkmen always make everything seem so effortless, and this tune (from the record of the same name) is no exception. For me, "Heaven" is a perfect road song: the steady beat mimicking the constant hum of an engine, the tambourine clapping as it rolls over bumps in the road. I've always strongly associated The Walkmen with college, and good times ('member when we saw them  at the Starlight in 2004, Rachel/Pak/Justin?), and this song seems like the perfect statement from a band who's been through it all, and is still going strong. It's not ballsy and dramatic like "The Rat"; instead it's steady and understated, chugging along and insisting, "remember all we fight for." As if we could forget.

19. Deep Sea Arcade, “Lonely in Your Arms”

This one surprised me, if only b/c I had never heard of Deep Sea Arcade until I heard this tune featured in the (sadly cancelled) MTV show The Inbetweeners. I love the way this starts off jazzy and skulking, only to resolve into this cheery refrain a minute in. The Australian accents don't hurt either.

18. King Tuff, “Keep on Movin’”
It's no secret I'm a sucker for vintage sounds, and this lil nug (from King T's s/t record) not only sounds like a lost 60’s rockers -- it sounds like a REALLY GOOD lost 60's rocker. Can we confirm that is not a Sonics cover? (I kid). So simple, and so fun!

17. Suckers, “Turn on the Sunshine”
This is the first of several tunes on my list to feature sunshine specifically, and the most tropicalia-inspired of the bunch. Love the demented xylophone, and moments of choral splendor, and love how this ultimately ends up being a love song. The video of Dapwell (from Das Rascist) tripping balls while making breakfast is pretty killer too.

16. Santigold, “The Keepers”
The jury (by which I mean: my brain) is still out on Santigold's 2012 record Master of My Make-Believe, but there's no denying this tune totally rules. I love how Santi can write a great pop song...that still feels like it's saying something. Here she criticizes our ignorance and indifference...to racism, consumerism, and um, milkmen (or so the video suggests) -- while comparing America to a burning house. Deep stuff! "Disparate Youth" is pretty great too, but the Mad Men-inspired vid brings this one to the fore for me.

Halfway through, which means the tunes keep getting better! (i.m.h.o.). Stream songs 30–16 here, and stay tuned for 15–11 on Monday. (See 30–26 here and 25–21 here).

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My Top 30 Songs of 2012: Nos. 25–21

25. Beat Connection, “The Palace Garden, 4 a.m.”
To me, “The Palace Garden, 4 a.m.” is about possibilities; it's about summer, and hanging out outside; it’s about endless vibing under sparkling lights; it's about the promise of romance, and the future. It's also about hazy beats, nonstop music + dancing, and making good times feel effortless. And really, is there anything better than that?

24. Metric, “Youth Without Youth”

"Youth Without Youth," the opening track to 2012's Synthetica, might be my favorite Metric song ever. Their past few records have been a bit vanilla for my taste, but here Emily Haines really steps up her game, with this brazen, ballsy affront, full of big rock dramatics and perverted imagery of youth: smashing windows, running from the cops, playing "double-dutch with a hand grenade" etc. Plus that bass line! So killer. 

(See also: Music Video Mondays: Metric gets maniacal and Best Coast smashes instruments)

23. Islands, “Lonely Love”
Nick Diamonds, Islands front man, is not generally one to write a stripped-down love song -- but on 2012's A Sleep & A Forgetting, he offers a whole RECORD of them, including straight-forward love song "Lonely Love." This song works BECAUSE it's so simple and honest -- and because Diamonds has always had a knack for crafting heartbreaking melodies.

22. Neon Trees, “Everybody Talks”
This song actually made it to #6 on the Billboard charts this year, which would normally be reason enough to hate it (b/c popular music is for sell-outs)...but the fact is, I really like this tune. It’s catchy, and fun, and pretty much a perfect pop song. Tyler Glenn really sells it with his over-the-top vocals, and the dynamic changes totally work. Perhaps I'm becoming more mainstream with age. Or perhaps the mainstream is finally coming around..

21. Tame Impala, “Apocalypse Dreams”
"Apocalypse Dreams," the stunning, 6-minute tour de force from Tame Impala's sophomore record, Lonerism, is a hazy, psychedelic jewel of a song: growing and shifting with Beatles-esque ease, before slowing down and descending into slow groove territory, as front man Kevin Parker croons, "Nothing ever changes...no matter how long you do your thing." Live, this song reverberated with the vibrations of a million wiggly guitar lines, not to mention the passion of one man seeking hope.

(See also: Haiku Review: Tame Impala)

Stream songs 30 through 20 here, and stay tuned for nos. 20–16 tomorrow. (See nos. 30–26 here.)

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It's here!!!! My Top 30 Songs of 2012, Nos. 30–26

Every year I find inexplicable pleasure in documenting my favorite tunes from the year, and 2012 was no exception. There were SO MANY fantastic songs released this year that narrowing down my list was SRSLY HARD. And since two years of DJ'ing has me thinking in 2 hour blocks...here are 2 hours (or 30 songs) worth of my fave tunes from 2012. Enjoy!


30. Tanlines, “Not the Same” 

There are a lot of great grooves on Tanlines’ debut, but this one is my fave. I love how it starts off so barren, with this affecting piano line, then positively explodes with dance floor vigor. Cue this up in the middle of the day and it makes you nod your head and smile—cue it up at night, mid-rager, and it makes you suddenly dance harder, because when you really think about it, nothing is ever the same twice.

29. Melody’s Echo Chamber, “I Follow You”
Melody Prochet crafts lovely, lush melodies to get lost in, and this tune (the opening of her s/t record) combines her trademark airy vocals with a totally bad-ass guitar line. I love how complex this song is, while still feeling light and float-y.

(Also see: What I'm listening to: Melody's Echo Chamber [via Philly.com])



28. The Peach Kings, “Fisherman” 

This tune from LA duo The Peach Kings is so smoky, so sultry, and so catchy. Love the skulking guitar line, and love Paige Wood's growl-y, impassioned vocals. The video’s pretty sexy too. Looking forward to a full-length from these guys in 2013!

(See also: Song of the Moment: The Peach Kings, "Fisherman")



27. Reptar, “Sebastian”
Seeing Reptar live this summer was one of the most fun shows of the year, and this song really captures the energy and positivity of the band live. Yes, the lyrics here are a little bit silly (what EXACTLY does Graham Ulicny mean by “circle ring ring triangle square”?)  -- but the beat is insatiable, and writing a chorus that's all “oh"'s just makes it that much easier to sing along. 

(See also: Best New Music: Reptar)


26. Magic Wands, “Black Magic”
LA’s Magic Wands went largely unnoticed by the media machine this year, which is a shame, because new record Aloha Moon is filled with dark, new wave-y grooves, like standout single “Black Magic," which is  sexy, spooky, and fun, with a bewitching refrain and killer beat.

(See also: Music Video Mondays: Magic Wands + GLISS delve deeper into the void...)


Stream songs 30 through 25 here -- and stayed tuned for nos. 25–21 tomorrow!

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Music Video Mondays: Kaleidoscoping with Django Django

As the year draws to an end and we all start obsessively listening to all our fave records again, trying to put together the basically required Top 10 list (b/c nothing satisfies the human brain quite like list-making) -- let us not forget London boys Django Django, whose debut, self-titled record will certainly be topping MY list this year, and whose new vid for "Life's a Beach" proves that what the beats are this fly, all you need are a couple of swirling shapes, and some Win-Amp-inspired trickery:

"Life's a Beach" appears on the record Django Django, out now. Django Django make their Philly debut March 8 at Union Transfer.


Previously on Underwater Explosions: Best New Music: Django Django

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INTRVW: Rachael Yamagata

Rachael Yamagata has the heart of a poet, the mind of a philosopher, and the voice of a pop star whose whose every emotion seeps into her delivery: from gritty, growl-y numbers about heartbreak to jazzy, smooth love songs. She's also an avid performer and businesswoman -- in 2011, she started her own record label, to release (among other) 2012's Heavyweight. I caught up with Yamagata to delve deeper in Heavyweight...as well as explore her various strategies for staying energized and emotionally honest on tour. Head over to The Key to check it out!

Stunning songwriter, great hat-wearer

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Demographic Study: Burnt Out on the Scene

Ed/Kate note: Demographic Studies is back! Featuring all your fave personality types like "I Dress Like This Normally Girl" and "The Virtual Scenester."


Burnt Out on the Scene has been around for a long time -- "too long," he'll tell you with a grizzled sigh -- and has witnessed the scene transform from the real deal to "a buncha posers and kids from New Jersey" who don't appreciate the music like he did then. Burnt Out on the Scene might SOUND like an old fart, but he isn't, really -- he's just tired, and worn out from years upon years of keeping up with trends, and ready to go into hibernation for a month, or maybe a year, and forget about music and play video games or geek out to Star Trek.

Google image result #54 for "posers and kids from New Jersey." There is

so much to say about this i don't know where to start. So let's just assume

the dude on the left just finished playing an Oompa Loompa in a stage 

production of Charlie & The Chocolate Factory and focus on the dude in 

the middle. Doesn't he know studded belts went outta style in like 1998?

And that's ok. Everyone needs a break sometimes, and for BOONTS these breaks are directly related to his other responsibilities, and how hard he raged the previous year. Trust-Fund BOONTS might be able to last longer, unencumbered by the stress of a full-time job -- but even he will lose his shit when the chillwave he rode so hard in 2011 comes crashing down in 2012, and suddenly all everyone cares about is Ariel Pink and weird dubstep remixes that are NOT NEARLY AS VIBEY AS HE WOULD LIKE.

Google image #5 for "NOT NEARLY AS VIBEY AS HE WOULD LIKE."

  Is that Ben Affleck? He looks like he's vibing pretty good to me

Don't expect this to be the last you'll see of him though. Sometimes all Burnt Out on the Scene needs is a breather, and  a few weeks of sitting at home watching Big Bang Theory re-runs (seriously this show is on every day) before he's jolted back into action and invigorated once more. Will he still be cranky? Oh yeah. But you'll detect a little grin behind those sarcastic remarks. Kids today... As if he's not really one of them at heart.

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Like this post? Read more demographic studies here.

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Music Video Mondays: Veronica Falls, The Babies do disaffection...

Been really digging this new groove from London's Veronica Falls, which shows the band shedding their trademark sense of melancholy for something a bit softer, and more comforting:

"Teenage" appears on the record Waiting for Something to Happen, out February 2012.


And just in case that wasn't enough disaffection for you, here's a relatively blase Cassie Ramone, looking beautiful but bored performing a karaoke version of her band's own song:

 

"Baby" appears on the record Our House on the Hill, out now. Did I mention this winter is the Winter of Insouciance?

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