2012 was a great year for music! It took me a long time to narrow down what were my absolute favourite albums of the year. So here are my top 12 in order of release dates.
Lana Del Rey - Born To Die, Paradise Edition
Born To Die itself probably would have made the list as it was a great album before the extended re-release in November but the new added songs give even more of an edge to her material as you get to see a different side to her songs. The eight new songs (more than enough to be a substantial EP of it’s own) really give more to her previously released material, giving the album even more dimension and depth. With her sultry indie-queen voice and epic retro-hip hop ballads, Lana is sure to please any listener.
Grimes - Visions
Grimes was another newcomer and breakthrough in the indie scene last year. Her debut album helped sweep her to instant indie stardom. Visionsonly became a favourite of mine towards the end of this year, having completely missed the Grimes craze but even so, her catchy electronic-dance-pop beats cannot go wrong. Once you hear her one of a kind music, you’ll be obsessed.
Boys Who Say No - Contingencies
Boys Who Say No only released their debut album in February 2012 and even though it has not done much for them, it has definitely hit home with me. The upbeat indie-rock tunes are sure to get you up out of your seat. Boys Who Say No are most definitely one of my favourite newcomers this year, and really deserve a big break in the near future.
Oberhofer - Time Capsules II
Oberhofer’s album is craftily put together, taking the listener through a dynamic journey of upbeat indie guitar pop. It’s almost impossible not to dance to these lighthearted tunes. Brad Oberhofer, the creative entity behind the band is really a musical genius, who is able to piece together a masterful album full of the ups and downs of love. I was instantly taken with this band upon hearing them perform their dance-worthy music.
Silversun Pickups - Neck Of The Woods
Silversun Pickups have seen their fame increase during the last year from indie-stardom to mainstream - well as mainstream as an alt-rocker can be; and all thanks to their most recent album, Neck Of The Woods. Their latest material produces an interesting and dynamic rock sound that flows throughout the album’s length. The album has a heavy sound from the strong guitar riffs, but is light at the same time with the unique vocals of lead singer, Brian Aubert.
Shuffle Demons - Cluster Funk
After taking a hiatus for almost a decade, Toronto’s coveted jazz band is back! Their newest release sees the band capturing the material of their hey-days and demonstrating how timeless their sound really is. The album features new jazz numbers full of energy and hilarity. This album was definitely not a disappoint and was certainly worth the long wait!
Thenewno2 - fearofmissingout
Between the release of their debut album, You Are Here and their latest release, thenewno2 have seen a great deal of changes with the expansion of the band. This is shown in their music with a matured and broader sound; some of the songs borrowing inspiration from genres outside of alternative rock, such as electronica and hip-hop. The band still manages to retain their original sound as well though, with the album instilling a feeling of a desolate, dystopian landscape. Thenewno2 have created an incredible fusion of genres that is carried across the ten tracks through solid drum beats and haunting harmonies.
The Sheepdogs - The Sheepdogs
The Sheepdogs are no newbies to the process of releasing an album. But only between their third album and this one, did they see a major growth in their fan-base. This album debuted at #1 on the Canadian charts, and there is no doubt that it deserved the spot. I had my doubts about this album, since The Sheepdogs are now famous rockers and Patrick Carney of The Black Keys produced the album as well. I thought they might sell out their sound, especially after previewing one of the singles from the album, Feeling Good. Luckily this is the only Black Keys sound-alike on the album and the rest stay true to their roots, showing that Carney was in fact a great choice for producer, as some slight blues influences were added to their classic-beard-70s rock sound. This is definitely not an album to disappoint.
Birds of Chicago - Birds of Chicago
Birds of Chicago takes a different beat from most of the albums on this list, having an acoustic-folk-country sound. Regardless, this is one of my favourite albums of the year. Their upbeat folk sound makes one feel the summer breeze around them, even in the dead of winter. All the songs of the album compliment one another and work together to create a large piece of its own.
Diamond Rings - Free Dimensional
Diamond Rings saw the rapid growth of his career with the release of this album, now becoming an dance-pop sensation in Toronto, and spreading across Canada. His electronic beats can get any listener off their feet. Diamond Rings is really able to show his creative genius with this album, in the dynamic flow and depth of this great piece of art. It easily became one of my top favourites after only a couple listens.
Young Rival - Stay Young
Young Rival’s latest release will hopefully see their career grow further. Their music never fails to please, and this is shown with their newest album as it keeps the classic Young Rival sound of blues, rock and indie all fused together, but has also matured and broadened from their original releases. They have been able to create even catchier tunes with this release, which one can’t help to groove to. I definitely recommend to go give this album a listen.
Serena Ryder - Harmony
Serena Ryder was just able to slip her album onto this list, with releasing it at the end of November. I had never really listened to her before but after hearing the leading single, Stompa, off the album, I decided to check it out. Turns out my hunch was correct and only after the first listen, did I notice how craftily this album had been put together. It quickly made it’s way to the top of my list. Her songs flow seamlessly together, creating a beautiful and haunting musical experience through her strong and unique vocals.
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