Underrated Albums of 2009

[ctmk]

we all talk about the best albums of the year but i want to know the albums that you think have gone under the radar

my albums are in no particular order: the devil wears prada - with roots above and branches below
oceana- birtheater
the dave matthews band- big whiskey
the chariot- wars and rumors of wars
as cities burn- hell or high water
the black dahlia murder- deflorate

[ZachMadeMeOdd]

I disagree with all of the original posts simply because they are all big among their selected fan groups, especially dave matthews(wtf).

But for this post I could name a few.

Architects (UK) - Hollow Crown
Kid Cudi - Man On The Moon
And even though they are being advertised a shit load recently on AP, I haven't heard anyone speak or show interest in This Time Next Year's new LP. And it really isn't that bad.

[HCO SF 87]

I would say There for Tomorrow's debut, A Little Faster. These guys should be so much bigger than they are.

[loganmmm]

we all talk about the best albums of the year but i want to know the albums that you think have gone under the radar

my albums are in no particular order: the devil wears prada - with roots above and branches below
oceana- birtheater
the dave matthews band- big whiskey
the chariot- wars and rumors of wars
as cities burn- hell or high water
the black dahlia murder- deflorate

I definitely agree with this.

[Akissforher]

fightstar - be human,

[allisterkid]

I definitely agree with this.

Really? I thought it was rated. Not even trying to be sarcastic... I thought all I heard from here was praise for that album.

[loganmmm]

Hummm.. Maybe I just didn't notice. I didn't buy the album until about three months ago, and didn't remember hearing anything about it. Good or bad.

[Thesleepingwell]

Sky Larkin - The Golden Spike

This album needs attention.
Heavy, noisy music made only be three people.
Amazing.

[porttheman]

From Monument To Masses- On Little Know Frequencies

[atainder]

Telefon Tel Aviv - Immolate Yourself.

[Chrisj182]

I disagree with all of the original posts simply because they are all big among their selected fan groups, especially dave matthews(wtf).

But for this post I could name a few.

Architects (UK) - Hollow Crown
Kid Cudi - Man On The Moon
And even though they are being advertised a shit load recently on AP, I haven't heard anyone speak or show interest in This Time Next Year's new LP. And it really isn't that bad.

Agreed there, such a good album,

Your Demise - Igonorance never dies went under the radar a bit, and was a class album.

[denissuxx]

Ace Enders And A Million Differnet People - When I Hit The Ground

[xXxXx]

Douchebags Everywhere - Go Fuck Yourself
Underrated as hell, according to me.

[El_Jeffe]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TFBp8yq9lN0/Sn2lT29p5QI/AAAAAAAAGZQ/vizzwPf9NRI/s400/7WorldsCollide_TheSunCameOut_886975 68272_F_001_600x600300dpi75qRGB.jpe g

7 worlds collide - the sun came out

for the love of... why won't any of you check this out?! this album features the finn brothers, their offspring, two of the radiohead boys, all of wilco, augie march, bic runga, don mcglashan, johnny marr & heaps more collaborating. check it out!!


umm a couple more:
bill callahan - sometimes i wish we were an eagle
ben harper & relentless7 - white lies for dark times
westbound train - come & get it
béla fleck - throw down your heart: tales from the acoustic planet, vol. 3 - africa sessions

[abcdefghijake]

...And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead-The Century Of Self.

[kbi the crowing]

The Mars Volta - Octahedron

It's really a hell of a lot better than people make it out to be

[AMackChuck]

The Mars Volta - Octahedron

It's really a hell of a lot better than people make it out to be

Agreed. It's actually one of my favorites of this year and one of TMVs best albums.

[squared82]

Coconut Records - Davy
Harlem Shakes - Technicolor Health

Coconut Records may not end up on any of my end of the year lists, but I thoroughly enjoy it.

[kbi the crowing]

Agreed. It's actually one of my favorites of this year and one of TMVs best albums.

yeah I'm really glad they branched off and did a whole album with a different feel to it instead of another hour of guitar-wankery and spastic time signatures

[AMackChuck]

yeah I'm really glad they branched off and did a whole album with a different feel to it instead of another hour of guitar-wankery and spastic time signatures

YES. That whole deal is signature Mars Volta stuff, but I'm so glad I can listen and enjoy a record of theirs without being on acid for a change.

[threepunchjim]

The Swell Season is just incredible. Also, u2's new one got panned, but I really really enjoy it. And lastly, the new Mos Def album is out of this world, but I never hear his name come up ever.

[showstopper]

I would say There for Tomorrow's debut, A Little Faster. These guys should be so much bigger than they are.Ur absolutely right.

[jesse_hitz]

ICP - Bang! Pow! Boom!
your joking right?

[jesse_hitz]

Agreed. It's actually one of my favorites of this year and one of TMVs best albums.
also agree mars volta rule! one of their best for sure.

[Rodeo]

...And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead-The Century Of Self.

The Mars Volta - Octahedron

It's really a hell of a lot better than people make it out to be



Came in to say these. Good job!


Also,

http://kingofstlouis.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/dredg-the-pariah-the-parrot-the-delusion.jpg

[MichaelP]

Eye Alaska

[yellowhouse]

Sky Larkin - The Golden Spike

This album needs attention.
Heavy, noisy music made only be three people.
Amazing.

I'm sold. Going to listen now.

[sevinw0rds]

From Monument To Masses- On Little Know Frequencies

Came in to say these. Good job!


Also,

http://kingofstlouis.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/dredg-the-pariah-the-parrot-the-delusion.jpg

Yes and yes.

The Tropic Rot by Poison the Well is also pretty damn amazing.

[awakeohsleeper]

we all talk about the best albums of the year but i want to know the albums that you think have gone under the radar

my albums are in no particular order: the devil wears prada - with roots above and branches below
oceana- birtheater
the dave matthews band- big whiskey
the chariot- wars and rumors of wars
as cities burn- hell or high water
the black dahlia murder- deflorate

Underrated? Everyone I know was talking about As Cities Burn and The Chariot.

[Rodeo]

Yes and yes.

The Tropic Rot by Poison the Well is also pretty damn amazing.


Happy you said From Monument to Masses they were great live with Dredg!


I just can't listen to Poison the Well anymore. Every album sounds exactly the same.

[xJesusFreakx]

The Swell Season is just incredible. Also, u2's new one got panned, but I really really enjoy it. And lastly, the new Mos Def album is out of this world, but I never hear his name come up ever.

I was pretty bored with it, but it had its moments. I really like "White as Snow."

Underrated? Everyone I know was talking about As Cities Burn and The Chariot.

No one I know has been talking about that one.

[sevinw0rds]

Happy you said From Monument to Masses they were great live with Dredg!


I just can't listen to Poison the Well anymore. Every album sounds exactly the same.

That's how I heard of Monuments, their show was incredible. I gotta give credit to the dude I quoted though, he's the one who mentioned their record.

As far as PTW, both Versions and The Tropic Rot didn't do it for me at all upon the first three spins or so, but they're both great headphone records where the guitar and drum work really cuts through if you sit with it. Definitely not for everyone though, and I still enjoy Tear From The Red sooo much.

[awakeohsleeper]

I was pretty bored with it, but it had its moments. I really like "White as Snow."



No one I know has been talking about that one.

Ah, they have a small but dedicated following over here. Just because they are one of the few bands that consistently make the effort to get over here and play. I've seen them three times in three years I think, which is impressive for any band. I think this was their best record too.

[xJesusFreakx]

Ah, they have a small but dedicated following over here. Just because they are one of the few bands that consistently make the effort to get over here and play. I've seen them three times in three years I think, which is impressive for any band. I think this was their best record too.

My friends use to love the band, even through The Fiancee and the anticipation for a new album, but it seems like everyone forgot about it. I've heard nothing about the album since the release week.

[cwhit412]

I would say There for Tomorrow's debut, A Little Faster. These guys should be so much bigger than they are.
A million times yes.
Absolutely my favorite band right now.

[cwhit412]

AoTY so far, Between The Trees - Spain.

[TopperHarley]

William Elliott Whitmore
Broadway Calls
Strung Out
Steel Panther
Cobra Skulls
Dredg

[Tautou107]

Grammatics

[awakeohsleeper]

My friends use to love the band, even through The Fiancee and the anticipation for a new album, but it seems like everyone forgot about it. I've heard nothing about the album since the release week.

True, on US websites it hasn't received much coverage. And in fact, in the UK it obviously hasn't had any coverage. I just know quite a few people who love it.

[SophGod]

Silversun Pickups - Swoon.

i never see it mentioned.

[MADSTA]

Coconut Records - Davy
Harlem Shakes - Technicolor Health

Coconut Records may not end up on any of my end of the year lists, but I thoroughly enjoy it.
I loved Davy at the beginning of the year, but I've grown tired of it.
AoTY so far, Between The Trees - Spain.
Silversun Pickups - Swoon.
:thumbup:
Grammatics
Holy god, I cannot recommend these guys enough. In my top 3 of the year.

[cwhit412]

I loved Davy at the beginning of the year, but I've grown tired of it.


:thumbup:

Holy god, I cannot recommend these guys enough. In my top 3 of the year.
That could possibly be the best comment to one of my comments on this website I have ever had.

[MADSTA]

That could possibly be the best comment to one of my comments on this website I have ever had.
Just a thumbs up? Do people not like you?

[cwhit412]

Just a thumbs up? Do people not like you?
It's called I go against the usual AP music taste.
:)

[shimmyshakes]

we all talk about the best albums of the year but i want to know the albums that you think have gone under the radar

my albums are in no particular order: the devil wears prada - with roots above and branches below
oceana- birtheater
the dave matthews band- big whiskey
the chariot- wars and rumors of wars
as cities burn- hell or high water
the black dahlia murder- deflorate

Definitely. My AOTY.

Also,
Metric - Fantasies
Poison the Well - The Tropic Rot

[Rodeo]

<<< Album of the year.

[sweepthenation]

Burden Of The Day - Oneonethousand

[sargentlgfuad]

Silversun Pickups - Swoon.
hell ya. that's my favorite of the year, so far.

RX Bandits - Mandala
and The Sounds - Crossing the Rubicon

[bluecrunchy]

Freelance Whales - Weathervanes
All the Day Holiday - The Things We've Grown to Love

[ThisIsNotDan]

Shook Ones - The Unquotable AMH

theres more, no doubt, that was the first to come to mind

[lindZ629]

David Gray - Draw the Line
It's one of my favorites of 09, but I definitely think it's underrated.

[Kyle Huntington]

The Maccabees - Wall Of Arms.

[SpyKi]

Fightstar - Be Human

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41gW0H4%2BChL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

[briewer]

Bradley Hathaway- A Mouth Full Of Dust
Lotus Plaza- The Floodlight Collective
Nudge- As Good As Gone
Odawas- The Blue Depths
A Sunny Day In Glasgow- Ashes Grammar
Taken By Trees- East of Eden
Washed Out- Life Of Leisure

/pretension

[oddwithoutend]

Bradley Hathaway- A Mouth Full Of Dust
Lotus Plaza- The Floodlight Collective
Nudge- As Good As Gone
Odawas- The Blue Depths
A Sunny Day In Glasgow- Ashes Grammar
Taken By Trees- East of Eden
Washed Out- Life Of Leisure

/pretension

But basically all of these albums have had favourable reviews? These may be overlooked releases, but I wouldn't call them underrated.

[xJesusFreakx]

Bradley Hathaway- A Mouth Full Of Dust
Lotus Plaza- The Floodlight Collective
Nudge- As Good As Gone
Odawas- The Blue Depths
A Sunny Day In Glasgow- Ashes Grammar
Taken By Trees- East of Eden
Washed Out- Life Of Leisure

/pretension

Yes, so hard.

[porttheman]

Telefon Tel Aviv - Immolate Yourself.
I still need to check this out.

[El_Jeffe]

what's the attraction there, so many people into this bradley hathaway lately? not hating on anyone's taste, each to their own, but i couldn't just not get into him, i saw nothing worth getting into. maybe i'm just odd... which is quite likely haha

[Pat k]

http://www.absolutepunk.net/geek/gars/images/1/2/9/9/1/oceans-cover-small.jpg

Oceans - Nothing Collapses
ffo: Explosions in the Sky

www.myspace.com/broceans (http://absolutepunk.net/www.myspace.com/broceans)

[xJesusFreakx]

what's the attraction there, so many people into this bradley hathaway lately? not hating on anyone's taste, each to their own, but i couldn't just not get into him, i saw nothing worth getting into. maybe i'm just odd... which is quite likely haha

Have you checked out A Mouth Full of Dust? If so, different strokes for different folks I guess. If not, and this is based on knowledge of his previous material, forget what you know and give this album an honest shot.

[KoolAidMatt]

Between The Trees - Spain.

I love this album


I also think Burn, Burn by OLP was really underrated

[El_Jeffe]

Have you checked out A Mouth Full of Dust? If so, different strokes for different folks I guess. If not, and this is based on knowledge of his previous material, forget what you know and give this album an honest shot.

no, it was his older material mate. pieces like "manly man" made me cringe, felt like i was listening to something like bloody mc lars haha. but if his work has far deviated from this sort of material then i will say no more, as i simply haven't heard it. but what i have heard really didn't leave me wanting to check out more

[xJesusFreakx]

no, it was his older material mate. pieces like "manly man" made me cringe, felt like i was listening to something like bloody mc lars haha. but if his work has far deviated from this sort of material then i will say no more, as i simply haven't heard it. but what i have heard really didn't leave me wanting to check out more

Ha, trust me, his new material is a far cry from his old poetry. Think something along the lines of mewithoutYou, Bright Eyes, and Brand New. If that RIYL doesn't appeal to you, give it a shot anyways. "Momma," "Covered in the Blood," and "Look Up" are great. He doesn't shy away from his faith in his music, but it comes off honest (again, like mewithoutYou) more than preachy; as a Christian, though, I may not be a good judge of that.

[briewer]

But basically all of these albums have had favourable reviews? These may be overlooked releases, but I wouldn't call them underrated.
Maybe, but I think most of them are less favorable than they should be.

[TotalCollapse]

Consider the Thief -Signs and Wonders


Silversun Pickups - Swoon.

:thumbup:

[billy_yo]

The Swell Season is just incredible. Also, u2's new one got panned, but I really really enjoy it. And lastly, the new Mos Def album is out of this world, but I never hear his name come up ever.

i came in to say mos def. haha

[ctmk]

hell ya. that's my favorite of the year, so far.

RX Bandits - Mandala
and The Sounds - Crossing the Rubicon

rx bandits for sure

[dancelukedance]

Blessthefall - Witness

[ctmk]

Consider the Thief -Signs and Wonders



:thumbup:

thanks for the consider the thief rec my new favorite band

[inVINCEable1008]

More Heart Than Brains - Bike For Three!

Give Buck 65 some sick atmospheric beats, and he will kill them. If you like any alternative hip-hop check out this album, it's absolutely amazing. The track "All There Is To Say About Love" is one of my favorite tracks ever.

[shit stroll]

P.S. Eliot - Introverted Romance In Our Troubled Minds

[TotalCollapse]

thanks for the consider the thief rec my new favorite band
Yeah, they're great, especially for an unsigned band. It's such a shame that they're now on a hiatus.

[BulleTheory]

Rx Bandits - Mandala

[NEP633]

lewd acts- black eye blues

[COREhorizon]

Broadway - Kingdoms
In Fear and Faith - Your World on Fire

[Sic Transit Zeb]

Brand New-Daisy.


Yeah I said it.

[threepunchjim]

i came in to say mos def. haha


haha WORD. Bright moments always come back vivid.

[kearn1tm]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TFBp8yq9lN0/Sn2lT29p5QI/AAAAAAAAGZQ/vizzwPf9NRI/s400/7WorldsCollide_TheSunCameOut_886975 68272_F_001_600x600300dpi75qRGB.jpe g

7 worlds collide - the sun came out

for the love of... why won't any of you check this out?! this album features the finn brothers, their offspring, two of the radiohead boys, all of wilco, augie march, bic runga, don mcglashan, johnny marr & heaps more collaborating. check it out!!

I bought this because of Augie March, Wilco and Johnny Marr, and was charmed with some of the other artists who worked on it.

[CalRahhh]

I'll second whomever said The Chariot's Wars and Rumors of Wars.

[youngz]

Dance Gavin Dance - Happiness
Rx Bandits - Mandala
Paramore - Brand New Eyes (everyone rated it low because they compared it to Riot)

[kearn1tm]

Christopher Tignor -- Core Memory Unwound

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41ECuNMXZIL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

Elini Mandell -- Artificial Fire
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_q6ciClCuLuk/SZ2So0BGCZI/AAAAAAAAA-A/GoVAalOgJkA/s400/Eleni+Mandell+-+Artificial+Fire+%28022009%29.jpg

Fake Problems -- It's Great to Be Alive

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ztSUNOK9L._SL500_AA280_.jpg

Jenny Wilson -- Hardships!

http://jennywilson.net/wp-content/uploads/hardships_web_72.jpg

John Zorn -- Alhambra Love Songs
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31diEL8SXYL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

[SpyKi]

Paramore - Brand New Eyes (everyone rated it low because they compared it to Riot)
I thought everyone rated it highly because they compared it to Riot!

[doppelganger]

a lot of albums

[sargentlgfuad]

I thought everyone rated it highly because they compared it to Riot!
haha. what i thought.

[UnderMyDreams]

Dave Matthews? Wtf? No? How can you call an album that got awesome reviews and platinum status in less than 4 months underrated? Hardly under the radar...

Ace Enders and A Million Different People - When I Hit the Ground
The Dangerous Summer - Reach for the Sun
Broadway Calls - Good Views, Bad News
Anti-Flag - The People or the Gun

[wroteurname]

Talkin 'bout Dead Man's Bones!

[badasstunes!]

the wiggles

[ctmk]

Dave Matthews? Wtf? No? How can you call an album that got awesome reviews and platinum status in less than 4 months underrated? Hardly under the radar...

Ace Enders and A Million Different People - When I Hit the Ground
The Dangerous Summer - Reach for the Sun
Broadway Calls - Good Views, Bad News
Anti-Flag - The People or the Gun

since it came out i hadnt heard anyhting about it even some of the people i talked to who bought the album seemed less then excited about i had never heard those stats before today

[Holly HoX!]

As Cities Burn - Hell of High Water is easily one of my favorite albums of the year. But I don't think it was underrated.

[kearn1tm]

Talkin 'bout Dead Man's Bones!

That album received a ridiculous amount of press and rave reviews simply because of the nature of the band members (GOSLING IS DREAMY!) and that, surprisingly, a vanity band from an actor is actually relatively listenable.

[eman83]

Metric - Fantasies.

[niq nax]

fightstar - be human,

Couldn't agree more. Maybe the upcoming deluxe edition will grab some attention.

[wroteurname]

That album received a ridiculous amount of press and rave reviews simply because of the nature of the band members (GOSLING IS DREAMY!) and that, surprisingly, a vanity band from an actor is actually relatively listenable.

I was kidding gah

[kearn1tm]

I was kidding gah

You're doing it wrong.

[wuduprod]

Transit - Stay Home

get hip to it. this band fucking rules. it's like tell all your friends with Way better vocals and a good get up kids cover.

[symbiote28]

Fightstar - Be Human

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41gW0H4%2BChL._SL500_AA280_.jpg
whenever that's an underrated thread, Fightstar also seems to crop up because that's what they really are .. underrated. i wish many would realise that and give them a chance.

Broadway - Kingdoms

[what_ever]

not bothering to read through the whole thread, but the thread title just welcomes loads of posts of albums that are widely talked about and not necessarily underrated at all. it's really all a matter of perspective.

[quicksilv001]

If These Trees Could Talk - Above the Earth, Below the Sky
http://mediaportal.ru/uploads/posts/2009-07/1247834619_if-these-trees-could-talk-above-the-earth-below.jpg


The Most Serene Republic - ...And the Ever Expanding Universe
http://www.shellshock.co.uk/images/sleeves/AC044.jpg

[El_Jeffe]

I bought this because of Augie March, Wilco and Johnny Marr, and was charmed with some of the other artists who worked on it.

that's because you're a wonderful wonderful man. did you buy the one or two disk version? it is a very charming release, & with sooo many artists that so many people here greatly enjoy, i'm not sure why no one wants to bother with this

[LastDeclaration]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51sjRTTo%2BOL.jpg

[eliselovesmusic]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TFBp8yq9lN0/Sn2lT29p5QI/AAAAAAAAGZQ/vizzwPf9NRI/s400/7WorldsCollide_TheSunCameOut_886975 68272_F_001_600x600300dpi75qRGB.jpe g

7 worlds collide - the sun came out

for the love of... why won't any of you check this out?! this album features the finn brothers, their offspring, two of the radiohead boys, all of wilco, augie march, bic runga, don mcglashan, johnny marr & heaps more collaborating. check it out!!


umm a couple more:
bill callahan - sometimes i wish we were an eagle
ben harper & relentless7 - white lies for dark times
westbound train - come & get it
béla fleck - throw down your heart: tales from the acoustic planet, vol. 3 - africa sessions


El Jeffe, you have the plug on everything awesome.
And Harper and Relentless are definitely under rated.

[eliselovesmusic]

also, even though it was technically a 2008 album, FOB's Folie a Deux is their best installment in their musical saga for sure.
I'd say it's worth a listen for anyone who's on the fence about Wentz and his boys.

[ctmk]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51sjRTTo%2BOL.jpg

glad someone put this dont know why i didnt put it up

[Akissforher]

Couldn't agree more. Maybe the upcoming deluxe edition will grab some attention.

i hope so too.
i finally got my physical copy just about a week before the deluxe was announced -_-

[dancelukedance]

oh this one:


Saosin - In search of solid ground


Very underrated, i think its great

[El_Jeffe]

El Jeffe, you have the plug on everything awesome.
And Harper and Relentless are definitely under rated.

it's good to see you about here. are you going to see ben harper when he comes over here with pearl jam? it's during my exams, so i'm missing it, just like how exams stopped me from seeing stevie wonder last year... really got to stop studying haha

tim finn's also touring next january/february, should be great, haven't seen him since... well the split enz reunion last year. but his solo material is stronger than ever recently, should be wonderful!

what albums have you really enjoyed this year? underrated or not haha

[SpyKi]

oh this one:


Saosin - In search of solid ground


Very underrated, i think its great
Nah, if one person likes that album then it's overrated imo.

[dancelukedance]

Nah, if one person likes that album then it's overrated imo.


Nah

[Blakebear]

That album received a ridiculous amount of press and rave reviews simply because of the nature of the band members (GOSLING IS DREAMY!) and that, surprisingly, a vanity band from an actor is actually relatively listenable.

Album is good.

[_><_]

As Cities Burn - Hell Or High Water.

There used to be some buzz about this album, but now it's gone. I think it deserves to be remembered, it's a great album.

[bard]

mewithoutYou - it's all crazy, it's all false, it's all a dream, it's alright

i don't know why people don't like this album. if you're a mwY fan, and you don't like this album, you're just stubborn. it's the same lyrical content, which i assume is why people are huge fans of mwY in the first place, and the music is still interesting.

[Klatzke]

Grammatics - Grammatics
Ladyfinger (ne) - Dusk
Brother Ali - US (despite a little hype, it's still rarely mentioned)
Mumford and Sons - Sigh No More
Fanfarlo - Reservoirs

[francisRUINER]

Lewd Acts-Black Eyes Blue
Foundation-Hang Your Head
NOFX-Coaster
Transit-Stay Home
Death Before Dishonor-Better Ways To Die
Reign Supreme Testing The Limits Of Infinite"

[xJesusFreakx]

mewithoutYou - it's all crazy, it's all false, it's all a dream, it's alright

i don't know why people don't like this album. if you're a mwY fan, and you don't like this album, you're just stubborn. it's the same lyrical content, which i assume is why people are huge fans of mwY in the first place, and the music is still interesting.

There was an undeniably significant change in their style with that album.

[kbi the crowing]

mewithoutYou - it's all crazy, it's all false, it's all a dream, it's alright

i don't know why people don't like this album. if you're a mwY fan, and you don't like this album, you're just stubborn. it's the same lyrical content, which i assume is why people are huge fans of mwY in the first place, and the music is still interesting.

I don't know half of what Aaron is saying most of the time. I didn't like it because they sounded more like a generic folk band than mewithoutYou which was a very different sound then what that record is. I don't hate the record, I enjoy it sometimes, but it's nowhere near as good as their past three.

[bard]

There was an undeniably significant change in their style with that album.
the style changed, but the heart of the band and the reason they're so good in the first place stayed the same.
I don't know half of what Aaron is saying most of the time. I didn't like it because they sounded more like a generic folk band than mewithoutYou which was a very different sound then what that record is. I don't hate the record, I enjoy it sometimes, but it's nowhere near as good as their past three.
i don't know what you mean? this album is the easiest to understand what he's saying because the music isn't as loud. also, what i said above.

i'm not trying to argue, it just seems like people don't like change at all, and to me the change that did happen is so unimportant. if the lyric style changed, then i would understand.

[kbi the crowing]

the style changed, but the heart of the band and the reason they're so good in the first place stayed the same.

i don't know what you mean? this album is the easiest to understand what he's saying because the music isn't as loud. also, what i said above.

i'm not trying to argue, it just seems like people don't like change at all, and to me the change that did happen is so unimportant. if the lyric style changed, then i would understand.

I mean I don't pay attention to what he's saying most of the time, I just like him rambling on, so lyrics aren't much of a factor for me listening to a mwY record (or most records really). & not everything is lyrics, I enjoy instrumentation a hell of a lot more than lyrics. that's why I was disappointed. I find that to be nowhere near unimportant.

[CellarGhosts]

Fake Problems -- It's Great to Be Alive

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ztSUNOK9L._SL500_AA280_.jpg
Excellent album. I seem to remember quite a few Fake Problems fans who weren't satisfied with it when it came out but I think its' a big step up from their previous work. And I still really enjoy their previous work, ha.

[xJesusFreakx]

the style changed, but the heart of the band and the reason they're so good in the first place stayed the same.

Here you're assuming everyone thinks they're good for the same reason(s). I loved Aaron's conversational vocal and lyric style, and this was almost completely abandoned on their new album. The element I found most appealing is gone, so I'm not interested. I've given the album multiple tries, but while it's not atrocious, it just doesn't click the same way their previous material has. It's not an issue of stubbornness but rather of what I enjoyed no longer being there.

[CellarGhosts]

Let Me Run - Meet Me at the Bottom
Darkest Hour - The Eternal Return
Strung Out - Agents of the Underground
Empty Promise - Start From the Ground
Bob Mould - Life and Times
Poison The Well - The Tropic Rot
American Steel - Dear Friends and Gentle Hearts
Fake Problems - It's Great To Be Alive
William Elliott Whitmore - Animals In The Dark
Busdriver - Jhelli Beam

[c_rob2700]

http://kapetank.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/wewerepromisedjetpacks1.jpg

[kearn1tm]

Excellent album. I seem to remember quite a few Fake Problems fans who weren't satisfied with it when it came out but I think its' a big step up from their previous work. And I still really enjoy their previous work, ha.

I discovered them with this album, so I cannot comment on their prior work, but it's so much fun, so infectious and Don't Worry Baby is one of the most anthemic tracks I've heard all year.


Bob Mould - Life and Times



I adore this album. It's a shame it didn't get more press, especially considering Mould's reputation.

[TriangularDuck]

Albums that either received attention but were too lowly scored, or have not received nearly enough attention.

Title Fight - The Last Thing You Forget
Tides of Man - Empire Theory
Eye Alaska - Genesis Underground
Breathe Carolina - Hello Fascination
It's Like Love - You're Too Sweet for Rock and Roll
The Arusha Accord - The Echo Verses
Polar Bear Club - Chasing Hamburg
The Brobecks - Violent Things
A Skylit Drive - Adelphia
Select Start - <3
The Blackout - The Best in Town
The Friday Night Boys - Off the Deep End
Jonny Craig - A Dream is a Question ...
Riverside - Anno Domini High Definition

[lindZ629]

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll259/funkychow/OTHERLIVES_album_mini.jpg

Because not enough people know about it.

[The Grey Man]

Oh, Sleeper-Son of the morning

[Greg.Kushlan]

Shook Ones - The Unquotable AMH

theres more, no doubt, that was the first to come to mind

I wish more people knew about this band, it seems like nobody I know has heard of them.

[nkalldayyy]

oh, sleeper - son of the morning

[Viva Sonata]

The Cambiata - S/T.

Fucking do this band up. RIP

[iam_theculprit]

http://kapetank.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/wewerepromisedjetpacks1.jpg

I don't even own the whole album yet and I agree with this.

[love_american_style]

gallows - grey britain

not as good as orchestra of wolves but still pretty decent.

[CellarGhosts]

gallows - grey britain

not as good as orchestra of wolves but still pretty decent.
Yeah, it's not as good as Orchestra of Wolves but it's pretty good. Something about the production on it puts me off a little. Other than that though, it's solid.

I discovered them with this album, so I cannot comment on their prior work, but it's so much fun, so infectious and Don't Worry Baby is one of the most anthemic tracks I've heard all year.



I adore this album. It's a shame it didn't get more press, especially considering Mould's reputation.
I gotcha. They're definitely very fun and I think you'd probably like the older stuff too if you ever feel inclined to check it out.

Definitely. I didn't even know it existed at first haha.

Shook Ones - The Unquotable AMH

theres more, no doubt, that was the first to come to mind
Great album for sure.

[SwiftSilentDead]

Nothington - Roads, Bridges and Ruins
Bob Mould - Life and Times
Shook Ones - The Unquotabe AMH
Banner Pilot - Collapser
Dinosaur Jr. - Farm
Empty Promise - Start From The Ground
The Golden Age - Unlock Yourself
Pissed Jeans - King of Jeans
Warbringer - Waking Into Nightmares

[Regards]

Hands - Creator

[kearn1tm]

that's because you're a wonderful wonderful man. did you buy the one or two disk version? it is a very charming release, & with sooo many artists that so many people here greatly enjoy, i'm not sure why no one wants to bother with this

I suspect no one bought it because they weren't aware of its existence. I subscribe to a Augie March newsletter, and it informed me that they contributed to the compilation. Had I not been a subscriber, I imagine it would have slid under my personal radar. Fortunately, it didn't.

I purchased the two-disc version naturally. The only Finn (either) record I own is Everyone is Here (I believe I was prompted to do so by you over a year ago) and I mildly enjoyed it, but the collaboration between the brothers on tracks like Angels Heap is just wonderful, and an incentive to discover more work from the two.

[kearn1tm]

Nothington - Roads, Bridges and Ruins
Bob Mould - Life and Times
Shook Ones - The Unquotabe AMH
Banner Pilot - Collapser
Dinosaur Jr. - Farm
Empty Promise - Start From The Ground
The Golden Age - Unlock Yourself
Pissed Jeans - King of Jeans
Warbringer - Waking Into Nightmares

I don't know about that one. They received write-ups in Rolling Stone and Spin, and Farm was championed by Unsound and Pitchfork. The editor of Spin (who does a weekly album segment for CNN on the weekends) was jocking Dinosaur Jr on CNN of all places. It would seem this album was privy to much praise and recognition.

[SwiftSilentDead]

I don't know about that one. They received write-ups in Rolling Stone and Spin, and Farm was championed by Unsound and Pitchfork. The editor of Spin (who does a weekly album segment for CNN on the weekends) was jocking Dinosaur Jr on CNN of all places. It would seem this album was privy to much praise and recognition.

I didn't know any of that, haha. I haven't seen too many people talk about it here, so I put it on my list.

[kearn1tm]

I didn't know any of that, haha. I haven't seen too many people talk about it here, so I put it on my list.

Ha. Well, it's a damn good album.

[softhands]

Dead & Divine - The Machines We Are.

[SwiftSilentDead]

Ha. Well, it's a damn good album.

Agreed. I don't read Spin or Pitchfork much, haha. Glad to see that they're digging the album, though.

[walshknilb281]

Kevin Devine-Brothers Blood is the album of the year and way underrated

[kearn1tm]

Agreed. I don't read Spin or Pitchfork much, haha. Glad to see that they're digging the album, though.

Spin sucks, but the subscription is free, so I read it. Pitchfork, I enjoy to an extent. So, yeah, you know...

[CellarGhosts]

Going to go ahead and agree with Corey that Unlock Yourself by the Golden Age is way underrated. More people need to know about this album.

[SwiftSilentDead]

:highfive: Good man.

[oddwithoutend]

This thread inspired me to make it a Farm night. Yay.

[fly_guy]

Grammatics - s/t

[eliselovesmusic]

it's good to see you about here. are you going to see ben harper when he comes over here with pearl jam? it's during my exams, so i'm missing it, just like how exams stopped me from seeing stevie wonder last year... really got to stop studying haha

tim finn's also touring next january/february, should be great, haven't seen him since... well the split enz reunion last year. but his solo material is stronger than ever recently, should be wonderful!

what albums have you really enjoyed this year? underrated or not haha


yeah exams are interuupting my seeing ben harper too but I would ab-so-lute-ly looooove to go. Although I'd be mainly going to see the awesomness that is Ben on stage rather than pearl jam who don't really do anything for me.

tim finn ae. Hopefully he comes to little old Napier!

Well i haven't really heard anything spectacular come out of this year, but I have discovered aquired an absolute passion for blues and jazz. Even though they've been around for decades i've been listening to charlie parker, lionel hampton, Louis armstrong, duke ellington, eric clapton, muddy waters, etc etc....
Actually could you reccomend me any decent jazz/blues? I've basically got a whole load of compilation CDs and feel i need a few more solo albums.

[miketheauthor]

Thursday - Common Existence
Therefore I am - The sound of Human Lives
Poison The Well - Tropic Rot

[fly_guy]

Insane Clown Posse - Bang! Pow! Boom!

[Hiroki]

The Wildhearts - ¡Chutzpah!
Tapping The Vein - Another Day Down
Tori Amos - Abnormally Attracted To Sin
Maxïmo Park - Quicken The Heart

[spoonman159]

Brother Von Doom - "Relentless"
All Shall Perish - "Awaken The Dreamers"
Miss May I - "Apologies are for the Weak"
My Bitter End - "The Renovation"

[WakeUpBlondie]

Althought this is absolutePUNK, 2009 has (present tense too) been a great year for rap/hip-hop.

[thingschange]

Definitely Title Fight's The Last Thing You Forget.

[mulcahy67]

I Fight Dragons - Cool Is Just a Number

if you're into nerd rock, like nintendo style, this is the album you should be listening to. theyve been gaining popularity steadily and were at Nerdapalooza here in Orlando. awesome shit.

[JMariex]

Into Existence by Rides Again :)

www.myspace.com/ridesagain