Absolute Anticipated Of 2011

[Lueda Alia]

What you are about to read is mere speculation. It's opinionated and bias-filled to the Nth degree. But it's also drenched in a hope that only musically-obsessed people possess. Because different from movies or some TV shows, nobody ever listens to an album hoping it's terrible. All we want is for our favorite bands, who we're lucky to hear from every one or two years, is to blow our minds. And below you will see us possibly set ourselves up for disappointment much worse than anything experienced on Christmas (or Hanukkah!). So read along and keep hope alive that this year is even better than the last.


All Time Low (http://absolutepunk.net/alltimelow) – Dirty Work
Release Date: Spring 2011
Record Label: Hopeless
Why We're Anticipating: In 2009, Nothing Personal proved to be perfect for its summer release. Addictive, upbeat, poppy, the record was So Wrong, It’s Right only with bigger hooks. Now two years later, the follow-up to Dirty Work promises to be all that and more.


Angus & Julia Stone (http://www.myspace.com/angusandjuliastone) - TBA
Release Date - TBA
Record Label: Nettwerk
Why We're Anticipating: Angus & Julia had their biggest year yet in 2010 with the release of Down The Way, and the sibling duo has no plans of slowing down, which makes us very happy. Once they go back to Australia, they will begin working on a follow-up immediately, with plans to release it at the end of the year. If you're familiar with their beautiful music, then it is no surprise that whatever they release next is one of our most anticipated.


Bayside (http://www.myspace.com/bayside) - Killing Time
Release Date: February 22
Record Label: Wind-Up Records
Why We're Anticipating: Bayside is one of the few bands around the scene that isn't afraid to show off its talent. Plenty of pop punk groups play it safe. Other pop punk groups aren't good enough to do exactly what they want. Bayside has both the talent and vision to put out a phenomenal record, and their self-titled and The Walking Wounded have become staples. More than a few people should be looking forward to hearing Anthony Raneri's distinctive vocals and Jack O'Shea's face-melting guitar riffs and solos again.


Blink-182 (http://absolutepunk.net/blink182) – TBA
Release Date: April or May 2011
Record Label: Interscope
Why We’re Anticipating: The hype and talk about Blink could not have been any more massive when they announced their reunion tour and upcoming record, back in February 2009. Now nearly two years later, the world is still left waiting for this record, without even a single to tide fans over. Nonetheless, here’s to hoping and believing this record will definitely be worth the nearly eight year wait. Blink-182 are back.


Chapel Club (http://www.absolutepunk.net/chapelclub) - Palace
Release Date: January 31
Record Label: Loog/Universal
Why We're Anticipating: It feels like it's been a long time coming, but finally Chapel Club are releasing their debut album, and it will undoubtedly be the perfect soundtrack to finish the winter and bring in the spring. The combination of reverb drenched guitars, pounding drums, hypnotic bass and frontman, Lewis Bowman's warm vocals makes for a perfect marriage. Their songs are not only infectious but so structured and skilled, this is British indie rock at it's "gloomiest" best. To celebrate this release, we are streaming the new single, "Surfacing", from the album which you must check out here (http://www.absolutepunk.net/chapelclub).


The Dangerous Summer (http://absolutepunk.net/thedangeroussummer) - TBA
Release Date: In-Studio now. So, Summer probably.
Record Label: Hopeless Records
Why We're Anticipating: The Dangerous Summer changed more than a few lives with 2009's Reach for the Sun. That album was born out of a personal crisis for singer/bassist AJ Perdomo, but now the entire band faces tough times. The loss of a drummer, endless accounts of tour drama and bickering have left the band at an uncertain place. It's time to see if ALL of the dudes can turn this negative energy into more great tunes.


Death Cab For Cutie (http://absolutepunk.net/deathcabforcutie)- Codes And Keys
Release Date: Spring 2011
Record Label: Atlantic
Why We’re Anticipating: Death Cab For Cutie are without doubt one of the biggest names in “indie” rock music. From their defining Transatlanticism back in 2003 to 2008’s Narrow Stairs, Death Cab never fail to deliver. With rumors that this release will be piano-driven and not guitar-based, it looks like Codes And Keys will be a different side of Death Cab than Narrow Stairs, but rest assured, Ben Gibbard and Co. know exactly what they’re doing.


Frank Turner (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?do=showdetails&l=21112) Frank Turner - TBA
Release Date: Maybe like late Spring or Summer?
Record Label: Epitaph Records (US)
Why We're Anticipating: We'll never turn down a new full-length from the punkest punk of all the punks, the former Million Dead-frontman-turned-folk-superhero Frank Turner. He's released a full length each of the past two years, with 2009's Love Ire & Song and 2010's Poetry of the Deed each being fantastic. He may be best by himself with his acoustic guitar, but Turner's full band tracks show rock and roll the way it was meant to be done.


The Gaslight Anthem (http://www.myspace.com/thegaslightanthem) – TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Side One Dummy
Why We’re Anticipating: An "are you kidding me?!" would be more than enough here. But for aesthetic reasons, here's some more words: The Gaslight Anthem is shaping up to be one of this generation's defining punk bands. American Slang saw them evolving past '59 Sound's Springsteen-heavy vibes and into a more refined sound. Will this upcoming album bring further refining? We're quivering with eagerness to find out.


Gob (http://absolutepunk.net/gob) - TBA
Release Date: Summer 2011
Record Label: Probably Aquarius?
Why We're Anticipating: Near the end of 2010, Gob confirmed they were still working on the follow-up to 2007's Muertos Vivos. And this should be great news to anyone who watched their zombie soccer music videos and constantly spun The World According to Gob growing up. They’re one of the best pop-punk bands in Canada and it will be interesting to see where they take their sound 17 years into their career.


I Call Fives (http://absolutepunk.net/icallfives) - TBA
Release Date: Summer/Early Fall
Record Label: TBA
Why We're Anticipating: There's nothing like changing lead singers and having to start from scratch to re-gain the fans you lost, but I Call Fives did that and so much more. On their second EP, Bad Advice, the south Jersey based pop-punk band delivered big hooks that kept you singing for days. Their upcoming full length will promise more of the same, but the label is unknown at this point.


Lady Gaga (http://www.myspace.com/ladygaga) – Born This Way
Release Date: May 23, 2011
Record Label: Interscope
Why We’re Anticipating: There’s no denying Lady Gaga has become one of the biggest names in pop music over the past couple years. From her scandalous outfits to her persona, she is literally mentioned everywhere. With her debut and sophomore records The Fame and The Fame Monster, Gaga has received constant radio play, becoming inevitably omnipresent. While her third record, Born This Way, will without a doubt not be “the best album of the decade,” it will definitely live up to the hype, certainly.


Laura Marling (http://www.absolutepunk.net/lauramarling) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Virgin Records
Why We're Anticipating: Laura Marling's third album is one that will really make the majority sit up and listen. I Speak Because I Can received a lot of positive attention; it was Mercury Prize nominated, received many great reviews all across the internet and publications and even made the likes of Ryan Adams and Jack White take notice and as a consequence, fall in love. Now that Marling has got people's attention, she will have them wrapped around her little finger with her next release, her hypnositising folk and blues influenced songs will undoubtedly have nations under her (beautiful) spell.


Mockingbird Wish Me Luck (http://myspace.com/mockingbirdwishmeluck) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Dine Alone
Why We're Anticipating: They spent 2010 releasing a new 7” called Branches and touring with bands like The Flatliners, The Menzingers and Fake Problems. And in 2011 it will be time for a full length record on Dine Alone, one of Canada’s biggest independent labels. Chances are whatever this gruff punk band comes up with, it'll be worth your while.


Moving Mountains (http://absolutepunk.net/movingmountains) - TBA
Release Date: Late Winter/Early Spring
Record Label: Triple Crown Records
Why We're Anticipating: It's about time Moving Mountains released a true follow-up to Pneuma. Being that school was unusually important to these dudes, I can't be too mad. After all, sustainability isn't a music industry staple these days. But that's the past, and now it's time to bask in their sweeping, grandiose music. I'd be surprised if this next one didn't combine a more world-weary lyrical approach. And I'd be even more surprised if it didn't rock our freaking faces off.


Patrick Stump (http://www.patrickstump.com/) – Soul Punk
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Unsigned
Why We’re Anticipating: Fall Out Boy fan or not, there's not much to debate in the way of Stump owning one of the most distinct voices of the past decade. His signature "whoah-oh's" are the summer soul's true love, so why keep it a secret that we've missed them? We've already been treated to two versions of "Spotlight," and both hint that Soul Punk may be one of the richest albums of the year.


Protest the Hero (http://absolutepunk.net/protestthehero) - TBA
Release Date: Finished recording so probably early 2011
Record Label: Underground Operations/Vagrant
Why We’re Anticipating: After proving themselves with great records already, Protest the Hero is an obvious choice. According to vocalist Rody Walker in a recent interview, it will be their most complicated and over the top record yet. Plus a new release will mean a new tour and this is one of the best live bands you can see.


Raekwon (http://www.myspace.com/raekwon) - Shaolin vs. Wu-Tang
Release Date: March 8
Record Label: G.O.O.D. Music / EMI Records
Why We're Anticipating: While originally conceived as a full Wu-Tang album minus the production of RZA (long story), it eventually became Raekwon's fifth solo effort. It may still seem like a group album though, as Inspectah Deck, Method Man, GZA, and Ghostface Killah are all set to make appearances throughout. Super producers Kanye West and Pete Rock will also lend a hand on that front. With such a wide array of talent all converging on one album, it's hard to not be excited for its release.


Rise Against (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?do=showdetails&l=2049) - TBA
Release Date: Summer-ish
Record Label: Interscope
Why We're Anticipating: This one might surprise a few people. 2008's Appeal to Reason might have fallen short of some expectations but it still had some strong tracks. After all, this is the band that wrote the near-essential The Sufferer & the Witness in 2006. We know they can do it again and bring back the good parts of that not-really-that-punk-but-still-pretty-punk sound.


Taking Back Sunday (http://www.absolutepunk.net/takingbacksunday) - TBA
Release Date: Spring 2011
Record Label: Warner
Why We're Anticipating: Half the reason many of you visit this site is because of your adoration for their debut album, Tell All Your Friends. Now that the original lineup is back, can we expect something in the vein of the debut, or will it be more of a mix of all four albums? From the looks of "Best Places To Be A Mom," we can probably expect the latter. But the second most improbable reunion has us salivating for their new album.


Talib Kweli (http://www.absolutepunk.net/talibkweli) - Gutter Rainbows
Release Date: January 25
Record Label: Blacksmith Music / Warner Bros. Records
Why We're Anticipating: After gaining recognition through Black Star, his project with Mos Def, Talib Kweli has made a name for himself through deeply meaningful and socially conscious lyrics. Regarded as one of the top lyricists in the game today, Talib Kweli continues to break down walls and speak his message in a unique and special way. "Cold Rain," the first single from Gutter Rainbows, is a catchy mix of R&B, gospel, and hip-hop that proves to all the haters that hip-hop isn't dead.


This Will Destroy You (http://absolutepunk.net/thiswilldestroyyou) - Tunnel Blanket
Release Date: Spring/Early Summer
Record Label: Magic Bullet Records
Why We're Anticipating: TWDY signaled a beginning for some and an end for others in terms of instrumental music. The band either became a gateway or a grand finale for the grandfather supporters of such a dynamic genre. Now that some of that bloodshed has passed (and after a great 7" called Communal Blood), the band returns for, hopefully, more of the same electronic-tinged post-rock. Tunnel Blanket has "big statement" written all over it, so let's hope for a gamechanger.


The Vaccines (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thevaccines) - What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?
Release Date: March 21
Record Label: Columbia
Why We're Anticipating: There's been a lot of buzz about The Vaccines over the past few months. They have been featured on lists such as the "BBC Sound of 2011" and "NME's Bands of 2011" and whilst these lists can so often contain "flash-in-the-pan" bands, for once there's an act that deserves to be on there. The Vaccines don't let the hype surrounding them take it's toll or go to their heads, instead they let their music talk for them. It's an immediate and direct sound influenced by the production and techniques of the late 60's mixed with the youthfulness and sense of abandonment so many of the bands featured on this site today are well known for. Be prepared, The Vaccines are about to unleash the perfect pop record on the world.


The Wonder Years (http://www.myspace.com/thewonderyears) - TBA
Release Date: June-ish?
Record Label: Hopeless Records
Why We're Anticipating: The Upsides launched this band into a whole new stratosphere in every aspect, and that record made the AP.net staff's compiled list in the fifth position. The Wonder Years are back in the studio as we type this, and the group is progressing more than ever while keeping their core. Adding a Rhodes and another guitar on some tracks is just the beginning of full-length 3.0, which should see some more coveted ultra-personal lyrics from Dan "Soupy" Campbell. This band is carrying pop punk on its shoulders. Let's see where they take it.


Yellowcard (http://www.myspace.com/yellowcard) - When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes
Release Date: March 22
Record Label: Hopeless Records
Why We're Anticipating: The entire music universe should be anticipating this. This band was a mainstream pop punk torch-carrier in the early 2000s and left us after perhaps their most complete, but least celebrated album, Paper Walls. When You're Through Thinking, Say Yes is going to be the world's reintroduction to the crisp violin lines, perfectly distorted guitars, soaring vocals, and spine-shivering drum fills that were the soundtrack to countless summers. They have a shot at impacting the genre the way they want to, this time on indie powerhouse Hopeless Records.

[Lueda Alia]

The Appleseed Cast (http://www.myspace.com/theappleseedcast) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Graveface Records
Why We're Anticipating: Not much is known about this upcoming release, but if the past is any indication, one thing is clear: this is one of the most consistent bands making music, and this album should be no different from the previous masterpieces that they have put out. If you're still unfamiliar with this band, then you should find the Low Level Owl albums, as well as their most recent release, Sagarmatha, and you will be joining the rest of us in anticipating what should be one of the better releases of 2011.


A Wilhelm Scream (http://www.absolutepunk.net/awilhelmscream) – TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Paper+Plastick
Why We’re Anticipating: A Wilhelm Scream's self-titled EP was a picture perfect demonstration of how to combine the gritty with the melodic. After a song like "Bulletproof Tiger," how could we not anticipate what promises to be a beast of an album?


Blaqk Audio (http://www.absolutepunk.net/blaqkaudio) - Bright Black Heaven
Release Date: Early 2011
Record Label: Interscope (?)
Why We're Anticipating: Taking cues from acts such as Depeche Mode and Erasure, Davey Havok and Jade Puget of AFI crafted their own unique brand of synthpop in-between their work with AFI. The brilliant CexCells, released in 2007, showed just how deep and varied their influences were with each and every track. Since then, they've seen fit to tease us with new tracks like "Ill Lit Ships" and "Bon Voyeurs" that are full to the brim with energy and emotion. If the rest of Bright Black Heaven follows suit, the music scene is in store for another ambient masterpiece.


Blueprint (http://www.rhymesayers.com/blueprint) - Adventures in Counter-Culture
Release Date: March 1
Record Label: Rhymesayers Entertainment
Why We're Anticipating: While fellow Rhymesayers members Brother Ali and P.O.S. may get all the press, Blueprint has carved a very special niche in the hip-hop landscape. After impressive showings in groups Soul Position and Greenhouse Effect, Blueprint forged his own path as a special producer/rapper with unique beats and heartfelt lyrics about the world around him. Adventures in Counter-Culture promises to blend and mix genres with reckless abandon, and if the track "Radio-Inactive" is any indication, Blueprint may have very well succeeded.


Circle Takes the Square (http://www.myspace.com/circletakesthesquare) - TBA
Release Date: Spring/Summer
Record Label: TBA
Why We're Anticipating: One of the most insane live shows I've ever seen in such a confined space. Circle Takes the Square's As the Roots Undo is one of the most talked about, praised, and hated albums in the post-hardcore scene. It's solid, sorry if you disagree. This will be an obscure victory for few, but we're going to be awaiting patiently. I mean, we've waited so long, some of us forgot.


The Devil Wears Prada (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thedevilwearsprada) - TBA
Release Date: Summer 2011
Record Label: Warner/Ferret
Why We're Anticipating: The band has progressed so much over the course of three albums and one massive EP that I am expecting this album to destroy everyone. Mike Hranica is quickly emerging as one of the best vocalists in the metalcore scene, and if they can progress from their epic Zombie EP, you can expect more people to become fans of Prada.


Destroy Rebuild Until God Shows (D.R.U.G.S.) (http://www.absolutepunk.net/drugs) - Self-Titled
Release Date: February 22, 2011
Record Label: Decaydance
Why We're Anticipating: Featuring members from Matchbook Romance, From First To Last, Story of the Year, and Underminded, D.R.U.G.S. is the album that will intrigued many (and you know the haters are secretly anticipating this baby as well). Their first song, "If You Think This Song Is About You, It Probably Is" is a lightning jolt of chaotic catchiness, but judging from the small clips in their updates, we can expect their debut to be a little heavier than that. Love him or hate him, Craig Owens' name always draws a huge thread here. 2011 is the year Owens shows everyone that Chiodos made a huge mistake.


Every Time I Die (http://www.absolutepunk.net/everytimeidie) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Epitaph
Why We're Anticipating: It may be hard to believe that Every Time I Die could create something heavier than 2009’s behemoth New Junk Aesthetic, but I’m here to give everyone fair warning: prepare yourselves for destruction. After spending most of 2010 rocking out with The Damned Things, leadman Keith Buckley is ready to unleash some god-forsaken screams. You should also expect ax-masters Andy Williams and Jordan Buckley to build upon the spectacular guitar work heard on NJA. Basically, it’s time to rise the threat level color to red.


Former Theives (http://www.myspace.com/formerthieves) - The Language That We Speak
Release Date: Spring
Record Label: No Sleep
Why We're Anticipating: Aggressively, Former Thieves are poised to be that next band you tell your "bros" about. Easily comparable to Botch, the band harness a little less noggin' and lot more clobberin' with their material though, and it may just be too much for the regular "hate mosher" in your life. While the brute force was a little held back in production on their last EP, the full-length will hopefully knock more than a few out.


fun. (http://www.absolutepunk.net/funband) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Nettwerk
Why We're Anticipating: At this point, I don't think it's a far reach to say that Nate Ruess is one of the best things going on in the pop music world. Smart, clever, interesting. Many of us were crushed when The Format broke up, but in 2009, Ruess returned with fun.'s debut Aim & Ignite. Full of anxious pop melodies and driven by Ruess' unmistakable vocals, fun. was a new beginning. Rest assured, fun.'s sophomore album will without a doubt further cement Ruess as a monument of modern pop music.


Gatsbys American Dream (http://www.absolutepunk.net/gatsbysamericandream) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Equal Vision
Why We're Anticipating: If you’re like me, you probably did some sort of dance once word got out that Gatsby’s American Dream were getting back together (personally I went with the Aaron Rodgers “title belt” celebration). It’s been 4 years since their last album, so saying that we’ve missed their spastic, intense, and smart rock and roll would be quite the understatement. The Seattle sextet is out to kill all the bullshit music that has been polluting our airwaves. Neon music, you’ve been warned.


Glassjaw (http://www.absolutepunk.net/glassjaw) - TBA
Release Date: Early 2011
Record Label: Warner Bros. Records
Why We're Anticipating: I think it goes past simple anticipation at this point. The hype that's been building ever since the track "You Think You're (John Fucking Lennon)" hit the scene in 2008 finally culminated in the release of Our Color Green (The Singles). The EP, while short, provides a fantastic look into future. While their last full-length was released just a year short of a decade ago, it's apparent that Daryl Palumbo and company still have the same essence that made their band so special.


Grizzly Bear (http://www.grizzly-bear.net/) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Warp Records
Why We're Anticipating: Much like Deerhunter, Grizzly Bear is one of those "indie" bands that actually live up to their hype and more. Since we're not getting anything new on the Blue Valentine OST, a new LP must be in the works, and all signs point to it happening this year. I wonder what location will be the muse this time around?


I Am The Avalanche (http://absolutepunk.net/iamtheavalanche) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: TBA
Why We're Anticipating: I Am The Avalanche hasn't put out a proper release since 2005 and have been in contractual limbo with Drive-Thru for years. After talking with Vinnie personally and seeing him play live, they have been recording and are planning to get a record out in 2011. No one knows what 6 years between records will give us, but we're patiently waiting for Vinnie's voice to grace our ears again.


La Dispute (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?l=5157) - TBA
Release Date: Late Fall/Early Winter
Record Label: No Sleep Records
Why We're Anticipating: La Dispute are poised to be the next big thing in the #tourlife scene, and their follow-up to their first LP may just solidify that. I've been hearing talks that some of the songs the band are demoing are even darker than previous efforts, and if their tracks on the Touche Amore split are anything of a sign, this may be the release that washes out the rest of that bad taste left by the scream-sing-syth bands.


Lykke Li (http://www.myspace.com/lykkeli) - Wounded Rhymes
Release Date: March 2
Record Label: LL Recordings
Why We're Anticipating: Youth Novels was one of the best debuts to come out in 2008, so it's no surprise that hopes and expectations for her follow-up are extremely high. Judging by her newest (http://www.absolutepunk.net/showthread.php?t=2022392) song "Get Some," this album should be just as good, if not better, than Youth Novels. If anything, it should be a record with beautiful and catchy melodies accompanied by a unique voice; what more could one want?


The Low Anthem (http://www.myspace.com/lowanthem) - Smart Flesh
Release Date: February 22
Record Label: Nonesuch
Why We're Anticipating: If the praise for their previous release, Oh My God, Charlie Darwin, is any indication, 2011 will be the year that this band gets the attention it deserves. This trio has been around for a while, making beautiful folk music that should have appealed to fans Bon Iver and Iron & Wine, but perhaps Smart Flesh will finally put them on the map. February promises to be cold, and this promises to be the perfect album to listen to in the meantime, so keep an eye out for it.


The Maccabees (http://www.absolutepunk.net/themaccabees) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Fiction
Why We're Anticipating: After a great year full of headlining tours, main stage festival slots and many new fans through the release of their superb, game-changing second album, Wall Of Arms, things are only going to get bigger and better for the band, much like the music itself. Whether it's melancholy sounds, sing-a-long choruses or heartfelt tones you want...this band delivers it all to the highest standard. The Maccabees really do hold their own as one of the best British bands around right now and if we go on live performances and videos of new tracks "Child" and "Forever, I've Known", it seems as though they are not only going to maintain that position but raise the bar even higher.


Manchester Orchestra (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?do=showdetails&l=3520) - Simple Math
Release Date: Spring/Summer
Record Label: Favorite Gentlemen Recordings
Why We're Anticipating: Mean Everything to Nothing was a behemoth of a record not only for long time fans, but for the band's crossover into mainstream. Seriously, did you expect to hear that on the radio? While we may not get videos for every song on the album this time around, the band have said to me at this year's Austin City Limits that the album will be heavier on some ends and even more melodic on others. A polarizing album? I think we've heard that before. With Hull still writing for the conclusion of his Right Away, Great Captain! saga, and the release of the Bad Books album with fellow song-writing friend and "muse" Kevin Devine, I think expectations will be high on this one for many of us.


New Found Glory (http://absolutepunk.net/newfoundglory) – TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Epitaph
Why We’re Anticipating: As expected, 2010 was another huge year for Epitaph records. It looks like 2011 will be no different, as NFG’s highly anticipated follow up to Not Without A Fight will provide even further proof that pop-punk is not dead. They've never let us down before, and they surely won't this time.


Original Silence (http://www.myspace.com/thefirstoriginalsilence) - The Third Original Silence
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Smalltown Superjazz
Why We're Anticipating: There's something about a band that disappears for an undisclosed amount of time, and then reappears casually in a magazine record label advertisement. I'm not even positive if the third release from super-group Original Silence -- containing Thurston Moore (Sonic Youth), Terrie Ex (The Ex), ubiquitous free jazz performers Mats Gustafsson (sax) and Paal Nilssen-Love (drums), some dude named Jim O'Rourke, and Massimo Pupillo (Zu) -- will be called The Third Original Silence, but given the first two installments, I can't imagine an aberration. No, the band saves the unpredictability for the songs themselves: a violent strain of noise rock-influenced free-jazz often referred to as "skronk." What live performance this recording will feature is also a mystery, but as the label rightly says, "This is 100% improvised rock. A spontaneous, monumental, raw and harshly beautiful out-rock masterpiece!"


Pharoahe Monch (http://www.myspace.com/pharoahemonch) - W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)
Release Date: March 22, 2011
Record Label: Duck Down
Why We're Anticipating: As he is one the best lyricists East Coast hip-hop has ever seen, we wait with bated breath for Pharoahe Monch's third full-length. Even if he had just released '99's Internal Affairs, his legacy would be mighty. Yes, his debut contained the hit "Simon Says," but that song was not representative of the album; it was not about club bangers. Instead, he predicated his unique style on pushing metaphor and the deployment of "information" to new limits, and, in the process, challenged the listener with speed, dexterity, and concept. Highlights included everything from the savage collaboration with M.O.P., "No Mercy," to the lushly produced narrative "Queens." In addition to his novel approach, he situates his subject matter somewhere between the socially conscious and grimy murder tales associated with Queensbrige MCs -- and he delivers it all in a multisyllabic, shape-shifting delivery. He also couples his heady subject matter with plenty of charisma (like that of Ghostface Killah), and also like Tony Starks, his larger-than-life presence doesn't make up for or disguise any lyrical shortcomings. His sophmore effort, 2007's Desire, contained the expected vivid, acrobatic lyricism but lacked consistently compelling beats. Luckily, Monch promises W.A.R. (We Are Renegades) will be a throwback to early 90s East Coast hip-hop, and one hopes he returns with the unslakeable hunger of his debut.


Portugal. The Man (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?showlink.php?do=showde tails&l=2448) - TBA
Release Date: Spring/Summer
Record Label: Atlantic Records
Why We're Anticipating: This is the one band I have been following since the beginning. One band I've seen more than any other. One band that sits above all in my vinyl collection. Even if their last two records took a few spins to sink in, they sunk in wonderfully. After talking with Zac Carothers at Austin City Limits this year, the band's major label debut may blend everything they've ever done and blend it again into something new. If five albums haven't been a disappointment, I can't see their Bowie-eqsue shape shifting being a let down on their sixth.


Set Your Goals (http://www.absolutepunk.net/setyourgoals) - Burning At Both Ends
Release Date: Spring 2011
Record Label: Epitaph
Why We're Anticipating: When the thermostat starts rising, you just know that a new Set Your Goals album is around the corner. The Bay Area punk rock group has cemented their place as one of the best in the genre, and they’ll look to continue their ascension this spring when they release their third full length album, Burning At Both Ends. The sextet will once again go to work with producer Brian McTernan, so you should expect some crunchy riffs with some incredibly catchy sing-along choruses. I’m sweating already.


Saves the Day (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?do=showdetails&l=2053) - Daybreak
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: TBA
Why We're Anticipating: These guys and Glassjaw have been vying for the scene's Chinese Democracy for some time now. Saves the Day have at least put out three records in that time though, but we're still waiting up for this one to wrap-up the trilogy with Sound the Alarm and Under the Boards. It's supposed to be more vibrant and poppy I hear. I'm not sure if I really care if it sounds like a drone record at this point. I just want to hear the damn thing already.


Thrice (http://www.absolutepunk.net/thrice) - TBA
Release Date: TBA
Record Label: Vagrant Records
Why We're Anticipating: Arguably one of the biggest bands on this entire website. One of the site's creator's top 3 favorite bands ever. Album after album, Thrice have done no wrong. Dustin Kensrue is one of the most powerful vocalists of his kind, and the man pens some of the most conscious lyrics of any artist. After Beggars, the expectations are insanely high. But honestly, it's Thrice - we all know it will be a great record.


Thursday (http://www.absolutepunk.net/artists/showlink.php?do=showdetails&l=2073) - TBA
Release Date: Spring
Record Label: Epitaph Records
Why We're Anticipating: While Common Existence was a let down for some and a throwback to others, it still contained the bite and urgency we've all come to know and love from the band. Its major flaw: lack of cohesion. Whether that will be a problem this time around, or we'll see a better flow of an album, I foresee Thursday once again proving why so many call them a major influence among the young music scene.


We Still Dream (http://myspace.com/westilldream) - Chapters
Release Date: March
Record Label: Eulogy Records
Why We're Anticipating: The band made a splash in 2008 with their debut EP Oh Snap! that caught the attention of the pop-punk scene. They've shed the Four Year Strong-esque style by returning to an old school pop-punk sound reminiscent of Take This To Your Grave. If the few songs that have been released online are any indication of what the entire album is going to be, We Still Dream could be one of the bands in the forefront of the pop-punk scene.

[Lueda Alia]

I can't wait for a lot of these.

[Kyle Huntington]

Yay! 2011 is gonna be a brilliant year for me musically.

[Cue the Sun]

It's awesome to see Mockingbird on this list. They are great

[Debut_Fin]

I had no idea Gaslight was looking to put out another album this year. So excited

I'm also excited to hear Born This Way idgaf

[Flight815]

I am also anticipating 14 of those. The others I either don't or I don't know them. Solid list though.

[brandon_260]

Stoked for I Call Fives, The Wonder Years, Bayside, Taking Back Sunday and The Dangerous Summer. Will give All Time Low a listen, but I'm not expecting much.

[Cøltøn]

No Set Your Goals? Transit? Man Overboard? Handguns?

Good list otherwise.

[richardliesse]

drooling.

[Full Effect Ed]

The new Rise Against is called "Endgame"

[Kyle Huntington]

No Set Your Goals? Transit? Man Overboard? Handguns?

Good list otherwise.
This is only part one...

[richardliesse]

Also, I'm suprised the site didn't have New Found Glory on here.

[steven31]

How come Thrice is not on this list?

[TheSlug]

that list doesn't knock my socks off...

[JJW319]

Lots of Hopeless and Interscope I see

and not to sure of a TGA album this year. If it happens, it would probably be very late 2011.

[TheSlug]

No Set Your Goals? Transit? Man Overboard? Handguns?

Good list otherwise.
yes! I would add the story so far....

[irthesteve]

lots of exciting stuff, of course

[slimfenix182]

Also, I'm suprised the site didn't have New Found Glory on here.

the 1st comment will be replaced with part 2. sure NFG will be there.

[incognitojones]

Man, none of mine are on here. Fireworks, This Town Needs Guns, Algernon, Every Time I Die, Lower Definition, Gatsby.

[SomedayTheFire]

Do people not know the meaning of part 1 and part 2? Idiots

[Cøltøn]

This is only part one...
That would explain it!

[richardliesse]

Yeah, oops.

[Kbm600]

I really wish This Town Needs Guns had made the list.

EDIT: I guess there's always part two.

[brook183]

how were parts 1 and 2 separated??

[Cameronisonfire]

This Will Destroy You.
Yes.

[Paulb-182]

Gaslight are releasing this year? Who knew?

[Blake Solomon]

how were parts 1 and 2 separated??
randomly, it appears.

[The Revisionist]

New Weird Al is my most anticipated.

[Star Slight]

Raek <3

[zachff]

This has all of my most anticipated except Ben Harper, which I wouldn't expect from AP.

In some order:
Stump
Yellowcard
Gaslight
Wonder Years
Blink
Dangerous Summer

[InaGreendase]

I'd be pretty surprised if the Gaslight Anthem pumped out a new album this year.

I'm willing to bet the Taking Back Sunday album will just be a continuation/slight improvement of the Louder Now/New Again sound rather than a TAYF rehash, the latter of which I'd prefer.

Moving Mountains, Bayside, Death Cab, This Will Destroy You, Mockingbird, the Wonder Years and Rise Against (in that order) should all be great to good.

Part 2 needs Balance and Composure, Manchester Orchestra, Gatsbys American Dream, Seahaven, Defeater and Cave In. Those various Directions (http://directionsuk.bandcamp.com/track/dreamer) EPs/splits are going to slay, too.

[donwagenblast]

I don't think All Time Low is on Hopeless anymore?

[luvsickcatalyst]

Can I add Farewell Flight's new record, Lonesome Traveler, hoping that they find a label to release it properly this year. Been waiting for years to hear new stuff from them.

[nineinchsin]

Say Anything and How to Destroy Angels better show up on the next installment...or else

[nineinchsin]

And Modest Mouse

[Quamasterflex]

ahem...leighton and malpass project

[Modern Leper]

Not the best list. No offense. Check it:

Sheep (members of Tigers Jaw, The Menzingers, Captain We're Sinking!)
Mock Orange
Glocca Morra
Weatherbox
Trail of Dead
Hot Water Music
Dear and the Headlights
Small Brown Bike
Manchester Orchestra
The Strokes
Astronautalis
Campaign
Fallen from the Sky
All Get Out
For Serious This Time
Living with Lions
A Wilhelm Scream
Attack in Black
Bright Eyes
Small Leaks Sink Ships
Summer People
Rural Alberta Advantage
Red Animal War
Saboteur
Rise Against
Cymbals Eat Guitars
The Painter & The Canvas
Right Away, Great Captain!
Red City Radio
Balance and Composure
Surfer Blood
Grooms
Men
Mountain Goats

...those are mostly guaranteed. There's tons of other "likely"s, and ones I've missed. 2011 is gonna obliterate me.

[untitled94]

Very excited on 2011!

[softcoeur]

guh, no saves the day? the fuck is wrong here?

[AP_Punk]

I had no idea Gaslight was looking to put out another album this year. So excited

I'm also excited to hear Born This Way idgaf
brian mentioned that they plan on writing for a new record early this year. so we'll see!

and he's also planning on recording an album with chuck ragan this year too. i'm beyond stoked for that.

and speaking of chuck, there's a good chance hot water music will release something new this year as well! he's hinted at it recently-ish.

[KingsCrossing]

"Moving Mountains - TBA
Release Date: Late Winter/Early Spring
Record Label: Triple Crown Records
Why We're Anticipating: It's about time Moving Mountains released a true follow-up to Pneuma"

Um what was wrong with Foreword?

[ZoSo1886]

Pretty sure nfg has a summer release coming

[SpyKi]

Good list, I'm looking forward to a good amount of them too.

[wall e]

p.o.s.

[rykeyz]

Looking forward to Yellowcard (my favorite band of all time), Death Cab, Rise Against, Blink and some more... but those are the ones I'm most excited for... oh and also that new LOVE record by Angels & Airwaves though I don't know whether it includes a lot of new songs or mostly songs from LOVE 2010

YELLOWCARD!!! sorry but I can't hold my excitement back... it's impossible!!
"can you hear the crowd? they all go wild for you and your denial!!"

[Drow Swordsman]

I'm excited for new La Dispute, Thursday. Anthony Green, and TWY at this point. I'll probably be stoked on a bunch of indie releases, but I don't keep up with them as much, I just have my hipster friends tell me when stuff comes out and I end up liking a lot of it.

[NeedHelp]

Every year ends up having better releases than the one before it. Stoked for 2011!

[tizabor]

Stoked for Blink, The Wonder Years, and The Gaslight Anthem. And posibbly Rise Against.

[ipunchcouches]

No I Am The Avalanche? No SYG?

[SomedayTheFire]

"Moving Mountains - TBA
Release Date: Late Winter/Early Spring
Record Label: Triple Crown Records
Why We're Anticipating: It's about time Moving Mountains released a true follow-up to Pneuma"

Um what was wrong with Foreword?
It's not an album.

[bobsheiskawy]

And Modest Mouse
do you know something that i don't?

i plan to listen to 7 1/2 of these right now, and might check out a few others. if the next part doesn't have go radio, something is wrong. i expect to see fun. and city & colour as well.

[Dustin Harkins]

Talib Kweli! Yessss.

[Blake Solomon]

"Moving Mountains - TBA
Release Date: Late Winter/Early Spring
Record Label: Triple Crown Records
Why We're Anticipating: It's about time Moving Mountains released a true follow-up to Pneuma"

Um what was wrong with Foreword?
it was only an EP

[butrfli1234]

Patd better be on part 2.

[3GunGaz]

The omission of NFG from the list upsets me.

[Kyle Huntington]

People really need to read and realise this part 1 of 2.

[cwhit412]

No I Am The Avalanche? No SYG?
PART. TWO. DAMNIT.
:hitself:

[Jason Tate]

There will be a part 2. Yesh.

[vaguestcargo]

omg, forgot TWDY is releasing soon. Mmmm. Sooo good.

[grassygurl16]

I can't wait for The Script's new album "Science & Faith" And I don't have to wait too long because its out next week!

[trappedintime]

Great list so far! Can't wait to see what part two brings.

[karadotcollett]

Dispatch and Man Orch better be in part 2 :D

[sweetfootaction]

Why do people above the age of 14 like All Time Low?

Oh, and Manchester Orchestra BETTER be in part two.

[SomedayTheFire]

I can't wait for The Script's new album "Science & Faith" And I don't have to wait too long because its out next week!

It's terrible.

[slimfenix182]

Why do people above the age of 14 like All Time Low?

will never understand this either.

[aradiantsunrise]

Some great bands on here.

[Drew Beringer]

Lady Gaga gross

[InBetweenAisles]

So excited.

[Jhutch7]

Foo Fighters better be on pt. 2. Thats my most anticipated

[jdr277]

Part 2
Manchester Orchestra - Simple Math
Weatherbox - 3 releases to drop this year
Saves The Day - Daybreak
Panic At the Disco! - Vices and Virtues
Bright Eyes - The Peoples Key
Chiddy Bang - The Swelly Life/Peanut Butter and Swelly
Maniac - Ex The Matches Full Length
Anything (Say Anything, Modest Mouse, Brand New, Broken Bells, Fun., The Shins) Decide to put out
New Comers LPs: Seahaven, I The Mighty, Gabriel the Marine

[RuckerPark]

or manchester?

[Blink-O]

new found glory and sum 41 should DEFINATELY be listed in the second part.

[DeadCityScars]

none of these seem remotely interesting other than Blink 182 and Rise Against. Not a huge fan of either (I graduated the 8th grade approx 7 years ago), but I think they are worth a shot. And I've been waiting for an excuse to get back into Rise Against.

Needs: Thursday.

[[Mike]]

Glassjaw should most definitely be on part two.

[nineinchsin]

do you know something that i don't?

i plan to listen to 7 1/2 of these right now, and might check out a few others. if the next part doesn't have go radio, something is wrong. i expect to see fun. and city & colour as well.
I know MM was working on new songs as of last spring/summer. No concrete details but it seems a release later this year is likely.

[mycuban]

after the Holiday show, i'm so ready for new Thursday! it can't get here soon enough.

[Scrawns]

I'm really hoping august burns red is added to this list. There's no denying that this band is the face of metal for the next few years. Each of their albums has proved to be more colossal then the one before and it looks like they will release another in 2011. They seem to get passed over by people as scene metalcore or too christian but I implore you to look again, especially at their most recent album, constellations.

[Montauk123]

Maybe even Coldplay can be mentioned in the next part? :piano:

[taylerx0]

Excited for Patrick Stump, I Call Fives, and The Dangerous Summer.

[jusscali]

What has Andrew been up too lately? Will there be another Relient K record in the next year? I'm assuming Brand New may be up to something.

[ipodanthony]

Set Your Goals needs to be on there

[Broden Terry]

New Angus and Julia is certainly my most anticipated. I'm sure it'll be wonderful!

[A Pilgrim]

TAKING BACK SUNDAY

x

[anamericangod]

New Thursday plz.

[A Pilgrim]

New Thursday plz.
This. And Glassjaw. All of them together. Hanging on a tree.

[Modern Leper]

Weatherbox - 3 releases to drop this year

:jawdrop:tell me more

[cubsml34]

Do hope Part 2 contains Silverstein and Shikari

[jennaksquared]

Really pleased to see Moving Mountains on here. And the fact that it's an EP aside, I think Foreword is definitely an adequate follow-up to Pneuma.

[bobthebaker81]

Hands On The Stereo, new EP titled Teamwork Makes The Dream Work will be out sometime in 2011

[Momo32T]

Im am assuming Thrice will be in Part II. Even through I voted for Silverstein, I doubt they make "Most Anticipated".

[britt91]

sounds like it's going to be an awesome year music. not excited about Lady Gaga but everyone else, yes!!!

[Wez1212Yes]

Looking forward to the Frank Turner, Laura Marling, Gaslight Anthem, Rise Against and Death Cab releases. However, Fucked Up, The King Blues, Genghis Tron, Hearts UnderFire and Crazy Arm are higher up on the agenda.

[mymusicismylife]

Some great stuff, but a little underwhelming. Maybe it's just too short, looking forward to part 2.

[qwerty22]

anticipating manchester orchestra and thrice. was it really random? it seems more like part 1 is first half of the year releases... except i doubt gaslight would be early in the year.

[Ryan Gardner]

Woo!

[CoheedForever]

It's going to be a good year.

[DannyC249]

Since AP.net is trying to "brainwash us" into liking these bands, maybe you guys can do what you do for "Absolute 100" every year--post genre and recommended if you like so and so. Just a suggestion. I am too lazy to look up every band I don't know on this list if it's not my style of music.

[cshadows2887]

Nothing Personal wasn't a perfect anything. And word on the new album isn't much better.

[UnderMyDreams]

All Time Low are on Interscope now...

[Blake Solomon]

Do hope Part 2 contains Silverstein and Shikari
i have a feeling you will be let down

[Thomas Nassiff]

Hahahahaha of course people are whining about what we picked. Get out of here, man. First off it's only part one and second off make your own list if you're just gonna cry about it. Yeesh.
Not the best list. No offense. Check it:

Sheep (members of Tigers Jaw, The Menzingers, Captain We're Sinking!)
WTF is this. Link me tell me let me hear I wants moar info.

[Thomas Nassiff]

Reading back on the ones that I did, these were some of the best blurbs I've ever written. Coincidentally all five of mine made the first batch.

Also,
i have a feeling you will be let down
This was very well put.

[underdawg1119]

Hope to see All Get Out, Thrice and O'Brother on part 2.

[dru]

too bad all time low's latest album sucked...

[Nap]

The Offspring, Foo Fighters, Thrice, The Dwarves, Hot Water Music(?), Face to Face(?), Saves the Day, Polar Bear Club(?), A Wilhelm Scream(?), Bigwig(?), The Lawrence Arms(?)

[Modern Leper]

WTF is this. Link me tell me let me hear I wants moar info.
http://www.punknews.org/article/41148

[broaddplease]

I didn't know there was going to be new Gaslight..

[evanmeindl]

Surely the second list will have Manchester Orchestra, Thrice, fun, Saves the Day, New Found Glory, Every Time I Die, Tegan and Sara, Say Anything, etc.

[MorningStar10]

Vaccines?! much more excited for Mona's release.

For me, its all about, The Maccabees, The Subways, Twin Atlantic, You me at six, Mona and Taking Back Sunday.

[Viva Sonata]

No Set Your Goals? Transit? Man Overboard? Handguns?

Good list otherwise.
Part two is coming out soon. They might be on that one

[viggie55]

no farewell fighter? shame. their new EP is sooo tits!

[sweetfootaction]

Hahahahaha of course people are whining about what we picked. Get out of here, man. First off it's only part one and second off make your own list if you're just gonna cry about it. Yeesh.We did. Remember the poll? Why not give the results to that rather than whatever this is?

Also, why in the world did the list have to be split up?

[Thomas Nassiff]

We did. Remember the poll? Why not give the results to that rather than whatever this is?

Also, why in the world did the list have to be split up?
This is called a feature. You may recognize it based on the similarity to countless other features that this website does. The results are coming of course. We wouldn't do a poll and not release them. And the list is split up because there are 50 total albums and releasing 50 blurbs at once is an invitation for things to not be read by an audience that continually just skims before whining. The results are being released with the second half of the feature. Why do you scoff at a process if you have no idea what went into it?

[sweetfootaction]

This is called a feature. You may recognize it based on the similarity to countless other features that this website does. The results are coming of course. We wouldn't do a poll and not release them. And the list is split up because there are 50 total albums and releasing 50 blurbs at once is an invitation for things to not be read by an audience that continually just skims before whining. The results are being released with the second half of the feature. Why do you scoff at a process if you have no idea what went into it?
I suppose I don't understand why you'd do a feature on the same thing that the poll results are going to show... I guess it's just me.

[Thomas Nassiff]

http://www.punknews.org/article/41148
Is that the lead singer of Captain, We're Sinking? I should have reviewed that EP. I'll review it this week. Better late than never like the Titanic. His voice is great, I think he's the sort of frontman that would get a lot of love on this site.

[Thomas Nassiff]

I suppose I don't understand why you'd do a feature on the same thing that the poll results are going to show... I guess it's just me.
This doesn't reflect the poll at all. These are the staff's most anticipated. The reader poll will reflect the user's most anticipated, of course. The two have nothing to do with each other so the poll might show albums that we didn't even include although we most likely did include them.

[cubsml34]

i have a feeling you will be let down
At least i won't get my hopes up haha

[rockshowkimiko]

SERIOUSLY? No Set Your Goals or New Found Glory? Lameeeee.

[Kyle Huntington]

I suppose I don't understand why you'd do a feature on the same thing that the poll results are going to show... I guess it's just me.
Both lists are completely different.

[sweetfootaction]

Both lists are completely different.
I'm curious. Did Lady Gaga make the user list?

[Jason Tate]

SERIOUSLY? No Set Your Goals or New Found Glory? Lameeeee.
Seriously, this is only half of the list.

[Jason Tate]

I'm curious. Did Lady Gaga make the user list?
~ #35.

[inthemidst]

I really wish This Town Needs Guns had made the list.

EDIT: I guess there's always part two.
Brilliant avatar. Love Sleeping at Last...maybe too much.

[inthemidst]

Good list, I respect it. Pretty stoked for the new TBS and TDS among others.

[petethemeat]

Do you people really think there's gonna be new releases by brand new, gaslight anthem or say anything in 2011? Dont hold your breath.

[SpyKi]

Do you people really think there's gonna be new releases by brand new, gaslight anthem or say anything in 2011? Dont hold your breath.
It seems pretty likely for SA.

[hang10]

So excited to see what TBS does. I was really not a fan of their latest release at all, but I still loved Louder Now.
I wouldn't mind if Blink did something similar to their S/T but if they did something more reminiscent of Enema/TOYPAJ I'd be stoked too.
Now that The Wonder Years aren't sad anymore I'm hoping to hear some happier tunes from them.
And I love Yellowcard, so enough said.

[hang10]

Also stoked for B&C, Defeater, TTNG and Algernon, amongst others I'm sure.

[ThisCan'tBeReal]

I Am Anticipating........ None Of These Bands

[bandnamexmyname]

Excited as fuck for Frank Turner.

And Raekwon record will be sick.

[Hidden In NJ]

Pianos Become The Teeth, The Rise of Science, Thrice, Architects (Uk), La Dispute, Just Like Vinyl, Kanye with Jay-Z, Life on Repeat, The Kindness of Strangers, Portugal. The Man, Saves The Day, and Thursday would've made my list...
Otherwise, this is a very good and honest list...I'm going to be broke come January...

[notmrblond234]

if taking back Sunday is the second least likely to reunite, the who's the first?

[Spencer Control]

Actually kind of disappointed. Endgame should be grand.

[birtcho]

Some killer artists there

[tgrady]

they forgot some... Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Strokes also are having new albums (both more important than Lady Gaga

[harley7733]

The Strokes!!!!?????!!!!!!?????!!!!!!

[SomedayTheFire]

My good god, did you all fail English comprehension in school or something? Seriously, idiots.

[Kbm600]

Brilliant avatar. Love Sleeping at Last...maybe too much.
Didja check out my blog for a free copy of January? Bad plug here, but I thought I'd mention it. haha.

[Max Fairclough]

i can't believe its almost 8 years since blink released something. i thought they were going to release atleast a single in 2009 but that never happened. it's now 2011 and it is killing me.

[jurzdevil]

"But the second most improbable reunion has us salivating for their new album."

Whats the most improbable reunion if TBS is 2nd?

[katiedontcryx41]

my ears's hunger will be fulfilled. this year is just endless anticipation!! ah

[dontdrivenaked]

Grown ups 7"!

[pew pew]

No Thrice? Glassjaw? Radiohead? Cold War Kids? Mars Volta? Manchester Orchestra? O'Brother?

Hopefully some of these get put on part 2. If not, then I don't really give a fuck.

[jdr277]

:jawdrop:tell me more
A split with Person L, Home Recordings From Brian Warren, "The Compass" or some other title for a full length... read it here http://www.myspace.com/weatherbox/blog
"Our New Record is beginning to take shape in the void...it's a science-fiction novel in audio form, Hopefully by early next year we'll have Weatherbox record number three for you, which has no name at the moment. Maybe "The Compass." Maybe "The Ghost of Weatherbox. " Maybe "Space Bros Hang Loose."

How's that grab ya?

If you don't want to wait that long for new 'box, we will supply you with two radical new releases in the mean time.

The first is a bunch of songs I've worked on over the past couple years, mostly at home, its an EP called, CALL ME HOME: THE HOME RECORDINGS OF BRIAN WARREN'S WEATHERBOX. I have a few more things to finish up with it and then the good dudes at Sophomore Lounge Records are gonna press the vinyl."

[B4Bronco6]

Blessthefall?

Sleeping with Sirens?

[M.C COB]

Dang, super excited.

[xent]

no to lady gaga

[Ailite]

This year is going to be so great.

[ipunchcouches]

PART. TWO. DAMNIT.
:hitself:
I'm just tryin to spreadd the word catoggy

[LukeMcCain]

no Panic! ???????

[iamthealex]

Hoping to see some New Found Glory, Fireworks, Set Your Goals, Jack's Mannequin, Sum 41 in part 2.

Edit: And Panic! At The Disco, The Swellers, and at least one more that I'm forgetting.

[youngmountain]

Who knows when tunnel Blanket will finally come out.

[kazuma_ootaro28]

Moving Mountains is there, of course. I'll be surprised if the next Gaslight Anthem album comes out as soon as this year.
Hope to see Thursday and Cut Copy on part 2.

[thesollopsist]

What a lackluster list apart from Moving Mountains.

[inthemidst]

Didja check out my blog for a free copy of January? Bad plug here, but I thought I'd mention it. haha.
Dude, I'm so behind. I haven't downloaded December or January yet haha. I'll check your blog out, though. Thanks for the tip! Always good to see a fellow SAL fan ;-)

[glowbox]

and i was hoping to see I See Stars on the list there...

[drewbaldy]

Part 2 better have Jack's Mannequin or I will be thoroughly disappointed in this site.

[jasonisasleep]

lady gaga? i have officially lost faith in this site.

[drewbaldy]

my ears's hunger will be fulfilled. this year is just endless anticipation!! ah

This.

I made a list of about 30 albums I'm looking forward to this year and I'm still adding to it. I figure I'm going to be spending about 500 dollars on music this year.

[JJW319]

Definitely looking to be a big year in music. Prob buying the most this year than ever...

[jacobg2000]

I'm extremely excited for new Blink and All Time Low (please, somebody, update us as soon as you find out when their new album can be pre-ordered) but i'll probably be buying the new Yellowcard CD too. i'll hopefully be seeing them on tour with All Time Low :D

[circletheworld]

i hope part 2 covers more that are missing

[blatantfox]

Polar Bear Club, TBA, Fall 2011

[stonecoldfox]

Death Cab, Rise Against, Taking Back Sunday, Gaslight Anthem, and The Wonder Years...the rest on the list, don't care about so much.

[Alexx Miller]

Awesome feature, can't wait to see the second part. I think in the future, maybe it should just be one article instead of two parts. Just a suggestion :shrug:

[Lueda Alia]

I'm not sure why people think that we have to include their most anticipated albums on our/this list. Each staff member picked whatever albums they can't wait to hear, so I'm not really sure why that's upsetting or disappointing to some people. It doesn't make much sense.

Awesome feature, can't wait to see the second part. I think in the future, maybe it should just be one article instead of two parts. Just a suggestion :shrug:
We usually split features into two parts because they can be overwhelming sometimes.

[Lueda Alia]

Part 2 better have Jack's Mannequin or I will be thoroughly disappointed in this site.
Why would you be disappointed if none of the Staff members are anticipating that album? I don't get it.

lady gaga? i have officially lost faith in this site.
You have lost faith in this site because some Staff members can't wait to hear the new Gaga record (or any others that you don't approve of)? That sure makes a lot of sense.

[Lueda Alia]

My good god, did you all fail English comprehension in school or something? Seriously, idiots.
Seriously.

The fact that people are upset by such a subjective list is really weird. "No! You should not anticipate that record!" What?

[Kyle Huntington]

Word.

[Illuminate]

Gaslight new album? Huh? Really? And also Angus & Julia new album sounds sweet!!

[bigberg337]

I cant fathom any impending argument behind the absence of Portugal. The Man on this list.....ru shitting me? the anticipation for Portugal's album trumps any suspense indicated here TEN FOLD! (with the possible exception of blink) First major label debut.....a projected 3 records out by 2012.....an album a year for the past five years and the forthcoming is expected to be best one yet...comoon u just cant front on that ish...u being a long time supporter of the portugal camp I expected better commoon absolute ur slackin on ur mackin

[cococrisp20]

I'm mainly looking forward to The Wonder Years, Set Your Goals, With the Punches, New Found Glory, Blink-182 (even though it probably won't be very good), Asking Alexandria, We Came as Romans, Texas in July, We Are Defiance, and maybe The Devil Wears Prada and Close to Home...and hopefully In Her Own Words will release a full length

[Thesleepingwell]

Excited for Gaslight, Death Cab and TBS.
And of course New Found Glory.

[xJesusFreakx]

The new Taking Back Sunday will succeed if it feels like TAFY, but not if it sounds like TAYF. "The Best Places to be a Mom" has me highly optimistic, as does their working with the producer of Louder Now. My only worry right now is that they try too hard to "progress" too far; Straylight influence is natural and not really bad, but a Straylight album from TBS would sound pretty weak.

[BigAl]

I want to hear a Blink-182 song so badly it hurts.

[deanster321]

You have lost faith in this site because some Staff members can't wait to hear the new Gaga record (or any others that you don't approve of)? That sure makes a lot of sense.
http://chztotsandgiggles.files.wordpress.c om/2010/11/0ad2560b-dbb7-450a-a037-bef7051c82cb.jpg

[Lueda Alia]

http://chztotsandgiggles.files.wordpress.c om/2010/11/0ad2560b-dbb7-450a-a037-bef7051c82cb.jpg
Hahaha A+.

[A Pilgrim]

The new Taking Back Sunday will succeed if it feels like TAFY, but not if it sounds like TAYF. "The Best Places to be a Mom" has me highly optimistic, as does their working with the producer of Louder Now. My only worry right now is that they try too hard to "progress" too far; Straylight influence is natural and not really bad, but a Straylight album from TBS would sound pretty weak.

You nailed, sir.

[Alexx Miller]

I'm not sure why people think that we have to include their most anticipated albums on our/this list. Each staff member picked whatever albums they can't wait to hear, so I'm not really sure why that's upsetting or disappointing to some people. It doesn't make much sense.


We usually split features into two parts because they can be overwhelming sometimes.
I can see that. Great idea for a feature, I love it.

[drewbaldy]

Why would you be disappointed if none of the Staff members are anticipating that album? I don't get it.


You have lost faith in this site because some Staff members can't wait to hear the new Gaga record (or any others that you don't approve of)? That sure makes a lot of sense.


Simply being overdramatic. I'll never be disappointed in this site. I just love me some Jack's Mannequin and got a little over zealous with my comments. My apologies to all the writers on this site.

[Mattylikesfilms]

Hopefully Mansions, Metric, Glassjaw, and PersonL make the next list.

[Lueda Alia]

Simply being overdramatic. I'll never be disappointed in this site. I just love me some Jack's Mannequin and got a little over zealous with my comments. My apologies to all the writers on this site.
Ah, alright. No worries. I was just really confused because these are really subjective choices. Every Staff member picked a few bands, and we made a list. There was no voting system or anything, so this is hardly a "collective" list the same way that end of the year lists are.

I'd personally prefer a Something Corporate album!

[syntax omitted]

What about Aaron Marsh's Lulls in Traffic project? Thrice? Mogwai?

[FifteenFleeting]

well... im really excited for our new album. that would be one of the things on my list for 2011 :)

[Rysker6]

There For Tomorrow as well.

[drewbaldy]

Ah, alright. No worries. I was just really confused because these are really subjective choices. Every Staff member picked a few bands, and we made a list. There was no voting system or anything, so this is hardly a "collective" list the same way that end of the year lists are.

I'd personally prefer a Something Corporate album!

A couple of years ago I would have preferred a Something Corporate album, but three years ago I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma (cancer) so now I can really relate to Jacks Mannequin.

Woe is me right?

[sugarhooker]

drooling.
pretty much ; )

[raulq23]

Manchester Orchestra needs to be on this list.

[kcpunk]

isn’t the Rise Against album gonna be called Endgame?

[HoldThatSound]

bright eyes

[TimothyKuras]

Depressing how I'm only stoked on Death Cab.

[Lueda Alia]

A couple of years ago I would have preferred a Something Corporate album, but three years ago I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma (cancer) so now I can really relate to Jacks Mannequin.

Woe is me right?
That's awful. :-( I hope you have recovered now. :hug:

[InExile]

No Thrice? FAIL.

[batmannj]

Excellent list, and holy wow a ton of people can't read. AP collective aneurism because Thrice wasn't mentioned. Get over it folks.

[natedoggvb]

Vaccines?! much more excited for Mona's release.

For me, its all about, The Maccabees, The Subways, Twin Atlantic, You me at six, Mona and Taking Back Sunday.


The fact that someone mentioned Twin Atlantic for this makes me happy, love those dudes.

[swsander]

Where's Thrice, Emery, Vanna, and Blessthefall?

[syntax omitted]

oh, and The Dear Hunter. what about them?

[Wez1212Yes]

Good to see Frank Turner, Laura Marling and Death Cab on the list, but no Mastodon, King Blues or Defeater, come on!

[Something More]

Hit the lights?

[InExile]

Excellent list, and holy wow a ton of people can't read. AP collective aneurism because Thrice wasn't mentioned. Get over it folks.
I'll get over it when you go fuck yourself.

[batmannj]

I'll get over it when you go fuck yourself.

lol

PS, I like Thrice if that calms you down any

[InExile]

lol

PS, I like Thrice if that calms you down any
*Heartbeat slows ever so slightly*

[Sing-The-Sorrow]

you're missing: D.R.U.G.S, Angels & Airwaves, Lupe Fiasco, and J. Cole.

[ZachCTC]

I don't want to go through all 14 pages so I don't know if anyone mentioned this yet, but BALANCE AND COMPOSURE FULL LENGTH.

[HardcoreCracker]

Anticipating 11 of Those. As for the others, I don't know or don't want them

I'm surprised at this list though. I thought other albums were much more anticipated than some of the ones up here

[kevinxgibson]

This Will Destroy You never disappoints.

[bduke13]

Beyond stoked for new Bayside

[Shatter_Glass]

no Arctic Monkeys or Strokes?? i know this is a scene-site (whatever that means these days) but c'mon dammit!!

[Lueda Alia]

no Arctic Monkeys or Strokes?? i know this is a scene-site (whatever that means these days) but c'mon dammit!!
This is hardly a "scene" site anymore, since many Staff members don't even listen to bands that you'd expect AP to cover. We're all over the map!

[Drow Swordsman]

Part 2 is definitely better for the most part. Very very excited about La Dispute, Thursday, TWY, TBS, and the new AG album (I know I mixed bands from both parts, but I haven't commented on this thread yet). Along with a bunch of other things from this list.

I really liked Common Existence but the comment about album cohesion is spot on. As He Climbed The Dark Mountain is one of the best songs Thursday has ever written, but the split EP version was really quite a bit better in my opinion. I wish they'd switch up producers for this next album, but I'm definitely ready to listen.

[SheLovesMeNot]

Oh yes. The new Former Thieves is going to be amazing.

[Jackisback]

Every Time I Die and Glassjaw. Oh yes.

[246toothpicks]

'Tis a sad day indeed when Face to Face doesn't even make Absolutepunk's most anticipated of the year.

[Brissona]

is gatsby's anywhere in here? i thought they were trying to release an album this year

[kemppettyjohn]

panic?

also... TDWP is getting worse; Mike's vocals are monotonous. Does no one else hear this but me?

[bobsheiskawy]

No go radio?

[tizabor]

ETID, Glassjaw, and TDWP are up high on my most anticipated.

[Mr.Kilgannon]

The new Saves the Day album has a name and it's been known for a while. It's Daybreak. Come on AP!

[mymusicismylife]

Part II is better.

Still not a fan.

[Jamos4184]

Thrice is hands down my most anticipated for 2011. I can't freakin wait to hear new stuff.

[aradiantsunrise]

Second list is great.

[zachff]

Crazy to see Pharaoh Monch on the second list.

Looking forward to fun. and NFG most from that group.

[zachff]

No go radio?
There are still 2 more lists to be released

[jdr277]

Hey guys... How could you forget Weatherbox, Panic! At The Disco, Bright Eyes, Maniac (ex-the matches), & Chiddy Bang.

On the other hand a lot of my favorites were mentioned. Bayside, DCFC, Fun., MO, TBS, STD, P.TM, Thrice,& Blink 182.

[xapplexpiex]

Part 2 of this list gave me an erection. '11 is going to be an awesome year for music.

[bobsheiskawy]

There are still 2 more lists to be released
From the staff? They've made it seem as though there are only two parts to their list.

[Blake Solomon]

There are still 2 more lists to be released

Nope this is the last staff list. There will be a user poll anticipsted list soon

[zachff]

From the staff? They've made it seem as though there are only two parts to their list.

Nope this is the last staff list. There will be a user poll anticipsted list soon
There you go^

Doesn't surprise me it wasn't on the staff list

[incognitojones]

I think I'm anticipating that entire second part besides DRUGS. Much better list, even though a few bands were left out...

[xsinkshipsx]

didn't know about the appleseed cast...SUPER stoked on that

[topher465]

Thriiiiiiicccee

[andregino]

I voted for The Ataris but i can't find them :(

[randys950]

I'm looking forward to the new all american rejects album. Move along was one of my favorite albums of all time. When the world comes out one of my most hated. They said this album is more mature and has a classic rock vibe, and that's a good sign.

[tht1guyb]

No one one the staff anticipates the new Jack's record? that saddens me...

[robhimself]

no city and colour mention?

[Kyle Huntington]

I voted for The Ataris but i can't find them :(
This isn't the user poll/list.

[Simulcast]

Eros. Give it to me.

[Trevor Sostarich]

Isn't the Saves The Day album titled Daybreak?

[pbueddi]

sum 41?

[Drew Beringer]

I don't know why we do these lists, all people ever do is complain.

[SpyKi]

I don't know why people care if their favourite isn't on the list.

[Charlesieiy]

Foo Fighters isn't on that list. What. Not complaining, just surprised! Good list otherwise.

[Blake Solomon]

The new Saves the Day album has a name and it's been known for a while. It's Daybreak. Come on AP!
fixed. breathe.

[Mr.Kilgannon]

fixed. breathe.
Haha, I was completely kidding. No worries.

[IceAge/HeatWave]

why the fuck aren't we talking about the foo fighters' new album?

[Matty Ice]

I don't know why we do these lists, all people ever do is complain.
I actually think the list is pretty damn rad. It's a fun, breezy read, and there are a ton of bands that I didn't know had albums coming out this year/want to check out their old stuff before the new stuff drops.

Sure, Jack's didn't make the list, but I feel they've been flying under the radar a bit as of late. Hopefully they'll resurface soon though.

[james_6_18]

Shiny Toy Guns! This record should be good, if they haven't completely sold out yet.

[ZinisterZman]

I don't know why we do these lists, all people ever do is complain.
Bahhh, shake the whiners off. I actually really enjoyed it. I mean a lot of my other anticipated groups didn't make the cut, but in place of those, I now have some new bands along with friendly reminders on older bands I had forgotten to keep my eye on for the year. Short, sweet, and to the point. Just keeping the vibes positive ;-)

[brothemighty]

No Sherwood = don't care