So, 2009 has come and gone. Crazy. I don’t know where last year went. I can’t believe we’re almost a full month into 2010! Looking back on this last year, I wanted to share with you all some of my favorite bands and albums from 2009. Maybe you’ll find a new band that you didn’t know you loved? Hope you all enjoy.
30 Seconds to Mars – This Is War
I liked their second album, A Beautiful Lie, but I LOVE this one. The songwriting has matured and is incredibly catchy and powerful. Kanye West even made an appearance on the song “Hurricane” and I actually like it.
Spotlight Tracks: “Kings and Queens”, “Search and Destroy”, and “Alibi”.
Kadawatha
Kadawatha is fronted by a Sri Lankian dude named Daniel Kadawatha. I absolutely love how his music so epic. The piano and vocal melodies truly soar. I don’t think Kadawatha has released a full length album. But I do know that demos exist somewhere out there. I’d go to www.myspace.com/danielkadawatha to listen to his music.
Spotlight Tracks: “Agape” and “Gonna Stay”.
Merced – Hotel Prescott
These guys are from the Music City just like we are. I don’t think they are together anymore. At least from what I can see they aren’t. This album came out in July of 2007 but I didn’t get really into them until the beginning of this year. Let’s hope these guys have more music coming out some day. You can find them on MySpace or iTunes. www.myspace.com/mercedmusic
Spotlight Tracks: “Circles” and “Daylight”
Chevelle – Sci Fi Crimes
I’ve been a Chevelle fan for quite some time now. Anyone who likes rock I’m sure is familiar with these guys. There have been some lineup changes in the past, but they still make incredible music. This newest album, Sci Fi Crimes, could be my favorite of all that they’ve done. When you’re in the mood for heavy guitar riffs and powerful melodies, throw in some Chevelle. They never disappoint.
Spotlight Tracks: “Sleep Apnea”, “Jars”, and “Letter From a Thief”.
Paramore – Brand New Eyes
Another Nashville (or Franklin, TN) band. I really liked Riot!. Brand New Eyes doesn’t disappoint either. Hayley’s vocals are incredible and they’ve got energy like no other. When you’re in the mood for great pop-punk, check ‘em out.
Spotlight Tracks: “Careful”, “Turn It Off”, “Looking Up”, and “All I Wanted”.
These are a few of samples of what I really liked listening to this last year. What about you guys? What were some of your favorite artists and bands from this 2009?
Much love,
Brink
Look Dad Creative
Matthew Casteel
Jan 22, 2010 @ 12:48pm
Thanks for the cool recommendations. I'll definitely check them out.
Matthew
www.matthewcasteel.com
Kristee
Jan 22, 2010 @ 5:52pm
Hmm I love 30 Seconds to Mars as well...and Paramore...
the others i'll have to check out
thanks brink
Matt "Burn" Lawrence
Jan 25, 2010 @ 1:22pm
I freaking love that Merced cd! “Circles” might be my favorite song from this past year (even though I know it’s actually kinda old).
I have really been loving Imogen Heap’s new cd, Ellipse. It’s got great melodies, creative lyrics, & I love the electronic vibe. I didn’t think I could like anything of hers as much as “Hide And Seek”, but this cd comes close.
Favorite songs: “Tidal”, “Aha!”, & “Wait It Out”.
Also, I’ve been listening to MuteMath’s new cd, Armistice, a lot. This album has a lot more than just the Twilight soundtrack song.
Favorite songs: “Goodbye”, “Armistice”, “Clipping”, & “Backfire”.
Matt “Burn” Lawrence
brxce
Mar 14, 2010 @ 1:44pm
holy crap i love paramore and 30 seconds to mars, i agree there old album was better but i love the second. it you like those bands check out La Roux, Anberlin, and Family Force 5