My 2011 Ranked
For me, 2011 has been my favorite year. I've dropped 40 pounds, finished school...mostly, and had a great summer traveling. Also, a lot of bands and artists have released some spectacular albums. So these are my favorite ones, ranked. |
| 1 | | M83
Hurry Up, We're Dreaming
What can be said about this album that hasn't been said already? Yet another spectacular release by Anthony Gonzalez. The combination of genres from beautiful ambient landscapes in songs like 'Where The Boats Go' to danceable synthpop like in 'Midnight City' is completely irresistible. |
| 2 |  | Fleet Foxes
Helplessness Blues
Also rated number two on Entertainment Weekly's chart of best released albums this year, Fleet Foxes authentic Appalachian Folk revival is chilling and completely unforgettable. |
| 3 |  | Departures
When Losing Everything Is Everything You Wanted
A lot of bands play the same sound as Departures. But for the most part, I always feel that the songs they put out have bits and pieces in them that sound completely awkward and out of place. But in Departures' case, everything sounds like it should be there, everything from the breakdown in Swallowed Up to the ending of Midnight Lights. Everything fits perfectly and nothing feels out of place. |
| 4 |  | City and Colour
Little Hell
Dallas Green at his ultimate best. Touching and Saddening. It almost alleviates the pain I felt when I heard of Alexisonfire's demise. Almost. |
| 5 |  | Basement
I Wish I Could Stay Here
The releases by other bands that play the poppunk/emo fusion brand that Basement plays, were all in all disappointing. Songs like Canada Square and Earl Grey project just spectacular atmospheres. Also, the album artwork is lovely. |
| 6 |  | Defeater
Empty Days and Sleepless Nights
The ending of White Oak Doors is by far the most memorable thing in this album. How it ended Soprano's series finale style might perhaps be one of the best moments in modern Hardcore whether you like it or not. Just how it ended it ended sparked criticism, questioning, and arguments....it was awesome seeing people trying to make sense of something like that. This is something that music and entertain should do. |
| 7 |  | Counterparts
The Current Will Carry Us
Melodic Hardcore really digressed this year with other bands releasing albums that were a huge disappoint. However, Counterparts held their ground and released an incredible sophomore effort, cementing themselves in the scene. |
| 8 |  | Avalanche City
Our New Life Above The Ground
An adorable folk release by this young band. I am excited to see what this band is capable of doing in the future. |
| 9 |  | William Fitzsimmons
Gold In The Shadow
Though many argue that this is not the strongest Fitzsimmons release to date songs like Blood and bones and Bird of Winter Prey are some of the best songs he has written. |
| 10 |  | Frank Ocean
Nostalgia, Ultra
The sexy side of Odd Future can make even the most persnickety critics of Pop Music smile with Nostalgia, Ultra. |
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