Top 10 Local (Los Angeles) Releases of 2010

It was another great year to be a local music fan. The diversity of music in this town is pretty staggering. A few of these releases will pop up on national top 10 lists while a few others will probably only be on my own.....

10) Glasser: Ring (True Panther) – If you see a lot of local bands, then you’ve seen dramatic singing paired with weird outfits and extreme electronic beats (is it Har Mar’s fault?). For the record I like Har Mar, but a lot of the more tribal stuff makes me want to tear my eyes out and jam pencils into my eardrums. Glasser’s record teases at some of these elements, but falls solidly on the good side of the spectrum.

MP3: Mirrorage

9) Local Natives: Gorilla Manor (French Kiss) –Somebody had to form a band that sounded like 1/3 Grizzly Bear, 1/3 Fleet Foxes and 1/3 Vampire Weekend – might as well be them. Nice harmonies. My only real knock is that some of the songs could have been tightened up a bit (but you could say the same thing about Fleet Foxes), overall a very solid debut.

MP3: Sun Hands

8) Flying Lotus: Cosmogramma (Warp) – I’m not really a fusion fan or beats guy, so this isn’t really in my wheelhouse. But this is the kinda thing that I like to put on when I’m working (just what every artist wants to be – background music). Very few lyrics in there to get in the way, but plenty of textures to hold up on repeated listens. 

7) John Carpenter: Fairy Tales Forgotten (self-released) – On this record, he’s got a little bit of a weird, almost sinister Shudder to Think vibe. His live show can be significantly more rocking and blues heavy. Either way, he’s an artist I’m keeping my eye on. Stream Album

6) Warpaint: The Fool (Rough Trade) – When you follow a band through its early evolution and lineup changes, you’re never quite sure what their debut record’s going to be like and how they’ll be received on the international stage. With Warpaint, it was even better than expected on both counts. Atmospheric and moody afterparty jams.

MP3: Undertow

5) The Henry Clay People: Somewhere On the Golden Coast (TBD Records) – Longtime followers of the band were expecting more new songs (especially with the outtakes floating around out there) but as the first nationally distributed album, it’s a good representation of the band. They’re not concerned with changing the world, just helping you temporarily escape from it and I think Paul Westerberg would approve of that sentiment.

4) Off!: First Four EPs (Vice) – This has so much energy it transports back in time to seventh grade when I first got into punk and hardcore. The Circle Jerks were always a favorite so it’s appropriate that Keith Morris is involved. At the age of 55, Morris’ intensity puts all you youngsters to shame.

3) Le Switch: The Rest of Me Is Space (self-released) - The band tweaked their lineup, making more of a straight rock ‘n’ roll album this time around. I’ve always appreciated the honesty and way Aaron Kyle lays it all on the line when he sings. I volunteered to write press materials for this, so you probably already knew I was a fan.

MP3: Call Out

2) Radar Brothers: The Illustrated Garden (Merge) – I was excited when the band met me at Verdugo Bar to gauge my interest in working on their press materials and even more excited after I took the record home and listened to it. They’ve been my favorite LA band for 12 years and this is their best release since 2002’s And the Surrounding Mountains. It’s got such a rich, warm, comforting sound – quite possibly my most listened to record of the year.

Download "Horses Warriors" (click through to Merge)

1) Aloe Blacc: Good Things (Stones Throw) – If you’re a fan of old school soul, Aloe Blacc’s the real deal. He’s an insanely talented singer and it comes off so effortless. He blows away all the other local, neo-soul singers I’ve seen. His “Femme Fatale” cover might be my least favorite song on the record, but it’s probably a good entry point if you’re not a big soul fan. 

MP3: Dark End of the Street (not from the album)

Matt Dwyer's Top 10 List (Sinking Radio

Matt Dwyer's a comedian, actor and writer. You can hear him co-hosting Sinking Radio every Friday from Noon to 2:00 PM on Little Radio. Here's his top 10 list for 2008.

starting from one to ten:

mount eerie - lost wisdom (southern) – the microphones featuring julie doiron and fred squire

the broken west - now or heaven (merge) – MP3: Auctioneer

dr dog – fate (park the van) – MP3: The Ark

mae shi – HLLLYH (team shi)

Radar Bros. Auditorium (merge) – MP3: Warm Rising Sun

Le Switch - and now (autumn tone) – MP3: Pristine

Les Blanks - shoot the horse (self-released) – MP3: Ages Old

MGMT - oracular spectacular (Columbia records)

Thao and the get down stay down - we brave bee stings & all (kill rock stars) – MP3: Bag of Hammers

Talkdemonic: eyes at half mast (arena rock) – MP3: Duality of Deathening

Todd Clifford's Best of 2008 (Sinking Radio)

You might remember Todd from Sea Level Records. These days, he co-hosts Sinking Radio on Little Radio every Friday from Noon to 2:00 PM PST. Todd also spends a great deal of his time tour managing and slinging merch for touring bands. He's also one of the resident DJs at Club NME every Wednesday at Spaceland.

Todd's best of 2008:

albums:
Radar Bros. 'Auditorium' (Merge) – MP3: Warm Rising Sun
The Movies 'Based on a True Story' (self released)
The Hold Steady 'Stay Positive' (Vagrant)
Neon Neon 'Stainless Style' (Lex)
TV on the Radio 'Dear Science' (Interscope)
She & Him 'Vol. 1' (Merge) – MP3: Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?
Mae Shi 'HLLYH' (Team Shi)
Brian Eno / David Byrne 'Everything That Happens Will Happen Today' (Todomundo)
Everest 'Ghost Notes' (Vapor)
Magnetic Fields 'Distortion' (Nonesuch)

songs:
Bun B "Swang on Them" (Rap a Lot)
Henry Clay People MP3: “Something in the Water" (Autumn Tone)
Herman Dune "Lovers are Waterproof" (Everloving)
Le Switch "Big 'Ol Tree" (Autumn Tone)
No Age MP3: "Teen Creeps" (Sub Pop)
The Notwist "Good Lies" (Domino)
Portishead "Machine Gun" (London)
Radar Bros. MP3: "Slack Motherfucker" (self released)
The Silver State "Under the Rug" (Young American)
T.I. "Whatever You Like" (Atlantic)

So close…
Eef Barzelay MP3: Lose Big
School of Seven Bells MP3: Connjur
Coldplay
Stephen Malkmus
Future of the Left MP3: A Dead Enemy Always Smells Good
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds
Raconteurs
David Vandervelde

Sinking with Sylvia's Top 10 of 2008

Sylvia co-hosts Sinking with Sylvia from Noon to 2:00 PM every Friday on Little Radio. This is her top 10 list for 2008:

10. Neon Neon: Stainless Style - Gruff Rhys of Super Furry Animals fame teamed up with Boom Bip and decided to make this amazing concept record based on the life of John Delorean. huh? Still this record has great songs and is amusing all at the same time. You really cannot go wrong with this record and it also features a rad line-up of musicians including Har Mar Superstar, Spank Rock, Yo Majesty and Mr. Josh Klinghoffer to name a few.

9. MGMT: Oracular Spectacular - This is definitely one of my surprise faves of the year. Who knew?

8. Throw Me The Statue: Moonbeams - I have truly enjoyed this record for most of this year. Melodic, at times sweet and just all around pleasant in every sense of the word. A must own of 2008.
MP3: Lolita

7. Wye Oak: If Children - I have heard these Merge darlings compared to some pretty interesting bands and I admit that every time I listen to this record I get different influences like Yo La Tengo or Catpower but the truth is this.I expect bands to get better and change/progress with the times and I stand firmly that if the Breeders were a good band they would have put out an album exactly like this.
MP3: I Don't Feel Young

6. Le Switch: And Now...Le Switch - I know I know, I am good friends with these kids and should probably not be allowed to have these guys here but that is how good they are. The LA music scene has a lot to be proud of this year and Le Switch is a large part of this pride. I like any band that can be influenced by the likes of Jon Brion and Emmitt Rhodes and Le Switch captures (not copies) it so well. If you are outside of LA get this record and keep an eye out for them live, you will not be disappointed.
MP3: Give Me Something

5. Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks: Real Emotional Trash - Malkmus puts out a record and it will always make my list.
MP3: Baltimore

4. The Raconteurs: Consolers of the Lonely - I have really surprised myself this year with some of my listening habits and this one kinda tops the list. I am not a Jack White fan and I find Brendan Benson to be a bit uhm...well Brendan Benson. ha. Put the two together and apparently I am a believer. The first 6 songs on this record are the some of the best songs you will probably hear for the next few years. If they had taken off those last songs, this would have been my number one record of the year. Better luck next time. Still great job!

3. David Vandervelde: Waiting For the Sunrise - In my top 5 two years in a row! The truth is I haven't fully appreciated this record yet, I need another 2 or 3 months of listening to completely absorb this one. He gets many comparisons to T.Rex because of his last record but I am gonna have to stick with Neil Young. Yep, he is that good.
MP3: I Will Be Fine

2. Everest: Ghost Notes - I looked it up and apparently I had Everest on my bands to watch out for in 2008. This is what I said "Dear Everest, If your full length is anywhere near as good as your ep I promise you will be at the top of my 2008 list next year. good luck."Well here we are at the end of 2008 and here is Everest at number 2 of my top 10 which is at the the top. Good job guys, way to deliver. "Ghost Notes" is such a beautiful and sincere record. From the minute it starts until the last note I am in love. I can listen again immediately and I honestly feel that "Into Your Soft Heart" is the best single released all year. You guys helped contribute to the greatness of the LA music scene this year and I have such confidence that you will give me many more records to love in the upcoming years. Until then thank you for Ghost Notes.

1. The Movies: Based On A True Story - LA's music scene gets no love. And quite frankly neither do The Movies. They are at times difficult to love, difficult to understand and a bit streaky. Having said that they are without question the BEST band in Los Angeles.Based On A True Story can be easily confused as a simple pop record with some funny songs. wrong. Tim's lyrics are at times pretty dark and sad. Is this the best break-up record produced in some time? Perhaps Tim is an evil genius. All I can say that this record works in every possible way. I am so excited to have local bands on the top of my list this year. Especially The Movies. Thanks for the awesome record guys.

Honorable Mentions:
Dr. Dog Fate
Henry Clay People For Cheap or For Free
The Radar Bros. Auditorium
The Broken West Now or Heaven?
Secret Machines The Secret Machines

Bands in 2009 you must check out if you haven't already:
Warpaint
Kenan Bell
Les Blanks
Spider Problem
The World Record
Amnion or anything Aaron Embry does.

Happy New Year.

2008's Top Ten LA Records

2008 was a year where a number of LA bands/scenes (deservedly) got national attention. No Age and Abe Vigoda are showing up on a lot of top 10 lists and I’ve even seen The Mae Shi on a few.

The Airborne Toxic Event got panned by the American snobs, but connected with fans, sold more records than anybody else, got airplay and will make their third national TV appearance in January on Letterman.

Very recently the Laurel Canyon (Jenny Lewis, Johnathan Rice, Whispertown 2000) scene is getting some press. I first wrote about Jonathan Wilson’s weekly jams back in June 2007, and Rolling Stone finally picked up on it last week.

And I’ve seen a helluva lot about Flying Lotus (he even named his record Los Angeles) and Crystal Antlers too. All those bands help make LA one of the best places in the world to be a music fan, but none of them quite made my list.

You Set the Scene’s Top Ten Local Records for 2008 (subject to change):

1) Everest: Ghost Notes (Vapor Records) – These guys had barely played any LA shows before they were touring Europe opening for My Morning Jacket and (more recently) playing arenas with Neil Young and Wilco. The songs sound effortlessly timeless; the product of talented musicians who have absorbed rock ‘n’ roll history (Neil Young, the Beatles, the Byrds, etc.). Throw in Mike Terry’s warm ass production and you’ve got a fantastic debut. You can catch them at Spaceland on December 29th (at the Movies residency).

2) Le Switch: And Now…Le Switch (Autumn Tone) – Guitarist/singer Aaron Kyle might not have a traditionally pretty voice, but it’s distinctive and he sings with heart. Backing him up are four extremely talented musicians (including a piano/keyboard player and a viola/trumpet player). I saw Le Switch more than any other band this year, so I was familiar with many of these songs before they recorded them and I’ve heard some of them evolve since. As I’ve watched the band evolve over the past few years, I know they’re only going to get better. I can’t wait for their February residency at Spaceland.
MP3: Pristine

3) Radar Bros.: Auditorium (Merge) – It took a rainy December day to remind me how much I love this record. In the Pitchfork / blog bullshit world of hype, it’s tough for a veteran indie musician to get his proper due. More than a dozen years in, Jim Putnam’s still growing as an artist and producer. These 12 songs are perfectly layered and warm, and if you listen closely, you’ll still hear some occasionally depraved lyrics.
MP3: Warm Rising Sun

4) The Movies: Based on a True Story (Self-Released) – When you boil it all down, there’s a deep sense of longing and loss on this record; but this ain’t Hank Williams, it’s the Movies. When Timothy James sings about heartbreak he quotes Pedro Martinez, uses obtuse Vietnam metaphors and accuses the one who got away of going to Rio and sucking a million -----. The fusion of humor and heart makes the Movies one of my favorite bands. It accomplishes so much in only songs (and under thirty minutes. They’re always entertaining live; catch them throughout December at their Monday night Spaceland residency.

5) The Broken West: Now or Heaven (Merge) – These guys had my favorite local release last year and are high on the list a year later. The record kicks off with a drum machine, which, for some critics, seemed to signal a totally new direction. But if you were a fan of the debut, it’s still the same great band. Put a little studio experimentation aside and the heart of the band is still great songwriting. The trio of songs starting with track four (“Ambuscade,” “Perfect Games,” and “House of Lies”) might be my favorite section of an album all year.
MP3: Perfect Games

6) The Henry Clay People: For Cheap or For Free (Autumn Tone) – While their debut made my top ten local list, I’m still stunned at how much they progressed on this record. Between seeing their live shows and this record, I might have gotten the most joy out of these guys in 2008. There are five jams on this record that stand up to any indie rock tunes from the past year. If you still haven’t seen them live, do yourself a favor and head to Spaceland on New Year’s Eve. If you live out of town, they’ll be taking it out on the road in February and March. As the youngest band on the list, the sky’s the limit for these guys.
MP3: Something in the Water

7) Earlimart: Hymn and Her (Majordomo) – 2008 was the year that Aaron Espinoza really opened up as a songwriter. Coming less than a year after Mentor Tormentor, it’s another very solid collection of songs.

8) Les Blanks: Shoot the Horse (Self-Released) – They’ve received heaps of praise from the likes of the Aquarium Drunkard, Rock Insider and Surfing on Steam, but this trio is still criminally under appreciated. I love the Wurlitzer-driven songs the best, but the whole record has a 1970’s blues-rock vibe that I completely dig.
MP3: La Reina

9) Amnion: AmenNAmO (Self-Released) – Aaron Embry’s such an undeniably talented musician. Their sound is indefinable, but one second you’re thinking classic Stevie Wonder and moments later you hear a touch of Radiohead. I’m a pretty cynical bastard, but their positivity and joy in playing is totally contagious. The song “aTONn” is my favorite.
Album is free HERE (but send them money if you like it, they have a baby on its way)

10) The Little Ones: Morning Tide (Chop Shop) – Their debut EP topped my local list in 2006. Two years later, their first full length is full of catchy indie pop. “Rise and Shine” is my favorite track.

Honorable Mentions: Mt. Wilson Repeater, The Parson Red Heads EP, Dengue Fever, Darker My Love

Local records I’m Looking Forward to in 2009:
Le Switch EP, Frankel, The Minor Canon, Silversun Pickups

You Set the Scene's Favorite Albums of 2007

Thanks to all the publicists, labels and bands who read this blog, I listened to more new music this year than any year of my life. I heard (admittedly - not always in their entirety) between 250 and 300 new releases this year. It's a lot of time dedicated to new music, especially when you consider how much time I spend listening to music from the 1960s, 70s and 90s. As usual, I missed (usually by design) a lot of hip-hop, dance, noise, punk and electronic music that came out. Of what I heard, here's what rose to the top:

Top 10:

1) Okkervil River: The Stage Names (Jagjaguwar) – Will Sheff’s a songwriter with something to say. I played this record more than anything else this year. They already do really well, but I’m betting that they’ll be the next indie band to crossover like the Shins and Arcade Fire. And they deserve it.
Download “Our Life Is Not a Movie Or Maybe”
Download Golden Opportunities (for the converted - a free covers album featuring their take on John Phillips, John Cale, Serge Gainsbourg, Jimmy Webb, etc.)

2) Blonde Redhead: 23 (4AD) – Pay attention young bands. Blonde Redhead is a great example of a band that grows and explores new ground with each release. Album seven is lush with electronic backing tracks and Kazu’s voice upfront. Maybe their finest yet.

3) The Besnard Lakes: The Besnard Lakes Are the Dark Horse (Jagjaguwar) – This husband and wife band from Montreal got more spins on my turntable than the Arcade Fire. Bombastic, dramatic and over-the-top in the best possible way.
Download “And You Lied To Me”

4) David Vandervelde: The Moonstation House Band (Secretly Canadian) – Unibrow or not, this guy writes some fantastic rock ‘n’ roll songs. A bit of early T. Rex mixed with a pop sensibility but played hard and fast (especially live). He wrote a lot of this music when he was 19.
Download “Nothin’ No” and “Jacket”

5) Neil Young: Live at Massey Hall 1971 (Reprise) – I contributed way too much money to Neil Young this year (see my Nokia review), but at least he gave us this. This is what a live album should be - great stories and re-imagined versions of classics. The first part of the long awaited Archives releases comes out in February, so I’m sure I’ll be forced to re-buy this. Thanks Neil.

6) Dr. Dog (Park the Van) – Indie snobs dismiss Dr. Dog as “easy guitar melodies and predictable rhythms thrust at us with no discernible amount of self-awarenes.” You should be careful about listening to indie snobs, or you’ll end up buying records like THIS. I prefer to think of Dr. Dog as 1960’s-inpired music that puts a smile on my face.
Download “Worst Trip” and “Ain’t It Strange”

7) Spoon: Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (Merge) – My expectations for Spoon are so high, that I dismissed this when it came out. In retrospect it’s a damn fine record.
Download “The Underdog”

8) Peter Bjorn & John: Writer’s Block (Almost Gold) – A lot of people had this on their best of 2006 list, but it came out domestically in 2007. While “Young Folks” has gotten so much play it’s become unbearable, it’s still a great album.

9) Radiohead: In Rainbows (Self Released) – The amazing part is that Radiohead actually made a record I wanted to hear (unlike the last few).

10) Arcade Fire: Neon Bible (Merge) – Despite the backlash, they’re still a great band.


The Next Ten (Alphabetical):
Andrew Bird: Armchair Apocrypha [mp3] (Fat Possum) – I had to see him live to get it.
The Broken West: I Can’t Go On, I’ll Go On [mp3] (Merge) – They were at the top of my local list.
The Earlies: Enemy Chorus [mp3] (Secretly Canadian) – Overtly political. I wish these guys would tour the States.
Iron & Wine: The Shepherd’s Dog [mp3 and mp3] (Sub Pop) – I prefer stripped down, but I’ll take this too. Seeing the live show helped.
Menomena: Friend and Foe [mp3] (Barsuk) – Experimental but listenable. The best packaging of the year.
The Shins: Wincing the Night Away [mp3] (Sub Pop) – Not their best, but still better than most.
Elliott Smith: New Moon [mp3] (Kill Rock Stars) – Another post-humous release.
Richard Swift: Dressed Up for the Letdown [mp3] (Secretly Canadian) – Tin Pan Alley meets McCartney.
Wilco: Sky Blue Sky (Nonesuch) – The VW ads got old fast, but the record’s still a good listen.
Yeasayer: All Hour Symbols [mp3 and mp3] (We Are Free) – I don’t love all the lyrics, but there are some great songs and a lot of really good ideas.

Ryan (Division Day) Wilson's Best of 2007

This is probably the last guest list of the year. Today's guest is Ryan Wilson, the guitarist in Division Day. Ryan reminded me that I still need to hear that Tandemoro record.

Ryan Wilson's top 10 albums that made 2007 a cool year to be alive and hearing music.

1. Tandemoro: The Movers & The Shakers (Self Released) - Hard to believe most of LA slept on this release, because it's easily some of the best pop songwriting this side of the mississippi - no wait, make that the atlantic ocean.

2. The (Le) Switch:Hello Today (Self Released) - A tantalizing taste of what we've all got to look forward to when their full length record comes out. ohyeah.

3. Chromeo: Fancy Footwork (Vice) - These guys rule.

4. Roky Erickson: You're Gonna Miss Me Soundtrack (Palm) - "For You (I'd Do Anything)" is one of the most moving songs I've ever heard by one of the most talented dudes alive. Track down the 1990 compilation "Where The Pyramid Meets The Eye" for some covers of Roky's tunes by the likes of The Mighty Lemon Drops, JAMC, Primal Scream, Bongwater, and the Butthole Surfers.

5. Earlimart: Mentor Tormentor (Major Domo/Shout Factory) This is my favorite Earlimart record yet. "Don't Think About Me" is perfect pop melancholia.

6. Tigers Can Bite You: Tigers Can Bite You (Self Released) - Finally I don't have to park myself on their myspace page to listen to "Rough Stuff". Tigers Can Bite You: now on a conveniently portable shiny circle.

7. The Mae Shi: HLLLYH (Team Shi) - I don't know if this counts, since it's technically not out here yet (?), but whatever. These guys rule.

8. Black Moth Super Rainbow: Dandelion Gum (Graveface) - Yum.

Download "Sun Lips"

9. Various Artists: Soul Sides, Vol. 2 - The Covers (Zealous) - An amazing compilation by Oliver Wang. Highlights are Esther Phillips' take on Gil Scott-Heron's "Home Is Where The Hatred Is" and Antibalas' re-do of Willie Colon's "Che Che Cole."

10. Kid Sister: Control EP (Fool's Gold) - Undeniable. "Control" was probably my jam of the year. Watch out, 2008.

Wildcard: Dennis Wilson's Pacific Ocean Blue - A beautiful album and one of my all-time faves. This one got a lot of spins in 2007.

Guilty Pleasure Track: T-Pain - "Bartender"

Todd (Sea Level) Clifford's Top 10 List

A lot of us miss the convenience and community of Sea Level Records. We made a lot of friends there and got turned on to a lot of music there. Roughly 86% of the time when you went in, Todd was the man behind the counter. Today, Todd's the Todd in the Little Radio show, Sinking with Sylvia (and Sometimes Todd). You might also see him DJing around town, filling in at KXLU or behind the merch table at a Silversun Pickups show. Continuing our guest contributors, here's Todd's best of 2007.

Top 10 Albums:
#1 - Jens Lekman 'Night Falls Over Kortedala' (secretly canadian)
Download "The Opposite of Hallelujah" and "Friday Night at the Drive-In Bingo"

and the rest alphabetically…

Bloc Party 'A Weekend in the City' (vice)
Broken West 'I'll Go On, I Can't Go On' (merge)
Common 'Finding Forever' (geffen)
Jarvis Cocker 'Jarvis' (rough trade)
Kanye West 'Graduation' (roc-a-fella)
LCD Soundsystem 'Sound of Silver' (capitol / dfa)
Les Savy Fav 'Let's Stay Friends' (french kiss)
Okkervil River 'The Stage Names' (jagjaguwar)
Spoon 'Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga' (merge)

Songs:
Beirut "In The Mausoluem"
CRS "US Placers"
Earlimart "Nothing is True"
John Vanderslice "Tablespoon Of Codeine"
Lily Allen "Nan You're a Window Shopper"
Maps "Don't Fear"
Of Montreal "Heimdalsgate Like A Promethean Curse"
School of Seven Bells "Face to Face on High Places"
Stars "Sleep Tonight" (Junior Boys mix)
Super Furry Animals "Baby Ate My Eightball"

So close…
Architecture in Helsinki / Dntel / Electrelane / Emma Pollock / Explosions in the Sky / Gruff Rhys / Jay-Z / Liars / Scout Niblett

Re-issue
Traveling Wilburys 'Collection' (rhino)

Sinking with Sylvia's (Little Radio) Top 10 List

Sylvia in the Little Radio Studios with Aaron Espinoza (Earlimart)

The guest lists continue. Today's guest list comes from Sylvia from Sinking with Sylvia (and Sometimes Todd). Be sure to tune in to Little Radio today from 11:00AM to 1:00 PM as they play the best of 2007.

Top 10:

1. Dr. Dog: We All Belong (Park The Van) - This record is so good that I have nothing else to say.

Download "Worst Trip"

2. David Vandervelde: The Moonstation House Band (Secretly Canadian) - This is an awesome record and he is amazing live and he is about 21 yrs. old. Rad.

3. Besnard Lakes: The Besnard Lakes Are The Dark Horse (Jagjaguwar) - I don't have much of a super mellow side but this record definitely appeals to it.

4. Okkervil River: The Stage Names (Jagjaguwar) - This record has about 5 of the best songs released this year.

5. Blonde Redhead: 23 (4AD) - I have a loyalty to this band which helps but I also really love this record..

6. Sloan: Never Hear The End Of It (Yep Roc) - I think this record is witty. Having said that if you are not already into Sloan it was probably way lost on you.

7. The Broken West: I Can't Go, I'll Go On (Merge) - The truth is I probably listened to this record more than any other this year. The only reason it did not make it higher on the list is because I don't think the production is up to par with the band.(sorry) Having said all that, I honestly think they are the best band in LA.

8. Dungen: Tio Bitar (Kemado) - Love this band, love this record.

9. Earlimart: Mentor Tormentor: (Shout Factory/Major Domo) - Aaron and Arianna just keep getting better and better. "Answers & Questions" is the best song released this year and my idea of the perfect single.

10. Explosions In The Sky: All Of A Sudden I Miss Everyone (Temporary Residence) - Not only is this the perfect record to just chill around the house with, their show at the El Rey was the best show I went to in all of 2007.

Honorable Mentions - Wilco: Sky Blue Sky, The Black Lips: Good Not Evil, Prefuse 73: Preparations, The Shins: Wincing The Night Away and Ulrich Schnauss: Goodbye

Top 5 Local Releases of 2007:

The Minor Canon: No Good Deed Goes Unpunished (Tenderness Records)

The Deadly Syndrome: The Ortolan (Dim Mak)

The Moon Upstairs: Guarding The Golden Apple (Gifted Children Records)

Le Switch: Hello Today (self released)

Film School: Hideout (Beggars Banquet)

Local Bands to look out for in 2008 include:

Everest (Dear Everest, If your full length is anywhere near as good as your ep I promise you will be at the top of my 2008 list next year. good luck.

Le Switch (Dear Le Switch, the same goes for you. Perhaps you guys should set up a tour together.)

The Moon Upstairs (Dear Moon Upstairs, I promise you that all the hipsters will jump on your bandwagon.)

Henry Clay People (Dear HCP, if I have to hear one more hipster, blogger or music nerd talk about you guys another minute I might vomit. Man you guys are blowin' up.)

Ross (The Broken West) Flournoy's Top 10 List

Day three of our top 10 lists from guest contributors. Today's guest is Ross Flournoy (lead singer of the Broken West). The Broken West's debut album I Can't Go On, I'll Go On recently topped my list of favorite local releases. You can bid on an autographed Broken West drum head on Ebay (for charity). The Broken West also recently started a blog.

Top 10 Records (in no particular order):

LCD Soundsystem - Sound of Silver (DFA/Capitol)

Spoon - Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga (Merge)

The Clientele - God Save the Clientele (Merge)

Broken Social Scene presents Kevin Drew - Spirit If... (Arts & Crafts)

Okkervil River - The Stage Names (Jagjaguwar)

Oakley Hall - I'll Follow You (Merge)

Iron & Wine - The Shepard's Dog (Sub Pop)

Neil Young - Live at Massey Hall (Reprise)

The National - Boxer (Beggars Banquet)

Trans Am - Sex Change (Thrill Jockey)

Malcolm (Rademacher) Sosa's Top 10 Performances By LA Bands

Day 2 of my top 10 lists from special guests is from Malcolm (Rademacher) Sosa. You can order Rademacher's new LP, Stunts, directly from the band. They'll be playing a record release show at the Echo on 12/21.

Top Ten LA Bands that won over my heart with an awesome live show in 2007

I play a lot of shows and I book a lot of shows (in Fresno) and sometimes I just go to shows for fun. I like shows. In the month of November I saw over 60 bands perform. IN NOVEMBER. I think that is a lot. Probably several hundred over the course of the year and I can think of about 50 LA bands I've seen live this year. Most more than once. That is why I wrote this.

1. Henry Clay People (Fresno -- Tokyo Garden, November 24th) - Probably the best live show I've seen in forever. I saw them once in dresses at All Star Lanes, which was good, but the second time I saw them in my hometown of Fresno! Ohhh boy. Both times involved a lot of fierce gesticulations and convulsions and some falling down. Sheer awesomeness. Joey hi-fived everybody in the place. their tune, "Elly vs the Eczema Princess," is available for free download on their myspace.

2. Light FM (Los Angeles -- Spaceland, December 7th) - We've done a bunch of shows with these kids and I have to say that I think there is no better rhythm section in rock n' roll right now than Harry Trumfio (drums) and Brian Barbier (bass). When someone asked me to think of a better one the other night when I saw them play at Spaceland, the only for sure answer that made sense was "The Who". Powerful pop.

3. Correatown (Fresno -- Tokyo Garden, November 8th) - I have only seen Correatown once. She came and played a show with us in Fresno, CA and it was a very eclectic bill: hip-hop, rock and then her, without a band, playing her singer-songwriter sort of set. And though the general carousing taking place in the room started off like 10 decibels louder than the her voice over the PA, she managed to ease the crowd into a silence and made people cry and drink. Great voice and great presence and an absolute gem.

4. Radars to the Sky (Los Angeles -- Spaceland, August 4th) - They invited us to play a weekend show at Spaceland some months ago (which is a quick way to any musician's heart) -- and it was one of the best damn rock shows I've ever seen. There was a horn section and a recently not-pregnant keyboard player rocking and the best part: at the end of the set, their guitar player Seamus absolutely mangled his guitar onstage and spent 5 minutes playing feedback with a set of six strings and a shattered neck. I am convinced he could make lincoln logs and yarn sound great.

5. Silversun Pickups (Portland, OR -- Crystal Ballroom, April 14th) - I saw them in Portland at the Crystal Ballroom last summer -- and I had seen them before in LA and even played a show with them once in Sacramento -- but this time seemed completely different and surreal. The show was sold out. The crowd was tightly packed. The 16 year old girl in front of me was CRYING before the set even started. They came out onstage and shot through an amazing set laced with their hits and some of the stuff from their old EPs. It was the first time I witnessed a a group of LA musicians decimate an audience that large in a place other than Los Angeles. I just left thinking, "These guys are sooo ROCK STARS!", and hummed "Lazy Eye" to myself the whole flight home.

6. Le Switch (Los Angeles -- Boardners, May 22nd) - We played a show with them at Boardner's back when they used to be called "THE Switch" and I hadn't heard them yet, but I saw they had a trumpet player, and I had a terrible fear that they would be a ska throwback band. I hadn't (and still haven't) heard a ska throwback band yet, but I know they (ska bands) are coming. So I was worried. But I stopped worrying and just sang a long with everyone else once they started. If anything, they remind me a little of Quasi. Who are my favorite band ever.

7. Earlimart Duo (Los Angeles -- Spaceland, November 18th) - I know these guys pretty well and I love their new record. Especially Arianna's song "Happy Alone". And I saw them play two or three times in 2007, and all of them were good, but their show with us at Spaceland where they did their duo thing made me so absolutely proud of them. It was just a simple, sparse set full of great songs and tiny moments and things you couldn't put your finger on. Goosebumps and deja vu at the same time.

8. The Monolators (LA/Fresno -- Que Sera / Tokyo Garden , 9/15 or 11/29) - I saw the Monolators twice in '07. Once in Long Beach and once in Fresno. I was freaking out at the latter show, as was the rest of the audience. They took a dull night and a dull crowd in a dull town and made it into something exciting and fun and once-in-a-lifetime. The show in LBC was remarkable as well, but mostly because Eli took the biggest onstage fall I have ever seen (we're talking from standing on the drum kit, tumbling down an amp, across the floor and into a tangle of mic cables -- and let's not forget that Eli is a very tall guy) and continued to play right on through the tune. Despite his gameface, I imagined it hurt, but now I know that if the gods of rock are on anyone's side, they are for damn sure on Eli Chartkoff's.

9. The Pity Party (Los Angeles -- Silverlake Lounge, 1/8) - At the beginning of the year I saw Pity Party perform at the first night of their residency at the Silverlake Lounge. There was a huge crowd and bright faces and they worked their asses off onstage. It was the first LA show of '07 for me, and they got things off to a great start.

10. Mezzanine Owls (San Francisco -- Make Out Room, 8/12) - The hardest part about picking out the coolest shows of '07 is remembering all of them. I'll admit I had to do a bit of research to come up with Number 10 Mostly because the Mezzanine Owls are one of the hardest drinking bands I know... and they made me drink hard at this show (at least that's how I foggily recollect it). We played a couple other dates during the year, but my favorite show of theirs was the date they headlined at the Makeout Room. That's where I first became intoxicated with their music as well as ... uhm, alcohol. We'll always have the Mission District, Mezz Owls.

Aaron Kyle (Le Switch) Top 10 List

I thought it would be fun to ask some other people what they enjoyed in 2007. First up is Aaron (lead singer of Le Switch) Kyle's list of top 10 new releases in 2007. You can see Le Switch at El Rey tonight or the Scene on Wednesday. Look for their debut album this Spring.

1. Dr. Dog - We All Belong (Park the Van)

2. Richard Swift - Dressed Up For The Letdown (Strictly Canadian) - Download "Kisses for the Misses"

3. Wilco - Sky Blue Sky (Nonesuch)

4. Sparklehorse - Dreamt for Light Years in The Belly of A Mountain (Astralwerks)

5. AA Bondy - American Hearts (Superphonic) - Download "There's A Reason" and "Vice Rag"

6. The Broken West - I can't go on, I'll go on (Merge)

7. The Besnard Lakes - The Besnard Lakes Are The Dark Horse (Jagjaguwar) Download "And You Lied to Me"

8. Tandemoro - The Movers and The Shakers (Self Released)

9. Frankel - Lullaby For The Passerby (Self Released)

10. Okkervil River - The Stage Names (Jagjaguwar) - Download "Our Life Is Not a Movie or Maybe"

Honorable mention -- Division Day - Beartrap Island (Eenie Meenie)

Top 10 Local LA Albums of 2007

As I said yesterday, it was a good year to be an LA music fan. Our labels released a slew of good local bands: Dangerbird (Sea Wolf, One AM Radio, Eulogies), Eenie Meenie (Great Northern, Division Day re-issue), Stones Throw (J Dilla reissue, Chrome Children compilations, Yesterday’s New Quintet, Jaylib, Madlib, Oh No, etc.), Dim Mak (The Deadly Syndrome, Foreign Born, Willowz, The Icarus Line, Sean Na Na). The all ages, DIY, Smell-based scene (No Age, HEALTH, Abe Vigoda, Mika Miko) got national publicity too. While many cities can boast great music scenes (Montreal, New York come to mind), few can compete with the overall breadth and talent in Los Angeles.

Jax and Scott have already laid their local top 10 lists out for you. Now here is mine:

1) The Broken West: I Can’t Go On, I’ll Go On (Merge) – I listened to this record as much as anything else this past year. I’m not the only one who loved it, the Aquarium Drunkard has it in his top six and Scott has it at #1 on his list of top 10 local releases. They’ve evolved so much as a band since this came out, I can’t wait to hear what they come up with next. Paste Magazine has it on their list too.

2) The Minor Canon: No Good Deed Goes Unpunished (Tenderness) – The Minor Canon make heartfelt pop music complemented by horns and piano. Paul Larson’s a veteran of the local scene and played guitar on the new Dntel record.

3) The Deadly Syndrome: The Ortolan (Dim Mak) – Quirky indie music with accordions and an obsession with ghosts. Along with the Broken West and Redheads, they were on my short list of bands to watch in 2007. Ian Cohen wrote a solid review on Pitchfork (7.4/10), Jeff Weiss gave them a B+ on Stylus, and the All Music Guide gave them a 4.5/5 but they remain LA’s secret. Hopefully they get out and tour more in 2008 so the rest of the country catches on. Bronson at the LA Times recently picked them as a band to watch in 2008 (along with Airborne Toxic Event and Castledoor).
Download "Eucalyptus"

4) Frankel: Lullaby for the Passerby (Self-Released) – Frankel is Michael Orendy. He makes chamber pop along the lines of Richard Swift or Andrew Bird. Credit goes to the Aquarium Drunkard for turning me onto this one (and it shows up in his top six for year).

5) Earlimart: Mentor Tormentor (Major Domo) – Aaron Espinoza just keeps growing as a songwriter. This is his best stuff yet.
Download "Everybody Knows Everybody" (via Pitchfork)

6) Le Switch: Hello Today (Self-Released) – This EP has grown on me like a sick fungus. I used to describe them saloon rock, but it’s more like a Wings/ solo McCartney/ Early 70s Kinks sound. They’ve been in the studio recording their debut full length for the Aquarium Drunkard’s Autumn Tone label (see Jeff Weiss’ LA Weekly feature that mentions the blogger created labels here).

7) The Henry Clay People: Blacklist the Kid with the Red Moustache (Self-Released) – I’m a recent convert to the Henry Clay People. It’s damn good 1990’s inspired indie guitar rock played with passion.

8) The Moon Upstairs: Guarding the Golden Apple (Gifted Children Records) – I have a feeling that If I smoked weed, this would be even higher on the list. The influences are vast, but if I had to narrow it to one, I’d say solo George Harrison-inspired stuff.

9) The Parson Red Heads: King Giraffe (Yukon Records) – They’re such an incredibly likeable cult (I mean band). With their pre-drug 1960s-inspired sound, they come off like a newer version of the Beachwood Sparks before the Beachwood Sparks decided it was a good idea to sit down while playing. They’ll be doing the Monday night residency at Spaceland in January.

Tie 10) Patrick Park: Everyone’s In Everyone (Curb Appeal) – I used to go see Patrick Park play live a lot. This record’s more consistent than his debut and gone are the bombastic arrangements. The All Music Guide gave it 4.5/5 and compared it to Josh Ritter and Josh Rouse, which is a pretty good descriptor.

And:

Foreign Born: On the Wing Now (Dim Mak) - Foreign Born has the potential to be the biggest of all these bands. Their anthemic, Echo & the Bunnymen-inspired songs have the potential to connect with all kinds of people. Peter from PB&J recently name checked them on NPR, Ed Droste from Grizzly Bear put them at #6 in his top 10 for 2007 and Bronson at the LA Times will probably have them near the top of his list. Pitchfork gave them a solid 7.2/10 too. Look for them on the road with St. Vincent in early 2008.
Download "In the Shape" and "Union Hall"

Honorable Mentions: Tigers Can Bite You, Qui, Busdriver, Eleni Mandell

Three bands to look out for in 2008:

1) Everest - Everest is a band of LA music scene veterans (Russ Pollard, Jason Soda, Rob Douglas, Davey Latter, Joel Graves) who released an excellent three song EP this year. They’ve been recording their full length and it’s one of my most eagerly anticipated releases of 2008. As the kids say, they’re slow burners. I dare you to go over to their Myspace page and tell me that new song isn’t great. They’re coming out of hibernation in January. See them at Spaceland on 1/14/08 and the Echo on 1/28/08. The LAist also picked them as a band to watch in 2008.

2) Le Switch – The EP whet my appetite for more. Aaron Kyle has grown so much as a songwriter and the rest of the band are strong contributors who flesh out the songs. They play the type of music that I love. They’re debut full length is tentatively scheduled for release around April 2008. See them at El Rey on 12/10 or the Scene on 12/12.

3) The Henry Clay People – They’re the cover boys on the new LA Record

Top 10 Hipster/Music Snob Records that Didn't Resonate With Me in the Year 2006

Here’s my list of 10 hipster cred albums that didn’t move me in 2006. These were loved by bloggers and tastemakers, but not by me. You say you love these albums? Well good for you. I’m sure you think my top 10 list is conventional and boring. I can live with that.

1) Joanna Newsom: Ys (Drag City) – This is a great album for pre-school children. Her voice is so precious; it reminds me of a bratty five-year old. Further proof? I love Van Dyke Parks’ work on Pet Sounds, but these days he mostly scores pre-school shows. Accolades? #5 best reviewed album of the year on Metacritic. Other Music’s best of. 9.4/10 on Pitchfork and #3 album of the year.

2) The Knife: Silent Shout (Mute) – If this is your album of the year, what kind of gay dance party’s going on over at your crib? I keed. I like guitar music; electro music feels so soulless to me. Other Music’s best of list. Urb’s top 10. 8.6/10 from Pitchfork and best album of the year.

3) Beach House: Beach House (Carpark) – The same people who love Grizzly Bear also seem to love Beach House. To me they’re pretty much polar opposites (other than a heavy dependence on Pro Tools). Grizzly Bear’s so busy it gives me a headache and Beach House is so empty it puts me to sleep. I like being rocked to sleep as much as the next guy, but this is ridiculous. Wake me when it’s over. Accolades: 8.1/10 on Pitchfork and #16 album of the year. Download “Apple Orchard” (courtesy of P-fork)

4) CSS: Cansei de Ser Sexy (Sub Pop) – If corporations are dumb enough to pay you $10,000 to play your IPod for a bunch of coked up, Sparks drinking, models, C-list celebs and advertising executives, then you’re excused for listening to this. Otherwise I just don’t get it. Accolades: NME’s #6. Download “Alala” (courtesy of Sub Pop)

5) Tapes ‘n’ Tapes: The Loon (Ibid) – This is a perfectly decent debut album from a perfectly fine regional band. One of your top albums of the year? You must have more of a stake in them than I do. I deleted most of the tracks off my MP3 player a long time ago. I can think of about a dozen local bands that sound similar and I like better. In a year with a lot of bands ripping off the Pixies, “Cowbell” is one of the best. Publications like Pitchfork will tear bands apart for being derivative, but then give certain insanely derivative bands a free pass. What’s up with that? Accolades: Other Music’s best of list. 8.3/10 from Pitchfork and #40th best album. Download “Insistor” and “Cowbell”

6) Lily Allen: Alright, Still (EMI Int’l) – Of course the hyperbolic British press loves her, but US tastemakers do too? Honestly I don’t think this is that bad, but I only listen to it when my girlfriend makes me. It’s like the music equivalent of Fun Dip. Accolades: Other Music’s best of list. 8.3/10 on Pitchfork and #29th best album of the year.

7) Grizzly Bear: Yellow House (Warp) – I know it’s completely unfair to penalize a band for what is being written about them; however I really resent the comparisons to the Beach Boys. I guess the Beach Boys represent great harmonizers? Grizzly Bear’s more of a Pro Tools band. The layer on top of claustrophobic layer makes me feel like my head’s going to explode. And what’s up with that interview in Out Magazine? I really don’t care what he thinks are the best and worst countries to “slut around in” (for the record France is his favorite, while England is his least favorite). That said, I see why people like the record. If I spent a little more time with it I might come around. Accolades: Other Music’s best of list. 8.7/10 on Pitchfork and #8 album of the year

8) Beirut: The Gulag Orkestar (Bada Bing) – How am I going to rip a 19 year-old kid from Albuquerque who listened to a bunch of Balkan gypsy music and made an interesting record? Well, I’m not. I gave this one many listens (bought it on CD and vinyl) and tried to force myself to like it. Unfortunately it still leaves me a little cold. There are some really nice moments, but I usually forget about it about three minutes after I put it on. He’s got a bright future ahead of him and I’m curious to see what he does next. Accolades: 7.7/10 on Pitchfork. Download “Postcards from Italy”

9) Hold Steady: Boys and Girls in America (Vagrant) – Once again, I’ve got nothing against these guys, I’m just a little surprised by the praise. I probably like classic rock more than you, but the praise makes me think of the Grifters (bar band that music snobs universally embrace). Remember the Grifters? Didn’t think so. Accolades: #13 best reviewed album of the year on Metacritic. Other Music’s best of list. The Onion’s #1 album. 9.4/10 on Pitchfork and 3rd best album of the year. Download “Stuck Between Stations” (courtesy of P-fork)

10) Man Man: Six Demon Bag (Ace Fu) – Honestly I’m too lazy to even download one of their tracks. Do you ever discriminate against a band just because of their picture? Accolades: Pitchfork’s 20th best album of the year.

Top 10 Records for 2006 (Non-LA Bands)

Here’s my top 10 list of non-LA artists for the year. I skipped over most of the tastemaker favorites. If I get some time I’ll do a top 10 list of hipster-cred artists that don’t move me. Only two of these artists are new, but two others are new to me. As you can see, I’m really biased towards male, indie guitar music.

1) Kelley Stoltz Below the Branches (Sub Pop) – Some critics knock San Francisco’s Kelley Stoltz for not being original. Obviously Stoltz has listened to a lot of mid-period Kinks and late period Beatles (and Wings and solo Lennon) but his music isn’t limited to those influences. There are really personal moments in these songs. This record will sneak up on you. I haven’t stopped listening to this since it came out last February. He did about 16 dates with the Raconteurs but it didn’t seem to help his name recognition factor. Even though he sounds great live, he’s not what I’d call a crowd pleaser. Download "Memory Collector" and “The Sun Comes Through”
2) Aloha Some Echoes (Polyvinyl) – They’ve still got the vibraphone, but the music’s not all cluttered and claustrophobic like their earlier stuff. The lyrics convey emotion and largely avoid cliché, which isn't an easy thing to accomplish. If you like slightly maudlin and very personal songs, give this one a spin with your headphones on. Download "Your Eyes"
3) Belle & Sebastian The Life Pursuit (Matador) – A lot of their fans keep waiting for them to make another If You’re Feeling Sinister or Tigermilk. (I’ve been guilty at times). So even though they’re one of my favorite bands, I was kind of indifferent to the record until I saw their tour in support of it. The Wiltern show was good, but the Hollywood Bowl show was completely captivating. The upbeat nature of many of these songs translates extremely well in the live setting. Download "Another Sunny Day"
4) Voxtrot Mothers, Sisters, Daughters and Wives EP and Your Biggest Fan EP (Cult Hero) – He’s just straight up a damn fine songwriter. I’ve been really skeptical of this dude since he hasn’t put out a full length record. I kept thinking to myself, “Does he only have a few songs in him?” But he put out two more EPs this year and there’s not a bad song on either one. If you like the Smiths, Belle & Sebastian and C86 stuff and you haven’t listened, stop what you’re doing and download these songs. When I finally saw them live, I was impressed that they’ve already got one of those powerful connections with their audience (we’re talking Morrissey, Elliott Smith, Stuart Murdoch-style bonds). Download "Mothers, Sisters, Daughters & Wives" and “Trouble”
5) Sparklehorse: Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain (Astralwerks) – Sparklehorse is one of those totally overlooked bands that deserves a much bigger audience. It seems like their only fans are other musicians. The new record has a few tracks with Dangermouse, a few tracks with Steven Drozd of the Flaming Lips, a few tracks with Dave Fridmann and a track with Tom Waits. It’s haunting but pretty music. Mark Linkous is one of those tragic guys you wish was less tormented so he could put out more amazing music.
6) Grandaddy Just Like the Fambly Cat (V2) – Unfortunately Grandaddy is no more, but at least they left us with this. The record has everything you expect from Grandaddy: Jason Lytle’s delicate voice, fuzzy guitars, crappy keyboards and lyrics that any aging kid from the suburbs should love.
7) Band of Horses Everything All the Time (Sub Pop) – Almost everybody compares them to the Shins and My Morning Jacket (me included). I think my new year’s resolution should be to not compare any more bands to the Shins. Every time I put it on I think I’m not going to like it anymore, but I’m always pleasantly surprised and get caught up in it all over again. Put “The Funeral” in 2007’s updated version of Singles and they’ll sell 600,000 records. Download "The Funeral" and “The Great Salt Lake”
8) The Pernice Brothers: Live a Little (Ashmont) – Last year’s record was on my top 10 list and this year’s record crept on. I wish all my favorite bands put out records every year. I love Joe Pernice’s songwriting. I’d love to hear what kind of chamber pop album he could make with a giant, Sean Lennon sized recording budget.
9) The Decemberists: The Crane Wife (Capitol) – I’ve always considered myself a Decemberists fan, but I usually only like three or four tracks on each record. Their major label debut is much more consistent. Colin Meloy has a voice that will probably limit him from giant record sales, but this record’s at the top of a lot of top 10 lists. The songs are loosely based on a Japanese folk tale. This album is the 16th best reviewed album of the year on Metacritic.
10) Built to Spill You In Reverse (Warner Bros.) – We had to wait five years for this. Pretty much vintage Built to Spill. Not their best effort, but not a disappointment either.

Honorable Mention: Ghostface Killah Fishscale, Serena Maneesh Serena Maneesh, TV on the Radio Return to Cookie Mountain, Sufjan Stevens Songs for Christmas, The Sword Age of Winters, Awesome Color Awesome Color, My Morning Jacket Okonokos, all the LA bands in my top 10 list of LA bands

Top 10 List of Records from LA Bands in 2006

Feel free to chime in if you feel like I overlooked something. I’m sure I did. For one thing, I totally overlooked hip-hop and punk rock. Believe it or not, there are tons of releases I still haven't heard (Mika Miko, Year Future, J Dilla, Ferraby Lionheart, etc.)

1) The Little Ones: Sing Song EP (self-released; later reissued on Astralwerks) – One of my concert highlights of the year was the first time I saw these guys. I’m not one of the most hyperbolic bloggers around, but I was immediately smitten. I’ve been hyping these guys ever since. How about this for a year…. they recorded an incredibly fun EP in the studio with David Newton of the Mighty Lemon Drops; they played a few shows that were widely praised; they self released their EP; the played Sunset Junction; they did a Spaceland residency; they got signed to Astralwerks in the US and Heavenly in the UK; they did their first big US tour with Small Sins. What’s in store for 2007? A UK tour in support of Boy Least Likely To, followed by a headlining UK tour with Tilly & the Wall. You can catch them on Saturday night at the Echo. Fans of indie pop and new indie bands like the Fruit Bats and Spinto Band should dig it.
Download “Lovers Who Uncover” and “Cha Cha Cha” and “High On a Hill”
2) Silversun Pickups: Carnavas (Dangerbird) – It was also a huge year for the Silversun Pickups. They released their debut LP on Dangerbird records. They performed on Letterman. They Impressed audiences at CMJ and SXSW. They toured with Wolfmother. They appeared as guests on MTV2’s Subterranean. What’s in store for 2007? They’re going out on a massive tour (29 dates) with Snow Patrol. The tour includes a stop at the Gibson Amphitheatre and New York dates at the theatre at Madison Square Garden. Tonight they’re doing the Live 105 radio show in San Francisco with the Shins, Raconteurs, Modest Mouse and the Killers. Then on Saturday they’re in San Diego for the FM 94/9 show with Modest Mouse and the Shins. Local folks can also catch them next Saturday (sold out) and Sunday at the Troubadour. What’s the music sound like? They’ve got fuzzy guitars, loud/quiet dynamics, big hooks, emotional choruses and are influenced by some of the best popular alternative bands of the nineties. Sure they’ve got their haters (most popular bands do), but they’re a genuine band, playing the kind of music they love and they’re playing it to an international audience. There just aren’t a lot of bands writing these kinds of anthems today as well as they do.
Download “Well Thought Out Twinkles”
3) The Clean Prophets: Praise is Poison (self-released) – You probably haven’t seen these guys yet or heard much about them if you don’t live on the west coast, but I keep returning to their debut album. Several of these songs get under your skin. They’ve drawn praise from the LA Times and Amoeba Music (who featured them as one of their homegrown picks). The trio’s influences are wide, but I usually compare them to 1980’s British guitar bands like Echo & the Bunnymen and the Chameleons. The lead singer has a distinctive, evocative voice that conveys emotion well.
Download “Praise is Poison” and “Tambourine Crown” and “Crime”
4) Languis: Other Desert Cities EP (Pehr) – I kept hearing great things about Languis, so I borrowed their album, The Four Walls, and listened to it. It left me a bit cold. Then I saw them live. They had great stage setup and the kinds of songs that make you want to put on headphones, close your eyes and space out for a while. I was happy when they released this EP, because it finally captured their impressive live sound. They toured a bit and scheduled an Echo residency. Right before that first show one of the founding members left. I haven’t seen them since then, so I’m not sure how it affected them.
Download “In the Fields of (Lonely Fences)”
5) Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins: Rabbit Fur Coat (Team Love) – I never considered myself a Rilo Kiley fan, but I’ve quickly become a big fan of her solo career. When I heard this record I listened to it once and threw it on the bottom of the pile. Then I saw her live and everything changed. She’s so charming and professional and so darned cute. She’s got a great band and their performance is like a throwback to the heyday of the Grand Old Opry. They look so comfortable together and it feels like a family. The family vibe makes sense – the band consists of a set of twins, two couples and Farmer Dave (who gets along with almost everybody). It put a huge smile on my face when I saw them. Their recent performance on Jimmy Kimmel further solidified my geeky fandom.
6) Let’s Go Sailing: The Chaos In Order (self-released) – Shana Levy won over a ton of new fans at her recent Spaceland residency. If you like piano-driven music from female vocalists, you’re going to love this. But even if you don’t normally like “chick music” I urge you to give this one a listen. Standout tracks are “All I Want from You Is Love” and “Icicles.” In 2007 I predict she’ll have national distribution and probably as many TV/film licenses as she cares to accept.
7) The Tyde: Three’s Co. (Rough Trade) – These seasoned veterans of the Echo Park scene released their third album this year. It’s unfortunate that the British press shows them a lot more love than the American press. I’ve heard local musicians joke that when you arrive in LA, Darren Rademaker is the guy that meets you at the bus station. To me, that’s a testament of his support of the local scene. The music’s the easy, breezy soundtrack to your beer drinking, joint smoking day at the beach.
8) Division Day: Beartrap Island (self-released) – Super nice guys and maybe the youngest band on this list? They’re passionate and work their asses off on the road which makes them exactly the kind of band that labels should be dying to work with. They’ve drawn heaps of praise from the blog world and have also been singled out by the LA Times and Amoeba as a local band worthy of your attention. The vocals make me think of Old 97’s era Rhett Miller, but I might be the only person in the world who thinks that. They’re already slotted to do the Monday night residency at Spaceland in February.
Download “Tigers” and “Tap-Tap, Click-Click” and “Colorguard” and “Hurricane”
9) Cold War Kids: Robbers and Cowards (Downtown) – The Cold War Kids are another band that had a huge breakout year. Their self-released EPs and energetic stage show impressed audiences across the country. They toured extensively and impressed audiences at SXSW and CMJ which lead to a major label deal and a growing fanbase. What’s in store for 2007? A European tour with Clap Your Hands Say Yeah and Elvis Perkins. They’ve gotten their share of hate, but I tend to root for bands that have a great connection with their audience. I honestly haven’t spent a lot of time with this record, but it’s one of those things that grows on me the more I hear it.
10) Watson Twins: Southern Manners (self-released) – What’s not to like? Their voices are so pretty and they sing such nice harmonies. It’s a great mellow soundtrack for your drive through Topanga Canyon. It’s great how supportive Jenny Lewis has been.

Three bands not listed above to keep your eye on in 2007:
1) The Parson Red Heads – Currently tearing it up at the Echo on Mondays in December. Their EPs don’t yet capture their live energy.
2) The Broken West – An album on Merge and a Spacleand residency
3) The Deadly Syndrome – Another band with demos that don’t capture their live energy.