2024: My Top 10

2024 was a truly huge year for album releases. There were so many notable albums that I had a much harder time than usual selecting a list of 10 to go with as my top picks. Be sure to check out the notable mentions of all the albums I enjoyed this year, at the end. I don't know if I just happened to be a little more tuned in to releases this year or if great music just ended up falling in my lap somehow, or if there just were that many great albums this year. Anyway, in no particular order, here are my top 10 picks of the best albums to come out in 2024!

1. 1994 - Nathan Evans

I have been listening to Nathan Evans ever since the Wellerman song ear wormed into the universe. I think his original music is great and that he's only improving with time, and freedom to release more. His blending of pop and traditional sounds, and instruments, and lyrics are something I can enjoy over and over. His voice is decent enough, it is the passion behind the tunes that makes him great. He can sing a soft tune or pump it up. And he's so positive with his messaging! 

Tracks to check out: Perfect Storm; Heather on the Hill; Bonfire

2. Time II - Wintersun

Wintersun remains impressive to a point that if they release anything, I think it is worth paying attention. Admittedly, Time I didn't quite deliver up to the expectations. I didn't know what to think when I saw that Time II was coming out. The album is more tempered compared compared to Winter Madness, which seems like what many fans compare any of their releases to. However, I think Jari Maenpaa has matured and developed as a musician... the album comes across more like a concept album. It feels more complete to me than Time I and the song writing is better, IMO. It still hits hard in many places... I mean, Wintersun is still Wintersun. Check out for some epic Finnish metal with symphonic sounds, blending crisp and growly vocals. Some of the best! 

Tracks to check out: Storm; The Way of the Fire

3. Long Way Home - Ray LaMontagne 

From the first track, Step into Your Power, Ray LaMontagne had my attention with this release. Honestly, I have not found much interest in Ray's music since Gossip in the Grain. I've listened to everything he's come out with but often it came across as more of the same and I didn't really get into it, I just went back to GitG. However, he's come out something special with Long Way Home. I found myself coming back to this album repeatedly this year, it works for something mellow and acoustic to have in the background, but if you listen to the song writing and lyrics, it is solid start to finish. Many hit home for where I've been this year, in life and with family, and maybe that made all the difference. I have many tracks to recommend on this one. 

Tracks to check out: Step into Your Power; I Wouldn't Change a Thing; And they Called Her California; My Lady Fair 

4. Live at BBC Maida Vale Studios - Elder

Elder falls firmly into the style of metal I often want to listen to lately, long sweeping riff heavy tracks that can almost put you in a trance or take you to another world. They can do it instrumental or add vocals that make for some great songs. This live album showcases how darn good they really are. It is only 3 tracks, but each is pretty long. A little bit spaced out, a little psychedelia, but still with the technical chops to keep it interesting. 

5. Adult Contemporary - Chromeo

Chromeo has written a whole list of my favorite danceable songs and wow... this album delivers! Not every track is amazing, mind you, but the ones that are are some of the best dance stuff ever. Clever lyrics, some guitar thrown in, and ultimate swagger make this album one that can't be missed if you like dance, pop, or anything like that. Their cleverness and sense of humor is unmatched, as well. And see them live if you can, they put on one heck-of-a show! 

Some super tasty tracks to check out: Words With You; (I Don't Need A) New Girl; Replacements (Extended Version); Lonesome Nights; Personal Effects; She Knows It (Personal Effects, Pt 2)

6. Azimuth - Elk Witch

Elk Witch is a band that is new to me this year. They present a lot of what I appreciate about metal these days... at least the bands I like in the genre. They have that throw-back sound, influenced by the blues rock of the 70s that became stoner and blues metal, psychedelic, and whatever. They're good. Nice solos, riffs, vocals, all of the above. I look forward to seeing where they go in the future as they carve out their own little nook in the sound that has about a million bands trying to do it. 

Tracks to check out: Dead Silence; Empyrean; Universe 25

7. One Deep River - Mark Knopfler

Mark Knopfler might be slowing down a bit, but he is still a master when it comes to fine songwriting, guitar, and singing. He manages to create albums consistently that have his signature unmistakable sound, yet sound fresh and new, like he's had a big adventure between the last album and now, and he's just got to write songs about it. One Deep River is no exception. His songs are personal and heartfelt, and always impressed my dad, so I'll probably like his albums forever. 

Honestly, the entire album is fantastic. My favorite track is Black Tie Jobs

8. Cometh the Storm - High on Fire

High on Fire has a sound I love so much, but like other bands at times, sometimes their releases blend together as one big amalgamation and I end up going back to my favorite album (Death is this Communion) and finding other albums forgettable. That is not the case with Cometh the Storm. I feel like inspiration must have struck Matt Pike because he created a metal masterpiece. Hard hitting heavy riffs, passionate vocals in his signature sound, and this metal, bordering on punk at times but firmly in the metal sphere, is just what the doctor ordered for me this year. I put this on driving or when I need to get pumped up, or just motivate around the house to get shit done. Put it on... I dare you.

Tracks to check out: Burning Down; Trismegistus; Sol's Golden Curse; Hunting Shadows

9. The Hard Way - Pete Yorn

When I first heard Pete Yorn, early 00s (musicforthemorningafter), I thought he was going to be just a rocker. And he is that, but he's a whole lot more. Pete Yorn manages to write songs that are relatable and that make you yearn to listen to. I sometimes think of him as a musician with limited tools, as his guitar playing and vocals and songwriting... none of it is the best. But he's solid in all 3 categories. On The Hard Way he manages to put all his tools to task and has created an excellent piece of music. I should not have been surprised, I've been listening to his Live at the Troubador (2020) album quite a bit and it is also very good. He's been in the game long enough, he knows what he's doing, and he still seems to have a passion for the music. This one is the mellower side of Yorn, FYI. 

Tracks to check out: The Hard Way; Real Good Love; Golden Dream

10. Ask That God - Empire of the Sun

Empire of the Sun is a band I came across while building my Chilestness mix and so started paying attention to their releases, then comes Ask That God. It sounds similar to their other stuff, but has a more mature sound that I enjoy quite a bit. Mellow and electronic. Pop, for sure. Synthesizers. Also, this year I've liked bands that have more positive message, they are that. Some of this music is catchy and fun. More often lately, it is music like this that I find myself listening to on a regular basis (something even a few years I never would have said!), so while this is probably not the best album on the list, it is one I've listened to much more because it is often what I've felt like listening to. Cool stuff.

Tracks to check cut: Music on the Radio; The Feeling You Get; AEIOU; Television; Happy Like You

There were a ton of other great albums out this year and I'm sure I've missed some. If you have a favorite, leave a comment. Here's a list of some other albums I considered for the list and greatly enjoyed this year. I could have easily made this a top 20 this year! So much good stuff...

Ryan Adams: Heatwave; Sword & Stone; Star Sign; 1985; BLACKHOLE

Goat Major: Ritual

STRFKR: Parallel Realms

Mountainhead: Everything Everything

Haunt: Dreamers

Dragonforce: Warp Speed Warriors

Blu DeTiger: All I Want is Everything

Coffins: Sinister Oath

Still Corners: Dream Talk

Khruagnbin: A La Sala

The Black Keys: Ohio Players

Heavy Temple: Garden of Heathens

Striker: Ultra Power

Darkthrone: It Beckons Us All

Acid Mammoth: Supersonic Megafauna Collision

Neil Young and Crazy Horse: Fu##in' Up

Uncle Acid: Nell Ora Blu

Pearl Jam: Dark Matter

Slash: Orgy of the Damned

Bruce Dickenson: Mandrake Project

Judas Priest: Invincible Shield

Kerry King: From Hell I Rise

Willie Nelson: The Border; Last Leaf on the Tree

Guster: Ohh La La

Lindsey Stirling: Duality

Jesse Malin: Chasing the Light

Dua Lipa: Radical Optimism

Jack White: No Name

Fake Fruit: Macho Mistrust

Anciients: Beyond the Reach of the Sun

Tanukichan: Circles

Purple Disco Machine: Paradise

Afro Celt Sound System: Ova

The Sword: Live at Leviathan

Cheers!

-Jason

2023: My Top 10

 2023 has been a weird one. I've been trying to get back into music more than I have in a lot of years and the adventure has been good for the soul. Also, I've been through it in my personal life this year, spare the details in this forum, but there have been ups and there have been downs... and growing and pain, and all of the above! Music is a healer for the mind and spirit for me in these moments and I think this list reflects that in some ways. Without further ado, here's my favorite albums that I managed to listen to this year, in mostly no particular order, although it will be clear that a couple had an outstanding impact. Thanks for reading.

1. High Spirits - Safe on the Other Side

This album is one badass album. High Spirits has climbed my list of bands I hope to see live. The album is a blend of classic sounding metal and heavy rock, although I would classify it clearly in the metal genre. Safe on the Other Side is full of tasty riffs and some of the best clean metal vocals you'll hear around. The songs are short and to the point, you'll have no chance to get tired of a song. The album has a clear theme, although how you might choose to interpret the lyrics can go a few directions. My favorite song is Loving You. 

2. Blood Star - First Sighting

Wow, First Sighting is a great album. Blood Star is a band I managed to see live this year and they put on a helluva show. First Sighting is a blend of rock and metal, but I would classify this one in the firmly metal category. But your rock and roll friends will  love it as well. I think the factor that makes this one stand out is the combination of what each member brings to the table. These musicians compliment each other's talents so dang well. Somehow a 70s early metal vibe and modern sound all at once, yea that's Blood Star. Favorite song: Going Home.

3. Roosevelt - Embrace

I came across Roosevelt a lot while building a playlist on my YouTube Music account, the Chillestness mix. When they came out with a new album this year, I was excited. The music is perfect for the Chillestness mix, mellow with some electronics sprinkled in, breathy vocals, catchy enough... but not so slow that it'll put you to sleep. This album is more upbeat than some other Roosevelt selections, I would say a bit funky and damn near danceable at times. Play this in the car, in your living room, for your friends, and put the room in a damn good mood. Favorite song: Luna.

4. Tanukichan - Gizmo

I can't imagine Tanukichan surpassing Sundays for me, but this album is an excellent release. The sound reminds me of the music I loved and listened to so much during my college radio station DJ days, and am still very much in the mood for at times. It drones and can put you in a trance, simple arrangements that satisfy especially in the current climate of mainstream over produced music... Gizmo is a reminder that there is still human made human felt stuff out there (a lot of it actually! But you have to look!). I dig the vocals and think they make Tanukichan stand out in the crowd more than anything else. Weird, indie, shoegaze, I don't know how to classify it... but I like it. Favorite song: Don't Give Up.

5. Lord Mountain - The Oath

Someday I'll make one of these lists without something stoner, doom, throwback metal on it, but not today. Lord Mountain has made something worth checking out The Oath. Honestly, the album may remind you of lots you already like in the genre, but I find their sound more interesting with the nordic and fantasy themes (opposed to the weed smoking hum drum the genre is known for). The riffs are solid. The vocals are epic and clean. And yea, it's heavy enough. Favorite song: Serpent Temple 

6. The Dirty Seeds - Beware the Beast Man

Okay, okay... sometimes I just want to hear heavy bong ripping riffage super stoned out mega tones, that's The Dirty Seeds. The songs on Beware the Beast Man are long and riff filled, probably improvised along the way, with vocals are not amazing, not a lot of range or anything special, but they get the job done. I like this kind of music because it makes me feel like I could start a band tomorrow and become something. I would definitely go see The Dirty Seeds live, I bet they put on a show. Favorite song: Living Robots

7. Altin Gun - Ask

Altin Gun remains one of the most interesting, talented, and unclassifiable bands I've heard of in recent years. So much blending of genres on this one, too... Ask features pop sounds of the 80s, folk, traditional, middle eastern, disco, funk, I don't even know... but these musicians are some of the most talented individuals on the planet! Watching videos of Altin Gun on YouTube will mesmerize you! This album may be more of the same from them, but they're a band I can say, I can't get enough. Because their song titles are not in English, they're sometimes hard for me to remember, but the whole album is amazing... also probably the only album I purchased on vinyl this year. 

8. Baroness - Stone

Baroness has always been a band I've felt pushes creative boundaries and I think they have continued to do that with Stone, taking their sound to new heights. The song structures sound much more prog to me on this one, blending all kinds of heavy and soft, and the vocals as well... clean to the more shouting sound they're known for. Immensely talented since forever, I feel like Stone is a product of massive amounts of practice and polishing. It's not an album I'm likely to turn to as often as some of their older stuff, but that doesn't mean it's any less good. This is an album to sit down and focus on. Really, really cool. Favorite song: Beneath the Rose. 

9. Cannons - Heartbeat Highway

The more I hear of Cannons, the more I love this band. Electronic, whispy, mellow, dance, they do a few things very well. In recent years, this is the kind of music I've wanted to listen to most. A few songs from Heartbeat Highway were released as singles this year and I found myself listening to them all numerous times, and loving them. The album as a whole lacks some cohesion of some of their other albums, but some of the individual tracks are as top notch as they come. Favorite Song: Desire.

10. Ben Folds - What Matters Most

Probably the best live show I saw all year, Ben Folds live at an outdoor amphitheater venue absolutely blew my mind. I have known of him for eons, never someone I was interested in seeing live, really just enjoyed that album he did with Nick Hornby and the live stuff he posted that was super improvised and entertaining. Anyway, saw him... awesome show... he played a bunch of songs from this album and they were clever and entertaining, and he's an immensely underrated and talented pianist. Favorite Song: Exhausting Lover. Also, second favorite song: Kristine from 7th Grade.

Bring on 2024!!

2022: My Top 10

 2022 has been a weird year for me in terms of music. With my favorite music store closed for good (Skip's CD World... RIP) I have found it much more difficult to connect and find new music to listen to. Sure, I have streaming, but the "explore" options on there certainly don't replace the ability to walk down an aisle and browse hard copies of music. They don't replace the conversations I had with store employees, and they don't replace holding an album in hand and looking at the art up close. Streaming sites are great for listening to that oldie, but (IMHO) terrible for finding new music. But, one must change with the times and I am trying to find new avenues of musical discovery. At least Bandcamp remains a stable go-to for finding a few gems, although I've made fewer purchases on there lately (despite their obvious upgrades to their sites! Thank you!), for some reason. I hope to change that in 2023. 

So, I have managed to find some new music. Some of it through exploring the internet, some through conversations with friends/family, some through dumb luck. I have never before had such strong feelings that I probably have missed something great out there this year and I'll be kicking myself in the future for wishing I had had it for this list. These lists are always incomplete and imperfect, though, so be it. Here, in no particular order, with a few thoughts, are my top 10 albums for 2022, in no particular order. 

1. Cannons - Fever Dream

Favorite Track: Lightning

Cannons is definitely my new favorite band to enter regular rotation this year. For some reason, the wispy breathy vocals and mellow beats were exactly what I needed in this challenging year of 2022. This new album truly has some gems and I have listened to it dozens of times, appropriate for all settings and all company, these songs can even get you thinking and having the big "feels" with solid song writing and lyrics all around. Listening to Cannons has led to me finding a lot of new albums by many artists, but none have resonated with me quite like this band. 

2. The Midnight - Heroes

Favorite Track: Heart Worth Breaking

The more I hear from The Midnight, the more they climb the ladder of my favorite bands. Their music captures the nostalgia of the 80s in a modern way, probably they fall under the "retro synth" genre but their front and center vocals make them different enough that I would personally separate them from much of what that genre is. Their albums often manage to tell a story and carry themes, which Heroes is no different. It feels like a movie taking place in your mind as you listen. Also, their tunes are catchy and I find myself singing Heart Worth Breaking all too often. 

3. Ozzy Osbourne - Patient Number 9

Favorite Track: No Escape From Now

Patient Number 9 will remind a long time fan of much of what they love about Ozzy's music over the years. I don't think he really breaks any new ground with this album, but it is an awesome album none the less. There are plenty of guest appearances to ensure shredding guitar and great riffs. And, Ozzy's voice truly sounds as iconic and good as ever. Definitely an album of nostalgia, the Tony Iommi songs were my fav collabs, giving me the feeling that this may be the last (or among the last) opportunities to experience the magic these two bring. Plus, the big Sabbath energy! Honestly, I had some low expectations for what this album might be, but it has delivered. 

4. Two Door Cinema Club - Keep on Smiling

Favorite Track: Lucky

Two Door Cinema club captures the direction I wish more pop music was taking. It is fun and light, and well crafted. Good beats that are danceable at times, but often not quite... solidly falling into the good driving music realm, or maybe for a nice cocktail hour. Nice bass riffs round it out and some solid vocals (that wind around in interesting ways) complete the package. Honestly, there's nothing too fancy about this album, it just works. I heard Two Door Cinema Club hanging out with friends at their house and found myself getting hooked. 

5. Hoaxed - Two Shadows

Favorite Track: The Call

I had the fortunate experience of seeing Hoaxed live this year and, as a first metal show to attend since the before times. Especially for a 3 piece, Hoaxed puts on a great display. They have carved out a niche of a metal sound that is simple in its base pieces, but well polished and interesting to listen to. They put on a great live show, as well. The vocals make the music more accessible and stand out from a lot of other similar styled music.

6. Intranced - Intranced EP

Favorite Track: Intranced

If we can't have Holy Grail, the next best thing is Intranced. I have high hopes for this band that they'll take it to the next level, as it stands we have one very delicious bite in this EP from Intranced. I feel like the band picks up where Holy Grail left off and capitalizes of James Paul Luna's superior vocal abilities. The band delivers what I've come to expect from LA's metal scene with fast polished guitar work and great sound. 

7. The Fae - Books With Maps Vol. 1

Favorite Track: Faerie Rock

When it came to my attention that Jeff Potts had another musical project, I had to check it out. I'd seen him with Gygax, met him (nice guy!), and loved his guitar style. IMO, his work with Gygax made that band so much better (although, I loved all the incarnations of Gygax! Respect!). You can hear a little bit of the Gygax sound in The Fae's Books with Maps Vol 1. But, this music is more whimsical and fun. Firmly rooted in Fantasy, this album is metal but much more my speed lately... a little more mellow and on the rock side of things. All members of The Fae are carrying their weight on this album, with constantly switching it up through some prog moments and each instrument showcased throughout. This is one of those albums that stands out more and more, the more you listen and pay attention. 

8. Caustic Casanova - Glass Enclosed Nerve Center

Favorite Track: Lodestar

Are they metal? Rock? Indie? A collaboration of so many styles of music makes up Caustic Casanova, and they've delivered with another distinct piece of music that is so distinctly them, and so cool, with Glass Enclosed Nerve Center. I admit I can never remember the name of this album. It certifiably rocks and there are great rock riffs present along with their signature vocal style that works so well with their style, kind of a sing-yelling style that I don't often hear to my tastes. This band is getting better with age as they continue to perfect their craft. 

9. Haunt - Windows of Your Heart

Favorite Track: Father Time

It seems impossible for me to make one of these lists without including Haunt, as they are so prolific and it all rocks so freaking hard. A taste of thrash, but with a more pure metal sound, Haunt has managed to find a formula for metal that I wish a lot more bands would take note of. The guitar playing is unmatched with shredding solos that are interesting and crisp. The vocal style works well with their sound, gallop heavy tracks, with a bit of a retro metal vibe. I can't really get enough. 

10. Gargantuan Blade - Gargantuan Blade

Favorite Track: Necromancer's Blood

Gargantuan Blade is a band I came across on YouTube and then Bandcamp. I am sometimes just in the mood for some rock solid doomy stoner sludgy rock metal and this album delivers. Tune in and tune out. They are from Finland and bring the heavy riffs with a Fantasy theme, something that often works for me, and vocals that are not aggressive. Not sure what else to say about this one except that it is a very satisfying piece of music. 

There you go... my top 10 for 2022. Happy new year!

EDIT: I somehow neglected to have Riot City - Electric Elite on this list. I have loved this album this year for its pure shredding amazing solos and great tone. Plus, the vocalist has one of the most amazing metal voices I've ever heard, with great range. This is a great followup to Burn the Night. Instead of taking another album off this list we'll just say... this one goes to 11.

Favorite Track: Ghost of Reality

2021 My top 10

 2021 was an odd year for me regarding albums and my music listening habits. I still found a few albums to truly enjoy. The whole Covid thing has led met to listening to quite a bit of music, but I've been reaching back into the archives opposed to seeking out those new gems. Honestly, the disappointment over the fact that our lives haven't got even close to back to normal yet, has left me reaching for that comfort zone. With all that said, here are some albums that captured my attention this year and will assuredly enter my library of fav albums.

Courtney Barnett - Things Take Time, Take Time.

Gosh I listened to this album a lot while driving around this year. The songwriting is so simple that it makes you feel like you could record this stuff in your own living room. I know that's part of Barnett's charm. She has a poetic style that would be equally interesting if she just read her lyrics aloud. I feel like her songs are built around the lyrics. This is a very pleasant album that I think would be fitting in the background of just about any situation, however if someone takes the time to pay closer attention, they'll find it has a lot more going on and is more interesting than one might initially realize. 

 

Iron Maiden - Senjutsu

How does Iron Maiden continue to operate and create at such a ridiculously high level? I could say that Senjutsu contains more of what you might expect from Iron Maiden and that would be correct. However, that wouldn't do the album justice, as it has tasty guitar parts and epic sweeping metal songs that will leave you standing next to the speakers mesmerized. And as a double album, this is a long one. Bruce Dickenson sounds as good as ever and the band is nearly perfect. You may still prefer an older classic for your fav Iron Maiden, but this is a top notch experience. 

King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard - Butterfly 3000

How King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard keep doing it, I'll never know. They just keep pumping out ridiculous good music. This time it's wispy magical mellow beats and breathy vocals for the win. Once again, different from everything they've done prior and still completely them. 

Kimberly Freeman - After the Snow

I will listen to anything Kimberly Freeman comes out with. This album is apparently her response after going through some intense life stuff, and I can feel that. She's a songwriting and vocal talent, and emotions seep through with every moment. She manages to give you little glimpses to her mind that only make you long to learn more, but it's the longing that you truly need to appreciate. 

Silver Talon - Deceiver, I Am

Silver Talon's plan with Deceiver I Am is not complicated. Make tasty metal. They have some of the most shredding licks and crisp vocals. The songwriting is epic and fun, and will remind you of so much of what makes metal simply the best. 

Haunt - Beautiful Distraction 

Haunt returns with another scorching release, riding that line between retro hard rock and metal. If someone tells me they don't like metal I quickly think of Haunt because how could anyone ever not love this? Good riffs, overall simple but effective, metal for the masses. 

Alostmen - Kologo

African beats and traditional instruments fill up the songs on Alostmen's Kologo. I know very little about music from Africa so have not much to compare this to, but I know even I totally dig a sound. Catchy in a way I've never experienced before, this is the album for me this year that I'd recommend the most. 

Michael Droske - Let Me Wait

Mike Droske is an underrated talent. He's also a meticulous crafter of fine song writing. Always humble, he makes those playing around him sound better. This new album is a fine example of what he's capable of. Each song tells a story. It reminds me a lot of George Harrison in parts, going into psychedelic interludes but returning to a structure reminiscent of rock classics. You can't go wrong with this album. 

Phoebe Bridgers - Punisher

Vocal driven indie sounding music is the vibes I get from Punisher Phoebe Bridgers. This reminds me of my days at the radio station in college. It's not ground breaking or especially unique stuff, but you'll prob like it anyway. 

Robert Plant and Alison Krauss - Raise the Roof

It's a melding of two wonderful voices with some simple song writing that let's them showcase their immense talents. This is one everybody's parents can agree on and listen to on lazy Sundays when it rains. Timeless and classic, yet also somehow fresh. I don't think Plant and Krauss have the ability to make something together that wouldn't just sound divine. I'm glad they got creative together once again. 

 

2020: my top 10

Greetings. What can I say about new music in 2020? It certainly has been a weird year all around and the flow of new music has not been spared. Honestly, I didn't do the big exploration of new albums this year as I have in so many past years. I often found myself listening to audio books instead of albums for some reason. So, maybe this list should be 10 albums that got my attention because I did find myself spending time with them. I just feel like there's great music out there that I missed, which happens every year, but maybe more so this year. Still, these are all fantastic records and worthy of a top list.

With time at home, many musicians released more material than usual and often it was raw, uncut, lofi, and/or acoustic, and less produced. Cool, cool. But also a double edged sword. Sometimes there was too much and the albums were not representative of the best a band can make. I'm fine with that, actually. But I also found myself less excited for releases and getting bored at times if something didn't grab me right away.

In the end, I settled on this list. 10 great albums, in no particular order, that for me put the exclamation point on a difficult year that I'll never forget and will happily leave behind, but also paved way for some damn good creativity.

1. Local H - Lifers

I've been a huge Local H fan since high school and still think they're ridiculously underrated. Somehow their music speaks to me and Lifers is no exception. The song writing is quality and Scott Lucas continues to have a great voice. The music is simple but what's needed to deliver, and... that guitar tone.

2. Haunt - Mind Freeze

I am continually impressed by Haunt and their ability to make a pure kind of metal, and Mind Freeze has all the ingredients. Super tasty solos and songs that are crisp and concise. This is the kind of metal rock enthusiasts can enjoy. I'm convinced that Trevor Church is one of the hardest working musicians to be so prolific and impossibly good.

3. Myrkur - Folkesange

So, there's no way I can predict what Amalie Bruun will do next. She has a truly unique and memorable fantastic voice, and continues to impress with the versatility in ways she uses it. Songs on Folkesange are distinct and unmistakable despite the album being a far cry from the black metal Myrkur was initially known for. Mellow and operatic, this style is just as good as the metal ones and was one of those albums I ended up leaning on to get through this year.

4. Butcher Brown - #KingButch

I'd never heard of Butcher Brown before #KingButch came on my radar but liked the group right away. A fusion of jazz styles and hip hop makes their sound unique but what's impressive is that they do it all equally well, and blend the styles in a way that works extremely well. Great instrumentation is present throughout. I wouldn't have envisioned jazz and hip hop working together so well, but it makes sense and this album delivers.

5. Jake Kimberley - Shifting Obsession

I heard of this album because I follow Caustic Casanova, Kimberley's band. This is one of those albums that wouldn't exist without the imposed isolation of Covid. It's a solid album, somewhat melancholy and a little weird. Thematically there's some stuff about being isolated and I'm not sure how the songs will age over time. But I've sure been enjoying them lately. The music is good but would be nothing without the melodies and song writing. I hope Kimberley does more solo stuff, it's a nice contrast from the CC style that I also love.

6. Big Al and the Nice Goods - C.R.A.B.

Poetry and synthesizers, chunky guitars, Big Al and the Nice Goods make music for the people. The use of language in the lyrics keeps you on your toes and proves endlessly entertaining, and poignant. While the songs are surprisingly catchy. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy this band.

7. Run the Jewels - RTJ4

Is there a group more in tune with the universe than Run the Jewels? If there is, I haven't run into them. This music is for now. The state of 2020 made for conditions for an album like RTJ4 to emerge. It's in your face and to the point, and uncompromising hip hop. It is relevant and deals with subject matter that affects real people, and it is really, really good.

8. Yuri Gagarin - The Outskirts of Reality 

If you've followed along with my lists from previous years, maybe this is the most predictable selection for 2020. This is one great album. Nobody does instrumental heavy psych better than Yuri Gagarin and this album delivers. It's got weirdness and space sounds, and grooves, and tasty guitar riffs and solos. When you need to tune out and visit another plane of existence for a while, here's your ticket. 

9. The Midnight - Monsters 

I've been a huge fan of The Midnight the last few years and honestly, I love their sound so much that it's hard to imagine them releasing something I wouldn't enjoy. Yes, there's a nostalgia factor with their lyrical themes. And the synth is so cool, and the beats feel good. But these songs will stick with you long after others in similar vein have faded away. 

10. Car Seat Headrest - Making a Door Less Open 

Sometimes I'm not sure what draws me to the music of Car Seat Headrest but I do consistently like their stuff. The indie sound reminds me of my college radio station days. This album is more approachable compared to some of their other stuff, with a cleaner and less rough around the edges sound. It's still them, though. I also like the smattering of beats sprinkled throughout that serve to break up the tracks a bit and keep it interesting in a different way.

This concludes my 2020 top 10. If you also loved one of these albums this year, let me know in the comments. If you loved some different albums, feel free to mention that as well. Stay safe and take care, and rock on.