The completion of MusicUnderFire's Best Songs of 2008. As before, if you missed our other parts of the top 100 list, hit up the links below:
Part 1: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (81-100)
Part 2: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (61-80)
Part 3: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (41-60)
Part 4: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (21-40)
20. Low Vs Diamond - Actions Are Actions (buy)
Why: From the harmonizing in the opening all the way down the the refrain and verses, this not only an excellent job of songwriting, but an exhillarating effort by one onf our favorite new finds this year. It really doesn't get much better than the breakdown 1:47 into the song.
19. American Princes - Auditorium (buy)
Why: The first 5 seconds sounds like something The Eagles may have put together years ago, but the song takes an upbeat turn with the drums, which is one of many factors that pulled this song together to make it work so well at the quick pace that it pulls. Fantastic job by American Princes for sneaking into our top 20.
18. Earlimart - Face Down In The Right Town (buy)
Why: Each time this song is played, its hard to get the 'Da do-do, Da do-do' out of your head. Earlimart's sublties are what makes them so great. Additional background vocals and piano add-ons make this a fantastic song. Personally, I would love to hear an acoustic version of this song done in all piano. This is our favorite Earlimart song to date.
17. Daniel Martin Moore - That'll Be The Plan (buy)
Why: As one of our readers put so well, it feels as though Moore is channelling Nick Drake. The songs are written so well, and the guitar-work is the driving factor in most of his album, but this song's happy nature and pleasant tattered rhythms made this our personal favorite that cannot be missed!
16. Dr. Dog - The Breeze (buy)
Why: As far as quick-hitters go, songs you immediately are drawn to, Philadelphia's own Dr. Dog stunned us with "The Breeze". The sullen vocals of Scott McMicken created a retro sound and blissful experience every time we listened to this song. Truly, this song will live on for years due to the songs tactful nature and composition of classic sounds we've all known to love.
15. Your Vegas - Troubled Times (buy)
Why: One of our favorite electro-rockers Your Vegas came out with a stunning, polished self-titled album this year and premiered this song off of their A Town and Two Cities EP. It remains our favorite song from the group.
14. Tokyo Police Club - Tessellate (buy)
Why: Months ago, I recall trying to figure out which song I really liked best off of this album, and with all of the peppy songs to pick from, 'Tessellate' was our hands-down, favorite pick. Maybe its the piano breakdowns, or maybe its the clapping/drumming combination, but whatever the case, we have added tessellate into our favorite songs of the year as well as our ever-expanding vocabulary.
13. Cut Copy - Lights and Music (buy)
Why: Its amazing that iTunes offered this song as a free download the week this came out, and we've been enjoying it ever since. Cut Copy's album was hard not to be recognized this year and the dance scene benefitted from this techno driven song, laced with some guitars -something these guys have blended so well.
12. Elbow - Mirrorball (buy)
Why: Another beautiful song from an extremely talented band. We can't stress enough how great it was to have Elbow return with another gem this year. If you don't know much about these guys and have quite the eclectic rock tastes, you might want to go back and listen to the rest of their catalogue.
11. The Airborne Toxic Event - Sometime Around Midnight (buy)
Why: This song has found its way into everyone's music libraries in 2008 and this song alone has made a name for the band. We felt it was such an anomaly, we had to include it in our top 20. The guitar pedals and singing are right up our alley.
10. Delta Spirit - Trashcan (buy)
Why: DS was pieced together of mainly percussionists and this song is already a classic, as far as we're concerned. The piano is refreshing as well as the soulful singing by Matt Vasquez. A perfect fit for our top 10.
9. MGMT - Time To Pretend (buy)
Why: You may have played it out by now, but MGMT's song "Time To Pretend" was all over the place this year in commercials, movie previews and everyone's iPods. We particularly can get enough of the synth melodie during the refrain. Match the song up with this year's most ridiculous video and you've got yourself our #9.
8. Coldplay Lovers In Japan / Reign Of Love (buy)
Why: Everything great about Coldplay is included in this song including some new touches added by Brian Eno. The pickup around 1:11 into the song makes this one of our favorites and an easy song to continuously return to.
7. French Kicks - Said So What (buy)
Why: Everything about this song is perfect, from the pool ball-breaking rhythm to the vocal chemistry. If there is one band to go see that we haven't, French Kicks are at the top of the list. Everything these guys create seems to melt in our ears.
6. Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin - Modern Mystery (buy)
Why: One of our most returned songs of 08' is "Modern Mystery" due to its soft-rock appeal and some clever lyrics - "You can really put me in my place, on a map in outer space." Not enough has been said of this talented group in 2008!
5. Fleet Foxes - White Winter Hymnal (buy)
Why: The harmony and picture just listening to this song with your eyes closed is enough to make us drop this one right into our #4 spot. Fleet Foxes stunned us this past year and will undoubtedly continue to do so, given our soft-spot for folksy bands.
4. Ra Ra Riot - Can You Tell (buy)
Why: A sucker for violins and some great heartfelt lyrics made Ra Ra Riot's "Can You Tell" a shoo-in for one of our favorite songs. Its really hard to ignore Ra Ra Riot, especially with a song like this.
3. Death Cab For Cutie - Cath... (buy)
Why: The one redeeming moment for DCFC was their best song from the album, "Cath...". The redeeming factor for this album was the lyrics pieced into every song by Gibbard, and although "Cath.." may be a bit depressing, its done perfectly so in a classic Death Cab style.
2. The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead (buy)
Why: Our music libraries would fall completely apart in 2008 had it not been for The Helio Sequence's stunning album and title-track that we listed here. What more could you possibly want from a band? We had trouble choosing our favorite song from this album, but looking back at their show in May of this past year, this really was their best song performed live and comes across so well on the album as well.
1. Blitzen Trapper - God & Suicide (buy)
Why: The notion behind our #1 track is nothing pleasant to really put too much time into thinking about, but everything comes together in this song. Every time this track is played, CCR comes to mind, along with every other classic rock song that managed to stick around for decades. The same will happen to this song and Blitzen Trapper will continue to live on long after they band is finished playing. Excellent song by all accounts. Our only gripe may be that its only two minues long!
It only gets better from here. Once again, if you missed our previous lists or want to see the top 20, hit up the links below:
Part 1: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (81-100)
Part 2: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (61-80)
Part 3: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (41-60)
Part 5: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (1-20)
40. The Gaslight Anthem - The 59' Sound (buy)
Why: A common theme for popular indie music is that while the songs themselves may be new, they carry a nostalgic, retro sound that makes their songs even more likable. This goes for TGA's "59' Sound" which made heads turn this past year.
39. The Rosebuds - Life Like (buy)
Why: Multiple vocals and the downtoned theme from the Raleigh group sinks and dims with every beat. Even better, it doesn't come across as dark, but rather more mystical and foreign composed than anything.
38. CSS - Jager Yoga (buy)
Why: A delightful piano capade makes for one of this years best jammable songs. The best part of this song is really how synced up the band is and how rhythmic and movable each instrument is. All of that accompanied with at least three solos made this a sure-fire pick for us.
37. The Helio Sequence - Lately (buy)
Why: The message of this song fits perfectly to the regretful tone of Summers' vocals. There's not enough that can be said of this band. Computers, drums and guitar are all you need to make a classic album for us.
36. The Lodger - The Good Old Days (buy)
Why: These Brits rarely leave a beat or a breath to be determined and when they compiled this song, nothing was left for interpretation. Much like "Morning Tide" from The Little Ones, this song shakes with an amicable personality sure to make you feel like you got out on the right side of the bed.
35. Glasvegas - Geraldine (buy)
Why: Perhaps running even with "Daddy's Gone" on the self-titled debut from the Scottish group, "Geraldine" provides heart through uplifting dream guitar wailing and the intriguing vocals of James Allan.
34. Cut Copy - Feel The Love (buy)
Why: The vanguard for many electronica albums generally gets the "Intro" title. Not Cut Copy's In Ghost Colours. "Feel the Love" not only was playable but could be considered a staple to the buzz that surrounded the Aussie's rise to many #1 album rankings.
33. Weezer - Pork and Beans (buy)
Why: As much as we loved their video for this song, there were more reasons to add this to our top songs list of the year besides Weezer just being Weezer. "Pork and Beans" is a defiant song created for the record companies themselves. They wanted a pop hit, they got one. Turns out Weezer can apparently light it up in their classic style whenever they want, despite their efforts to go in a different direction on this album.
32. Anthem In - Down (buy)
Why: The resemblance of this song to DCFC struck first, and the more I listened to it and their album, I realized there really was not too many similarities at all. As the band's best song on their latest album, Anthem In fits right here in a perfect spot from many of our favs of this year.
31. French Kicks - Abandon (buy)
Why: One of the first songs this year that we fell head over heels for. That was, until we heard the rest of the album. French Kicks seem to be inspired by something from the past, although we can't put our finger on it, but this song combines all of the bands best attributes as one.
30. Bloc Party - Talons (Phones R.I.P. mix) (buy)
Why: What more do you need to know? This was out favorite remix of the year and involves Bloc Party.
29. The Academy Is... - About A Girl (buy)
Why: The Academy Is... continues to define themselves from album to album and Fast Times at Barrington High by no means mimicked any of their previous work. "About a Girl" hit a pop switch with many radio listeners while also serving as the gateway to this album which is part of an ever-expansive genre laden with relationship cursing lyrics and memorable refrains.
28. Fleet Foxes - Ragged Wood (buy)
Why: Many of the songs from FF were astounding through vocal harmonizing and the overall timing involved. If the individual efforts of the group shone through anywhere on the album, it was here. From Skye Skjelset's acoustic play to Robin Pecknold's yearning lyrics, this track manifested yesterday's folk with today's talent.
27. Blitzen Trapper - Furr (buy)
Why: Yet another preview song we heard before the album was actually in our hands. "Furr" tells a folk story just as much the band themselves sound folk in this song. Given the combination and our love for those quiet, yet deadly bands, this track settled quite well to say the least.
26. Kings of Leon - Manhattan (buy)
Why: KOL have been doing their thing for some time now, and although their past success has drawn many to them in terms of popularity and radio play, this was the first time we really noticed them. In fact, "Manhattan" still holds true to be our favorite song by these young lads.
25. Bloc Party - Better Than Heaven (buy)
Why: Drop the beat and throw in some synths and breakdowns and you've got Kele singing Bloc Party's best track of the year. As driven as their album was to be louder and more raw, this song reminded us of their great past works.
24. m83 - Graveyard Girl (buy)
Why: Edgy and electrically charged "Graveyard Girl" embodies a forgotten effervescence that soundtracks from the 80's once spawned.
23. Coldplay - Strawberry Swing (buy)
Why: Unlike the rest of Viva La Vida, this song progressed while still maintaining its individuality as just one song and not two grouped together. Coldplay displayed a folk-inspired joy in this song through light banjo vibes and storytelling, which ultimately developed into the diamond in the rough from VLV.
22. The Shore - When Tomorrow Comes (buy)
Why: Our favorite song from the obscure band from CA. We know them to deliver a sound so laid back, yet calibrated to perfection. Whatever these guys do seems to fit our fancy for some rockable, likable psychadelic rock. Throw this one back to the 60s and they would be legends in our time.
21. Vampire Weekend - Oxford Comma (buy)
Why: The Ivy League boys snapped together a clever song "dripping with disdain" and a melodic chemistry that charms any listener. Imagine a convoluted rock anthem strung together by preppy musicians in a study hall and you have "Oxford Comma".
These songs were impossible to bump from our top 100. They all have staying power and should be checked out if you haven't already done so. We are now at the top 60. If you missed the previous lists or want to see where the list goes, head to the links below:
Part 1: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (81-100)
Part 2: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (61-80)
Part 4: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (21-40)
Part 5: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (1-20)
60. Ladytron - Runaway (buy)
Why: For a track name that pops up multiple times a year, "Runaway" by Ladytron provided what it needed to stand out courtesy of an escalating bass line and the European technotronics which helped make it an international success.
59. Priscilla Ahn - Dream (buy)
Why: Her music is much more than vocals. Her lyrics tell her story while a slow-plucked guitar and lazy violin alleviate any pressure from your current situation. "Dream" epitomizes A Good Day as it doesn't get much better than this.
58. Keane - Better Than This (buy)
Why: Probably the most bizarre keyboard Keane has managed to use yet opens up thier best song from Perfect Symmetry. As it turns out their album was nothing but perfect, but this song was hopeful as is its message.
57. Common Loon - Palestine Everywhere (buy)
Why: One of the more mysterious groups we've bumped into and certainly one of the most obscure. Not much was known of Common Loon when we heard their song "Palestine Everywhere", but they nailed it for what it was.
56. Greg Laswell - That It Moves (buy)
Why: A fan favorite at Laswell's shows and a nice classic message about human chemistry and the simple attractions that draw us together.
55. The Killers - Spaceman (buy)
Why: The more albums The Killers come out with, it seems the further we get pushed away. Its a shame their music has turned into something which few really enjoy each new album and everyone likes their poptastic song "Spaceman".
54. Low Vs Diamond - This Is Your Life (buy)
Why: Always striving for the 'big moment', "This Is Your Life" comes across as their most emotional, yet driving song on the album. To us anyway.
53. Tokyo Police Club - Graves (buy)
Why: Everything about these guys is high octane, sunny days and happy hour at the bar. It all comes across that way with songs such as this, which always seems to preface a good mood while listing to this song.
52. The Helio Sequence - Hallelujah (buy)
Why: How Brandon Summers squeezes in every ounce of wordage between his jovial 'hallelujah' refrain, along with the quick pace of the song marks not only one of the most upbeat songs on the album, but perhaps the year.
51. Blitzen Trapper - Black River Killer (buy)
Why: Simple guitar plucking, some good ol' fashioned story-telling and a that classic Blitzen Trapper ensemble made this song a must for our list.
50. Ladytron - Ghosts (buy)
Why: Ladytron's finest work from Velocifero and one of the biggest reasons the French band made such a splash this year.
49. Pictures and Sound - Everything Leaves A Mark (buy)
Why: Its true, everything certainly does leave a mark - Luke Reynolds headed out his newly formed band in 08' and made a stunning effort, including this album opener amidst a pleasing album effort from the energetic frontman.
48. French Kicks - New Man (buy)
Why: More classic French Kicks, great breakdowns and refrains. Everything about this song is chock full of emotion and great chemistry by one of our favorite bands from 2008.
47. Tigers Can Bite You - Second Nature (buy)
Why: As bad as the group name may be, there are two songs on this album they nailed. This one being one of our favorite quasi-instrumental tracks from this past year.
46. South - Better Things (buy)
Why: South have been around the block a time or two, and realizing when they've perfecting their sound will most likely happen while listening to this song. This is one of their best song efforts to date.
45. Snow Patrol - Engines (buy)
Why: Part of Snow Patrol that creates such a draw is songs like this: A similar, simple droning beat is looped and looped planning all of the melodies all at once for the beautiful breakdown in the refrains. While the verses speak of the song title, the small parts in the song make this a big one.
44. Elbow - Friend of Ours (buy)
Why: Only certain groups can make you feel like you're watching a movie while listening to a song as beautiful as this one. As much as this may feel like the next key moment in the latest movie's score, Elbow has outdone themselves with their string sectionn, vocals and really the whole chemistry of the band is oozing when this song hits home.
43. MGMT - Electric Feel (buy)
Why: As much as dance music may not fit your regiment of music-listening, "Electric Feel"'s alto singing matches the ridiculous video we saw earlier this year. MGMT does everything right in this song, and although this may have been their best done song on their album, it was not their most popular.
42. Cut Copy - Out There On The Ice (buy)
Why: When it comes to electronica, building and droping the beat is essential, as is adding the slightest, yet necessary changes to keep the listener's interests piqued. The bassline makes this song one of their best from In Ghost Colours.
41. Coldplay - Viva La Vida (buy)
Why: If you haven't heard this song this year, then you weren't on Earth. Although you could probably say the same thing about Kanye or Britney, this song promises staying power for memorable lyrics, it's jumpy attitude and Coldplayness.
The list continues... If you missed the first 20 or you want to see where our list headed, hit up the links below.
Part 1: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (81-100)
Part 3: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (41-60)
Part 4: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (21-40)
Part 5: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (1-20)
80. Delorentos - All This Time (buy)
Why: Delorentos have a pop-appeal as well as an indie rock appeal, which makes them versatile to blend into multiple crowds. Keep an eye out for more from them in 2009.
79. This Will Destroy You - Threads (buy)
Why: It was hard to find any instrumental rock album better than this one. "Threads" set this ambient poetry in motion and it truly is something you can't find anywhere else. You won't be disappointed in the rest of the album either!
78. The Helio Sequence - Shed Your Love (buy)
Why: Although most wouldn't put up this song on any 'best of' list, I found this mellow tune quite appealing and one of my favorite songs off of Keep Your Eyes Ahead. Its subtleties such as the quiet wind noises in the background throughout the song make this for one of the most relaxing songs of the year.
77. School of Seven Bells - Connjur (buy)
Why: Something SOSBs does so well is bring their harmony to a bubbling point. The building and breakdowns on this song in particular was tops for Alpinisms.
76 Hot Chip - Ready For The Floor (buy)
Why: This song grew and grew. Perhaps it was the tons of remixes done for this or maybe it was the odd unity Hot Chip carries that makes their best song off of Made In The Dark stick so well. This was was stuck in my head for quite a few weeks and continues to be a fun, upbeat song.
75. Tigers Can Bite You - Opener (buy)
Why: Although I cannot fully acknowledge the rest of the album for being the same caliber, there were two songs these Tigers created that I listened to for months on end. "Opener" was a perfect beginning to this album. Its a shame the rest of their songs could not follow the same gusto, yet still, I'm now carefully watching how this band grows and learns from their strengths and weaknesses.
74. Cartridge - The Reverend And The Scientist (buy)
Why: The Danish flair busts loose with a top-to-bottom gliding bass and pleasantly sporadic electric guitar. It's no surprise Cartridge found a song in the top 100, as their album Fractures reached #19 in our top albums of 2008. Nyde!
73. Low Vs Diamond - Don't Forget Sister (buy)
Why: Lucas Field and co. can really piece together some great songwriting to equally fitting music to back it up. Just as many of their songs off of their self-titled debut, "Don't Forget Sister" marked one of my many favorite songs from this album, but rose above most due to its guitar breakdowns and rhythm that just gets me every time.
72. Dr. Dog - The Old Days (buy)
Why: Different music is always inspiring and refreshing to hear, especially when everyone seems to be following each other's paths. "The Old Days" doesn't only have that charismatic presence like it was created in the olden days, but rocked the indie world this year with their unique approach.
71. Cut Copy - Nobody Lost, Nobody Found (buy)
Why: In short, this album was out-of-this-world and this song was one of many that justified the album as so.
70. Plants and Animals - Faerie Dance (buy)
Why: Two phenomenal songs wound into one 7:06 journey. If Plants and Animals didn't hit a nerve with you here, make sure to check out the rest of their Parc Avenue album.
69. Tokyo Police Club - Sixties Remake (buy)
Why: Quick drums, some clever lyrics and a catchy song title to work into one of Tokyo Police Club's many perky songs made this song one of the best on the album.
68. Santogold - L.E.S. Artistes (buy)
Why: While many were caught gawking at Santi telling the public she in no way affiliated with the rap/rock combo, others were licking their chops over this versatile song. Remixed in more ways than one, "L.E.S. Artistes" was the best song off of her nationally attention-grabbing debut album.
67. French Kicks - Over The World (buy)
Why: There's no reason this song shouldn't be on your next playlist. Make it start with something depressing, then a mellow happy song, and mix in "Over The World" by French Kicks. There are more reasons than one that I can't listen to this song enough, and really, this song was ranked down so much because we had to share the limelight with so many other groups.
66. The Black Ghosts - Full Moon (buy)
Why: Although Twilight attacted movie goers, The Black Ghosts were there the whole year in the background coming out with great remixes and perfecting songs such as this one featured on this particular film's soundtrack. We're always on the look-out for more from The Black Ghosts.
65. +/- {PlusMinus} - Snowblind (buy)
Why: Build-up is important to certain songs. It can be dulling if not done right. "Snowblind" made itself quite a phenomenon as far as free downloads when it came to the blogosphere. The band did it right and this song's shimmering melodies were near perfect in this song.
64. Fleet Foxes - Your Protector (buy)
Why: Fleet Foxes are great at harmonizing and sending the subconscious far, far away. We could have put many songs from their album here, but this one deserved a place due to a tempered progression alive with FF's folk ensemble.
63. Bell X1 - Rocky Took A Lover (acoustic) (buy)
Why: Although their last album Flock came out in Ireland in 2005, it was re-released in the US in 2008. Since we couldn't necessarily put one of their original songs on our list, we were stunned when Bell X1 visited Philly and played an acoustic set featuring everyone's favorite song by the band, "Rocky Took A Lover".
62. The Stills - Being Here (buy)
Why: As far as alt-rock songs go, "Being Here" could be considered one of this year's best in terms of consistent efforts laid down on any album in 2008. Although this is our only song from The Stills on this list, we highly recommend listening to the rest of their Oceans Will Rise album.
61. Delta Spirit - Streetwalker (buy)
Why: We're getting down to some great songs now... Delta Spirit was composed of 4/5ths percussionists and "Streetwalker" is one of a few examples that demonstrates this. Such a classic sound and easy use for any group to listen to, it was tough not to mark this one up even higher had we not heard so many great songs come from this album.
Just to preface our best of list of 2008: Some songs may deserve a higher spot than others, but the time it took just to compile our list should give each and every song on here enough deserved attention. We did our best to make a list of 100 songs we thought were great and left a lot of songs off we begrudgingly had to remove to abide by the 100 song limit. Our list is as accurate as we could make it, so song 100 all the way to number one represent our favorite songs and artists of this year.
We seperated our list into 5 parts because there was just too much to put onto one post. We hope you enjoy our favorite songs of this 2008!
Part 2: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (61-80)
Part 3: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (41-60)
Part 4: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (21-40)
Part 5: MUF's Top 100 Songs of 2008 (1-20)
100. Keane - Lovers Are Losing (buy)
Why: Spiraling struggled but the personal touch from this track mid-way through helped boost the overall album enough to make it bearable.
99. The Shore - Open Up The Light (buy)
Why: Coming back from a long wait, The Shore delivered a great album. Their most notable song won't be found here, but this one may be as perfectly chilled-out as rock comes.
98. Death Cab For Cutie - I Will Possess Your Heart (buy)
Why: Eight minutes and twenty-six seconds of cinematic gusto from a group that really doesn't have too many tracks longer than five minutes. Overall, a well thought-out song considering every instrument in the group grabs some of the spotlight.
97. Department of Eagles - No One Does it Like You (buy)
Why: Bass thumps and clapping ensues as the humble, yet budding group Department of Eagles made their presence known in 2008. Nobody does this like them in this gem with the harmonizing and the eerie playfulness of this song.
96. The Little Ones - Morning Tide (buy)
Why: Hearing The Little Ones and keeping a smile on of your face are synonymous with each other. "Morning Tide" clearly set the Cali natives back on track after their struggle to find a label and get their sound right.
95. Pictures and Sound - 100 Directions (buy)
Why: Luke Reynolds' latest project couldn't please fans more when transitioning from his older work. Now laced with some mild funk, "100 Directions" settles in behind light drum rapping and a heavy bass before slowly building up for a finale worth waiting for. Check out our live video of this song here.
94. Nada Surf - See These Bones (buy)
Why: Opening Lucky with their strongest song set the tempo for another great effort from Nada Surf. Perhaps this song layers a bit much as it goes on, but nothing takes away from the professional and well-timed shown here.
93. The Shore - Lose My Breath (buy)
Why: We doubled up listing the Shore in this section of our top 100, but that's okay since The Shore have so many good songs to list here. Neither this one or "Open Up The Light" could really be picked over the other, so really think of this as just another song you need to listen to and an album to own.
92. MGMT - Kids (buy)
Why: The main five-star songs on Oracular Spectacular flew across the blogosphere faster than the drug-inspired artists could imagine. "Kids" takes the teenage mentality of the duo along the same lines as the other greats on the album while still being incredibly original and addictive.
91. Kings of Leon - Sex On Fire (buy)
Why: The most pop-friendly song on this good effort and most listed throughout the blogsphere. That's not why we listed it however. The boldness of this song earned its place on our list. Saying someone's sex is on fire is quite a compliment to dish out, so kudos KOL.
90. French Kicks - With the Fishes (buy)
Why: Drowned out guitar meets sad, lonely singing. I don't know what does it for me on this song, but the chemistry is perfect, the guitar isn't too much and the vocals kill it every time. Everything down to the drums marks this album a materpiece in my mind.
89. Athlete - Flying Over Bus Stops (Acoustic) (buy)
Why: A song featured on their 2007 Beyond The Neighbourhood album, Athlete topped themselves with an acoustic version on their The Outsideres EP released earlier on this year.
88. The Notwist - Good Lies (buy)
Why: The Devil, You + Me opened with this low-key instrumentally and vocally sound track and the result helped the album as a whole. Seeing this song anywhere else in the Top 100 would be merited as it subtly speaks volumes to every ear that listens to it. Thanks to Pitchfork for the legal mp3.
87. The Republic Tigers - Buildings & Mountains (buy)
Why: Encompassing the ideals the Kansas City crew brought to Keep Color, this track harmonizes, entrances and hooks in like a cult does to its followers.
86. Greg Laswell - Comes and Goes (In Waves) (buy)
Why: Simple melodies and some nice harmonizing was enough to add this to our list. Laswell has sparked our interest this past year and this song was one of his most well-produced pieces.
85. Plants and Animals - Good Friend (buy)
Why: Parc Avenue's ground-work was put down here and the rest of the album benefited from it. "It takes a good friend to meet you in the park in the dark."
84. The Walkmen - In The New Year (buy)
Why: These guys went for a particular sound on thier album this year, and their nailed it with You & Me. "In The New Year" is something like we've never heard before with its rhinestone jangling riffs and slack-jawed singing. Where else could you find a better song with featuring an organ?
83. The Kooks - Always Where I Need To Be (buy)
Why: Konk would not be found anywhere near our top albums of this year, but our beloved UK rockers did score one song we couldn't resist to list here. They've once again managed to feature one song bound to be syndicated all over God's creation.
82. Elbow - Weather To Fly (buy)
Why: The Mercury Prize winners in 2008 claimed their spot on our list, particularly with one of their magnificently assembled songs listed here. Elbow didn't just surpass all of their previous albums, they made a name for themselves in 2008. This song shows everything we love and have loved about Garvey and Co..
81. Beck - Gamma Ray (buy)
Why: Beck highlighted this song on his website which promoted Modern Guilt and it fit perfectly for any returning fan as maintains the zany vibe Beck had back when he released Midnight Vultures almost ten years prior. Saying it is the best on the album isn't entirely accurate although it could be the addictive ingredient Beck albums consistently contain.
Top 20 Artists To Look Forward To In 2009 (Part 2)
6 comments Posted by musicunderfire at 12/27/2008
Our conclusion to the artists you can't miss in 2009 continues. If you missed our first 10, head here. Once again, enjoy.
Mute Math
For the boys from New Orleans, the road ahead is well lit. Two years after their self-titled debut album hit stores and flocks of new fans clung to "Typical", Mute Math have once again been drawn to the spotlight with their song "Spotlight", which features on the the Twilight soundtrack.
Paul Meany on the keytar and wobbly Rhodes piano certainly sparked our interest when we saw them live in early '06, but the strong supporting cast of Darren King (drums) Greg Hill (guitar) and Roy Mitchell-Cárdenas (bass) places Mute Math on a must-mention and must-see act for '09.
Bell X1
Bell X1 blew the socks off of thousands when they released Flock in 2005 inside their homeland of Ireland. Then they released Flock in 2006 and 2007 in Europe and the U.S. to the renewed joy of many others.
Just last week we mentioned their upcoming album Blue Lights on the Runway which is slated for release on March 3. Four years of writing and perfecting this already enamoring sound should draw some more smiles from eager listeners.
Coldplay
Every year Coldplay has hurdles to clear so that the orchestrated music they create doesn't receive bad reviews. Since they broke onto the scene 10 years ago, the Londoners couldn't have stayed firmer at the top of the rock scene.
Although gaps in albums have occurred in the group's history, live shows across the world and that ever-burning desire to hear new material will keep the group on top of their game. Plus, Viva La Vida is hardly over despite the Prospekt's March EP which was supposedly cleaning up from the album.
Video: Coldplay - Jingle Bells (live at O2 in London)
Delorentos
To no ardent MUF reader's surprise, the Dublin bunch of the Delorentos are hot on the radar of the music industry's finest.
2008 provided some readjusting for the group as they fiddled with labels and the 'making-it-big' syndrome. They have expressed plans to release a full-length fixture in the first half of 2009 which could be even more interesting depending of which label decides to step in. We have the full scoop here.
Beirut
Every time the conglomerate Beirut comes together to record, the results turn heads.When Gulag Orkestar launched in 2006 it ascended above the clouds and coasted its sweet melody to an international audience whom welcomed it as it should have been welcomed. 2007 marked The Flying Club Cup and another classic. With a somewhat silent 2008 from Beirut, we look forward to the big third album that sets them to another level of recognition.
MP3: Beirut - A Sunday Smile (buy)
Broken Social Scene
The influence of Toronto-based indie icons Broken Social Scene mixes well with any indie rock fan's collection. Built around the idea that each album is a solo project has enabled their sound to
remain eclectic as well as manufacturable from year to year without losing any edge.
Most recently BSS released Brendan Cumming's Something For All Of Us..., which continues this individualistic approach the group has designed. Any time this group of talented artists release a new album, eager people will listen, including MUF.
MP3: Broken Social Scene - Hit the Wall (buy)
Video: Broke Social Scene - Churches Under the Stars
Pela
Hospital trips for Billy McCarthy, canceled tour dates and eventually memorable live shows highlighted 2008 for Pela. If it wasn't for such a dazzling Anytown Graffiti album from 2007, the group probably would have never traveled as much as they did despite the sporadic drawbacks.
For 2009 expect a lot less injuries, a complete tour and a new album. Anything less shouldn't suffice. MUF certainly hopes to finally see them live this time around.
Sea Wolf
Although no formal announcement has come from the group within the past few months, the touring success from Sea Wolf after their 2006 release of Leaves in the River speaks volumes about the folk hook the group has latched to the masses.
Video: Sea Wolf - You're a Wolf
Their show at the end of May really got us hyped about where they could be headed. In October the group stated they were finished touring for the year and that an album would once again be in motion starting in March. For a group with six members, including the uber-talented Alex Brown Church, the sky is the limit.
Thirteen Senses
Contact didn't jump out to the masses like Thirteen Senses expected. Many critics don't expect superb sophomore albums, so the so-called letdown wasn't really a letdown at all, just a bump in the road. What can be expected could be a reinvention of their roots that made The Invitation such a jaw-dropping debut.
With a new record in mind, lead man Will South headed to Cornwall to begin musing over lyrics and the direction of what will be their third release. Soon after his arrival, his bandmates joined in on the process at the North London studio.
MP3: Thirteen Senses - Into the Fire (buy)
Director / Editors
Filing Director and Editors together has become a routine thing for MUF. Both groups are important positions in video and print media. Both artists will both be important in 2009, too.
Director last landed on the UK rock charts in 2006 with their release of We Thrive On Big Cities, when they challenged The Killers for the top spot. For 2009 the Dublin rockers have prepared their follow-up, as we wrote about earlier this month.
On the same island in the pond, Editors last recorded An End Has A Start in mid-2007 and have their third album looming in front of them. We will keep you posted on any new info on the group as it passes our inbox.
Top 20 Artists To Look Forward To In 2009 (Part 1)
1 comments Posted by musicunderfire at 12/26/2008
This year has been sentimental to look back on, and although we'd love to revel in what we've discovered this year, in the great tradition of music, we must prey on what greatness is to come.
The list below is a compilation of artists we've been following over this past year, have learned to love and feel their next move could be the one that will make the blogosphere go bonkers. Although if there was one group we could really have on this list, The Shout Out Louds, who have been speculated to come out with an album in 2009, they will most likely be a bit longer. There's no doubt in our minds the bands below will be drawing much attention to themselves.
The Answering Machine
This may be the group MUF has been partial to since we named them one of our 'band you must know' back in February. Playing the role of a group in the small clubs of London this past year while inching their way towards , The Answering Machine was signed to Heist or Hit in November recording with Dave Eringa and are all ready to release their first album entitled Another City, Another Sorry. Their first single will be out in Spring 2009.
MP3: The Answering Machine - Lightbulbs (buy UK Link)
If you're a fan of the Strokes or even Tokyo Police Club, these guys have the right mix for you. The Answering Machine has found their niche. If you're looking to see what these guys can do, check out "Lightbulbs", which was finished over a year ago.
Video: The Answering Machine - Lightbulbs
Fair
These guys have been tinkering around for a few months now perfecting their subtle rock style in the studio. Even though their sophomore album is not yet completed, you can catch up with their album The Best Worst-Case Scenario released in 2006. The lead singer has a great voice, the band has a great deal of chemistry, and their music is quite good. You can check updates on their official site or on their MySpace.
From the band:
It's been almost a year since we started. The finish line is closer than before.
Band of Horses
As if everyone doesn't know about BOH already, they're currently on tour, and will be touring through the very end of December playing a New Years Eve show in Atlanta, GA. In the meantime, they've been keeping us updated with lots of photos on their tour blog.
The band announced on October 14th on their MySpace page that they would begin recording a new record. Although they haven't specified that they would finish it in 2009, they already had three months of a jump in 2008. Looking forward to lots of Band of Horses news to come in the coming months...
Wilco
Yes, Wilco is due out for their umpteenth album with Jeff Tweedy at the helm once more. "Impossible Germany" was our highlight of Sky Blue Sky, and the band seems to be carrying more and more momentum year after year. We're giddy just thinking about it.
Apparently this time around, according to Paste, Tweedy "kinda hates" all six albums to date. This is quite typical for our finickey friend whose neural system will not let him sleep over anything less than perfection. Alas, we have great confidence that Wilco can yet again achieve their overachiever status once more in 2009.
MP3: Wilco - Sunny Feeling (buy)
MP3: Wilco - One Wing (buy)
Thus far the band has shown their fans a peek at two of their songs in recent concerts with "One Wing" and "Sunny Feeling".
Vdieo: Wilco - One Wing (Live from Lalapalooza)
Doves
Its been a tough four-year gap for Doves fans as their last album left them lingering for 3 years (will be 4 in 2009). Well, the wait is over and the Doves are back with their fourth album and follow up to their most widely acclaimed album Some Cities. According to Pitchfork, the band has not yet released a title for the album, but their first single will be called "Kingdom of Rust". Sounds tasty, eh?
As of the beginning of December recording has almost been finished, which will lead the way for lots of polishing up and mixing the tracks in the months to come. The band has expressed excitement for other tracks such as "Jetstream", "The Outsiders" and "Winter Hill".
Dirty Projectors
The Dirty Projectors are back with their sixth studio album. We would love to give you a giant breakdown of everything that will be tied into this album, but Stereogum already did that. If you'd like to learn more visit their update on them.
The Strokes
According to their official site, the Strokes posed the question back in June whether they would be getting back together to continue their triumphant tour of the world with more classic Strokes songs you'll be bragging are: "Just too easy to play... why are they so famous"? Although you may admit to not having all the mojo The Strokes have managed to suck the world in with, we can assure you they'll be back at it again in February of 2009 - says bassist Nikolai Fraiture.
In the meantime, be sure to keep your hands clean of any Strokes mp3s floating out there - Sony BMG will be sure to suffocate your blog and maybe eat up a post or two of yours, which we've been hearing about so much lately. So be safe, kids...
Silversun Pickups
These guys may just pop into our #1 excitement slot in terms of upcoming albums. Carnavas, Silversun Pickups' highly touted sophomore released in 2006 and sent forth an army of newborn fans akin to the bands tumultuous rockability, snapping drums and all of the fury held by the genius himself, Brian Aubert.
Silversun Pickups new album, Swoon, does not yet have a release date, but we do know it will be comprised of 17 tracks. Aubert says "some songs are very quiet and delicate, others are just fucking loud".
MP3: Silversun Pickups - Little Lover's So Polite (Grayarea Remix) (buy)
Video: Silversun Pickups - Lazy Eye
The Radio Dept
As mentioned in our post in mid November, we said The Radio Dept would be back in 2009 with Clinging To A Scheme. Their original projection of their new album was to be in the Fall/Winter of 2008. Well as of right now, their projection looks to be a bit off and will be in 2009. After their news of a new album following their EP Freddie and The Trojan Horse
Well, this isn't really news, but we get a lot of questions. So... we really don't have a release date for The Radio Dept. album. Sorry! We will however set a release date as soon as they've finished the recordings. And don't worry friends, it's well worth the wait!While the albums date has passed, the release date will most likely not be pushed back further past 2009. Look for Clinging To A Scheme to drop this next year.
MP3: The Radio Dept - What Will Give? (buy)
The Appleseed Cast
The Appleseed Cast (Christopher Crisci and Aaron Pillar with Nate Whitman and John Momberg) have taken quite a break from their music dating their last full album release back to their 2006 Peregrine. Now back with some enlightening news, the band has not only announced that their new album will be released in January of 2009, but their first single is already on their MySpace page, called "Raise the Sails". As expected, it sounds great.
If you're looking for more Appleseed Cast in the meantime, go to their MySpace and you can purchase a song titled "The New Stage (For So Long)". You won't be dissapointed.
MP3: Appleseed Cast - Raise The Sails (buy)
MP3: Appleseed Cast - On Reflection (buy)
Video: The Appleseed Cast - Steps and Numbers
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