Music Year In Review

As the year comes to close, i thought i would share 10 CD's/Artists i feel everyone should check out. So listen up cause these are some acts you should be checking out if you aren't already.

1. Matisyahu - Live at Stubbs

A hisidic jew reggae/rap artist. His voice really shows through on many tracks, and while their are jewish references in many songs, it can easily be looked past for the great music that is being created. Check out "Refuge", "Close My Eyes", and "King Without A Crown". Great chill out music for sure

2. Death Cab for Cutie - Plans

I came across Postal Service first, like many others did, and eventually elapsed into Death Cab. If your into Radiohead, Postal Service, Sigur Ros, or even Coldplay check it out. Ben Gibbard has a very soothing voice that shows through on such tracks as "Soul Meets Body", "Summer Skin", and "I Will Follow You Into The Dark". I also recommend checking out Dntel if you are really into this stuff, since its by Jimmy Tamborello who creates the electronics for Death Cab

3. Van Morrison - Magic Time

While obviously, Van Morrison is not a new artist, his new record "Magic Time" is a true work of art. His voices only seems to get better with age, and is becoming increasingly powerful. Great tracks include "Magic Time" and "Stranded" which really show that Van Morrison still has a lot of records left to make.

4. The Arcade Fire - Funeral

While this band's last release was over a year ago, i feel that i can still add it to this list, since it is only starting to gain any notoriety. The Arcade Fire are a Montreal based band that have powerful lyrics, and great guitar riff's to back it up. If you enjoy The Killers or The Strokes, check it out

5. Jack Johnson - In Between Dreams

Another chill CD, I know I know, Jack Johnson is not exactly everyone's favorite. A lot of his stuff starts to sound the same, but this CD is the best of it. "Banana Pancakes" is my favorite, and is perfect for a lazy sunday listening.

6. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah! - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah!

What i first thought when i heard this was that it was straight out of an episode of "The O.C". But after listening to it a couple times, i realized that i really like it. The guys voice takes a little getting used to, but the music is catchy as hell. Check out "Over and Over Again (Lost and Found)" as well as "Details Of The War".

7. John Legend - Get Lifted

I really like this CD. Old school motown vibes, with many guest vocalists. "Stay With You" is my personal favorite, and is another good chill down CD. Great for pretending that you are in touch with your sensitive side.

8. Damian Marley - Welcome to Jamrock

While the title song "Welcome to Jamrock" has been played out on the radio, there are many other better tracks on the record. If you like rap, take a listen to "Road to Zion" featuring Nas, and if you are an avid reggae fan, listen to "Khaki Suit" featuring Eek-A-Mouse.

9. The Darkness - One Way Ticket To Hell...and Back

I don't know about you, but i love butt rock. And the only good butt rock being made is The Darkness. I doubt they would enjoy me calling it butt rock, but that's what i like to call it. "Is It Just Me" has a great chorus, and is an awesome drunk song. If you were a fan of "I Believe In A Thing Called Love", give this one a listen to and i'm sure you will like it.

10. Spoon - Gimmie Fiction

A great album by a band that does not get enough credit. All the songs are great, and i love lead singer Britt Daniel's voice. The duo have a great chemistry, and is worth a listen if you enjoy bands like Modest Mouse

I'm sure i left off a lot of other bands, but give these a listen to, and expand you mind past the Kelly Clarkson and Ashlee simpson CD's for once.