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Remembering the war, after the break!
Introduction:
All this feels like a lifetime ago.
When 2011 began, "Bored 4 Music" - the original seed of That Buzzing Sound - was branching out to late-night LA Showcases. I made it my New Year's resolution to cover one concert, with words and pictures, over the twelve months. On top of expanding all my 1st Songs of the Day, new songs/videos, artist spotlights, and album features. Past me kept himself busy... and his promises.
What started as one show a month only bloomed into a full non-stop passion for nearly 4 years.
Glad he did because that version of myself stuck to all those promises while creating a forever format that I have relied upon since. No matter how many times I tried to change things up. That original blueprint I followed in 2011 remains my core playbook to this day. That Buzzing Sound of 2024 is "Bored 4 Music" in everything but name. Well... except for all the "Wild Wild West" music sharing I did back then. What felt right at the time was actually quite terrible in hindsight. Wisdom comes with age. Remember that.
On a personal note, I was still finding myself at the day job despite being the "golden child" that was sent to London for Will & Kate's Royal Wedding to assist the production team. Most of my coworkers & friends were dispersed throughout the newsroom and post-production so a new batch of rookie characters began their first season as I moved into a mentor-type role by the end of the year. "The Vault" was the training ground and I was slowly outgrowing my purpose there. Setting the stage for the major changes that occurred in 2012.
Music-wise, this was a hard list to nail down as there were so many amazing projects born in 2011. Didn't even discover a good portion of the Top 5 picks until 2012 either. Spent too much time thinking "Should I include them or ignore them?" Technically they appeared in 2011 and didn't make the original list as I can remember it. What's a guy to do? So I dropped them in.
Trying to weigh old broken memories alongside present-day prejudices created a massive war for the 20+ spots. Would "2011 Me" appreciate this album more despite forgetting about it for over a decade, despite it being a banger then and now? Had to make this Redux list a reflection of both. Happily, an album's staying power spoke to me more than anything else. Please enjoy...
My Favorite Albums of 2011 (Redux)
#25 - 'Christmas' by Michael Bublé
I wouldn't have a Christmas Day tradition if it wasn't for Michael Bublé releasing probably his greatest collection of covers in 2011. 'Christmas' gets played every year in my household. It has become my go-to Holiday album. Should be immortalized in this countdown forever.
#24 - 'Planet Pit' by Pitbull
A bit surprising, right? I have spent many years vibing to Pitbull's Magus Opus' Planet Pit'. Always brings a smile to my face when it plays banger, after banger, after banger. Could probably write an essay about how carefree we felt in 2011 compared to... let's say... 2021 until now using this album as one of the examples.
From a purely logical perspective, these days feels like we're living through an apocalypse. Really wish we could get back to carefree tunes like these where the party felt like it was never gonna stop.
#23 - 'undun' by The Roots
Going from the universally loved 'How I Got Over' in 2010 to the critically beloved concept album 'undun' in less than a year showed what kind of ride the Legendary Roots crew were on during their early Fallon days. The story of Redford Stevens, from his death to the start of his downfall, still gives me massive chills to this day. Had been so long since I sat down to experience this project that my aging soul found so much passion in all these prolific jazz stories. Did I miss just listening to The Roots or did this wise album really speak to me in 2024? Maybe a little bit of both.
#22 - 'Hell on Heels' by Pistol Annies
Miranda Lambert, Ashley Monroe, and Angaleena Presley's country supergroup made one hell of a first impression with 'Hell on Heels'. The bile that oozed from their cocky lyrics and devilish guitar strings sound timeless listening to them a decade later. Creating a country pop classic that many others have tried to duplicate to no avail. This listener isn't surprised that it holds up immensely in 2024. This trio made magic.
I ended up seeing the Pistol Annies at Stagecoach 2012 and they were fantastic! Also saw Ashley Monroe solo perform at SXSW years later.
#21 - 'Lasers' by Lupe Fiasco
The music world waited on pins and needles for Lupe Fiasco's 'Lasers' for years. Sounded like quite the urban myth until the tracks started to appear on Rap Radar, Rap-up, Fader, Pitchfork, DatPiff, fan sites, and the rest of our independent blogs at the start of 2011. 'Lasers' was real! And we, as a collective, couldn't wait.
While half of the mainstream publications hated or felt indifferent about 'Lasers' on release, I sat on the positive side of the spectrum. It sounded like a well-executed mainstream hip-hop from the early 2010s, you know? Had some solid features (still love every track with MDMA), futuristic beats, and plenty of meaningful lyrics that I found catchy. Sounds really cheerful in 2024. Had a blast with my time with it then and now.
The biggest takeaway was following the story 'Laser' as it occurred in real time. Was so impactful I vividly remember the experience anytime I see the album cover. It is a miracle the record company didn't crush before its arrival. 'Lasers' was the victor due to Lupe's fans. Hope they can appreciate that.
#20 - '+' by Ed Sheeran
Started to use Apple Music iTunes in 2011 and one of the free songs they gave us was Ed Sheeran's debut single, "The A Team". Took a little bit for this listener to appreciate the melancholy, heartbreaking stories being told from Ed Sheeran's now-iconic guitar but they eventually clicked. For how much we partied around 2011, having a song like "Drunk", "U.N.I.", & "Give Me Love" in rotation made a lot of sense in hindsight.
The buzzworthy music videos for "Lego House" & "Small Bump" showed the power of early YouTube & our collective blogosphere too. Felt so fresh back then.
#19 - 'Angles' by The Strokes
Whether you love or hate 'Angles', the album cover alone reminds me of the "Bored 4 Music" days. I covered this album way beyond its release. "Under Cover of Darkness" brings me back to youthful 2011 feelings anytime I hear it on the radio. Something that rarely happens. So when it blares from the speakers, this listener poorly howls along. Same when I replayed it recently. The instrumentals remain spectacular alongside Julian's harsh vocals. A vibe from another time is sorely missed in this generation.
#18 - 'Rome' by Danger Mouse and Daniele Luppi
What was the first album I RAN to play upon starting the listening phase? 'Rome' by Danger Mouse and Daniele Luppo featuring Norah Jones, Jack White, and the reassembled Cantori Moderni choir! Also covered this album during its press tour back in the day as it brings back more memories from the "Bored 4 Music" era. Doesn't change the fact this project felt like the coolest phucking thing ever back then. A historic semi-concept album that sounds like pure cinema. Even now.
Now it sounds like you're experiencing a classic Western on cable during the late-night sign-off period... and that's not a bad thing! I think that was truly their intention.
#17 - 'Chief' by Eric Church
Eric Church's 'Chief' is B.A. A country killer that excels in harsh roots. Being overworked during 2011, a song like "Drink In My Hand" or "Hungover & Hard Up" hit this listener's musical soul with extreme pleasure. Then you got the standout "Springsteen" near the end. It is a well-rounded country album brought to you by the self-proclaimed "Country Music Jesus" who preferred "Jack Daniels" & "Gettin' Stoned" over wine.
Does every song hit in 2024? Absolutely! I appreciate these anthems more nowadays. Surprised my younger self could even relate.
#16 - 'Sondre Lerche' by Sondre Lerche
Following Sondre Lerche's 2011 self-titled project was really cool. Mostly because I wasn't a committed music blogger when I became a fan in 2008 during the pre-'Heartbeat Radio' days. Had the opportunity to share all the singles alongside seeing Sondre Lerche at the El Rey after this album was released. My father tagged along too & he dug the entire concert, which featured Kishi Bashi & Nightlands! Seeing all these artists still making music in the modern age really warms this fan's heart.
The album is solid. His 2011 self-titled project is probably my third or fourth favorite Sondre Lerche album? Nothing can top Duper Sessions & The Dan in Real Life Soundtrack in my book. They are quite amazing. But close to 2014's 'Please' for sure. Might like that one just a little bit more honestly? And I'm loving 2024's 'Understudy' right now. He's just an artist that doesn't miss this listener.
Blame it on Wick. It was all her fault. She shouldn't have given me that post-it note. I wouldn't be following this path if it wasn't for that yellow piece of paper, right? A chain reaction that made the last two decades an absolute dream. Distorted memory feedback conjured up by one album. Gotta love "Living Dangerously"!
#15 - 'Ceremonials' by Florence + The Machine
Just "Shake It Out". I can never leave the past behind. I'm always dragging that horse around.
Uh oh! Can you guess the song that is playing as I type this? 'Ceremonials' biggest issue is it has a brilliant monster on Track 2. Once I start playing it, I can't stop myself from rolling it back. Once you break the habit, a fantastically haunting album... that deserved to be named one of the most acclaimed projects of 2011... awaits the listeners.
Let Florence Welch wrap you up in warm sounds. When was the last time you've been held like this? Ages, right? Never let it go.
#14 - 'El Camino' by The Black Keys
Oh... we're having fun now, aren't we?
I forgot 'El Camino' included "Lonely Boy", "Gold on the Ceiling", "Run Right Back", and the rest of The Black Keys' hard-hitting anthems that dominated rock radio in the early 2010s! Dan & Patrick understood how to promote in this evolving music age too. Created so much hype with solid rock roots. Made the perfect storm that lifted The Black Keys above the rest.
This listener had a blast with these soulful tunes. Now I'm obsessed 'El Camino' once again.
#13 - 'My Head Is an Animal' by Of Monsters and Men
Another one of those albums that set the tone for the musical age to come. Indie Folk made a major impact in 2011 as the internet helped bring to life all these different genres of music into the mainstream. These down-to-earth anthems from across the world knocked on our doors. All thanks to the internet.
'My Head Is an Animal' felt so refreshing to this listener in 2011. Even loved the abstract animated music videos for Of Monsters and Men's album singles. Created this mythology around these spiritual movements we were hearing. They manifested small folktales the audience could connect with. How cool is that?!
I remember listening to the 10th Anniversary of 'My Head Is an Animal' a couple years ago and felt it still soars. The fact that something so unique like this was able to pass the protective mainstream radio gatekeepers proved Of Monsters and Men were an important part of the new wave brought on by social media & music sharing.
#12 - 'James Blake' by James Blake
Speaking of music sharing, that's how I became a fan of James Blake.
His debut self-titled project is remarkable. Not sure why the complex, confusing, repetitive, electronic jazzy soul connected with this listener so much but it did. Even went to experience it at The Music Box (now known as the Fonda Theatre in Hollywood) back in 2011. Don't remember much except for all the weed smoke creating a special haze that evening. Made the pictures come out really cool!
If you've never experienced the genesis for this often-imitated deep soul electronica, then I recommend you start right here. Unfiltered & raw emotions forever live in these deep cuts.
#11 - 'Tha Carter IV' by Lil Wayne
'Tha Carter IV' stayed in regular rotation for almost a full year in my playlists. There were so many fantastic, hard-hitting, hip-hop anthems that I was obsessed with: "MegaMan", "John", "How To Love", "She Will", and "6 Foot 7 Foot". The latter has a core memory attached to it. Spent the end of the night of Oscars 2012 dancing in a Star Wagon. Thinking it would be my final Academy Awards.
(It wasn't)
What a feeling to go out with though! Just listening to Wayne & Corey brings me back to that moment. If you need any musical motivation, put on "John" (featuring Rick Ross). Will get you hyped instantly! It is a sequel to his 'Teflon Don' cut - "I'm Not A Star". Another one of this listener's favorites. #Spoilers
#10 - 'Watch the Throne (Deluxe)' by JAY-Z & Kanye West
'Watch The Throne' is one of those projects that doesn't need much explanation. Why is it here? Because the Tag Team of Jay-Z and Kanye West was like the hip-hop version of the Mega Powers. Made for such a movement that plenty of others made collaboration projects together afterward, especially around 2011. Was the album originally not the best form before its release? Absolutely. That's why the Bougie Deluxe Edition is now the preferred version. Personifies this decadent high-class album perfectly.
The biggest winner from 'Watch The Throne' however was Frank Ocean who stole the show with his two features: "No Church in the Wild" & "Made in America". His star "lifted" off into the galaxy the years that followed due to Jay-Z & Kanye's co-sign.
Regrettably... I own the digital, 2 CDs, and the Vinyl of 'Watch The Throne'. The latter was my most expensive vinyl purchase of all time. Bought it from Amoeba Records in Hollywood for close to $200. Which is still about the average based on online sales. The things we do for music.
#09 - 'Modern Love by Matt Nathanson
Feel a little bad for Matt Nathanson. He never really topped his amazing 'Modern Love' project in the years that followed its release in 2011. Truly understandable because the album is indie pop-rock perfection. His hard work and vision combined to make one of the best records I've ever heard. 2018's 'Sings His Sad Heart' came really close but 'Modern Love' is a masterpiece. Completely.
Had been a HUGE fan of Matt's since around 2008 when I spent early morning freeway drives listening to his fantastic discography. Much like many of the albums on this list, being able to share these amazing tracks throughout 2011 and beyond remains a dream. Think I've shared almost every single as a "1st Song of the Day' in every incarnation of That Buzzing Sound multiple times. Reminds me of an uncomplicated time.
The biggest core memory from this era was when Picksysticks & I saw Matt Nathanson at the Wiltern during the 'Modern Love' era. Was one of the first joint concerts we covered together. He went as a fan, me as a late-night concert connoisseur. My first show at The Wiltern too, I think? Oh, the journeys that sprouted from our joint appreciation of Matt Nathanson are now incomparable.
#08 - 'Camp' by Childish Gambino
Childish Gambino's 'Camp' remains the most controversial album of 2011. Donald Glover, whom I laughed with weekly on NBC's Community, artistic indie hip-hop project was his first steps at being taken seriously as an artist... not just an actor or musician. Most didn't get the joke or point back then. Especially a publication like Pitchfork. Music is subjective. That's what makes it so cool. We bring our own spirit to the listening experience each time we open our ears. Maybe the mixed responses only made Donald Glover hungry?
I dug 'Camp'. It still held up extremely well in 2024. Youthful, fun, and full of uncertainty. But being able to experience Childish Gambino before the "Camp Tour" at a rowdy Club Nokia to see a completely different on-stage persona at the end of 2012 at the Hollywood Palladium while promoting his 'Royalty' Mixtape era speaks more than anything else. Got my first bit of online fame because of those shows. Will forever be grateful to Childish Gambino, Chance the Rapper, Schoolboy Q, and the rest of the crew.
Would 'Camp' be better as a musical or listened to as a concept album? Probably so. Feels like a cinematic grounded story of young love... at least to this listener.
#07 - 'Secret Codes and Battleships' by Darren Hayes
Blame my love for Darren Hayes' music for one of the major reasons "Bored 4 Music" eventually perished. I had been a fan since childhood. Followed Darren's journey from Savage Garden to his solo career with full focus. Even had to pick up international releases because the Americans couldn't keep up. So I felt like, back in 2011, I had to be his champion music sharer during his 'Secret Codes and Battleships' era. Spread the word that Darren Hayes is making fantastic music once again.
Probably did too good of a job as the copyright hits sorely chopped away "Bored 4 Music" months later. The damage was too much even after I became an ultra-safe blogger. My battleship was sinking.
As the years have passed, I prefer listening to 'Secret Codes and Battleships' over much of Darren's solo collection. The album flows beautifully. Don't usually skip a track between "Taken By The Sea" & "The Siren's Call". Love the sounds, pacing, and stories immensely. The track listing reminds me of Homer's 'Odyssey' in pop form. A similar musical journey to 'This Delicate Thing We Made'. Just not so overloaded.
Its 10+ bonus tracks only add to the adventure, giving a director's cut perspective to the listener with a few live performances & demos that showcase Darren in his purest form. The only problem is you gotta hunt those collector editions out yourself. I certainly won't be taking any more hits for y'all!
#06 - 'This Is Country Music' by Brad Paisley
Spent the early 2010s being obsessed by CMT. Would watch Top 10 weekly... obsessing over Heartland hit after Heartland hit. I only listened to Keith Urban in my youth, so discovering all these amazing artists opened my "country soul" for the better. Brad Paisley's 'This is Country Music' starts his 9th studio album proclaiming that this is all the country music you need to get started. It is not just the cliché, usually made fun of troupes.
It's everything in our lives: love, pain, heartbreak, and roaring good times! Then goes fifteen tracks proving it.
I haven't sat down to listen to 'This is Country Music' in years. So to relive this musical experience with my aging ears only made it better. I appreciate the nostalgia a tad more. Sure it is draped in "Camouflage" but that makes you blend in the country.
#05 - 'Bon Iver, Bon Iver' by Bon Iver
The first album I ever bought on Apple Music. For good reason too! 'Bon Iver, Bon Iver' is such a spell-bounding listen. Just hitting play transports you to a mystical land of sounds. You can smell the trees as you walk through these tracks. Feel the warmth of the sunlight on your skin as it bounces off the crystal-clear lake right before your eyes. Blinding your vision only makes this listening experience better. Close your eyes. Hear. Feel. Think. And Heal. Magnificently.
Need I say more? I still have to pick it up on Vinyl.
#04 - 'Take Care' by Drake
The 47th Best Album of Time, according to Apple Music's recent countdown.
Luckily I haven't become a full Drake hater after the quick Kendrick feud. Truly appreciate my time with 'Take Care' in 2012. I didn't like this album on the first go. It wasn't until I saw it on so many Best Albums lists by the end of 2011 that I decided to give it another shot. Glad I did. Popped it on during Award Season 2012 and appreciated everything I heard on those drives around the Hollywood Hills.
Songs like "Look What You've Done", "Over My Dead Body", "Marvin's Room", "Kendrick's Interlude", "Shot for Me", and The Weeknd's two features melted over those memories that it's hard not reflect on my victory lap during that time when this album spins. Felt like "The Man". I still do strangely.
Was one hell of a ride. Big thanks to Drake and his ghostwriters. =)
#03 - 'Every Kingdom' by Ben Howard
My musical life was changed by Ben Howard's 'Every Kingdom' in 2012 due to listening to this album during my hiking adventures as long-time followers probably know. However, 'Every Kingdom' was actually released in 2011. Had to debate long and hard on whether to include it in this list or 2012's. Much like 'Take Care' above, just because I missed this record in 2011 doesn't mean its impact should've been forgotten on this countdown. Especially when I hold it in such high regard nowadays.
I still get chills when I hear 'Every Kingdom'. No joke. I find it to be such a spiritual listening experience that pulls me back to a time when I decided to walk away from everything I built during my Post-College Years. I wanted to live my life feeling like this. And did. Haven't gone back that way either. Even though temptation has passed me by. Conquered the fear that held me back so much throughout my life.
Experiencing Ben Howard's uniqueness at the Troubadour in 2012 created such an aura. I still feel that magic in the room. Such a special project for a special time. Can't praise 'Every Kingdom' enough.
#02 - '21' by Adele
The #15 Best Album of Time, according to Apple Music's recent countdown.
Which is strange because when everyone made their greatest albums of 2010s lists... they didn't place Adele's '21' anywhere. I did. The impact this album made around that time was colossal. Almost every major single from '21' dominated radio for years. I still hear select songs like "Rolling in the Deep", "Rumour Has It", and "Someone Like You" from time to time.
Find it hard to debate why Adele's '21' shouldn't be in the Top 20 of the best albums of All Time. Everything else comes down to the listener's prejudices. For this man... it is one of the best soul-pop albums of my lifetime. If you don't like it... maybe you need to find a new musical heart? Seriously.
#01 - 'Barton Hollow' by The Civil Wars
Take me back man. Return me to my office chair and to the news that NPR had the first listen of The Civil Wars' 'Barton Hollow' a few days before the album was released in February. The minute I heard "20 Years" I knew my life had changed for the better. This music blog's nightlife journey was ready to begin (for this shy boy was hesitant to go see shows around this time)! I was gonna overcome that uncertain fear. I needed to capture this moment.
By the end of my listening session, I had already bought tickets to go see Joy & John Paul live at the El Rey in June! The magic in that steamy hot summertime room remains indescribable. You could tell these two artists really gelled together. Something I felt was missing when I caught their show at The Wiltern by the end of 2011. Two totally different live music experiences that all showed me the looming cracks ahead. Even though we didn't know at the time.
I have waved off all the behind-the-scenes drama, despite reading an extensive Reddit timeline that fans have put together (and updated regularly... wow!) before I experienced this album again. Bravo to the hardcore fans for their dedication. The break-up remains a mystery and part of me likes to keep it that way. I have supported John Paul & Joy's solo efforts ever since they walked away from each other. John Paul's records have made many of my Favorite Album lists. Joy really went in a more artistic poetic direction that never really connected with this listener. Prefer her more country sound honestly.
The magic they captured on 'Barton Hollow' shatters every emotion in my body even now. Being in an uncertain romantic period during 2011 really helped too. The pain of being romantic really poisons the listener by the time you reach this album's climax. Even though I do love the Southern anthems like "Forget Me Not", "Barton Hollow", "Birds of a Feather", & "My Father's Father". My memory has incased this album in unbreakable glass. No matter what flaws I come up with in 2024, my experience with The Civil Wars will still remain perfect and untouched by doubt. When I say this album is perfect to me... I mean it. A never-ending dance between artist and listener.
Not all love can remain or last forever, but as long as you look back on the positives... you can enjoy the past moments with a smile on your face. Forever more.
OH! We're not done yet, here are all the albums I considered for the 25 spots above!
Honorable Mentions (in case you are curious)
- Tom Waits - 'Bad as Me'
- St. Vincent - 'Strange Mercy'
- Beastie Boys - 'Hot Sauce Committee Pt. 2'
- Luke Bryan - 'Tailgates & Tanlines'
- Miranda Lambert - 'Four the Record'
- Big K.R.I.T. - 'Return Of 4eva'
- Raphael Saadiq - 'Stone Rollin''
- SBTRKT - 'SBTRKT'
- Tech N9ne - 'All 6's and 7's'
- Iron & Wine - 'Kiss Each Other Clean'
- M83. - 'Hurry Up, We're Dreaming'
- Radiohead - 'The King of Limbs'
- The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - 'Belong'
- Frank Turner - 'England Keep My Bones'
- Frank Ocean - 'nostalgia,ULTRA.'
- The Decemberists - 'The King is Dead'
- Tyler, The Creator - 'Goblin'
- "Weird Al" Yankovic - 'Alpocalypse'
- DJ Khaled - 'We The Best Forever'
- Theophilus London - 'Timez Are Weird These Days'
- Mac Miller - 'Blue Slide Park'
- The Pierces - 'You & I'
- Wale - 'Ambition'
- Lady A. - 'Own the Night'
- Augustana - 'Augustana'
- Bad Meets Evil - 'Hell: The Sequel'
- PJ Harvey - Let England Shake
- Tune-Yards - w h o k i l l
- Shabazz Palaces - Black Up
- Danny Brown - XXX
- Laura Marling - A Creature I Don't Know
- Mastodon - The Hunter
- Kendrick Lamar - Section.80
- The Antlers - Burst Apart
- The Weeknd - House Of Balloons / Echoes Of Silence / Thursday
- A$AP Rocky - LIVE.LOVE.A$AP
- Saigon - The Greatest Story Never Told
- Gil Scott-Heron and Jamie xx - We're New Here
- Future Islands - On The Water
- The Mountain Goats - All Eternals Deck
- The Joy Formidable - The Big Roar
- Summer Camp - Welcome to Condale
- Mogwai - Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will
- Dropkick Murphys - Going Out in Style
- Braids - Native Speaker
- Real Estate - Days
- Tony Bennett - Duets II
- Wolves in the Throne Room - Celestial Lineage
- Tycho - Dive
- Common - The Dreamer / The Believer
- Alexi Murdoch - Towards the Sun
- The Dodos - No Color
- Lloyd - King of Hearts
- Ryan Adams - Ashes & Fire
- Lisa Hannigan - Passenger
- Thurston Moore - Demolished Thoughts
- Neon Indian - Era Extraña
- Foo Fighters - Wasting Light
- Gruff Rhys - Hotel Shampoo
- J. Cole - Cole World: The Sideline Story
- Dawes - Nothing Is Wrong
- Cults - Cults
- Pharoahe Monch - W.A.R. (We Are Renegades)
- Unknown Mortal Orchestra - Unknown Mortal Orchestra
- Mayer Hawthorne - How Do You Do
- We Were Promised Jetpacks - In the Pit of the Stomach
- Cass McCombs - WIT'S END
- My Morning Jacket - Circuital
- Cloud Nothings - Cloud Nothings
- Alison Krauss & Union Station - Paper Airplane
- Dum Dum Girls - Only In Dreams
- Thundercat - The Golden Age of Apocalypse
- Blood Orange - Coastal Grooves
- Alela Diane - Alela Diane & Wild Divine
- The Lonely Island - Turtleneck & Chain
- Peter Bjorn and John - Gimme Some
- Beyoncé - 4
- Cage the Elephant - Thank You Happy Birthday
- Portugal. The Man - In the Mountain in the Cloud
- R.E.M. - Collapse Into Now
- The Cool Kids - When Fish Ride Bicycles
- Kimbra - Vows
- Lady Gaga - Born This Way
- Gotye - Making Mirrors
- GIVERS - In Light
- Tinie Tempah - Disc-Overy
- Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds - Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds
- STRFKR - Reptilians
- Com Truise - Galactic Melt
- Young Jeezy - TM: 103: Hustlerz Ambition
- Nicole Atkins - Mondo Amore
- The Chain Gang of 1974 - Wayward Fire
- Noah and The Whale - Last Night on Earth
- The Vaccines - What Did You Expect From The Vaccines?
- Death Cab for Cutie - Codes and Keys
- Justice - Audio, Video, Disco
- Jack's Mannequin - People and Things
- Benjamin Francis Leftwich - Last Smoke Before the Snowstorm
- Coldplay - Mylo Xyloto
- The Boxer Rebellion - The Cold Still
- Talib Kweli - Gutter Rainbows
- The Japanese Popstars - Controlling Your Allegiance
- Lenny Kravitz - Black and White America
- Rihanna - Talk That Talk
- blink-182 - Neighborhoods
- Foster the People - Torches
- Red Hot Chili Peppers - I'm With You
- Pusha T - Fear of God II: Let Us Pray
- Ben Harper - Give Till It's Gone
- Eddie Vedder - Ukulele Songs
- Jeff Bridges - Jeff Bridges
- Hanni El Khatib - Will the Guns Come Out
- Colbie Caillat - All of You
- The Drums - Portamento
- DJ Shadow - The Less You Know, The Better
- NERO - Welcome Reality
- Panic! at the Disco - Vices & Virtues
- Amos Lee - Mission Bell
- Big Sean - Finally Famous
- Yelawolf - Radioactive
- One Direction - Up All Night
- Example - Playing in the Shadows
- Lights - Siberia
- Gucci Mane - Return of Mr. Zone 6
- Kelly Clarkson - Stronger
- Patrick Stump - Soul Punk
- Daughtry - Break the Spell
- The Game - The R.E.D. Album
- GROUPLOVE - Never Trust a Happy Song
- Wiz Khalifa - Rolling Papers
- The Internet - Purple Naked Ladies
- Snow Patrol - Fallen Empires
- Blake Shelton - Red River Blue
- Avril Lavigne - Goodbye Lullaby
- The Airborne Toxic Event - All At Once
- The Head and The Heart - The Head and The Heart
- She & Him - A Very She & Him Christmas
- Evanescence - Evanescence
- Lil Wayne - Sorry 4 The Wait
- T-Pain - rEVOLVEr
- Birdy - Birdy
- Selena Gomez & The Scene - When The Sun Goes Down
- Alex Clare - The Lateness of the Hour
- Joss Stone - LP1
- Sublime with Rome - Yours Truly
- Gavin DeGraw - Sweeter
- Staind - Staind
- David Guetta - Nothing But the Beat
- Jessie J - Who You Are
- Cold War Kids - Mine Is Yours
- James Morrison - The Awakening
- Professor Green - At Your Inconvenience
- The Sounds - Something to Die For
- Chris Brown - F.A.M.E.
- Owl City - All Things Bright and Beautiful
- LMFAO - Sorry for Party Rocking
- Theory of a Deadman - The Truth Is...
- 桜庭統 [Motoi Sakuraba] - Dark Souls (Original Game Soundtrack)
- Lamp - 東京ユウトピア通信 (Tokyo Utopia Tsushin)
- Alex Turner - Submarine
- Cliff Martinez - Drive (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
- The Devil Wears Prada - Dead Throne
- The Book of Mormon: Original Broadway Cast Recording
- Paramore - Singles Club
- Nujabes - Spiritual State
- BADBADNOTGOOD - BBNG
- Los Campesinos! - Hello Sadness
- Panda Bear - Tomboy
- City and Colour - Little Hell
- Imagine Dragons - It's Time
- James Blake - Enough Thunder
- Logic - Young Sinatra
- Jay Rock - Follow Me Home
- Future - Streetz Calling
- Skrillex - Bangarang
- Skrillex - More Monsters and Sprites
- Mac Miller - Best Day Ever
- Meek Mill - Dreamchasers
- Vince Staples - Shyne Coldchain Vol. 1
- Future - Dirty Sprite
- Ed Sheeran - No. 5 Collaborations Project
- twenty one pilots - Regional at Best
- Tennis - Cape Dory
- Atticus Ross and Trent Reznor - 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'
- Mychael Danna - 'Moneyball Soundtrack'
Thanks for reading this far!