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The list that started it all, after the break!
2024 Update:
Original Words from December 2012:
My Favorite Albums of 2012
#25 – 'Away From The World' by Dave Matthews Band
We start out our countdown of 2012’s best with an album that took a good while for me to fall in love with. Thus the reason why it falls so far down the rankings. Dave Matthew Band’s 8th studio record — Away From The World — marked their return since 2009 with a quiet bang. Going back to basics and performing in jam band formula makes this one of the best records of the year to jump in the car and roll.
That major theme will come up a few more times in our countdown, so don’t worry because 2012 was the year of the ‘Road Trip’ album. Trust me, this album exemplifies that theme quite perfectly.
Check Out:
- “Mercy”
- “If Only”
- “Broken Things”
#24 – 'Koi No Yokan' by Deftones
Can you channel ‘awesomeness’ in 11 tracks? Seems so. Heavy Metal’s Deftones packaged it up in their 2012 untranslatable titled — Koi No Yokan. Powerful words about indescribable things that sums up the record better than I can.
Here’s the meaning:
"Koi No Yokan is a truly beautiful concept. It can defined the sense can have upon first meeting another person that the two of them are going to fall in love. In other words, it is the knowledge one has that he/she is going to fall in love with another person. This differs from the idea “love at first sight” in that it does not imply that the feeling of love exists, rather it refers to the knowledge that a future love is inevitable."
The minute I picked up this record and pressed play, I had went through all of that. It was inevitability. The highs really match the lows as this is one of those records that I listen through without skips.
Check out:
- "Romantic Dreams"
- "Entombed"
- "Swerve City"
- "Tempest"
#23 – 'Barchords' by Bahamas
Whoa. You probably won’t find this record on everyone else’s ‘Best of…’ list this year and why is that? Because most don’t know who the hell the smooth, island grooving-James Taylor/Johnny Cash-sounding blues rock inspired, Bahamas are. When I saw them open for Ben Howard back in June…almost instantaneously fell in love with their sounds and soon this record. The harmonies are just haunting.
Even though I’m not in the islands, every time I come across ‘Barchords’… I get lost and imagine myself whistling the days away to these smooth songs. Perfect when you’re relaxing up in your room.
Check Out:
- “Lost in the Lights”
- “Time & Time Again”
- “Never Again”
- “Overjoyed”
#22 – 'North' by Matchbox Twenty
Like Dave Matthews, when Matchbox Twenty returned to the scene with North this year I was…to put it bluntly…overjoyed. I played ‘She’s So Mean’ throughout the entire work day via AOL’s first listen. Totally channeled how I felt at that past moment. made sense how much I missed them. Sure, North isn’t the majorities best or favorite record of 2012 yet as music fans you should know what speaks to you and this record spoke to me. Still does. This band will always be apart of my life and happy I’m starting this next phase with something so sweet.
Now I gonna find the woman who represents “Overjoyed”.
Check Out:
- “Overjoyed”
- “She’s So Mean”
- “English Town”
- “Our Song”
- “Put Your Hands Up”
#21 – 'The Absence' by Melody Gardot
I can only describe Melody’s music as what the rain sounds like if it could sing. The type of the music you listen to when you are alone when your home alone in a storm. However, with Melody Gardot’s 3rd album — The Absence — she expanded bringing a bit of Spanish influence to her very french-american accented voice. Don’t worry, the heartbreaking stuff is there too. Something so foreign that it’s sheer beauty always gives me goosebumps. This is another record you won’t find on another countdown because I prefer classic beauty to electronic hums and whistles.
You’ll fall in love with this record, just don’t listen to it when your exhausted. Will send you to a sleep like trance, promise.
Check Out:
- “So We Meet Again Heartache”
- “Mira”
- “If I Tell You Love You”
- “Goodbye”
- “La Vie En Rose”
#20 – 'Blak & Blu' by Gary Clark Jr.
Curiosity sealed the deal as I became a member of Gary Clark, Jr.’s congregation of soul in 2012. Certified it with one of his Troubadour showcases. What I loved about this record was the variety of different styles brought on by his electronic guitar. You got blues rock equal to Hendricks…sick of making that comparison despite track 11 including a cover of “Third Stone from the Sun”…and even a B.o.B. like rap song that is surprisingly catchy. It’s really all over the place as if he was afraid he was only going to get one shot. Many sides.
By the end of the record you’ll be falling in love with the moaning of his guitar as it gentle weeps for the past love lost for the pros outweighed the negatives. At some points, really wanted to applause in my car.
Amazing past-midnight music. Look forward to his next effort.
Check Out:
- “Bright Lights”
- “Things are Changin'”
- “Ain’t Messin’ Round”
- “You Saved Me”
#19 – 'My Head is an Animal' by Of Monsters and Men
One of the comments under the music video below says:
“I”m here because I’m a hipster”
Same boat. Nothing will ever sway me. Believe it or not, this was one of our first ‘Albums of the Week’ back when we shed our B4M skin. Little Talks continues to play on replay whenever it randomly appears in my life. Luckily the rest of the record matched the same connection to me as their very popularized single. King & Lionheart, in fact, is my favorite track and blew my hipster mind when it first hit my eardrums. Such beauty and power. Needs to be experienced in a forest. Naked? Naw. Little too literal.
Little Talks’ lyrics always reminds me of an old friend of mine who I use to randomly chat with wherever she moved around the office. Always found myself a foot away, annoying her for as long as I could because we were going to keep moving forward. But as the words state, “Well, tell her that I miss our little talks.” Followed by me sayin’… “Cause I do”. Weird way of showing it.
If you like foreign tongues and ambient noises then this record should be in your library. But Justin, why 19? Sounds like you found this to be a great meaningful record. My reply: “What comes next are 18 times better”.
Check Out:
- “King and Lionheart”
- “Little Talks”
- “Dirty Paws”
- “Yellowlight”
- “Six Weeks”
#18 – 'What We Saw From The Cheap Seats' by Regina Spektor
It was a tough choice between the video below & ‘How’ on what should be featured … well .. below. If I’m speaking honestly, How is my favorite single from Regina’s spectacular “What We Saw From The Cheap Seats”. Her discography is on my iPod and they just keep getting better. This album especially. It was just perfect. Highs. Lows. Weird. Beautiful. Like staring at sunlight through stained glass. Or at a Dali interpretation. You know it’s art, just can’t quite find the words at the moment because you’re spellbound.
Her hook of “I Love Paris in the Rain” is like a piece of a gum pushed underneath a rubber tire rolling along in my head. Unbreakable for hours on end. You’ll hear me humming it in if you pass my desk during the day.
Already spoke of the moment when I fell in love with ‘How’, but dare we not forget ‘All the Rowboats’ that began her journey of this release. Was expecting something entirely different based on that single. Dark. Twisted. With an electronic heart. Happily surprised when I peeled away at it to find my favorite version of Regina Spektor celebrating a party just for us fans.
Check Out:
- “How”
- “The Party”
- “Don’t Leave Me”
- “Firewood”
- “All the Rowboats”
#17 – 'Dreamchaser 2' by Meek Mill
Swerve. Let that shit burn cause it’s a House Party with Meek Mill’s “Dreamchasers 2”. This was, in my opinion, the best mixtape of 2012 and totally overshadowed Meek’s solo effort that dropped a few months ago. Now that was a disappointing. This…free…no dinero featured some of the hardest poetry I heard all year from rap newcomers & veterans like Big Sean, Fabolous, Ricky Ross, Mac Miller, Trey Songz, 2 Chainz, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar. Pre-‘Good Kidd, Madd City’ Kendrick Lamar. Compton Lamar. Whew.
‘A1 Everything’ still gets me psyched in the mornings before work when I have nothing to listen too. Had hints that Mr. Lamar was the future…that 1.5 minute featuring effort sealed the deal. All I could do is hit repeat and hoped I memorized each classic lyric. Which I did. ***KA KA KA*** ‘Till I Know I gotcha’. [Insert mic drop]. Yes, that album is coming soon.
This overall fun package, still available on main online mixtape sites, was unexpected treat for this rap fan. Disregard “Dreams & Nightmares” and go chasing some classic beats while sayin’ — Swerve. Proves that studio releases aren’t only albums that deserve spotlights.
Check Out:
- “A1 Everything”
- “Amen”
- “House Party (Remix)”
- “Str8 Like Me”
#16 – 'The Dark Knight Rises Soundtrack' by Hans Zimmer
Remember watching the featurette below and loving the statement Hans Zimmer made regarding the final chapter of Nolan’s Batman Trilogy. about 6:50 in. He said, that this was the movie I always dreamt of working on as a child. That has stuck with me since then. Really loved his perspective on his music. Recommend it highly. That’s why I’m sharing it.
This is one of those soundtracks that is masterful in execution. Even before I saw the film. Hell, take the film off the table. Think for a moment what this soundtrack would sound like if it wasn’t attached to a famous film franchise. Spellbinding regardless. That’s how I experienced it. Adding the story in my head. Didn’t feel like I was in a city known as Gotham but running for close to hour & half from some terrible chants. Stopping only for a moment.. preferably in the darkness…to hear chains swaying and piano teasing. Whispering softly…”Mind if I cut in”. Of course not.
Music is beautiful. This soundtrack showcases how truly special and important the instrument in building tension within. Still get chills every time “Why Do We Fall” starts to build.
Bravo maestro. That young boy would be proud.
Check Out:
- “Mind if I Cut In”
- “Why Do We Fall?”
- “The Fire Rises”
- “Gotham’s Reckoning”
- “Rise”
- “The End”
#15 – 'Wrecking Ball' by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce! #15. It landed higher on more ‘Best of’ countdowns. Wasn’t my favorite Bruce Springsteen record. Still one of the best Americana album produced in 2012. Even a lukewarm Springsteen record is still better than 90% of the crap out there. Can’t help but respect it.
This sounds like America. 2012 America. The world we live in now. Full of sadness and depression. Bruce channels it so beautifully through his weeping guitar. Sounds so haunting that I can just hop behind my wheel and almost instantaneously whatever I stare at through the glossy windows is romanticized by my mind. The broken steps, closed business, broken roads, homeless families, tired citizens catching up on sleep on bus glass, two young kids holding hands, bright sun, somber rain, wind brushed flags, smiles…heaps of smiles. Powerful lyrics to ride to.
You can thank the E street band for that feeling. Very old school American sound. The trumpets sound sooooo good.
I am happy that I was able to treat my Mother & Father to their first Springsteen show this year. Would’ve been me but left for Stagecoach that day. Made them fans that day. I have such hopes for my future vintage self and the music he’ll get to experience.
Check Out:
- “Death to My Hometown”
- “Wrecking Ball”
- “Rocky Ground”
- “We Take Care of Our Own”
- “This Depression”
#14 – 'Little Broken Hearts' by Norah Jones
Those Blueberry nights get a bit darker as Danger Mouse sponsored Norah Jones’ 2012 LP — ‘Little Broken Hearts’, her fifth effort to date and way different than anything she released so far in her career. It was pieced together over a few years with one major heartbreak sealing the deal.
The songs for her jilted ex. The person who wronged Norah became the whole focus of this record. Thoughts and dark ambitions channeled through bittersweet words and melancholy trance-y beats. Something really amazing how Ms. Jones’ sweet tone is laced with twisted and dark words. Cold, uncaring words. A dream world I loved living in for 50 minutes. And I felt sorry for that muse. Boy did they phuck with the wrong girl.
“Travelin’ On” & “Out on the Road” are perfect for a car mixtape. Gives the record a bit of concept.
For the first time in her career, Norah Jones certified herself as a true blues singer and this record is her coronation.
Check Out:
- “4 Broken Hearts”
- “Travelin’ On”
- “Out on the Road”
- “Miriam”
- “She’s 22”
- “Happy Pills”
- “Little Broken Hearts”
#13 – 'Up All Night' by Kip Moore
For awhile, thought Kip Moore’s “Up All Night” was going to be my favorite country record of 2012. Happily disappointed. For I love this record. Yes, even “Somethin’ Bout A Truck”. It’s sheer catchiness is tilted so much so that I can’t get enough. Like I said, before if you can get past that you have one of the best country debuts I have ever heard. Has it all.
It’s the soft moments that steal the show. The title track “Up All Night” showcases that fact so wonderfully. Perfect country sex music. Plus or minus the wine. These country ballads that are stellar. However, my fav single is Beer Money and I was one of the few that knew that this would be a standout. Played it for all who stepped into my car. We laughed, shouted, and replayed the chorus. BEER MONEY!
This album stole my heart. Kind of like ‘Neon’ did last year. Kip’s next album will probably be 10x better, but hell of a way to start a career.
Cowgirls grab your boots & beer and let’s celebrate.
Check Out:
- “Beer Money”
- “Up All Night”
- “Drive Me Crazy”
- “Faith When I Fall”
- “Somethin’ Bout A Truck”
- “Mary Was The Marrying Kind”
- “Where Are You Tonight”
#12 – 'Life is Good' by NaS
“A Hustle’s Job isn’t done until he becomes a king”, words I took quite literally after experiencing ‘Life is Good’ opener — “No Introduction”. One of the best introductions to a record all year. Big words. Bigger feet to follow. Happy to pour a little cherry wine because as NaS points out — Life is good. The album was a response to his divorce to Kelis and way of making peace with the whole relationship.
Rap wasn’t good this year. Compared to 2010. Talk about a slump. Nas did good. It wasn’t Kendrick, but something mirroring modern hip hop. Nothing Thuggish Ruggish about ‘Life is Good’, lyrical poetry to swift beats. Roses & Daughters for example. No matter what…you can feel Brooklyn in every track. That’s what I love. Even in the car driving through Studio City…I can see Queensbridge. Made 2012’s scorching summer a little cooler. Raise Up.
And yes, loved that Amy Winehouse collabo.
Check Out:
- “No Introduction”
- “Nasty”
- “Cherry Wine”
- “Bye Baby”
- “The Don”
- “Roses”
- “Summer on Smash”
#11 – 'Some Nights' by Fun.
Still get chills when I hear “Some Nights”. The title track especially. Maybe it’s the autotune. Triggers a button in my brain. Nevertheless, this record…even being released way back on Valentine’s Day…out the gate was one of the best records of 2012. And it was the second LP from the Fun. trio. That fact shocked me. No sophomore slump when most people can’t even place your debut.
‘We Are Young’ is still being played on repeat around the world. Now that’s so Queen. My main point is Fun is our social generation’s Queen. High anthems of pop goodness. We all love it. Just admit it. Yes, Nate is not Freddie…can’t even wear that shoe…but the blueprint is there. Not only did that aforementioned single engraved itself into our head, it made history.
Happily, the album is really put together. Highs. Lows. Dubstep. Anthems. Love songs. It really has everything. If I was a tween, this album might have been only album I played before and after school. This album is probably apart of this generation’s collective memories. There is also a layer of sadness where my Queen reference makes sense. The talking points of being wanderer, carrying on despite heartbreak, broken, loneliness, homelessness, etc. Underneath all these catchy beats and chorus is some dark inner sadness.
Hell, there is even a Harpsichord!
Part of me wished this was more a concept record than a bunch of songs, but it still works. You’ll remember the single…but make sure you listen to the whole thing. Prepare to be surprised.
Check Out:
- “Some Nights”
- “Carry On”
- “Why Am I The One”
- “We Are Young”
- “All Alone”
- “Out of this Town”
- “One Foot”
#10 – 'Songs From District 12 & Beyond' by Various Artists
You’ve made it. Welcome to the home stretch. With the only appearance from last year’s winners — The Civil Wars.
Seeing how the B4M timeline only exists in my mind now, yes…Barton Hollow was last year’s ‘Favorite Album’. Luckily before they ‘divorced’ Joy & John Paul put out two amazing–haunting singles for the best compilation soundtrack of 2012. Our #10 record for the past 12 months.
The film was good, saw it in the Arclight Dome, but this soundtrack blew me away. Arcade Fire, Miranda Lambert, The Civil Wars, Birdy, KiD CuDi, Taylor Swift, Neko Case, Glen Hansard, Maroon 5, The Decemberists, Neko Case…I’ve basically listed the entire track list minus a few. All names, burned into my iPod memory banks, on one original soundtrack. There were no album cuts threw on. Fresh. Meaningful filmic context despite have no part in the actual product. Like the production team said, “You’ll love the film but here’s a mixtape of some really badass country-folk tracks inspired by the script”. Made the deep dark southern hopeless District 12 feel so close. Maybe right down the road from Barton Hollow?
This is a very depressing record for the most part, but ultimately a soundtrack done right. Period. Pity it was just merely a soundtrack.
Check Out:
- “Safe & Sound”
- “The King & The Ruler”
- “Abraham’s Daughter”
- “Kingdom Come”
- “Eyes Open”
- “Dark Days”
#09 – 'Promising Promises' by Jon McLaughlin
[2024 edit: this should've been in the Top 5 based off how much it means to me nowadays]
Fell in love with this record shortly after I captured this video. Upon experiencing the re-published ‘Promising Promises’ live apart of his album release party at the Troubadour (with special cameo from Sara Bareilles). Was too tired. Thinking I might not make it home without closing my eyes. Picked up the album, praying it would keep me going for the forty minutes more. Popped it in and I was perfectly sleepless in a dream of piano keys and ‘enchanted’ melodies all the way. (See what I did there? ;P)
This album means more to me than the production value, mastery behind the mic, a Bareilles cameo, lovely lyrics, good or bad thoughts... it’s a record full of memories. I was learning to let go of baggage during this album’s age and this was one of the two records that helped me say, “I’m going to do exactly want”. Deal with it.
So, I climbed mountains…explored…met new friends…went on dates…challenged myself…growing into the man that types away on the keys now. The biggest accomplishment was all the hikes. The Hollywood Sign was pretty darn cool. Listened to this record under that crystal blue sky on the way there and back. Looking back, very proud of myself in that age. Still remember the golden blonde with the big smile who gave me hope.
Almost shed a tear when “These Crazy Times” streams. Can feel my heart fly as my mind reverts to immature age where the beer flowed like wine. It’s that banjo. Americana lives every time I hear it.
Took two tries, but Mr. McLaughlin got it right. Surely most of you don’t know who I’m writing about and this record has probably intrigued your musical minds. Sorry I can’t share it. Recommend it highly. Because it has a harmonica! Eat your heart out Billy Joel. Jeez…is it morning already?
Check Out:
- “If Only I”
- “Summer is Over”
- “Without You Now”
- “Falling”
- “Promising Promises”
- “The Atmosphere”
- “Wool Over Her Eyes”
- “These Crazy Times”
- “Maybe It’s Over”
#08 – 'Tornado' by Little Big Town
Utterly impressed. That’s how I can sum up my first listen to “Tornado”. My second best country record of 2012. Why? Because it really showed off all aspects of the LBT. With each lead, you got a different country sound — twang, ballad, revenge, etc — like a jukebox showcasing some of country’s best genres. Came together perfectly as a whole. That’s all I can really say about it. Mechanically, it just flows. With only 11 tracks — boo! — it’s a quick easy listen on the car ride home through traffic.
Sober is the standout track because I love that I love being in love with that lovely song. Gets me all drunk, high, and I wish not to die sober without it. Whew. Look at all those lyrics puns. “Can’t Go Back” falls a close second as if my heart is being haunted by ghosts reminding me of truths I couldn’t escape. “On Your Side of the Bed” does that to me too.
Lastly, funny how both #09 & #08 are connected by the same woman. Wasn’t intentional. Wonder what I have in store for the final 3.
Check Out:
- “Sober”
- “Can’t Go Back”
- “Leavin’ In Your Eyes”
- “On Your Side of the Bed”
- “Tornado”
- “Pontoon”
- “Pavement Ends”
#07 – 'Blunderbuss' by Jack White
Blunderbuss, by definition, can be taken two different ways.
1) “A short-barreled large-bored gun with a flared muzzle, used at short range.”
2) “An action or way of doing something regarded as lacking in subtlety and precision.”
Surprisingly, both define Jack White’s first solo effort — 2012’s Blunderbuss.
Cause it’s both all over the place and feels like you’re being hit by a electronic shot directly into your ears…and that’s what I love about this album. Mr. White took chances that seemed to work. Raw, intense, boarding on rock blues all with that White Stripes flair. Took awhile for it to stick to my musical heart. Not a bad thing. For love is rough and takes time to cook. Popped right out of the oven by the time I visited The Shrine for Jack’s stellar live show. One of my top three showcases of 2012. That’s another write up for another time.
That concert made me a believer in the church of Third Man with Blunderbuss being Mr. White’s soulful, uninterrupted, testament. Still hypnotized by those blue & white lights that make these string screech and howl so heavenly. Sure it’s weird. Slower pace than a White Stripes fan knows, but it is one of the most special records of the year. The deluxe edition does feature his chilling take on U2’s “Love is Blindness”. Oh man. Preach. As glass shatters all around you.
Pray for me as I take another handful of Saltines for If you don’t play it too much, this writer may die. Are you willing to take that chance?
Check Out:
- “Love is Blindness”
- “Sixteen Saltines”
- “Love Interruption”
- “Blunderbuss”
- “Hypocritical Kiss”
- “On and On and On”
- “I’m Shakin'”
- “Take Me With You When You Go”
#06 – 'Uncaged' by Zac Brown Band
Merry Christmas!!!
How did you feel when open that present that has been teasing you for weeks? Maybe some of you girls got that big sparkling diamond that fits in a box much bigger on the inside. Or maybe it’s just a regular Tuesday morning. Same old breakfast burning on the stove. Sun beating through a glossy rainy/snow covered glass.
Well, if you didn’t get anything from Santa here’s something to kick off the day. Where ever you may be– On an island sipping a Bahama mama, here in cali at a friend’s house watching the next generation opening their gifts with wide eyes, a snowy cabin high in the mountains, or walking the streets of a big city. This is my gift to you dear reader for I can’t be there to share the memory.
We’re rocking our #06 album of 2012 which is my favorite country record of the past 12 months. Sure didn’t start out that way. Felt the record was a bit a weak. Then I played “The Day That I Died” featuring B4M Fav — Amos Lee — and I was hooked. Leading to “Last But Not Least” cause the song after my favorite song gets stuck in my head. Back to “the Wind” due to the radio play. Wasn’t until “Island Song” sold me in that age of ‘Shooting Ranges’ and reconnecting with the Click. A song they couldn’t help but laugh at for Country isn’t their bag. Music that their late father loved. Took me back to vacations long forgotten and my never used Cabo apartment.
Halfway through my journey of restarting B4M and finding myself I started to reach out to my old friends for guidance. Friends is a bit weak word. Second family. Ones I’m currently celebrating with as you read these pre-taped words. Was unbelievably lost. Overburdened by stress. Couldn’t shut up about it apparently.
However, every Sunday…bright and early in the crisp California sunrise…my two hermanos and I made a trip to our local Golf Course. This kicked off our weekly ritual that has continued to this day. Now it’s Monday Night Football. Then it was us, equipped with metal sticks, versus white balls. We’ll get back to the course once this rain floats away. Just wanted to make time between the long hours, wives, and kids just for us. Think it kept us young.
‘Uncaged’ is what my summer Sundays sounded like. Close your eyes while streaming “Sweet Annie” and you can join us.
Failed to mention that it was also the soundtrack of my only vacation of 2012. Newport beach was just magical with this record and Zac’s “The Foundation” bumping as I stared out over the ocean prepping myself for my new adventures. Muscles miss those long naps. 2013 gonna take a epic two week long adventure. Promise. Guaranteed to make you all jealous.
Thank you ZBB. You are our favorite Country record of the year. Be proud. Couldn’t have stumbled across a better anthem for change while slicing my way in the woods. Just leaves ‘present me’ breathless.
Check Out:
- “Island Song”
- “Last But Not Least”
- “Goodbye in Her Eyes”
- “The Day That I Died”
- “Sweet Annie”
- “Jump Right In”
- “Uncaged”
- “Lance’s Song”
- “The Wind”
#05 – 'Channel ORANGE' by Frank Ocean
My friend asked me a question a week after Channel Orange dropped — “What’s your favorite track?” His was “Pink Matter” because one…there was a DBZ reference…and two, Andre 3000 kills his verse. Leading to him ranting on his favorite non-Outkast Andre 3000 verses while I drove him home. Remember blanking out in thought as he rambled. Searching deep. Funny thing is, even after 5 months still couldn’t give him a straight answer.
I love the record. Out of all the records, the execution smashed all the hype. Thinkin’ Bout You & Super Rich Kids are catchy. Pyramids + White = epic. Sweet Life makes my sunny days brighter. For who needs the world, when you got the beach? Ah. My summer verse. These retro feeling ‘channels’ are all equally great in their own weird casings. Like TV networks. Showcases a different aspect of songs & beats. Even more powerful as one Direct TV system. Completeness. Consistent. Something you won’t get from any other member of Odd Future. Always said Franky was the breakout star.
No, don’t think Franky isn’t the savior of R&B music as my fellow bloggers shouted. Just weird & talented enough to put him in the same league a Lady Gaga & Nicki Minaj. Future will tell if he’ll reach their level of super stardom. As long as Franky puts out more records as surprising as this, I’ll keep listening. Really want the Oldie Ocean next time. For that verse was killer.
Channel ORANGE. What more can I say about you? People will remember this record due to the fact it was surrounded by controversy, major sexual debates, but mostly it is a great overall debut from a odd musician. Not how I’ll look back on it. Like shining a light on the wallflowers joking around in the corner and finding a young boy with deep appreciation for a dying-evolving genre. This generation needed a record like this. Their “The Wall”. Thus why it’s sitting at #5 on my 2012 list.
What Franky and Bruno are doing to reinvent the genre while paying tribute is making people talk about possibilities of something really great in future R&B.
If you grab Channel Orange, it’s a bit strange but I’ll always remember how spellbound I was with it during my first listen. One of my favorite twitter rants to date. For their is nothing wrong with different. Maybe Frank thought we were boring? Just might surprise you. Throw your expectations out the window and you’ll fall in love.
Check Out:
- “Sweet Life”
- “Thinkin’ Bout You”
- “White”
- “Pyramids”
- “Pink Matter”
- “Bad Religion”
- “Lost”
- “Golden Girl”
- “Super Rich Kids”
#04 – 'Good Kid, m.A.A.d City' by Kendrick Lamar
I’m from ‘Wild Wild West’. Born & Raised. Have screamed “Thug Life” while throwing up the ‘W’. Screamed ‘...The Police’. Been in fights. Known murders. Druggies. Burned out speakers bumping 2pac in a highly white republican residential area. Words not expected from your typical white boy. All things you should do if you live in Los Angeles once in your life. Otherwise, you’re disgracing the late Makaveli’s memory rap fans. Happily, every time I bob my head to ‘Good Kid, m.A.A.d City’ I feel like 2pac is smiling down on me. He’d be quite proud. For this record is bright future for our westside hip hop community while being refreshing for the genre. No matter what Shyne says.
Acting more like a musical Rap Short Story with songs within songs. Changing techniques. Few guest cameos. You can sense that Kendrick mastered his art after being worked on & mentored by Dr. Dre. Some credit to Drake & 40 too. Going from very political Section.80 to the very personal ‘GKMC’ gave depth to this new rap superstar who’s lyrical chops is better than 95% of the rappers in the game. I have been blown away by his rap storytelling for a good year now and it just keeps getting better. Wasn’t surprised by how good this album sounded during my first listen, what blew me away was the layers I had to pull back hoping to find a deep intercontextuality within each track. There is a story here. Can’t you hear it? The journey made each play-through a bit personal…for me.
Over the course of 12 tracks, you’re told a story of a good kid in a mad city through Kendrick’s eyes. Some rough. Sexy. Scary. It’s all bit haunting if you listen closely. Like he’s rapping over the memories as fast as he can so he can forget them as quickly as he brings them up. With the short skits being perfect bookends and transitions to the next chapter. Chapters that get darker with each passing second. All Poetic Justice for us rap hip hop fans.
Music critics rejoiced and could just applause. Funny it all started with “Buried Alive” got me asking the one question — “Who is Kendrick Lamar”. My only regret was not being at his star studded Club Nokia show. For it was the problem the showcase of the year to the favorite critical acclaimed record of 2012. Might have been #1 if I had more personal moments with it. Simple amazing! Don’t believe, take a hit of this 2012 chronic.
Check Out:
- “Money Trees”
- “Backseat Freestyle”
- “B*tch, Don’t Kill My Vibe”
- “m.A.A.d City”
- “Swimming Pools (Drank)”
- “Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst”
- “Compton”
- “Poetic Justice”
#03 – 'Battle Born' by The Killers
Final 3. Pity I can’t have a three way tie for #1 because in it’s own right, Battle Born deserves to be in the top spot. Has been in the same disc spot in my car since it was released on Sept. 17th. Hasn’t moved or replaced. Disc 4 is Battle Born. Afraid of ejecting it for bad luck might fall onto me if I did. 3/5 of the nights after work are usually composed of me shouting the lyrics to this amazing record. Four months later and still love driving to it. Made for open roads…c’mon Runaways.
Like many of these top ranking records, didn’t start off that way. Parts of the songs felt weird and misplaced within the context of their own songs. Can’t describe it. Like something was off or missing. Runaways wasn’t like that. Powerful anthem that wanted me to jump in car and ride. Then “Be Still” pounded into my ear drums and holy phuck…chills. For 4 minutes. Straight. Slowly, the pieces smashed together and it did make perfect sense. Just had to give them all a chance.
I have spoken about Battle Born so much since my initial listen that you know what I really think critically. So here’s what I think personally and the back story on how this record saved me:
September was a dark, unforgiving month, as I recall it. Finding my foot hole in the new gig. Winning over new friends and colleagues. Dealing with long hours. An award show with a betrayer waiting in the wing. This song was a silver lining. Telling me everything I needed to hear to not run away. “Don’t break character, you got so much heart … Labor until the work is done”. Can’t tell you how many times it repeated with me conjuring the strength to survive all their battering words, dark actions, and little money. I had to be something more than just a man who did a job. Lived a life. Hanged out with his friends. Watched Doctor Who. More was needed. Not being requested by another but myself.
Battle Born was the soundtrack of my turning point where I realized that I was beyond anyone else’s help except my own. Needed to evolve. Get my act together. Don’t complain about not ‘throwing’ a perfect game. Accept the fact that those girls don’t want you. Remember you’re fighting for your family and you choose them over the rest. In all the confusion, started to understand that the only way I’ll regain my overt happiness was to stop worrying about things beyond my control. Acceptance is hard pill to swallow. Easy to digest.
Best song to describe that discovery at that time was “From Here On Out”. Lyrics like “Friends are going to be hard to come by…” or “Walk that long lonely road without a shadow of a doubt”. There’s the answers. Within 2 minutes and 30 seconds. Needed to hear it so I could accept it. Kept blaming others for choices which was wrong. I fucked up.
Surely you found these previous words a bit weird. That’s okay. You weren’t there on those long affirming 12 hr after work car rides. Tried to explain them in our 1st Song rants, but nothing replaces actually being there. But singing to this record & the next two really did ease most of my sorrows. For listening to Battle Born is more about me coming to terms with countless heaps of baggage. Luckily, when it streams now only acts as a reminder. Beyond that troubling point of stress induced depression and things are really looking up in this new state of me.
Happy I can listen to it as a fan than a troubled twenty something. It’s a record built for the road. For laughter. Storytelling. Most importantly reminding me that I was way worst before hearing it. I’ve never thanked a album for saving my life, but Battle Born certainly did…so thanks.
Check them…ALL…out! Seriously.
#02 – 'Babel' by Mumford & Sons
August 7th, Mumford & Sons debuted “I Will Wait”. Picked up the single while at work, burnt the single to a disc, and streamed it for almost a week straight. Hate wasting CDs for only a song. Goes against my musically self imposed rules. ‘All burnt discs must be full’ is high on my list.
(sigh. thinking back…totally worth it. =)
Those were some fun rides home. Forcing my finger to hit the back button before the album switched. And all the times I zoned out, totally missing my cue. Chalk it up to being tired after the new job. Which isn’t so new now is it?
Babel came after and though the critics sentenced it as a ‘Sophomore Slump’…I didn’t. In fact, love it more than ‘Sigh No More’. Same way I hold Mr. A-Z as Jason Mraz’s best record. No one is wrong. For music is more about experience than stylistic choices. However, I will save my sister time reading my appeasing words on it. You know I love Babel. I have told you that I loved it soooooooooo many times before. Folk Metal. The chills. Etc. It was our first Album of the Week in this new format. I did a showcase on it after experiencing them live at the Bowl back in November. Wordpress’ tag system has probably auto-corrected itself to the appropriated phrases because even the machine knew this was coming.
Can I tell you something I haven’t publicized? Yes? If Battle Born is the record that helps me forget about problems…Babel is the record that makes me appreciate them within the context of a man trying to move on. Though I don’t want to say names, I’d be lying if I wasn’t thinking of…well, you know…whenever I hear “Lover’s Eyes”, “I Will Wait”, or “Below My Feet”. Flashes of past memories do float back. Never to be forgotten. Such a romantic record for words so heartbreaking. That’s why I love this record. Reminds the tin man that he still has a heart in need of care. For too many lovely woman have done damage to it over my almost 29 years. It’s made it strong, caring, and forgiving. Qualities I have only gained over the past 3+ months.
There is something truly remarkably beautiful about this record. If don’t pay close enough attention, you’ll miss it. Take your time. Think back on 2012 and see if the you reach the same results as I did. For ‘I Wish Them Well’ as this Hopeless Wanderer moves forward into the light.
Check Them…again…ALL out!
#01 – 'Born & Raised' by John Mayer
My favorite album and song was decided way back in April. Unless, I said to myself, something spectacular knocked it from it’s top spot. The more I listened to everything else, the more I wanted to cheat on it with ‘Born & Raised’. Cheat I did. Even this morning. Little bit of Battle Born, Little Mumford, ultimately finalizing with the Reprised version of “Born & Raised”. All you ‘Guerrilla Nighters’ didn’t have to listen to me rant about this record for it was from our B4M age, but if you thought I praised 'Babel' more…you’d be wrong. Was also our Album of the Week in our GN opening days.
As a driving record, it’s perfect. Even sitting here on my couch, Christmas morning, I can see myself behind the wheel traveling across this united nation. Stopping to awe at every natural wonder my eyes see. This record actually represents that pre-summer age of hiking & climbing mountains with my sister & her friends. The sites we saw, the snakes I dodged, the times I almost gave up, and the drives home…windows down…bumping this record at loud volumes. Chatting with really amazing people who I’m happy to call hiking friends. Looking back on the pictures in between writing this is bringing a smile to my face.
That Justin was a Justin who threw in the towel and learning to deal with it. Allowing people & friends space necessary to build deeper relationships without dramatic conflicts. Hardest thing I had to do. Wanted to fight, like I had countless times but part of me knew that somewhere I was making the right choice by moving on quietly down the rocky road alone. And no one was fighting for me. Felt like the last kid picked for kickball or last guy asked to dance. Ouch. Still can feel that burn. (lol)
Don’t know where I would be if I didn’t motivate myself after Oscars. Can’t picture anywhere else. That’s what I have taken away from this ranty, no nonsense, soon-to-be concluded series. Music helped me move forward into my life. Weird. Unbelievable. Like tiny muses/gods directing me to ‘Wise up’. Wonder how many others are like me. Sitting here, no longer stuck in a rut and loving it. Happy with myself. No long insecure and in best shape of my life. Not to mention great friends. Personal life is turning into something more. If I didn’t choose to let go and be the bad guy, you know evil goatee and all, I’d be in a dead end job hating myself. Now my future is beyond bright for awhile. For all the enlightenment that Babel & Battle Born brought to my life…the foundation was laid while bumping this record from my stereos.
Still get a bit sad whenever I hear the harmonica to “Born & Raised”. Such amazing blues. Wish I could go back and tell that uncertain/scared 28 year old atop all those mountains that it gets better. Oh the musical shows he’ll see. Legends, newbies, sleepless nights. All he had to do was let go, let himself be sad for awhile, and climbing that next ledge on his ‘inner mountains’ was going to be the hardest thing he had done in a long time.
However, I’ve never been afraid of being alone in an age of worry. I danced, raged, hooked up in the middle of dance floors, saw amazing films, every episode of Doctor Who, musical acts, drove myself mad on long never ending car rides, golfed, climbed mountains, eat loads of amazing food, channeled Bourdain, gave up Facebook, became a twitter freak…just wished I had someone special to share it with. Only thing really missing. Feeling like I’m ready for that next step. Just a bit further. Not like I have a say in the matter. ha!
All these words make me sound foolish, but I’m standing by it. Fools are great company I say. At least for now. And this fool is telling you to click the album cover above. It will change your life for I’m the testament to that fact.
Thank you for reading all these. Seriously. All maybe three of you. Hopefully they gave a little insight on my strange mind. If not, at least you got my recommendations for amazing music that needs to be on your IPod. Here’s a motto to take with you into the new year. Merry Christmas and go to bed hooligans! More new words dropping soon.
“I’m a good man with a good heart
Had a tough time, got a rough start
But I finally learned to let it go
Now I’m right here, and I’m right now
And I’m hoping, knowing somehow
That my shadow days are over
My shadow days are over now.”
We're not done yet! Here's a few of my Honorable Mentions of 2012...
Honorable Mentions: 'Dead Sara' by Dead Sara
This was my 26th favorite album of 2012.
Seeing how Indie Rock & Folk dominated our countdown, hopefully this not-to-be-forgotten entry will make up for any quips.
For if it wasn’t for Picksysticks, I probably wouldn’t have been able to experience the awesomeness that was Emily Armstrong & Dead Sara. Not just once, but twice. Thus, proving to me, that they are for real. With that being said…happy to announce that we are crowning them our 2012 Artist of the Year and one of our favorite GN showcases. Seeing them dominate & rip our homecourt — the Troubadour — in raw power reigns as one of my top concert moments. For I can still feel Emily’s cold sweat on my cheek as she wailed on the speaker inches from me. A showcase like no other nor to be repeated again.
Overused words like — Epic — are the only things close to describing their buzzworthy-ness live. Even ‘Epic’ doesn’t do it justice. This record, their self titled debut, is amazing but pales in comparison to experiencing them live. The difference between is greater than the distance between mountains in the ‘Grand Canyon’. Both equally great, but completely different experiences. Now when I listen to this record, which I’m doing now while I write this statement, flashes of their live moments come to mind and the multiple chills I felt then pop back on skin.
Can’t wait to see them again in 2013!
[2024 Edit: Yep, we did!]
Honorable Mentions: “The Slumdon Bridge EP” by Ed Sheeran & Yelawolf
Loved this EP. Crazy that it dropped back on V-Day. The Ed Sheeran & Yelawolf collabo was one of the best all year. At least the best collabo mixtape that Yela put out in the 12 months. The smooth Indie Pop/Soul/blues that Melody Man is known for overlaid with Catfish Billy’s southern rap styling makes for haunting combination. Pity it only lasts for 4 tracks. Hitting it’s peak then ending in a flash. Only way to get more to hit that repeat button. Still lingers in my mind. Even after 11 months. There are rumors that a sequel is coming. Praying it’s true…for phuck’s sake.
This album is raw, catchy, and mirroring greatness. For they both kill it. Be sure to take one more trip across Slumdon’s Bridge.
Honorable Mentions: “Wild Ones” by Flo Rida
Big night tonight Wild Ones? Still looking for something to bump while you make your moves on the PYT across the way lazy DJ? Well, you might not expect it, but Flo Rida’s “Wild Ones” was one of those fun records that might actually work for you & party goers. Surely you and your friends have danced along with “Good Feeling” sometime during 2012. I had. Odds are even more in favor. Blends Rida’s ‘Hip Pop’, my word, with some of the best unique dance track samples that never dips. All rise baby.
This record was short when I got my hands on it. Which made it lose major points in our Best Albums rankings. Doesn’t change the fact that it’s actually really, really, fun. Trust me. Bump it when I need to get psyched. A little liquor is a great addition to these beats. It’s party night type of record. Gotta let the good times roll! Ladies, your man will get on that floor witcha and guys…you can thank me later when those skin tight party dresses hike up just a little bit more while they grind. ; )
Happy New Year party animals! Be safe, don’t D&D, and come back tomorrow for some more sobering honorable mentions.
Honorable Mentions: “Unorthodox Jukebox” by Bruno Mars
Oh, my final recommendation for tonight’s festivities are for more non-EDM listeners. You know, those with a bit of soul. Because by the end of the night you’ll have a handful of those night hawking around. Not all of us like electronic pulsations. That’s why I got Bruno Mars’ sophomore release streaming just for you. A record that deserves to be played at high volumes.
I, personally, love it more than his first album. It’s a bit sexier. Personified by the dirty ‘Gorrilla’, which gives “In The Jungle” a run for it’s money. For when all the lights come on and everyone returns with their ‘midnight loves’ or not, there is really one thing left to do. Rawr.
My only complaint is, for the second time, that it’s too short.
Don’t judge ‘Unorthodox Jukebox’ merely on that last statement. Like I mention before in one of our ‘1st Songs’, again Bruno showcases so many sides of R&B — from sexy ballad, club banger, finger snapping soul escape, dark & twisted roadie theme, etc. For over the course of 10 tracks you certainly experience the various sides of Bruno Mars and might I say…they sound quite brilliant. Nevertheless, most of you probably own it already.
Cool down your NYE party with this solid soulful record. This record will make her smile.
Honorable Mentions: “Celebration Rock” by Japandroids
And I quote:
“Listening to this album is the audio equivalent of drinking half a bottle of Jack Daniels, punching a stranger in the face, getting thrown out of the bar and landing on broken glass…..and loving every minute of it.” ~ Random Tumblr User
Couldn’t have put it better myself. This was the anthem of my 2012 final hours. Whether my friends liked it or not. Pity I had been holding it close to the iPod chest over bumping from the Prius stereo. Thought, why not let it free. Pretty awesome record to drive to.
Hopefully, your fuel induced rage has subsided like mine. Or I’m in prison for causing too much of a ruckus. “Been kicked out of better bars than this,” I most likely said. Certainly hope not. Praying I made it home to my comfortable bed in the shadow of my new 40″ LCD HD TV. Watching Blu Rays on it is incredible. All so shiny. Recovery never felt so good. Now need to pick up Netflix & I’ll be set.
Japandroid’s “Celebration Rock” is just one of those short – high octane – masterpieces that are perfect for writing new memories. Streetlights & laughter need to share in it’s perfection. Only reason why it didn’t make our list is because I didn’t really listen to it earlier. Been sitting on my iPod for ages. Doesn’t mean I left 2012 without it bumping for it took me into 2013 with a bang! Let’s continue to celebrate with rock.
Cheers to 2013 mo fos!
Honorable Mentions: “The Heist” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis
Whoa. Another record I recently discovered and absolutely blew me away. Saw ‘The Heist” by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis on everybody’s ‘Best of’ lists. Which made me pick it up. Call it peer pressure. Don’t care. Haven’t regretted. By track 2, was completely hooked by these two skilled white boyz. Mean. Holy phuck. Fat beats. Funny lyrics. Ice cold hooks. Leading me to one conclusion, “this record has so much soul”. Like it was born in the 80s. Stored in ice like an Encino man. Then released to all us 2012’s.
Still learning to love it, but here’s how it starts. Put your hands up till the ceiling can’t hold us. Enjoy ‘The Heist”
Thanks for reading this far!