wordsandsound14

[wordsandsound14]

Top 50 songs of 2023

If you checked out my top 20 albums, thank you. If not it’s on the next page and make sure to check those out. Now it’s for the songs and this year had some really great songs. The albums were pretty good but the songs here were all really solid. Previous years (especially the past two lists when I started to listen to a lot more music) the song list was a challenge but nothing to the extent that this one was. After making some tough cuts, I had difficulty making more and I had 100 songs left. When I was organizing, I made some more and got down to about 75. Those I had to just cut like ripping off a band-aid. I did it fast since I knew my top 50 couldn’t be changed and I needed to stick with my list. I feel pretty good about that decision. So here it is, a top 50 and a playlist link. My only honorable mention is Switchfoot’s “Meant to Live” since it got re-recorded and it was an anthem of my year.

50. Vines - “I don’t mind”

I honestly don’t remember how I discovered Vines. I don’t think it was from TikTok but I honestly don’t remember her from Discover Weekly. I was like her song appeared in my playlist and when it came time to rotate her out, I decided to listen more to her music. Vines has an experimental ambient sound that are all slow burn layered songs with very interesting vocal processing. “I don’t mind” is a somber song that has the listener feeling what she is singing about as it builds up to more emotion without the song getting explosive. Vines has become an inspiration to me and a goal. An artist that I would personally love to collaborate with at some point. And they aren’t even a high caliber artist, but certainly still has a crowd listening to her. So here’s to hoping in the near future that maybe something can happen.

49. Cobra Man - “Take a Rest”

What a weird song. But there’s something about it that just works. There’s a lot of creative expression that I really appreciate that they are willing to be strange. It’s not that far out there of a song but it does have an energy that isn’t my typical song. The combination of synths, production, and acoustic guitar with a good rhythm and they made themselves a pretty good song.

48. Citizen - “When I Let You Down”

Picking a song off this album was difficult since it’s a pretty consistent album. But I chose this song for its solid verses and memorable chorus. The drums keep this song moving forward and the guitars play along and feels like it guides the vocalist to tread the same ground. There’s an energy to this song that keeps me coming back to it.

47. Chase Petra - “Reliable Narrator”

I remember hearing this on discovery weekly and I just fell in love with it. It has the usual indie rock vocals over alt indie rock music but it works for the song. I like how she doesn’t stick to the usual song format of “verse-chorus” but she doesn’t disrupt it either. She embellishes upon it to keep it interesting. It’s just a solid song that hits the nail on the head for me for this type of genre.

46. Dominic Fike - “Bodies”

Dominic was someone I found through the Barbie album because I loved his song a lot on there. I checked out his record and it was a cute album and liked his sound overall. But this song really stayed in my brainwaves. It shows his rapping-singing that he does occasionally. The thing that I gets me is the hook and the catchy chorus. It’s not a long song but it’s one I enjoy every moment I get with it.

45. HM Surf, Arbee - “Gava”

HM Surf is a lo-fi artist I follow and it’s always nice to add some music of that genre into my daily listening. This one stuck with me through the whole year for its incredibly designed drop and atmosphere. It’s a truly incredible listening experience and stands above the rest in a genre that’s difficult to stand out in.

44. Liquid Girlfriend - “Spongebob Halftime Show”

It’s a great title that’s meta and gets your attention. It’s a solid indie rock song that has a great flow to the song as it builds and breaks. And I can feel the energy of the recording session also. It’s one of those songs that the band loves playing live as much as the audience loves to hear it live and all of that is transferred into the recording.

43. Ed Sheeran - “Plastic Bag”

Ed put out two albums and my rule is that if an artist releases two albums in a year, that they are allowed two songs on a list if they qualify. So I will say that Ed will show up again. This song really showcased what I loved about Ed being raw with his emotions and incorporate it into what made us fall in love with his music. The acoustic guitar is more rhythmic than melodic and he finds a chorus that’s easy to sing along with.

42. Michigander - “Stay Out of It”

Michigander has been an artist that I haven’t committed to listening but has been floating around the same circles so I’ve heard a decent amount of songs. I did check out this EP and I was sold. There’s plenty to go back to listen to but I’ll at least hear the stuff coming out. This song was the one that got me listen more. It hooked me with the guitar and melodies. It’s just a solid song and showcases how good Michigander is at their craft.

41. Tilly Louise - “Join the Club”

There’s something so charming about Tilly and her music. Her charisma bleeds into her music as she’s able to put an energy into her song that most artists struggle to do. It’s an indie rock song that acts like a pop song. It’s catchy, it’s fun, and makes you wanna hit the replay button. I listened to her EP and I’m excited to hear what comes next for this artist.

40. Charlie Martin - “Splash”

This is the second time I came across this artist and luckily this song was released this year. He’s got a nice indie folk sound but also incorporates some midwest emo influences into the song through the vocals. It’s a song that’s good at slowing me down and getting me to feel the moment.

39. CARR - “Spiral City”

I can’t but help to smile when listening to this song. It’s so ridiculous while also being a solid rock song. It’s a song that is really fun to show other people just to see people’s reactions. There’s a couple more on the list like that but this one will be the start of that trend. It’s one of those songs that if you aren’t listening to the lyrics, you’re still gonna have a good song.

38. Switchfoot, Dayglow - “Adding to the Noise”

This felt like a match made in heaven, it’s my favorite artist with one of my wife’s favorite artist. And it was the song that she loved most from the Switchfoot concert too. I loved what Dayglow did with the song. He made it his own without changing the core of the song. It always feels difficult putting cover songs on a list like this since history plays a lot into a song. But this one was one that I just couldn’t get enough of. Dayglow did amazing.

37. Liza Anne - “Cheerleader”

You can’t tell me this song doesn’t get you on your feet. Its bass line is so infectious and the melody is so catchy. And the brass incorporated makes this song that much better. The song doesn’t let an ounce of creativity go to waste as she puts everything into this song to be the new icon of her sound.

36. Daisy the Great, illuminati hotties - “Time Machine 2”

Daisy the Great has become one of my favorite indie artists as of late as they continue to prove how good of songwriters they are. And illuminati hotties took one of their songs and made something special with it. It’s electrifying and the build up is perfect. I can hear how much they also love Daisy the Great. Hopefully there will be more collaborations from Daisy if they are gonna sound like this.

35. Foo Fighters - “Show Me How”

I don’t think anything sounds more like healing and trying to move forward than singing a song with your daughter. Losing a family friend and a mother/grandmother isn’t easy, especially when it’s close together and this song feels like the embodiment of those emotions. I’m glad they don’t try too hard to make a really depressing or dramatic song. Foos made something that feels like them and having Dave’s daughter here is one of the most natural fits.

34. Crown Lands - “Starlifter: Fearless Pt. II”

Bear with me here, it’s almost a 18 and half minute song so it’s long even for prog standards. But this band is like if Ledd Zeppelin did prog. It seamlessly blends the multiple parts of the song with call backs to 70’s rock and 80’s synths but with a modern approach. It’s a journey that I love going on with this band. This was the song that got me to check out their record. And while that didn’t fancy my tastes as much, this song encompasses all that you need to hear from the record in one amazing song.

33. Jacob Collier - “WELLLL”

I can’t thank my brother enough for introducing me to Jacob Collier. He’s a really talented songwriter and hearing his next project feels like watching a future veteran paving their career path. And this feels like a moment in his career that is worth paying attention to. He flipped the script on us since he’s known for his well produced electronic pop music and he made a solid alt-rock song in his style. It’s layered to the heavens and back with a great hook.

32. Petey - “I’ll Wait”

Petey went from my TikTok page to my discover weekly and I feel like I should be checking out his album now since I’ve already liked two of his songs and this one is making my year end list. But this song just hits me in the heart somehow. It’s got the energy that I crave and Petey’s voice is amazing. I really enjoy the timbre of his voice, especially in the higher range. Man this song is fun… I should check out his record.

31. Teenage Wrist, Softcult - “Still Love”

This was another record to find the stand out song. I went with this one because of the Softcult feature. I’m not even familiar with the band but I adore how the vocalists sound together. It’s the pure rock bliss that feels like two soulmates singing together. The post grunge of this song is strong and that final chorus is just chef’s kiss.

30. Fwango - “Cover My Eyes'“

I’m not sure if myself or my wife found this song or if we individually found it ourselves but she really loves this song, and so do I. I think she would have it towards the top of the list but I’ll place it here. It’s still a great indie rock jam that has a little bit of a bedroom rock influence in it, especially in the chorus’ melody. It’s definitely been the sound of the year since she likes to play a new found song a lot.

29. Wolves of Glendale - “Loud Ass Car”

I found Wolves of Glendale early this year and I’ve heard their releases as they came out this year and this one was the one that got me to laugh the most. It’s a great synth rock song that works even outside the great lyrics. This is a great comedy band that I can’t wait until they put out their first record.

28. Sam Smith, Calvin Harris, Jessie Reyez - “I’m Not Here to Make Friends”

This is the club song that I love most from the two on the record. This one is more so the pop song between the two but the bass line on here is groovy and the chorus is so much fun to sing along too. I’ll admit that the chorus carries the majority of the song for me but it really is that good to me.

27. Hannah Wyatt - “40 years of holy rain is looming overhead”

Hannah is able to paint a canvas of time with an instrumental track that is able to make a setting and tell its story with melody and notes. It’s haunting, it’s moody, and it feels impending. The doom washes over you as every instrument tells you what the rain will entail. It’s well crafted and beautiful.

26. Sweet Pill - “Starchild”

Sweet Pill is another band that’s made their way into my heart with their insanely great rock songs. Great guitars, vocals, and drums this band has it all. And this wasn’t even part of a record release. It may have been a left over track but I love their music. I hear their vocalist and I just want to have them on repeat, even if it is a slow burn of a track.

25. Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors - “Find Your People”

Drew probably has written the book that tells you how to write the next big folk, country, pop song that reaches the hearts of many. He’s become incredibly consistent with writing heartfelt songs that are also just fun to hear. And you can picture hearing them live and the energy that’s there too. It gets the crowd on their feet and it really makes their fans feel like a family. But that’s all the neighbors wanted, was a family to sing their songs and that their music was what brought them together. It was about finding your people.

24. Zach Bryan - Ticking

Another hard choice since the record is so consistently good but I chose a song that embodies the record for me. The guitar being played in the outskirts within the south for a small audience. Zach really wasn’t made for the fame that came his way and the only thing he knows what to do is make music about it and say it something from his heart and that just makes the world fall more in love with him. I think this song really showcases his personality the most and what kind of musician he is.

23. sundial - “grass is greener”

sundial was found through discover weekly. It was this song that got me interested in them and checked out their ep and got me hooked so I would be following, They make cute indie pop songs but with a very organic sound with two vocalists that compliment each other really well. But I love the storytelling that they do in these songs that pulls me in. Across their whole ep they write in a way that pulls me into the song. It’s relatable but it’s also not my story. They know how to make the small details be theirs but also resonate in a different way with the listener.

22. Royal Blood - “Shiner in the Dark”

Royal Blood still has rockers even on their albums that don’t hit the way you remember. Something about the distorted guitar/bass and the infectious beat that keeps me coming back. But really it’s the shiny sound during the chorus that I love the most. It’s not over done but done enough that it doesn’t keep you waiting. It’s overall just well made and rock out every time I hear it.

21. Flowers for Emily - “Sitting Confused”

Something about midwest emo really hits my heart. I didn’t listen to the genre specifically but there were influences in some of the music I heard this year. But this is a full on representation of the genre and I just break down from these songs. Something about the formula of the genre. And nothing did it quite like this song for me. It’s reflective, it rocks, and it's emotional.

20. blink-182 - “ONE MORE TIME…”

This song is so incredibly written. It tells the story of the band and why they are doing a reunion album in such a raw and heart on sleeve way. I know that Tom’s singing sometimes is a little silly but they commit to the heartfelt nature of the song regardless and I think it pulls it off. A goofy band getting serious is sometimes the way to really pull at the heart strings. It’s a well composed song and I adore the bells during the chorus and adds to the room of the song.

19. Sears - “House Song”

I don’t get a lot of songs from TikTok since it’s usually not my genre, I’ll hear it a thousand times in the app already, and discovering artists on there feels like a nightmare. But this has been an exception for me. Every time I heard this song, my heart sank. The poetry tiktoks, the depressing slideshows, and the motivational ones. This track slowly wrote itself on me and it helped me in times when the hours felt long and hopeless. Sitting in my car during lunch break as the sun sets over my work building. It’s dystopian but it’s beautiful in its own way.

18. Gregory Alan Isakov - “Sweet Heat Lightning”

Nothing painted the picture of the album quite like this one for me. The beautiful piano accompanies the guitar and gives a rich picture of a white desert. It’s lonesome and begging to be endured. I feel like I came out the other side alright but it was still brutal to get through. Alan captures this all so well.

17. Avenged Sevenfold - “Nobody”

Hearing this song as the lead single sent shivers down my spine. Avenged Sevenfold had made a comeback for themselves with The Stage and this lead single felt like the marriage between classic Avenged with the new one. The rest of the album was kind of all over the place but this song still stands out as being something only a veteran act could make. It’s like a homecoming in a way and a great one.

16. Blue October - “Sobriety”

The Blue October I knew at the beginning of the year isn’t the same one at the end of the year. I won’t get into the details but the reddit fan page has been debating it back and forth. Regardless of my feelings of the band currently, “Sobriety” is a well crafted song that feels like the new sound put on the overdrive. The softer atmospheric new sound with the rock sound. It molds itself into something different from the beginning to the end. It feels like a progression through life and overcoming. It’s the one of the best metaphors put through sound alone, especially in a commercial aspect.

15. Point Taken - “Stranger in the House”

My buddy has a band in Nashville and they finally came out with their music this year with an ep. It’s a rock band that uses brass to embellishment on top of it with influences from classic rock, pop punk, and prog. It’s a really interesting sound. The more songs they put out, the better they get. They released a single after the ep and this is that song that feels like pop punk meets prog. It’s a song that feels very intentional with every part and only great musicians could have put together. If they keep this up, they’ll be touring big in no time.

14. Waterparks - “Closer”

I’ll let the song do the talking on this one. I’ll just input that the vulnerability on this song hit me right when I needed it. The Waterparks album was more having fun with their struggles this time but this song stripped it all away and it really spoke to me.

13. Benny Sings, Remi Wolf - “Pyjamas”

This song is so damn cute. The metronome kinda irritates me but when the song gets going, it’s easy to ignore. But they made a song that just wouldn’t leave my brain. The chorus and how they say the words with the circus like piano. Showcases Benny’s production skills really well. The fact that he committed to the metronome and I still love this song proves how much he knows what he’s doing. This song along with Paramore’s has got my ears looking out for Remi too.

12. Genesis Owusu - “Leaving the Light”

There were great songs on this album and it was hard to pick a favorite when this song was just so objectively good. The force of this song that makes you pay attention and it opens up the album. It’s insane how Genesis was able to come up with this song. It’s an engine of a song that when it gets revving, it doesn’t stop. And it thematically sets up the album really well. Just impressive.

11. The Maine - “I think about you all the time”

The album kind of sounds pretty similar with all the songs so picking a stand out was a little hard but this song kept standing out to me. I love this chorus of the fun pop rock. The Maine captured an infectious energy with this album and kept it running throughout it. I think what really makes this song standout the most is that the verses stand out compared to the other songs since they all have this really great chorus.

10. slimdan - “Nosebleeds”

What a song to find on discover weekly. It’s just a simple mostly acoustic song but he wrote a song that every mid-20’s person is feeling that is feeling behind in life. So you know… perfect for me. I feel like I'm doing alright mentally and all that. I have days I struggle like everyone but I just look at where I am and it gets me feeling like I’m still in the nosebleeds. Man… it’s hard to be open about this year.

9. Paramore, The Linda Lindas - “The News”

This was a tough one to count on the list or not. I went with it cause it was the year I fell in love with The Linda Lindas. They took one the rockier songs from the This is Why and went harder. I already liked the original but they produced this song really well and added a lot of energy to the song that wasn’t there before. Their drummer is insane and I think she’s the youngest too out of this teen band (like 14 or 16). I think Hailey Williams saw herself in this band and really wanted them to be part of their remix album. And they blew this song away.

8. Movements - Tightrope

As much as a rocker album Movements made, it’s the softer song that feels more like their classic sound that I loved the most. Probably cause it felt the most relevant to me. I feel like all someone has to do is look at these emotional songs and read the lyrics and they can peel back the cover of my book. Regardless, the music here is super well crafted. It honestly doesn’t even sound like Movements until after the first chorus. I remember when it came up on shuffle and I didn’t remember liking a heartfelt pop song but the lyrics were telling me why I hearted it. Then it got rolling and I knew who it was. But the intensity of something like this is very Movements. Only something they could make.

7. Sleeping At Last - “Bright Sadness”

Sleeping at Last had a really tough time since they lost their mother. I felt the sadness through my own lost grandma and through my hard year. This song’s piano fading from left to right and how it replicates a tide. It’s beautiful and love the lyric “It’s been a year at the mercy of a merciless tide.” What a line. And I can feel it all in my throat as he tries to accept the merciless tide. It’s been a year of growth hasn’t it. Then he hits with the violin and it’s over for me at the bridge.

6. Ed Sheeran - “F64”

I still don’t know what this title is but I stopped caring when this song hits me the way it does. Ed did the hip hop thing that he’s really good at with piano underneath it. And a great bass line that’s kinda poorly produced but it’s also why I kinda like it. It feels like a song that was made quickly and it’s messy but that’s how he feels. Ed’s lost a lot of people too and it feels like it all comes out during this song and the meme of Ed feels like it gets shedded off. If he made stuff like this and did a whole album, I think a lot of people would take him seriously again.

5. NEEDTOBREATHE - “The Cave”

I may have felt like they missed hard on their album but this song… THIS SONG is something else. It’s anthemic, it’s suspenseful, and it’s exciting. It’s built up so well and I couldn’t stop thinking about this song and how well crafted it is. It’s no wonder the album fell short when this song is on it. They took notes from somewhere and they ran with it.

4. Spanish Love Songs - “Haunted”

This is the type of stuff I wanting to hear from the band. Something new enough but it didn’t betray the band’s sound. There’s a push in this song that I hope they end up exploring more for later. The synth feels seamless with their sound and the lyrics are still gripping and feel like ripping apart the rib cage. Me and my homies all get scared of Spanish Love Songs.

3. Arm’s Length - “Arm’s Length”

I have always thought it was kinda weird to have a song after your band name. Very few do it but Arm’s Length pull it off and it really does make sense as it represents what the band does for music. Their post hardcore sound influenced by pop punk and midwest emo. I fell in love with their sound at the beginning of the year and haven’t been the same since. It makes me want to cry my eyes out and turns my spirit blue. I’m really excited for any new music from them since they just manage to make music that just hits me every time.

2. Glen Hansard - “Sure as the Rain”

You’re on an old boat that creaks and it’s dusk. The sailors are singing a folk song from one of the mountain lands they visited, even incorporates foreign language into the song. Their deep growly voice is used for soothing than anger. It’s slow and loving. This song was something I was waiting Glen to do and he even went above what I was wanting. It’s a song that feels timeless already.

Billie Eilish - “What Was I Made For?”

I don’t really think this could have been anything else. No other song kept me up at night like this one. Even thinking about the song makes me emotional. Listening to it literally breaks me. This song is almost solely the reason why the Barbie movie has the emotional weight it does. And I don’t even think of it within the context of that movie. In a year that was as emotional as it was, this just felt like it was its calling card. ���I don’t know how to feel / but I wanna try” has basically been the motto for me. Despite all that’s happening with the economy, the war, my relationship, my job, my goals, my bad days… it all can feel like a mess and shutting down feels appropriate to not think about it. But I want to try. Try to feel it all, accept it all and move forward. Billie captured an amazing song here and I hope she can keep up with the high bar this song sets for herself here. At the same time, she keeps doing just that.

[wordsandsound14]

Top 20 albums of 2023

So it was a tough year. I think a lot of people have said this and I’ll add to the noise on it. And the damage of the year continues into the next a little bit - it does sadden me that I will have to announce that I am unable to continue releasing music for a little bit because of financial reasons. If I want to campaign these songs and get them out into the world in a meaningful way that could increase my chances of them being heard, I’ll need to hold off since that takes money to accomplish. My last song, "Orion”, got so very little listens while “Yellow” was making headway with almost 1000. So my goal of releasing a song a month for a year will have to be held off until I start again. My hope is to start releasing in the summer when life is more consistent; it could happen sooner, it could happen later. I’ll just have to see how things are. I’ll continue making music in the background as always. I really do want to put these songs out and I can’t tell you how bummed I am that I have to wait longer. I just want to give my best shot at this and this is part of it.

With that said, I do have a list of albums for you to listen to and a list for my top 50 songs is to soon follow in a different post. The year started out a little rocky with releases but started to fill out by the end and this year had some great albums when things started actually picking up. Some honorable mentions first tho. This will included albums I discovered too late to be part of best of 2022 list, albums that I listened to in 2023 that don’t qualify but I liked, and ones that didn’t make the list but felt like I should mention: Pink Floyd - The Dark Side of the Moon / Pool Kids - Pool Kids / Gang of Youths - angel in realtime. / Arm’s Length - Never Before Seen, Never Again Found / Lizzy McAlpine - five seconds flat / JID - The Forever Story / Red Hot Chili Peppers - Unlimited Love / The Wonder Years - The Hum Goes on Forever / Michigander - It Will Never Be The Same / Big Thief - Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You / The Linda Lindas - Growing Up / Gregory Alan Isakov - This Empty Northern Hemisphere / Point Taken - Here / Various artists - Barbie the Album (Best Weekend Ever Edition) / Crown Lands - Fearless / My Kid Brother - Happy.Mad.Weird.Sad / The Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream / Eric B. & Rakim - Don’t Sweat the Technique / Arlie - BREAK THE CURSE / Vines - Birthday Party / Noah Kahan - Stick Season

20. King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard - The Silver Cord

From the lists I’ve seen so far, a lot of people preferred their other album to this one from this year. I thought Petrodragonic Apocolypse was alright but didn’t really click for me. However, this one feels super unique and captured my attention. There isn’t another album that I’ve heard like this one, which is what I love about King Gizzard in their genre bouncing journey. It chases the 70’s Sci-fi sound and has fun with the idea of making music within that context. I will say that I listened to the shorter version of the album. There are the “regular” versions of songs and the “extended” versions I didn’t get around to trying since they are substantially longer. I do think the regular versions could’ve been longer but none but one felt like it warranted a prog like “extended” length. Regardless, I enjoyed this album a lot and have a great time when listening to it. It’s a journey through space that you’ll never forget you’re on. (Fav songs: Set, Theia, Chang’e)

19. Sam Smith - Gloria

It feels really weird that Sam Smith ranked on my list, no offense to Sam. There were some artists that I was really anticipating their releases and their music didn’t make this list and Sam’s music quality has been inconsistent to me. Don’t get me wrong though, I think this album got slept on. There’s some really good pop songs on here and only two songs that I dislike (Gimme, Who We Love). In all honesty, this album would have placed higher if it weren’t for those two downers. But everything else feels like Sam reinventing themselves and solidifying themselves as a pop artist. They were still making some hits in the past 2 albums but nothing felt like it was really leaving impact. It felt like the songs from their first album were still carrying their success. But Gloria goes to prove that wrong. “Unholy” made records and the other songs here prove that Sam wants to make music. This album is why I still follow this artist. (Fav songs: I’m Not Here to Make Friends, Lose You, Love Me More)

18. The Front Bottoms - You Are Who You Hang Out With

I think what feels funny about this album is that I don’t feel like The Front Bottoms really nailed it here. I feel like they could’ve done better but I also haven’t really heard a lot from them to really compare it to. I stumbled upon this album since I was trying to get all my songs from my old computer hearted on Spotify (didn’t even finish doing that lol). I remembered The Front Bottoms and really liked the songs I did have by them. I gave them a follow and pretty soon there was an album to listen to. However, whenever I go back and listen to it, I enjoy the songs here. I think what happened is that this album isn’t what I expected. They’ve changed a lot, especially when the songs I listened from them are over a decade old. At the same time, I think that’s what I like about it. What I appreciate the most is that they didn’t try to push the envelope on making their music have the feeling that it once was. A lot of bands from the 2000’s will try to pull their former sound into their new sound with varying levels of success but they just let it be. It’s a fun and light hearted record that doesn’t take itself too seriously. They at least made the music they wanted and allowed it to happen in the form that they found it. Give this album a listen and just take it as it is. (Fav songs: Punching Bag, Paris, Not Joking)

17. Spanish Love Songs - No Joy

The funniest thing is that my spouse loves to make fun that Spanish Love Songs lead singer sings the same way for every single song. It’s really apparent when you pay attention to it. But that’s also kinda the pull to their music. Anyways, Spanish Love Songs comes out with follow up to the incredible “Brave Faces Everyone". While they fall a little short, they still manage to capture me on most the songs here. They experiment some and continue to make gut-wrenching lyrics. I do think this one needs time to ruminate; a quick listen doesn’t quite allow it to sink its teeth into you. It works best when you grow attached to each song individually (looks up the lyrics and all) and then put them together again. Then the project feels a lot more complete. What this album does signify to me is that there’s a lot left for this band and I’m really interested in what’s next for the band and how this album will place in their career in the future. I’m usually not a fan of saying I’m excited for next time cause I should be excited for this time but the hinting in this album does do that for me. (Fav songs: Haunted, Clean-up Crew, Here You Are)

16. Susto - My Entire Life

While Susto comes right out of the gate with “Rock On”, the rest of the album is less in your face and asks the listener to pay attention rather than demand it. This southern rock band is one I found in 2022 from Spotify’s discover weekly. I listened to their 2021 release “Time in the Sun” and fell in love with what sounded like southern Jack Johnson. In a way, I can still hear the interoperation but Susto has a bit more to them than just that descriptor. They are self described as “acid country & artisanal rock.” What I feel they achieve the most is that they make music that feels like being in Carolinas, their home being in Charleston. There’s a sunshine prevalent in their music, a local comfort, and a sense of community that all comes together to make an organic experience. Susto isn’t flashy but they make good songs and I’m excited to listen more from them and they have a decent backlog to check out. (Fav songs: My Entire Life, Mt. Caroline, Rooster)

15. Citizen - Calling the Dogs

Citizen also had the challenge of creating an album to follow up their last amazing album, “Life in Your Glass House". That album has the #1 spot on my list in 2021 so there was a lot of expectations on this album. “Calling the Dogs” does something that I was hoping they would do and that was not even try to attempt to create something like its predecessor. It keeps its identity and follows a branching route hinted at in the last record. While it’s not as a monumental album, it does a great job of making high energy short rock songs. Almost like bubble gum rock. It feels like these type of songs were just the songs that were coming out of the band when making this album and they made them instead of fighting it. They’re all memorable, catchy, and fun rock songs to listen to. There’s a driving energy to this album that’s infectious to listen to and they don’t waste a song slot while at it. (Fav songs: Can’t Take it Slow, When I Let You Down, Takes One to Know One)

14. Hannah Wyatt - hummingbird

This is one my classmates from school and I adored her first album and she came out sneaky with this release early in the year. “hummingbird” is a dark, Americana folk album that takes you into the forest during the early night. It almost feels like going back in time and living off the land. It’s a period piece almost. There’s a somber mystery that runs through this album. The violin and acoustic guitar are the backbone of this album and compliment each other terrifically. Hannah is amazing at making a folk album that is one that catches the itch I’m wanting from the genre since singer/songwriter get lumped into folk sometimes. While it’s little lower on my list, it is one of the fuller experiences here. Give her a listen and hopefully she can find her crowd for her endless talent. (Fav songs: Cincinnati, high-water, yakima two-step)

13. Gregory Alan Isakov - Appaloosa Bones

My spouse and I really fell in love with Gregory this year, even though it was just one song that we liked, “Big Black Car”. She told me about the new songs and that there was an album coming out later. We waited with anticipation and, much like Susto’s release, it didn’t stand out right off the bat. It felt underwhelming, especially since Gregory doesn’t release music often. But after I put him in my playlist of recent releases, it started to click and I fell in love with the album. When it was time to take the album off and I pick the songs I like so I can remember them for year end lists, I ended up wanting to pick majority of the songs to add. These are songs to live with and they grow with you the more you listen to them. Gregory made some beautiful music this year and, while it’s pretty on the outside, it is so much lovely on the inside. (Fav songs: Sweet Heat Lightning, The Fall, Mistakes)

12. Foo Fighters - But Here We Are

Every time I talk about the Foos with friends, we almost always state how we aren’t Foo album people and that we just grab the singles. And each time, about half the albums end up being our exceptions of full ones we listen to. In conclusion from those talks, I think what we mean is the Foos mostly make a collection of songs instead of an album and that their non-singles don’t really do much unless the album as a whole works. “But Here We Are” is probably their most cohesive album thematically. We all know about the struggles that Dave Grohl had to endure lately. And while I don’t think this is as lyrically nuanced that I would have hoped, that was never their thing. Dave still wrote some songs that say what they are wanting to say and still conveys the full meaning without having a complex vocabulary. This felt like one of the first Foo albums that it felt like the world was silently anticipating so there was a lot of pressure on this album. I believe the band delivered on making something that still felt like the Foos (even sounding the most Foo as of recently, calling back to early 2000’s sound) and speaking about the band’s sorrows. (Fav songs: Show Me How, Under You, The Teacher)

11. The Maine - The Maine

I actually missed this one when it came out and it was ARTV’s YouTube short that notified me that there was another album out. I honestly thought I was following the band on Spotify. Guess I wasn’t but I am now. Anyways, the comments on the short were all talking up the album as a return for the band and how they have gotten back to making good music. I hadn’t listened to them since 2017 since the previous albums didn’t get much praise. In this album, The Maine prove that they are masters of pop rock and really deliver on it. It is true that they sound like a boy band most of the time but the music is fun and upbeat that who really cares that they sound like One Direction. And I’ll address the elephant in the room for those who know the album. Yeah, “cars & caution signs” should have been the closer and “spiraling” is the worst song on the album and doesn’t really feel like a closer. But it’s not that bad to me. The album goes by quickly and having fun with the album way overtrumps this concern. (Fav songs: I think about you all the time, leave in five, the mood i’m in / jsyk)

10. Ed Sheeran - Autumn Variations

Ed put out two albums this year and the first (“-”) was just alright. There were some decent songs but the promo made it seem like it was an album that was hard to write and subtract was gonna be the “sad” album. It didn’t really deliver on that. Then he surprised released Autumn Variations and didn’t do any PR on it. Just said that he wanted to put these songs out and didn’t want to do the whole music label release stuff. To this day, I still think his first album is his best and there hasn’t really been anything close. This album breaks that for me. It doesn't dethrone “+” but it does feel like a call back to a more authentic Ed. I’m not sure if the two albums were written at the same time or not but these songs feel like the ones he wanted to put out more. I can feel that these are the ones that really speak to him and I hope future Ed can continue along this path of making music that feels this honest. Maybe he can experiment again with hip hop (like hist first single of 2023) but right now, he can be cozy in this album. (Fav songs: Plastic Bag, England, Page)

9. blink-182 - ONE MORE TIME…

blink came out and made of the best reunion records. It’s everything you’d expect a blink record to be as they pull from all the sounds of the career, there’s a song for every blink fan. The punk, to the pop punk, and with the short humorous songs. The more impressive thing is that they did it without it feeling like you already heard it or as a cheap version of their already existing sound. They really went all out and made sure they delivered on their reunion. Everyone seems to be playing at their best and I am pretty impressed with their musicianship here. I will say that I do think they bloated up the track list by having 17 songs and, while none of those songs are bad, they could have cut 2 or three songs (tracks 14-16 come to mind). But that’s the only thing keeping this record back. Give blink a listen, even if you are just here for the reunion since I’m sure it’ll get you to go listen back. (Fav songs: ONE MORE TIME…, MORE THAN YOU KNOW, CHILDHOOD)

8. Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors - Strangers No More

The title of this album comes from the love of music. Drew Holcomb was feeling very holed up after covid lockdown and that feeling was so overwhelming that he went on tour before releasing another record. They did come out with a record in 2019 so there were songs that didn’t much live attention but I think Drew wanted to make songs inspired by coming back to the road. There’s a few songs that were recorded and released during covid that make the track listing but it’s overall a new bunch. What I love most is that I feel the intention behind every song here. There’s not one that feels like it’s phoning it in or doesn’t work. It’s been a while since the band put out a record that is this complete. There’s no dull moment and they are slowly becoming more and more renown within their genre. Each record increases their clout as they continue to chase great songs and this album is another great step forward. (Fav songs: Find Your People, Fly, That’s on You, That’s on Me)

7. Movements - RUCKUS!

Movements is known for being an entry point within the post hardcore genre, making gut punching lyrics with a little softer of a hard rock. Lots of use of space and ambience to pull everything together. And their sophomore album was more of the same but with less hardcore in it. This is more like a straight up rock record. Even with two lead singles, it was a little weird to digest that they were going to change up their sound this much. It’s not even that dramatic of a genre change but it wasn’t something I was expecting them to do. But they nail it. There’s a pounding kick drum as a heart beat with crunching guitars throughout this record. And while the lyrics are toned down just a little bit, they aren’t worse because of it. They fit this style of music better and they still are pretty good. I think they were struggling to find the next direction to go given the singles released in between releases but this was a great direction and gets me excited to what Movements can do and how they will break their barriers. (Fav songs: Tightrope, Lead Pipe, Fail You)

6. Genesis Owusu - STRUGGLER

Hip-hop/rap and country are two genres that I’m slowly attempting to find my tastes in since the mainstream of either really don’t interest me that much. The trap beats all sound just as the same as another bro country song that’s about beer, Brad, and breasts. Both genres feel redundant so squeezing the bad stuff feels like energy better spent listening to genres that better suit me. But I still like the core idea of either genre and crave the creativity from them. Genesis Owes is a rapper who has broken into my interests with his first record “Smiling With No Teeth”. While that record didn’t blow me away, I was really intrigued by his sound and liked the way he was making music. I could tell that his next steps were going to be in my interest. I wasn’t prepared for the musical fest that he had waiting on “STRUGGLER". It’s rap, it’s rock, and it’s R&B. I’m not sure what else to call it other than a modern funk album but take the disco out. The bass lines in these songs are incredible and that doesn’t even take away from how central of a role the electric guitar plays. And then he raps on top of them too. It’s really an incredible album that has a great vibe to it and he explores his central theme well too. (Fav songs: Tied Up!, Leaving the Light, Survivor)

5. Benny Sings - Young Hearts

I found Benny Sings by one song “Here It Goes”. It was on my year end list of songs for 2021 and I followed him because of it. He was dropping songs at the end of 2022 but I wasn’t expecting an album, I honestly thought he was just a single and EP person but then “Young Hearts” came out and I fell in love. It’s a bedroom pop and easy to listen to but Benny Sings proves that he’s worth listening to with his comforting sound. His sound is so simply done that it really does sound so effortless. But the craftsmanship comes from within and the songwriting on the record is what holds it together as nothing is over the top. He has a way to create songs that have a sense of magic to them that only a songwriter could create even though they have the same tools as you. It’s a charming cute album that goes on repeat and is easy to loop. (Fav songs: Pyjamas, Take Your Time, The Only One)

4. Waterparks - INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Waterparks has a very interesting career so far… with an equally interesting fan base. There’s lots of opinions about the band but I usually try to stay away from all the noise to keep my mind at ease. They have, also, slowly become a band I keep up with but don’t wait for their releases. Something about their music stopped clicking and it felt like ego was getting in the way. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY changed that. It truly felt like Waterparks entered with an album ready to say the things they wanted to say and make the music to have the urgency to accompany it. It’s a record that represents what I wanted the band to do again. Except they surpassed the expectations. There’s rap, pop punk, hard rock, ballads, and pop rock. Waterparks wanted to get everything they could that’s under their umbrella and show that that they have it in them still. The added track added on the digital release that does kinda ruin the ending a little but I’ll ignore that because the music is just that good. (Fav songs: BRAINWASHED, CLOSER, FUNERAL GREY)

3. Zach Bryan - Zach Bryan

This was probably the biggest surprise of the year. I hadn’t even heard much of this guy before this year. I got some exposure when the song with Kacey Musgraves came out but I wasn’t sold until the song with Bon Iver was released on a follow up EP. By then, I had seen his album everywhere and being pushed on Spotify a lot. So I thought I would give it a listen. Zach created an album that is music at its core. These songs feel so alive and have so much heart in them. He made these songs without concern for if his numbers would go up and without any PR. And it completely changed the game for country music and, maybe, music overall. And these songs aren’t flashy. There’s not much hook to it and the he opens the album with a spoken word over some guitar. This isn’t even a country album in the modern sense but one that goes back to the more traditional country. It was just about writing songs and telling stories. Good songwriters making music that feels like it came from within. Zach has got my attention. (Fav songs: Hey Driver, Smaller Acts, Jake’s Piano - Long Island)

2. Teenage Wrist - Still Love

These top 3 had a huge battle for the number one spot, especially these top two. I’ll say that maybe “objectively” this album is what I consider the top one. But I have more of an emotional connection with the winning album and my gut told me that it didn’t belong in second. So I welcome you to the best rock album of the year. I first heard Teenage Wrist when listening to Spotify’s discover weekly. That one song (“Stella”) got me to listen to their last album (Earth is a Black Hole) the year after it got released. It got me to follow them and that ended up paying off really well. The band decided to go in the direction of a really solid post grunge sound in a year when I was really craving it. But none hit the spot quite like this one. The keen songwriting and fuzzy amps make for an exceptional album that’s enhanced by collaborations that only add to the project. I can’t explain how much I enjoyed listening to this album and how each song has stuck inside my memory. Give them a listen and give Teenage Wrist the audience they deserve. (Fav songs: Diorama, Sunshine, Still Love)

1. Glen Hansard - All That Was East is West of Me Now

Glen is one of my all time favorite songwriters. His lyrics are raw, ability to coordinate the song with the emotion, and passionate singing make for a folk artist at the core. He has also been experimenting with his sound for the past two albums, one being self produced with more horns and his other being a collaboration of friends live in studio. This was a callback to his career, even calling back to his days with The Frames on “The Feast of St. John”. It was a return to the form in which a lot of people had fallen in love with without retreading the same ground. He continues to write meaningful and beautiful songs that are precisely written. I always look forward to a Glen Hansard release but this one is the type that I live for. The album went under a lot of radars, especially for a veteran act. But my favorite album of the year has already woven itself into my soul. It’s a fine addition to my collection and will be placed along the other high achievements from this artist. (Fav songs: Sure as the Rain, There’s No Mountain, Down on Our Knees.)

[wordsandsound14]

Orion

First and foremost, thank you for listening to “Yellow.” I started campaigning my songs on Musosoup, trying my best to reach a broader audience and to get my single out there the best I can. On the platform, there are: music curators, instagram influencers, and music websites. I got a total of 45 offers. (I pay to have my music reviewed and featured but I don’t have to do the networking part.) I could only accept so many because the money starts to add up after a little bit. The response was much higher than I expected. I’ve had some amazing reviews and features and it’s been an honor to have. Please continue to share and support “Yellow” as it continues to grow.

“Orion” is my next single. The artwork is done by Alycia Robb again and her incredible work will represent my song. It’s a space themed song that explores the ideas of loneliness and destiny. “Orion” was born from a time when I was reaching out for collaborations and got into the songwriting idea process before the collaboration was stopped. I was feeling inspired during that moment, excited to do a collaboration, and ended up making a lot of ideas and lyrics. This was one of the lines that I felt had a lot of promise, “Orion lost his belt”. After that, I kept writing about what that would mean and how it would influence earth, especially before the technology age. The song came very naturally. I made an ambient piano track and layered it with other electronic sounds. I honestly stripped off some of those layers because I made too much and the melody got lost in it. I did struggle a little with the bridge but it just took isolating the part and reflecting on what I really wanted to say here. It’s a song that didn’t require a lot of work and felt like it wrote itself.

I’m still trying to figure out my space as an artist. The positive reception I had on “Yellow” is guiding me to focus on experimental songs and trying more with “experimental memoirs” (I’m not sure what else to call this genre I’m in.) Not that I would only make lyrics based on non-fiction but creating a space that feels like entering something special to me or entering my perspective. And I love the idea of making more songs like “Yellow”, I already have a couple more ready to share. “Orion” is a marriage between my style and a typical singer-songwriter piece. I’ll see what the reception is on this. However, I’m also all about making the songs that come to me and not transforming them into something they aren’t. But I also would like to make music that I’m good at and people enjoy. “Yellow” felt like I was making a space for myself that not many people try. I hope that as I continue to put out music that the direction will come clearer. Speaking of loss of direction, “Orion” comes out Saturday 11th and hope you give it a listen.

[wordsandsound14]

New Single Announcement

I am so happy to announce my first single “Yellow”. The artwork for the single has been provided by my good friend Alycia Robb. She did an amazing job transforming one of her paintings into something that feels like what the song is. The release date is Oct. 14th. I messed up on selecting the date on the release but I plan to have music out every 2nd Friday of the month and so this one will be the exception.

This song was written about my grandma. She suffered from a stroke and it made life very hard up until her passing last year on the 4th of July. I actually wrote this before her death because my family had a lot of scares and she had many emergency hospital visits. It got my mind thinking, since I was an 8 hour drive away at the time, if I would make in time if something happened and she wasn't going to last long. Fortunately, she was able to hold on until my brother and I were back in the Carolinas. We were able to see her one last time. Anyways, I wanted a song that felt like it captured her essence. She loved the color yellow and I always associated it with her. This song was the way I healed from losing her. In a way, this song makes me feel like she's still here.

I’m very proud of this song and I feel it captures a lot of what I want to do in the ambient side of my music. It’s a slow burn. But as time passes, I feel less and less inclined to tell people that “it’s a slow burn.” It’s starting to feel like it’s the thing that my music does every now and then. I’m very excited to share this song and I hope you guys will too

[wordsandsound14]

So it’s been a little while…

First and foremost, I would like to thank all the people who have supported me in between these releases. Making music isn’t easy. I was needing a better way to release it and a better mindset to making music. I was also needing to be a better musician and producer. So I took some time off and learned some more skills and got some more plugins (no plugins don’t make better music but I haven’t purchased any and I only purchase the big packages when they go on a huge sale). I wrote a lot and have a decent amount of songs in the que ready to be revised by my producer. I also re-mastered my first album (you can hear it here) with the new production techniques and plugins I obtained along with a whole new re-branding. I thought about announcing it last year but I wanted a new song on the way out with it. Then I wanted songs or maybe an album to announce also along with it. So I kept working and that’s how I ended up with a lot of songs ready to be released and no announcements from me. About the time I felt like I was ready to put all the pieces together, my personal life got pretty busy and I wanted to focus on that area of my life before I devote time towards this. This last summer was when things started to feel like I could start putting out music but I wanted a photoshoot and a website to go with it. Again, personal life slowed down the process. It’s been a tough year. But I can’t hold out forever. It’s time to put this thing into action. I have a new song coming out next month (date tba) and my plan is to put out a song per month. After a year, I plan to put the songs together (with some new ones) and release my second full album. I’m not sure if every song will make the new album next year but I want to stay active. I have a group of friends who are artists who will be making the artwork for my releases and another friend who is an audio engineer who will be mixing/mastering the songs. I’m trying to keep myself and my artistic friends active with me. A collective project that will help keep us creating and moving forward.

This is my return. This is my promise to myself to keep pursuing my dreams. This is

Words and Sound

Stay tuned

[wordsandsound14]

More Coming Soon

[wordsandsound14]

Top 50 songs of 2022

This list has been the death of me lol. I have listened to this playlist fully three times (3h 16m long playlist) and made multiple changes and I’m still not 100% sure if it’s in the right order. However, there’s only so long I can rearrange this playlist to really make sure it fits with my opinions. I do feel like I have it placed well but that’s not to say that I’m still not iffy about a couple placements. I have to move forward tho and share the delight of music I have found. When I started the year end rankings, I think I was a little over 200 songs from this year and I dwindled it down some to about 120-ish (mostly finding my favorites from albums were those cuts) and another cut was at 79 before I made the final decisions to 50. Those last 79 songs were so hard to let go of and figure out which ones I’ll keep for the top 50. I’ve had other years be much easier than this one. I’ve had much fewer songs but last year, when I listened to more music, it was still easier than this. This year had some amazing songs get put out. So without further ado, here we go. This is my list.

50. Cowboy - deer scout

It’s a simple song; It’s acoustic and softly sung. And I just adore with how it is sung. deer scout’s voice is perfect for this stripped down track they created and the subtle nuances of this track is what carries it. The guitar twangs never get old and help guide the listener through the track. It’s over before you know it but its sound will be stuck in your head.

49. Gin Atomic - Townland

I love that this song is almost like an ambient indie song and then it brings out the rock elements. AND I’ll admit that it seems like a male vocal would come in but the female vocals fit the song so well. It just comes together so well to create a chill indie rock song. The drummer does a great job of holding this song together and keeping the song moving forward. Overall, just a well written song.

48. A Little Tune - Bret McKenzie

This track is so fun and cute. An appropriately named song that calls back to jazz that’s written with its title. McKenzie keeps the flow running so well with the different instruments and bouncy rhythm. It’s infectious, classy, and such a great time. It’s a song that could’ve easily felt too chaotic but it’s pulled together so well. This song also did unfortunately fall down my list a decent amount with more listens. It’s still a great song but I think its lack of memorability keeps it from being higher.

47. Gonna Lose - Built to Spill

This sounds a classic rock song taken straight from 70′s. It’s a well crafted song with an amazing guitar sound that drives the song forward. The vocals also greatly add to the effect of the whole classic rock sound. They are do a great job of making little changes in the song to add more to it and keep the listener engaged.

46. The Curse of the Blackened Eye - Orville Peck

My wife has fallen in love with Orville’s Peck country music. His silky voice is like a desert river and there’s something about his cowboy music that feels timeless already. This was my favorite song that I heard from him so far. It’s a simple bass line that he uses to bounce his melody on top off. There’s something about this song that can make me close my eyes and I can feel the wind pick up the dirt as it brushes my ankles as this song plays over the sunset over the orange, rocky horizon. Small patches of grass have never felt more real than this song.

45. Work Out - Rainbow Kitten Surprise

I love this little acoustic riff that plays through the whole song. It does a great job of creating room for the melody and rhythm. I will say that the 2nd chorus and switching the electronic sound is not my favorite but it doesn’t hurt the song that much, just thinking it’s a tad overbearing and doesn’t fit the best. But I can often ignore it because I love the mixing of the vocals and they blend so well with the sound they were wanting to achieve. It’s also perfectly depicts the feeling of lost love and how the two may still talk but it’s also admitting that it’s better over. It’s an interesting song for tackling this topic with good word choices and images.

44. Eisa Dancers - Mice Parade

That first note always sends some signal down my spine and I’m just transported to another place that I am supposed to relax but then the drums come in and it feels like finding peace within the chaos. It seems like a song not to meditate to but it ends up having that effect on me. And I love that about the time I feel like the track is getting repetitive for me, it continues to add another element to it that keeps my mind engaged. I do think the track carries on for a bit longer than it should but the diversity of the song makes up for it.

43. A Little Bit of Love - Weezer

I wasn’t expecting a song from Weezer’s “Spring” Ep would make it all the way to my top 50 but this melody has lived with me throughout all these months later. I was also really expecting for “Autumn” to be more my vibe but I don’t wanna take away from this song too much. It’s a catchy and light song that commits to its sound and it’s really endearing for doing so. I’ve really liked this song and get a smile whenever I listen to it.

42. Jennifer - Everything Everything

I’m still torn on how much of a fan I am of this band. Their last album was hit or miss for me. I saw this on my discover weekly and I just shrugged, “Sure it’ll come up eventually.” Boy, was I confused when I was really jamming and then I saw who it was. I love how infectious this melody is. The guitar guiding the rhythm well and the vocals being used so well, especially against the backing vocals. And another guitar guiding the atmosphere! This song just keeps climbing with its sound.

41. Chain Reaction - Joy Downer, Beck

I can’t tell you the giant smile that went across my face when I heard this song because it sounded like it came straight from a Shrek soundtrack. It has an iconic chorus with that light buzzing nostalgia guitar. It’s a dreamy song that’s focussed on the present and keeps you there. Whimsical is the word I think I would use for the whole track. I also really appreciate how much Beck takes a back seat on this song and only comes in places where it feels like the song needs it rather than feeling like a clout feature. It’s a well produced track that’ll live in my Shrek inspired playlist for years to come.

40. Barbed Wire Body - Movements

I feel so dumb for missing this song when it got released. I had to hear it through discover weekly (in November) and I thought they just released this song. Turned out I missed it and I missed out on a good song for not paying attention. To be fair, seeing if a band drops a single or if it’s pre-release for an album is getting harder and harder to tell the difference. I try to not listen too much of an album before its release and I end being cautious when new music drops. Oh well, can’t change the past but I can still enjoy listening to this song. It has reminded me how much I want more Movements music. Solid standard Movements track.

39. Do Your Worst - The Happy Fits

Remember Anberlin? This song will take you memory lane if you do. Especially with how the backing vocals sound. But the song structure and specific sounds they used all add up to what seems like a great sequel of that band. Too different to seem like a pseudo cover band of Anberlin but have a lot of the same elements. (Almost like if Anberlin and Creeper had a kid.) I haven’t checked out their other songs to see how much this rings true or if it’s just for this song but I can say that I'm hooked on this song.

38. Yellow - Tegan and Sara

Man, do I love the sound of those opening synth notes. This song is structured really well and utilizes the bass really well to move it in and out of those parts. Focussing on it really makes the chorus pop like it should when it comes around. The little production choices made also help paint the picture of this song well. It was a good find this year and I hope others can enjoy it also.

37. Almost Automatic - Good Looks

This song starts as a slow build and it kinda seems like it won’t be much of anything and then that chorus comes and changes everything. Good Looks took their time building the picture before unleashing their soaring chorus. It’s a carefully made song that I still get a little impatient for but the payoff is always there. This is the song that brought me to their album but they couldn’t top this amazing piece where you can feel the speakers slowly tiring out your ears.

36. Where Are You Now - Mary Gauthier

Back to being transported to the Wild West in a lonesome saloon with a handful of customers and this woman is playing this on the piano. The tonality of the piano is so perfectly chosen and I love its rich, country sound. The lyrics also have a very cowboy taste to them and everything fits the mood. Mary Gauthier has been making sad folk music for a while now and I only found her by reading her book. She’s been slipping through the cracks and has gone commonly unnoticed by generations younger than herself. I thought I would give her music a listen and really enjoyed her album “Mercy Now”. She then announced a new album this year and I gave it a listen. While the album barely didn’t make my album list, I knew one of her songs would since she knows how to make songs that the heart feels. While she did step away from the heart ripping songs, she still knows how to make a good song.

35. Chronicles (feat. H.E.R. & Lil Durk) - Cordae

I’m surprised that this song is so low on this list given that this rift of voices and acoustic guitar has played in my head all year long along with the vocal rhythm on the chorus. It was a re-evaluation of the verses that brought this song down, especially the line that references “turrets”. Kinda leaves a bad taste but the chorus is good enough to bring the song up. I also find H.E.R.’s voice really interesting and I love the feature of her on here. But really this song’s chorus really does carry it a long ways. Cordae is just a natural when it comes to flow.

34. With U - Soccer Mommy

Get the pinball machine ready with this indie rock track. I love the use of this sound but Soccer Mommy deliberately doesn’t make it overbearing. It’s simply used to enhance the chorus and smaller moments (outside of the intro) but it does its job well. It allows the chorus to expand in just the right way. While the verses are a little dull, I think they are well used to hold up the chorus for when it does hit. Allowing for all the magical elements to come in at that moment.

33. All I Wanted (feat. Mark Hoppus) - Avril Lavigne 

Avril’s new album disappointed in many moments but it doesn’t fail all the time. The lead single and this song are the magic that she was chasing. It’s a classic fun pop punk song and the choice to include Mark Hoppus was such a genius idea. He’s an insanely charming guy and his charisma is on such a great display here. Avril also plays a great part here and their voice mix well. It feels like a collaboration that should have happened a long time ago and I’m so glad that they nailed it with this song.

32. Bad Summer - Spector

I love the anticipation of this song and it starts with the first note. On first listen, the listener is left in complete wonder in where the song is going until that first chorus comes in. It’s a great song that knows what its little drone guitar-piano is doing (not really sure what instrument lol) but it’s wonderfully made to keep that tension there. The electric guitar layering is also super well done to add just enough depth to the track.

31. Meet the Moonlight - Jack Johnson

This is the ambient song that I’ve been wishing Jack would make that I thought would never happen. He tapped into that feeling of being underwater near the coast of a beach. Everything is still and saltwater surrounds every fiber of you. It’s a song that has brought lots of peace to me. It slows down time and asks me to let go of those emotions I so desperately want to hold on to. Let it go to the ocean. It will swallow it whole and you can still go back to the shore. Cleansing is what it does.

30. Adam’s Rib - Jensen McRae

The metaphor/lyrical approach used here is extraordinary. I love the imagery that this song invokes and her vocal performance is stellar. It hits you in the stomach and you can feel the desperation and passion. This is the part of life where love kicks you right in the chest and leaves you gasping. And I love that she manages to not sound clingy or problematic. McRae’s writing and performances are so well perfected, they are woven into her whole album and this song was one of the peaks for me.

29. Ohio Forever - Michigander, Sydney Sprague

Some folk songs hit you in your soul and this one was one for me this year. The two vocals blend so beautifully together and brings that wave of soft blue aura that feels comfortable to me. But this song adds that little bit of pink to add a sense of home within love. And when the bass finally comes in, it just fills the song. The electric guitar is a lovely touch too. Every instrument understands its part so well and creates an atmosphere that is calming to be in.

28. SKIN OF MY TEETH - Demi Lovato

This song’s first line of lyrics instantly captures my attention. Partly from how it’s phrased within the song and the composition lends itself to it. Partly because they’re saying the thing that we have been all thinking. The self-awareness has a shock value that I still can’t get over. I chose this song because of it’s shock value since a lot of these songs rock hard and it’s difficult to choose one. But Demi went all out on this album and this song really showcases it for me. Her vocal performance has a lot of emotion and proves why she has what it takes to be a pop artist on vocals alone. 

27. Fragments of the Decade - Death Cab For Cutie

It was difficult to choose the standout from this album because of how well crafted the majority of the album is, making great use of indie sounds. However, I have always been more inclined to the side of Death Cab’s long ambient songs. This is the one that captured me more. The thing about this song is layering it well and carefully. It feels like transporting the listener to another place/dimension/reality with the music. This song did just that for me. And the moment it gets to the bridge and it’s just the guitar and recordings of kids playing always gets me to close my eyes. 

26. Crystalline - Dakota Deyoc

The synth rock-pop has come again within this song. Having similarities with The Weekend, indie pop, and early electronic music. It’s a well crafted song that feels fully aware of its predecessors and makes sure to build upon those influences. I’m not gonna say that this feels like a new genre or like Dakota has broke onto a new horizon that he found himself but more like a perfected form between many genres. And the funny thing is that it's the vocal performance that really pulls this song through. It doesn’t seem like they are an amazing singer but they aren’t a bad singer at all. Rather, it’s the melody and the sound of the voice. It fits this genre/song so well and keeps the tonality.

25. Heavy is the Ocean - Bush

Damn, do I love Bush’s rock music now. Its post grunge guitar amps rattle the bones and a hard hitting drum set that bring you to the crowd in front of the stage. Head banging to these roaring guitars is easy and Gavin’s simple words that feel well suited for the music blends it all together. And while the song overall follows a standard song structure, it takes its time and doesn’t rush anything without it feeling like it’s taking too long. And I love the added chorus at the end right after the pause. Not many songs are able to get away with another chorus like that but Bush pulls it off. 

24. Girl From a Movie - Marketa Irglova

This song feels so magical to me. Transported to a fluffy forest and wading in the grass in the sunlight. Marketa has always had a very organic sound to her music and she continues to have that serenity within her music. And the melody of the chorus is what carries it for me. It feels like the perfect melody for a song like this and feels like the trees opening up for the sun. Almost like a polar opposite of the Frozen moment.  And the violin in this song is a perfect touch, adds to the peacefulness of the song and it’s mixed in well. It doesn’t ever take too much of a forefront but it does a great job of assisting the melody.

23. California Christmas - Switchfoot

I wasn’t really expecting a Christmas song on here at all. Usually these are in and out of the ear holes. But Switchfoot has a good knack for Christmas songs. In fact, they rarely miss on this forefront. This song feels like a perfect sequel to “interrobang” using their musical talents and songwriting on the front lines. But the chorus is really catchy and has been in my head ever since it got dropped. And the verses are so well made and Jon Foreman paints the perfect picture of what an American Christmas looks like. Love it or hate it but it's the reality. Yet,  Jon appreciates it all though and loves the warm Christmas. And the small mixing choices here all pay off well too.

22. Which of Us is to Blame? - Buffalo Hunt, Shakey Graves

Classic country but in an indie setting is rich for the heart. The guitar work on this song is lovely. Of course, it’s the tone and mood of the song that really carries this but they nail that with the two vocals working together to paint the picture. It was a little bit of a left field listen when I heard this on discover weekly but I welcomed it with open arms, enjoying the rise of classic country. Which I have really appreciated that this song commits to.

21. Bones - Imagine Dragons

It feels so weird to put Imagine Dragons on this list and this low. It’s a weird peer pressure thing cause we all make fun of the band now. Yet, despite all the bad publicity, this band still racks in tons of streams and listens. I think part of it is that we all like at least some Imagine Dragons songs but nobody can agree on which ones are good. I will hold my ground and say that this is one I like (tho Sharks was a close one). I’ll also admit that Mercury Part II wasn’t that bad. It wasn’t amazing but it was tolerable and had a handful of songs that I actually enjoyed. This chorus just hits too hard for me to pass it up. (and The Boys memes are hilarious to me).

20. Yeah, I Like You - Goo Goo Dolls

This riff is so simple but it already feels iconic with that perfect slam on the snare to start the song. Johnny’s voice is equally iconic and swings in with just as much presence. I also love the mixing on his voice and the doubling up on his voice on some verses that really helps bring different elements to the song. It really does feel like they are driving a car that won’t be stopped. It kinda sucks the rest of the album didn’t have this same drive but at leasts this song does. Oh, and the crunchy guitar and the synth on the bridge are really just icing on the cake. Right before the insanely catchy chorus.

19. Glitter - Daisy the Great

I really am interested just by the intro and then it kicks right into the song with a great rhythm. The two vocals and production of this song keeps the quality so high. The bass line is also *chef’s kiss*. Daisy the Great does an amazing job of creating an engaging song and understand songwriting really well. It gets me excited to hear what else they will put out. I didn’t get around to listening to their album so maybe that’s something I’ll do soon. But they are for sure on my radar now.

18. Daylight - Harry Styles

I’m not sure how much I should admit this but when this album first came out and I put it within my “Rotation” playlist. This song came up and I was a little confused. It sounded like a Switchfoot song from their pop years (2014-2019) but was one that was better that somehow slipped through the cracks. I then checked and it was Harry Styles and somehow that misdirection worked for me and this song became my favorite from the album. I love the fuzzy guitar he uses on it and the unique song structure that he uses, especially for a pop artist. I will say that I do remember this song catching my ear the first listens of the album, it just didn’t show up in my playlist for a bit before appearing suddenly.

17. Viva las Vengeance - Panic! at the Disco

I know it’s fun to shit on Panic! right now but this song was so promising and is so infectious. This riff lives in my head. I can’t escape it and it follows me around only to bring around the chorus (ya know, like a song does *facepalm*). But this song really is like finding the missing fossil that a museum has been missing and wanting for years. It’s unforgettable, catchy, and incorporates the best elements of new Panic! into a new era. And before anyone else says it because it’s been a thought I’ve had for a long time, this album sounded like Brendon made a Grease soundtrack. It all reeks of musicals set in high school and brings in those same musical elements of the late 70′s/early 80′s.

16. Commotion - Young the Giant

Young the Giant came into this year with a plan for their music. While I don’t think all of it landed, I would also agree that absolutely none of it was poor quality. I felt that there was a certain amount of character that they normally have that was missing. It’s like they slightly lost their touch but they are great musicians so they still made great songs. This song, however, has a country influence that I wasn’t expecting for them to embrace. It works really well and it trumps the other songs that feel more like singles that would catch a traditional indie rock listener more. But this song just continues to stand out to me and feels like a completely different band made it. It feels like a promise that Young the Giant will come back with another album that will redefine who they are better but the sound can’t be expected.

15. Drink Milk and Run - Hot Mulligan 

That scream at the beginning of the song really pulls my attention to the song. The song demands that you listen to it. And it doesn’t take long for the chorus to start and it’ll instantly have you shaking your head to the beat. It’s a song with a lot of energy and emo personality within it. And I love the line “Whoever said to pull yourself by the boot straps is a fucking joke”. It’s a song I heard a lot in November when I was helping build a holiday event and it sang in my ear the whole time. Really this whole song can be sang for my situation. Good emo song.

14. Matilda - PUP

PUP has nailed the punk sound that I love now days. It has some more brighter sounds, has a lot of energy, and is guitar driven. The verses are great, the chorus is great, and the whole song is a head banger. I said this on my album review but I’ll say it again, these songs are begging to be played live. And huge applause for the sound engineer for capturing their live sound so well. It comes through the headphones so well and really begs to be played louder and louder.

13. Magnificent - Oh Wonder

There’s some magic that Oh Wonder has over me that I can’t seem to find the practical way that they do the trick... if it is a trick. But they have some formula that gets me to love their music every time. Maybe it’s Josephine’s voice, maybe it’s Anthony’s production, or maybe it’s love for music and each other that comes through. This simple song feels effortless as they sing about the possibility of not meeting each other and where they would be now if they didn’t share names. Then it comes around to say that it wouldn’t be anything as magnificent as what they have now. Or effortless. It truly baffles me that this duo, while they have seen plenty of success, aren’t a household name. Their music never stops making a way into my heart and soul.

12. Florida - Wild Pink

The song opens with the melody on violin that it wants you to learn and remember. It feels like great foreshadowing of the rest of the song before the electronic elements start. Then the melody shifts to staggered piano chords as the violin becomes the accompaniment. Everything about this song just feels like it has a huge purpose. It’s ambient music feels like watching a sunset as this writer tells you about what makes them love being where they are. The country influence with the fiddle and second acoustic really does help bring that nostalgia tone out. It’s so well crafted that I had forgotten that this track clocks in right after 9 minutes. It does start to drag a little around the 5:30 mark but it really is only a little dip before it brings in that melody on violin again and rewarding you for sticking around in the humid air. Bonding with another human, ambition, and wondering about the future is what this song reminds me of. There’s so much emotion in this song that it kinda made other ambient tracks like it fall so short.

11. Strangest Faces - Bayside

Bayside has found their sound with Interrobang and continue of going down this road that allows their music to be hard hitting and memorable. It feels like finding a new band that’s up and coming but Bayside are veterans by this moment. They deserve so many more listeners if this next album is as good as they are making it seem like with this song. Punk combined with modern rock gives the band a sound that isn’t unique on the surface but they have earned their space within the realm by adding an energy that can’t be replicated. Strangest Faces is a promise that the best is yet to come.

10. High Hopes - Sweet Pill

While Paramore attempts their old sound with “The News” (I don’t hate the song but it doesn’t work as well for me), Sweet Pill has kindly already taken the job of modernizing that sound. The lead singer of Sweet Pill also has a powerful voice that can hold its own against other veteran acts. While this is a great feat in itself, it’s the songwriting that really sells it for me. I feel the band fully understands how to build tension and create these songs with more intention and artistry. The song doesn’t follow typical modern structures and they play with the dynamic moments well. It’s like the song is guiding them rather than the other way around.

9. Where Did You Go I’m Such a Mess These Days - Blue October

I knew it as soon as it came out as the second single. This was the Blue October I’ve been waiting to hear again. The verses are a little too stripped back but Justin’s lyrics are good enough to follow that it doesn’t bother me too much. The acoustic guitar and beat are bouncy so it’s alright. But it’s the chorus that fully surrounds you in the emotion that it’s wanting you to feel. It feels like a symphony really and it makes me want to hear this song with a whole symphony and choir with Justin in front of them. Those walls would be cleansed of any of the nasty sounds that may have fallen on them. The beat feels really well made for this song too and keeps the track a little lighter. But Justin’s production comes really handy here and I really hope he makes an album that sounds like this sometime.

8. Landlocked Surf Rock - Colony House

Rock and roll baby! This song fully embraces the coastal rock it’s one of the most fun songs they’ve made. It’s catchy and carefree but doesn’t sacrifice the music to get there. The drums and guitar combo really sell this song and keep the energy up. It’s a well crafted good time. It’s biggest downfall comes with the short run time but damn, this song is just too charismatic to really bug me that much. Hit that repeat button and let it roll!

7. Silence is Golden - The Beths

Another drum roll in! But the guitar takes control really fast by being in the forefront. The vocals keep up with the combo through the fuzz and energy. I feel what makes this song really work is just how easy it is to listen to while still feeling the impact from the song. There’s also a sense of urgency in it that is unparalleled. Nothing makes a sacrifice and it comes together with ease. The Beths had a live show in mind when making these songs and this is the best example from the album. 

6. This is Why - Paramore

What a comeback. Paramore proves they are veterans at this and aren’t messing around, especially with that bass line. But I love this as their first single as it feels so carefully made. Like it’s been on the computer for several months as they were perfecting it to make sure that the first song back is full of nutrition to bite into. This chorus hits exactly the way the intend it to. It’s catchy, rocks, and equally groovy and fuzzy. The verses are a little stripped back but I feel that adds to the anticipation to the song and Hayley’s lyrics are fun to sing to when you get a hang of a handful of words. I can say that this song feels like an instant classic for their discography.

5. Body Language - Mint Green

Now this feels like peaking too early. Mint Green cannot start their career with this song. How do you top a song like this one?! It has full understanding of a great song structure, when to go all out and pull back, and what instruments are  supposed to be in the spotlight or helping build the sound. The drums here do an amazing job of keeping the song on the right level at all times. But really the song is in full control of itself. And I cannot get over everything in the bridge and past that, those vocals are spectacular and I love what they have done with this song. It soars and it’s a high quality song.

4. King - Florence + the Machine

I’ll admit that the first half of this song is good and everything but the song doesn’t have its full impact until that little break in the middle. However, don’t ignore the first half. It’s careful to create the frame before the canvas is painted. It’s ranked this high for a reason. It still is important. The second half just has an energy that picks you up off the ground and has you hold up your flame of honor. Florence breaks into the “oh’s” and you feel every inch of it. Then the violin and a little quiet. And with this last chorus it, I feel you understand the full impact of what she is singing and you understand that it’s not a song to sing but one that must be sung. (I do wish one final chorus hit again but it’s alright).

3. Chloe - Father John Misty

The speakeasy era may have died but Father John Misty remembers. And this is the song that fully recreates that sound and commits fully to it. I really can’t stop playing this song or thinking about it. It’s so classic and I adore that he aimed as high as he could and took a shot. It’s an ambitious song that really nailed the execution. Even the big band elements coming in! Nothing was missed and I’ll be damned if I forget this song anytime soon. Bring on the small rooms filled with cigarette smoke.

2. Mr. Moralle - Kendrick Lamar, Tanna Leone

I think we all know that the bottom 3 songs of this album were some of Kendrick’s best music from this project. This is the one that caught my ear and it told me to remember it for this moment. Even after re-listening to this album, I still can’t help but choose this song as my favorite. Its synth pluck is constant, the bass line is active, and the vocal rhythm doesn’t miss a beat. The tonality of this song keeps its whole essence with dark tones and lyrics. I also 100% agree with where the song ends and love that it wasn’t dragged out or ended too soon. 

1. Window of the Waking Mind - Coheed and Cambria

Cue iconic sci-fi moment as Coheed comes in with their Magnus Opus. This song is incredible for being prog and fulfilling the ambition that Coheed has. Not one moment is missed. And that first line of lyrics brings the emotion needed after the dramatic opening. But really, this song is non-stop, veteran status musicianship and songwriting. I don’t know how many other album closers even *compare* to this one. I cannot begin to even explain what this song does for me. Every element is so perfectly placed and made. There’s so many small touches and unique techniques used that there is never a dull moment. With so many instruments and genres combined, there really isn’t anywhere higher to go. Especially with that ending that sounds like a “Empire Strikes Back” motif within their own melodies. Literally. Perfect.

[wordsandsound14]

2022 Albums of the Year

What a year it’s been. In all honesty, 2022 was a little disappointing in the album department. The albums I have on this list are all ones that I like and enjoy, don’t get me wrong. But I feel that I didn’t have an album that blew me away that normally does. However, I also didn’t have albums that I absolutely hated. Even the Panic! album that I didn’t care for isn’t an unbearable mess, it’s just not good and that’s it. Regardless, I listened to a good amount of albums from this year that I feel confident in my top 20. (I’m sure when I look at other year end lists, that my ranking will get changed. Yet, this list still feels good.) Let’s just jump in now 

20. Sometimes, Forever - Soccer Mommy

I find this album really explores the different sounds that Soccer Mommy is capable of producing. “Clean” was an introduction to her sound and “Color Theory” took that sound and made it larger. “Sometimes, Forever” doesn’t do anything unexpected but it does embrace experimental sounds that she hasn’t yet made. I adore the pinball “With U” as it launches into a electro-rock track that embraces the energy it has while still having an incredible chorus to hold the song together. “Shotgun” is another standout and the numbers back up how catchy the chorus is. It’s the most memorable song off the album and it’ll be stuck in your head. The rest of the album does a marvelous job of weaving the new ideas without feeling like two completely different thoughts, all the while still sounding like Soccer Mommy. A very unique album that will stand out in her discography with the years coming.

19. Lila - Marketa Irglova

After the long hiatus, the third album (and apparently the ending of a trilogy of albums) has finally arrived. Many know Marketa as being a member of The Swell Season and being a co-star in the film Once. Years later, we arrive at “Lila” and her long journey to where she is today. For those unfamiliar, she creates piano driven music that often focusses on the complexities and intricacies of love and its many different forms: platonic, parental, eternal, romantic, etc. She touches on a lot of topics but often, endearingly, looks at the side of love. While the short track listing is a hard pill to swallow after the wait (being only 9 tracks long), each song does feel special if you give it time to bloom. I was initially a little disappointed that after all these years and it didn’t feel like they compared to the past two albums. But living with the songs and listening to them more often proved how intricate these songs are. My personal favorite being “Girl From a Movie” with a melody that touches my soul and calms it. I hope these songs can find you where you are at and you can embrace the peacefulness they bring

18. Dance Fever - Florence + The Machine

The song “King” alone is enough to land this album on this list. Being the feminist song of the year and maybe decade, it has an ability to be empowering without feeling like there is an agenda or coming off really corny/obvious is what sets this track apart. “Cassandra” is another highlight that brings attention to the gothic fantasy that is thematically embraced by the band this time. The thing that does hold this album back is there is a series of songs on here that I don’t care for. From “Back in Town” to “Prayer Factory” is what feels like a very automatic Florence. However, everything else exceeds my expectations and fulfills that Florence scratch that I didn’t know I needed itching. I think what made this album work so well was the subtle experimentation they used. I felt like they utilized Florence’s fantasy sounding voice really well and made music that surrounded her voice well and doubled down on it. I think it’s the best decision they could have made and embracing it only created the album that we have here.

17. Hold the Girl - Rina Sawayama

There’s not a huge stand out here but this album fully showcases Rina’s ability to songwrite while fully embracing the pop genre. With her last album, she genre bounced almost as many times as she could and here she still incorporates other genres but I would still put them all in the pop genre. That being said, I fully understand why if others weren’t too fond of the this project. It doesn't feel like a betrayal from the artist but it isn’t a path that works for everyone. Without a standout, it can feel like you’re waiting for her to break the ceiling and it can feel like she never really does but if you take each individual song as it is, she does a great job of making them unique and their own. I see this album more as a collection of songs rather a complete project that has a start and finish. However, this perspective has helped me hear the songs for what they are and that each one was carefully made to be the best pop song it can be. “This Hell” being a catchy Gaga inspired song, “Hurricanes” being a momentous pop song, and “Frankenstein” being the iconic rock-pop song off the album (I think it’s an actual leftover Gaga track). Rina Sawayama is making waves as a new pop star that has no limits on her genre.

16. Chloe and the Next 20th Century - Father John Misty

This is probably the hardest album to rank. It took all year (did listen to this a little late; believe it was June when I listened to it for the first time) for this one to grow on me. Upon first listen, I felt like the title track was the only standout song (which it still is my favorite from the album) and the rest fell short of what I wanted from the 20′s inspired album. I lived with the songs some more and found some more songs from it but still felt like the songs felt a little stale. Then came late November and it’s time to re-listen to all of the albums I heard from the year so I can make my year end list and it clicked this time. Really clicked and suddenly there’s no skip tracks and it sounds super cohesive and I hear the diversity of the album. (There’s maybe one ballad that goes on too long but that was my only major complaint). It’s so well crafted and I think my only wish was that he committed to the 20′s sound more but he still did a really great job of getting that sound to the modern day. I’m sure this album will age like wine.

15. All Girls Go To Heaven - Mint Green

I did a lot of listening to Spotify’s Discover Weekly, a curated playlist of new music and this band showed up with their song “Body Language” (still my favorite from the album). I put the new songs I like in a “Rotation” playlist and I listen to them and funnel some in and out every 2 weeks. (It’s a whole system) To listen to new albums, I’ll pick a few songs that have albums attached to them. This is one of those albums that I found through this system. (Keep in mind that there are plenty of other albums but some come from last year so they don’t qualify for this year.) This album really impressed me, even though I thought there was places that it could improve on. The songwriting of this group is amazing and you can just imagine these being played in small rooms/live. You can hear their love and understanding of music through listening. These songs have such a great energy and it feels like there’s so much more of their talent for them to discover. I really can’t wait to hear what’s next for them but I also have this selection of songs to continue listening to. I also really love the dynamic of this band and having to women who sing in the band (though it seems the lineup of the band keeps changing every time I look). It’s a little difficult to rank a band on their music and not the potential of their music but they’ll land right here for now.

14. Asphalt Meadows - Death Cab For Cutie

While I’m sure Death Cab has made better albums, I feel this one is going to go under many radars of music from this year. This album showcases that they are a band who have plenty of ideas still for those still listening. I say it like I’m a longtime fan but really I only knew a handful of the bigger songs. I listened to “Plans” earlier in the year and then I saw that they dropped an album and gave it a listen also. I was pleasantly surprised when I gave it a listen and the songs have only improved with time. “Fragments From the Decade” is the perfected indie ambient music that I love from the band. “I Don’t Know How to Survive” is an excellent opener that presents the listener with confirmation that the rest of the album will be a good ride with its indie flares. “Hear to Forever” is another highlight that simply evolves with how the album is moving thematically but hits as a high point for the album. Each song is sonically interesting though and feel like they got the songs to the best of place they could get them in.

13. The Art of Survival - Bush

In 2020, Bush reinvented themselves with “The Kingdom”, opting for more of a modern hard rock sound with post-grunge. I loved the approach they did with their sound and evolving it to a place where that felt like it was appreciation to listeners who were still here after their on-and-off career. I wanted more of their recent evolution and they answered back maybe a bit too literally. It’s an album that serves as a sister album more than a sequel. But damn, this sound is really good. They don’t nail the ballad as good as they could have but all the other songs have a lot of energy to them with booming guitars and hard hitting drums. You can feel the wave of sound with every chorus that comes and the song structures are varied enough so that you never feel like it’s the same song over and over. It’s a great listen that I hope they can use it as a stepping stone for the next album. They can get away with one sister album but not two.

12. Meet the Moonlight - Jack Johnson

I hadn’t given up on Jack Johnson yet but I figured his best years were behind him, being a remnant of the 2000′s acoustic/folk scene. His past two albums didn’t seem to pushing his career forward in a significant way anymore, the first being more of a copy of his earlier work and the later feeling over-produced and sounding forced. But this album proved that he still has songs. I think the issue was that he was happy just touring, being a humanitarian, and being a family man. The studio and notebook weren’t calling him and he pushed himself to meet the page in times when it felt like his life wasn’t calling him that way. Here, you can feel that these songs were from his heart that he had something to say. The music matches the tone and Jack’s personality shines through; the Hawaiian beach ocean is almost tangible. It’s an album that feels like coming home. He has interesting songs and I’m extremely happy that he took a chance on ambient music with the title track and it ended up being my favorite from the record. It makes me happy to hear that he’s back in his element with music again.

11. It’s Almost Dry - Pusha T

I really liked Pusha T’s last effort with “Daytona” but felt that it could be expanded on in a way that could feel fully realized. “It’s Almost Dry” is the answer to that request. His hooks are impeccable and each song feels like its own. My favorite unfortunately has West attached to it and I had to make the tough call of not including it within my top 50 to not endorse West. While I know my actions alone will not really change what his reputation is, I don’t feel comfortable supporting him in any way. With that said, it doesn’t stop the music and hooks being absolutely great, with the only skip track being “Scrape It Off” as it uses a beat and plays of typical modern trap beats. But everything else is really progressive and evolves his songs in a new way. I know a lot of people say that Pusha T makes only one type of music and that you should know what you’re getting when you put on his music but idk, this album seems to prove that wrong and I might bet that’s what he was after cause no track sounds the same and I can tell he used his creativity to expand the best he could within the rap genre.

10. Where the Heart Is - Sweet Pill

Another Discover Weekly band that I found and fell in love with. The best way I can describe this band is take Paramore’s first two albums and they have recreated it without sounding like carbon copies. You can hear the heavy influence but it doesn’t take away from their own original sound. “High Hopes” was the song that got me hooked and still is my favorite with its addicting riff and high energy rock. However, the title track does make it run for the money providing a great thesis for the album. “Sometimes” is the perfect song for you if you are interested in their Paramore similarities. It’s a great callback album to the 2000′s edgy alt rock scene but moves it to a modern headspace. Overall, I’m super delighted to have found this band and am super excited to how they expand their sound next time.

9. Harry’s House - Harry Styles

Separate the art from the artist they say. I’ll do that here. And it’s not like I started hating or disliking Harry that much but the second half of this year has proved how much growing up he has left as a human. The drama behind the movie is difficult to ignore and how he is in interviews (especially surrounding the film) has made it evident that he isn’t really ready for any type of normality/reality check. Being someone who loves Harry, his daring outfits, and protest against gender norms seems like a long past now. He now seems like that annoying little brother who got famous but isn’t ready for the responsibility but is still able to BS through life. It’s complicated; he hasn’t done anything really wrong but he could be doing better. Anyways, more about the music since that’s what this is about. Harry’s ability to create insanely catchy pop hooks and do it successfully 12 times is truly a feat. And a good portion of them are fully realized and the others work well as shorter songs. He doesn’t try to push an idea further than it needs to if he doesn’t know how to fill that space. “Boyfriends” is the only song that I feel falls short. Everything else keeps up with the rest of discography. This album might be a little more simple musically, goes for the pop production, and sticks to shorter songs but I feel that these choices benefit the album majority of the time. There’s a song for everyone in here and Harry’s House is a good addition to his portfolio.

8. Spinning the Truth Around (Part 1) - Blue October

Blue’s last album was such a major disappointment. I felt like a lot of it was overproduced and that a lot of songs didn’t get fully realized. And it sucks because there’s a “fan reason” behind it that really seems to be true for this band. It goes something like this: “Justin (Blue October frontman) only makes music if he isn’t doing well. I’m happy that he’s finally happy and in a good place but the music doesn’t hit like it used to when he was depressed and anxious all the time.” And well... he made some really good music. The news is that he’s going through a divorce with his second wife. Luckily, it’s not even close to how messy the first divorce went. It seems like they just grew apart and didn’t feel their marriage was what it was supposed to be nor did it feel right for them. Yet, that still is a gut punch and you can hear it in the songs where Justin talks about this topic. He perfectly walks you through the emotions of losing a love that you still love. The anger, the sadness, the confusion, the passion, the acceptance, the etc. The greatest thing to come out of this album is how diverse their sound has become. While there’s still a glossy pop production to the album, there’s a lot of different sounds and approaches to songwriting. I can hear the band really pushing themselves to make great songs here and it really pays off. “Where Did You Go I’m Less of a Mess These Days” is my favorite for its soaring chorus and gut wrenching words. “How Can You Love Me If You Don’t Even Like Me” is groovy and incorporates its dark tone with its ambient sound. “Change” is a super unique, sleek rock song that I wouldn’t have seen coming from the band. I’ll let you listen to it but I’m super excited for Part 2 if it continues this new ambition within the band.

7. THE UNRAVELING OF PUPTHEBAND- PUP

PUP seems to have found their sound and seems super comfortable with exactly how to expand that sound while maintaining it. They nailed a great sound with their last album “Morbid Stuff” and continue by going a little harder but continue with their great energy punk with indie rock. While I’m not a fan of the interlude songs in-between the longer songs, they are quick. But every normal length song on here is an absolute blast to listen to. They’re snappy, punchy, and rock really hard. “Matilda”, “Robot Writes a Love Song”, and “Habits” are the highlight tracks but it’s really hard to hand pick the songs off from here when each one is so well made. It’s an album that you can hear it being played live just by listening to the studio recording (but I kinda wanna hear it in a small room too).

6. 22 Make - Oh Wonder

Last year saw the return of Oh Wonder. Not that they went away but their album before “Nobody Can Wear Your Crown” felt like Oh Wonder on autopilot. 22 Break had urgency, creativity, and passion. It felt like that music was the only route for them to work through this part of their life. 22 Make is 2nd part of the album, a sister album. The first half explored how their struggles, doubts, and conflicts lead to a difficult first year of marriage. This album is reaffirming themselves through all the pain that they truly love each and backing away from their marriage and time together would be for the worse. The love is bleeding through the sound and the choice to stay in a relationship after a time of hardship is never more beautifully displayed than here. While there’s a bit more tendency for pop production compared to the first one, this still has a lot of creative ideas and unique sounds. Oh Wonder has still yet to really branch into something unknown but they have continually made interesting songs and sounds the accompany their music. Also the more time passes, the better Anthony’s production skills get. His beats, mixing choices, and selection of effects are really spectacular. Truly a producer I’m inspired by.

5. Are You Happy Now? - Jensen McRae

Discover Weekly really brought me to an artist here that has such a bright future in front of her. Comparable to Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus, Jensen McRae’s lyrics and indie folk music is soulful, introspective, and meaningful. “Wolves” is commentary on average predatory men and how they affect women’s lives. “Adam’s Rib” is a desperation we all feel from unrequited or decaying love that is out of our hands. “Dead Girl Walking” was my introduction and utilizes its infectious beat to display her insecurities and stress. Her ability to share her thoughts well, keep the lyrics intimate, and the music interesting are welcome in the realm in highly praised modern folk songwriters mentioned above. Her album really caught me off guard tho. On the surface, she’s an indie artist that has a good knack for interesting songs but nothing that really jumps out. The moment you realize what she’s doing and how she sings really changes that perspective and tells you how wrong you are. There’s a lot more depth and letting these songs sing to you is the key to listening.

4. HOLY FVCK - Demi Lovato

Even with all of the discover weekly finds this year, this is still the biggest left field album for me this year. I’ve never listened or been interested in her music. I heard her music was actually rock this time and I kind of assumed people who said this were stretching the truth and it would sound way more like pop than rock. (kinda like Avril’s release) But I gave it a chance so I could have my own opinion and I was so surprised with what I found. Actual rock music... like what I was told. There are definitely some songs that have a pop sound to them but she never leaves the realm of rock music. Two biggest complaints is that there isn’t a song that super stands out to me and the track listing is bloated. I enjoy the whole track listing so it’s a little difficult to eliminate songs but it does indeed drag. Anyways, I was really taken back with how hard these songs rock and how ambitious it is for a pop artist to commit to a sound that would seemingly alienate the target pop audience. This album could have flopped (for Demi standards) and I may have never heard it. But she nails each of these songs and doesn’t make any adjustments for her audience. On top of it all, these songs are super honest with the listeners. She doesn’t sugar coat her experience the past years and has so much self-awareness. It’s how we get songs like “29″ and “SKIN OF MY TEETH” on how she realizes what her choices, things that have happened to her, and everything in between has affected. It’s her art and she made sure it was her story. It’s an impressive album and is executed as so. (I do also apologize if excluding them/them pronouns is harmful. It is not my intention to inflict harm. I remembered their pronouns changed at the beginning of this year. I thought it was she/her but it was they/her. Since they do go by she/her pronouns currently, I’ll keep my wording the way it is but I did not want to exclude they/them without mentioning those pronouns in a disclaimer at least.)

3. Vaxis II: Window of the Waking Mind - Coheed and Cambria

This is one of the most consistent bands of modern day. I understand that they aren’t for everybody but I find their music has always been so carefully made. This time, they took a few notes from classic metal and made the bold decision of making the majority of their songs shorter. If you aren’t familiar with the band, they are a modern Prog Rock band. Prog is known for their story driven albums and longer songs (Rush and Pink Floyd are well known classic Prog bands). While Coheed has a story within their album, it doesn’t need to be known to like or even connect with their music. I do think it helps knowing that there is a story so if something feels a bit narrative, you’ll understand why. However, Coheed has always done a wonderful job of displaying the emotion of the narrative if there is a story element happening. This is all beautifully displayed on the title track, which really feels like a Magnus opus. All of their skills, learning, and creativity reaches its max with this song. While you can jump into it if you really need to, the payoff is way better when the whole album is listened to so the last song has the impact that it has. Your mind will subconsciously pick up on the journey of the album and the final song will conclude this story well. They also lead this album off right where the last album drops off (more listening if you end up liking the band) with the melody of “Unheavenly Creatures”, which is thematically satisfying. Then you have the electrifying “Comatose” and the anthemic “The Liar’s Club”. And if that’s not enough, the band really experimented and mixed their sound with a Eurovision sound in “A Disappearing Act”. It’s a solid release from a band that continues to display their growing talent and professionalism as musicians.

2. Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers - Kendrick Lamar

I’m unsure if this is a hot take or not. All I can say is that Kendrick did a daring move and instead of tackling racism again after the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement, he took a step away to focus on his family trauma and his healing process through therapy. I feel like he even stepped away from flashy hooks in an attempt to make music that felt like less of a product and one that told his story. At first, I was thinking this project would land lower on my list, remembering that the songs felt like they missed the musical creativity that Kendrick offers more of and it sometimes felt like sitting in on his therapy sessions vs listening to a creative project. However, upon re-listening, I don’t feel that way anymore. These songs now feel like an old best friend that I’ve been needing to connect with again and I had put it off. These songs become personal in the same way that they are to him. They keep their impact, the theming becomes so much purposeful, and his execution of this album is precise. There’s so much depth and importance in what he’s saying: “Stop tiptoeing around the conversation”, “I’ve got daddy issues and that’s on me”, and “So I set myself free from all the guilt I thought I made.” There’s a deep sense of self healing and helping his loved ones with their healing. He’s tired of the damage that has been done and the passing of the damage with generation to generation. Hurt people hurt people. He decided that instead of continuing the conversation of racism he started, he wanted to start a new one on generational trauma. While I think a lot of us were doing healing ourselves at the same time during the pandemic, I don’t think there is a better example of this process than this album.

1. Expert in a Dying Field - The Beths

It’s a tough choice between this album and Kendrick’s. I went with this one because of how consistent it is in comparison. Kendrick’s album is a bit like a roller coaster of what works and what doesn’t. And sure, it does feel weird to have an album like this at my number 1 but it really has topped my list for best album. This album is full of amazing songwriting and consistently delivers throughout its runtime, plateauing at a high line. The Beths also take great notice to incorporate parts of different genres within their indie rock sound. Punk, 2000′s pop, and adult contemporary. And it sure sounds like a weird and maybe boring mix of genre’s but it never leaves the realm of indie rock. The catchy melodies with lyrics that paint a picture of different relationships and the aftermath of them are surrounded by carefully curated guitar tones. It’s an easy album to listen to but doesn’t sacrifice musicality, lyrics, or enjoyment. It’s a really solid album that keeps every song interesting and fun. Give this energetic album a chance and you’ll soon be singing along to the choruses of these songs. Maybe you too can be an expert in a dying field. 

[wordsandsound14]

no hate, but who called greatest hits awsten's solo project? i've never heard that.

Jon from ARTV and I agree for some of the songs, which they said was for half the album. Sometimes it doesn't sound like the whole band is there making songs, especially in the rhythm department.

[wordsandsound14]

Top Album 2021

Honestly, this year was a weird one for music. Those that I expected to to really impress and thought it was an easy win for the artist, ended up disappointing me far worse than I could have anticipated. Then those who thought were going to make a mediocre album or something that I didn’t think would click with me, made some really good music this year. I ended up listening to a lot of singles this year but I still listened to plenty enough to make a top 20.

20. = - Ed Sheeran While this album isn’t super great by any means and still doesn’t come close to +, it still is a really interesting and solid release. The experimentation with instruments and going back to having simple love songs while still maintaining a pop sound is what his focus was here. If it says anything, I like all the songs except for the lead single, “Bad Habits.” The incredibly catchy but strange “Shivers,” the piano driven “Joker and the Queen,” and embracive “Tides.” It’s worth a listen and it revived hope for me that Ed for sure has more music in him.

19. Valentine - Snail Mail While this album doesn’t compare to her first one, it sure is a really interesting route for her to take on this album. She strips away the ambiance that she covered herself in and chooses a more organic instrumentation. I didn’t think I would hear Snail Mail in this form for a long time but it’s incredibly ambitious to make this choice as her second album. The first half of this album is super good and only falls out a little for the second half before making it up with the last song. However, the easy win is the title track, which foreshadows the rest of the album but has a soaring chorus that just absolutely sells the listen to the album.

18. Greatest Hits - Waterparks I didn’t think this album would make my year end but here it is. It’s a really strange listen and has been described as Awsten’s solo project. And while I agree, there’s just some really good songs in here, especially in the first half of the album. I thought it would sound more all over the place when I listened to it again but it still keeps my attention. There’s some huge problems with album and we’ve seen better output from the band but I’m not gonna deny that the songs I like on here go in the category of being ones I’ll remember Waterparks for.

17. Departures - Jon Foreman While it’s strange to have an album titled this way and a good portion of the songs are older ones found on old hard drives and lost folders on a computer, they are still some of the most different songs Jon has made. We have the ambient and adventurous “The Ocean Beyond The Sea,” the super catchy “Education,” and the odd poem that is “The Valley of the Shadow of Planned Obsolescence.” It’s only brought down by it’s more average songs and the lack of universal themes in those songs.

16. Typhoons - Royal Blood While this isn’t the best Royal Blood record, there is no denying how ambitious this album is. Not every song hits but the ones that do are super infectious. From the title track, opening track, and the amazing “Boilermaker,” This album makes rock like it never was before. After this record, I’m now super interested in what direction Royal Blood will take their career in if they keep the ambition that this album displays

15. Heights - Walk the Moon This album just reeks (in a good way lol) of a healthy mindset after a bandmember gets kicked out and the lead singer feels more and more comfortable in their identity as a person. There’s a couple songs in here that don’t really fit but, overall, this album feels like a checkpoint along the road of their career. Making songs that I don’t think they would if the past events didn’t happen. And while the indie sound of Walk the Moon is long gone, this sound and tone are welcome.

14. Evermore - Taylor Swift Evermore has the incredibly difficult job of naturally being comparable to “folklore.” You’ll like one more than the other. And oddly enough, the complaints that I had with “folklore” got answered here. Different instruments, different themes, and better use of Swift’s vocals. However, I still easily prefer “folklore” still. It’s songs are just the perfect sweet spot and display everything I wanted from Swift. That being said, Evermore is still a really good album. I used it as the basis of my year end list to mark the spot as an album that’s an overall good album. And this album still has those improvements from “folklore” that I was really wanting.

13. Birdtalker - Birdtalker I’m always so mad at Birdtalker that it takes so long to get into their albums. On the surface with a small handful of listens to their album, it’s just alright; it doesn’t sound special but it’s still solid. Then I decide to live with it and, at that moment, these songs start to expand and really shine. The infectious rhythm and groove of “Tides,” the beautiful and graceful “Dawn,” and the sing along anthem of “Right on Time.” I still feel that Birdtalker is working themselves into their own and still perfecting their craft but I also feel that they are making some great songs already.

12. Blue Weekend - Wolf Alice If you heard this album, I’m sure you’re surprised to see it here. I like this album, it’s on this list. However, I like their other albums more. This one passes by and I know I heard good music and I can still pick out the sound and great songs but it doesn’t bring me in like their past two albums. With that said, this is the album that just makes their songs feel super precise. Whatever song they want to make, they can make it. Their skills as musicians are maxed and it only gets higher from here. They sound super complete and it really feels like an underrated band that is right under the line of breaking into the ground of being known and considered a modern classic band.

11. Van Weezer - Weezer Idk if it’s cheating putting 2 albums of the same artist on this list but I’m doing it anyways, especially when the output is this consistent and great. This is easily the lesser album of the two but I do feel like this one got misunderstood or judged to harshly. It’s a super fun album and I’ll stand by that. “Hero” is a song that still uses the Weezer formula but doesn’t feel a moment stale, “The End of the Game” represents the album the best while being the best from the theme of this album, and the rest of the songs become ones that you can read the title and hear the chorus in your head, which is always super impressive. It’s fun and the bad lyrics don’t bring this album down that much for me.

10. 30 - Adele Oh, how I missed Adele’s songs. While I still miss some of her earlier work, she does a great job of incorporating that sound but with the pop perspective. The word that comes to mind when I think of this album is classy. Think of this as a live album in front of an exclusive audience with champagne bottles, suites and dresses, and quiet conversation but Adele stops it with her songs. I think Adele hit it out of the park on telling her story and taking a musical direction that felt fully in her control. Not every song works, especially her ones that felt made for singles but she seems happy with her work and that’s all that can be asked for.

9. Happier Than Ever - Billie Eilish While it’s not to the ambition and heights of her first album, this is a mature and intentional release. This is also the album I felt was going to get ranked a lot lower than it actually did. I originally felt that this album was just alright but taking some time away and then coming back really opened up my ears to how much I liked these songs. “Your Power” is really well written track that doesn’t reach further than it should, “Not My Responsibility” features words said in the perfect way and time with minimal instrumentation, and “Oxytocin” is the experimental and fun that we like about Billie. Majority of the album utilizes minimalism and doesn’t try to overcrowd itself, for better or worse. Mostly for the better.

8. Into the Mystery - NEEDTOBREATHE I honestly didn’t think the band would comeback with an album I liked without it being a slow process. They were headed in the direction of overproduced rock/pop that wasn’t working for me. I assumed that this may be it for me and this band. Then I saw this and it gave me hope. Then I listened to it and it was exactly what I was hoping this band to sound like. While the songs don’t feel like the strongest they’ve made (lyrically and structurally), they nailed what I loved about this band. The folk rock is for the soul and I honestly can’t get enough. It’s a great album that takes me away to their cabin to sing some songs with them.

7. Inside - Bo Burnam These songs are structured so well. And it’s not to say that comedians can’t make good music but their art is usually super niche and usually only use an acoustic guitar or bad keyboard music. However, Bo turned that all on its head and opened the door for the genre while making really fun songs in the process. The loaded run time doesn’t matter when each song feels really fun to listen to. On top of that, the covers that I’ve been hearing have all been interpreting these songs in a really unique way that’ll have me listening to Bo’s songs even more. Bo highlighted our summer and we had no idea that it was coming.

6. Phantom Burn - Hannah Wyatt Usually when classmates release music, I check out the first half of a song before going about my business because they usually didn’t make anything that different. However, Hannah made quiet, folk music that scratched an itch that’s difficult to reach. I can’t overstate how good this album is. While “Gatlinburg” is the only standout song for me, the album walks through its songs and I stay for the listen. The quiet somber songs don’t drag though. It takes its time and nothing feels rushed in the process. I do feel that it’s a song or two too long but it’s a small nitpick. The most I can tell you is to give this album a chance.

5. Medicine at Midnight - Foo Fighters We all thought the Foos were going to be coasting for the rest of their career. Dave Grohl kept saying this next album is super ambitious and amazing and it wouldn’t match the words he said. We all doubted again, especially after they lead with the worst song from the record. However, we were wrong this time and the lead single has grown a lot on me (still the worst one but it’s not terrible). “Making a Fire” is proof that there’s way too much fuel left in the Foos and they can keep up with making good songs and evolving their sound without losing their audience. The most I can say is we really can’t ever count the Foo Fighters out.

4. 22 Break - Oh Wonder Somehow I still like Ultralife more. Somehow I believe Oh Wonder still has higher potential. Not to say that I feel that this album lacks anything that I want. More so, I feel that in a better mindset they may have been able to add more. I’m not sure how to really describe it, especially when this album is ranked so high. I think it’s because I’m hopeful for the future of this duo and how much higher I feel they can go, especially after an album like this that completely contradicted their last album that sounded like coasting. Anyways, this album doesn’t waste your time and stays at 30 minutes even though it doesn’t feel like it’s as short as it is. Josephine opens this album with words that strip everything away too the core of a relationship and the emotions surrounding the struggle of being with someone and the conflict that comes with a fight that you’re not even sure what it’s about anymore. Somehow they wrote words so plain and yet so effective. And the touch of the sax. Chef’s kiss

3. Ok Human - Weezer I’m really glad that Weezer took the time to make a record like this. One that feels like a return of mid career Weezer but only taking the good parts. It’s the normal quirky that the band is known for but the lyrics don’t have a facade of silliness. They cut deep into Cuomo’s real thoughts and touch on important topics without losing that charm of Weezer, which seems like a target so difficult to hit. Then on top of that, we are also given a new approach and utilizes string driven songs. All recorded analog just to add on, which is really cool and I feel it gives more sincerity to the project. I don’t have much to say other than if you like Weezer, this one will be a great one and non weezer fans have made up their minds about the band.

2.  interrobang - Switchfoot I honestly thought this band was done. Past two records were a pale version of what they used to be. Their return felt promised in only select songs from average albums. Which really sucks cause they’re my favorite band. But it seemed like it was made clear that Switchfoot wasn’t interested in making songs that weren’t popped influenced or have modern production habits. And then interrobang came out. They made a record only they could make and it feels like fresh air. Jon also finally talked on topics that felt relevant and it really pays off by being important and equally timeless. The 60′s influence runs through the album but never feels overbearing like a gimmick or underutilized. It’s a quirky but approachable. It’s thoughtful but not preachy. It’s Switchfoot but with consistently good songs. I could talk about this album all day and how I’m happy with what it means for the band.

1. Life in Your Glass World - Citizen I was not all the rave about their last album. I still liked it, don’t get me wrong, but something didn’t click like I felt like it should for me. I wasn’t hearing that drive and push. And I was close to not checking out this album but I just kept hearing about how good this album was. That moment changed my life. Hearing this record is like hearing rock in a perfect form. There’s a lot of drive, there’s experimenting, and it’s really good songwriting. Every song here hits and is the best version of itself. From getting up to dance “Death Dance Approximately,” the acoustic, catchy, and thoughtful title track, and to the really steady rest of the album and notably “Call Your Bluff.” It’s just easily the most fully realized album from the year and 100% deserves your listen.

[wordsandsound14]

2021 in a chestnut

Love the year end lists and this year had a bunch of music. I have a spotify playlist to check out these songs and thought I would give a little description next to them also. Anyways, check out my top 50 songs from this year https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4Y79BEXch8DQz78Sz7TFck

50. Coming Home - The Haunted Youth. This song instantly puts me in a good mood, a common theme for this year. I love light hearted indie music and this one is no exception. It’s a summer night and there’s nothing else to want.

49. Romeo (feat. bas) - Jungle. I love how jumpy this song is. The beat constantly gives the feeling of bobbing up and down. Then add that indie flavor and it really gives an interesting sound that’s layered really well with the guitar and background vocals

48. Attempt - Far Caspian. It’s been a little bit since I listened to Far Caspian. But I was relieved to hear one of their songs again. The blue that’s in their music still gets to me but this song feels a little hopeful also. I love the driving guitar that keeps the song moving

47. Play the Greatest Hits - Wolf Alice. I knew as I heard Wolf Alice’s new album that I was in love with one of their faster paced songs. This is the one that I ended feeling more energized from. Tho, this album is filled with some really stellar songs so go check it out.

46. Poison - Moodring. This is one that barely made the list since it got released late November so it had a small amount of time to make a big impression. And I just get pulled in with the somber guitars and lyrics. Then switches over to a pop vocal melody for the chorus.

45. The Time of Our Lives - Mild Orange. We’re starting to get into songs that I can hear all the time. Just something about the way this song sounds that I can’t get out of my head. It seems like I’ve known this song for so much longer.

44. Fixed Gear - Snarls. It’s obviously a great indie film soundtrack moment for driving at the end. But this is just a song that sings your heart for the days that you know you’ll remember.

43. Morning Bells - Hether. This was so early this year and I’m honestly surprised I didn’t rank it higher but the quirky ambient sounds this song creates are ingrained in my head and I love it when the song starts and then the song picks up a minute later and it’s all bliss from there.

42. Colorado - Milky Chance. God, I think Milky Chance knew they had a really good song here. And I love their rhyming in the chorus. It’s a well constructed song that you just have to bob your head with.

41. I Love Money - Scoobert Doobert. If you aren’t singing along or have it stuck in your head, I don’t think you were listening. It’s infectious and has a really nice groove to it.

40. boundary issues - Girlhouse. While I’m not the biggest fan of the intro, there’s no denying the song when it really starts. I want to say so much about this song but it’s just such a great light, happy song that you have to hear it for yourself.

39. SYNCOPATE - Michelle. I was so surprised and upset when I learned how long this song was! I could’ve sworn this song was longer! Anyways, you’ll want more but it’s also perfect the way it is. Love the backing vocals and how direct the song is.

38. Just The Two of Us - Grayson Hamm. I love the slow ambient sound this song creates. It sinks me in so quickly. The simple instrumentation is also such a nice touch since I feel this song could have easily felt crowded.

37. Mystery - Ralph Castelli. The intro of this song is so distinct indie/lofi. It’s textbook. And the way the song keeps it up is amazing. This is one of those essential indie songs and I really hope other’s love it as much as I do.

36. outside the party, inside the dream - cehryl. For all the Snail Mail, Soccer Mommy, and depressing ambient songs, this one is for you. It nails the sound that I was missing from those two.

35. Into the Mystery - NEEDTOBREATHE. Picking a song from this album was probably the hardest. There’s no big standout song imo but a plenty good album. But I feel this song got the sound the best I was craving from this band, especially when they first announced the album and what it would sound like.

34. Trigger - Hayley Williams. This song just pulls at the heart and just begs you to stop and listen to it, even amongst other songs that sound similar to it. It’s lyrically interesting while keeping the emotion. A song to wish to write first.

33. Dry Fantasy - Mogwai. For those that love minecraft music or simple ambient tracks with no singing, this is one for you. I didn’t even remember this song that much until I put it in one of my playlists and it fit so well that I couldn’t stop thinking of it within the context. Or I finally saw it’s true colors and fell in love. 

32. Hero - Weezer. Don’t worry they get another song on the list, just chose 1 from each album but I loved this song the moment I heard it. It’s got drive and power! But it also just tugged at something in my heart and it said it in the Weezer way that reached so quickly.

31. No Chances - Twenty One Pilots. This is the song that felt like it got ripped straight out of Trench. It’s also got amazing production! Listen with the bass up! This song shouldn’t be as interesting as it is due to it’s straightforward songwriting but it’s easily my favorite from the album. It’s just the cool side of TOP that they nailed so perfectly.

30. Planet and Body - Parra for Cuva. This song takes you on a full drive at night. Taking poorly lit, low patrolled highways that passes just outside the city and neon lights. It’s a vibe for sure and it just tenses my muscles up with the speed of the car (of course in the good way)

29. Catholic Country (feat. Feist) - Kings of Convenience. Save this song for a quiet rainy day. It’s a simple song but it’s sweet and digs it’s way into my heart. Love that there are two singers here since I feel it adds so much to the dynamic of the song.

28. How the World Works - Bo Burham. How do pick a song off from this album/special? I chose this one since it’s the one that got stuck in my head the most. It’s also the one that makes me smile the most. Bo is also a really great songwriter and I think this song shows that really well.

27. Ready for Tomorrow - The Babe Rainbow. How can a song take you to a bar but take the spirit to the lights flowing above everyone in there? It’s a buzzed song for sure but it doesn’t really care since it’s feeling itself. I love how this song doesn’t feel rushed either.

26. Here It Comes - Benny Sings. A great mellow track that traces itself to the back of you brain. Imprinting itself into your brain with its chorus that doesn’t get old. And the choice in the beat production is perfect for molding it all together.

25. I Hate People - Deathsport. I really wanted to come to this song as unbiased as possible since the title of the song is just tooo perfect. And then it came on during a shuffle and I knew that I wasn’t wrong. It’s just a great indie alt rock song with a great bass line.

24. Don’t You Feel Amazing? - Trash Boat. This song shouldn’t be this good! The production value is what gets this song ranked so high. While the rest of the album doesn’t keep the production as high, this one song is enough. Everything hits just so hard hear mixed so beautifully

23. Gold (feat Carly Bannister) - Ellie Holcomb. I just fell in love with this song because it felt like my wife was singing the chorus to me. I’d hear it and i felt comforted when she wasn’t around. Reminded of how much love she has for me and the thoughts in my head can shut up for these 3 minutes.

22. Talking Walls - Uma. Another love song, Ik. But this is such a calm song that just wants to bring tranquility and peace. It’s soft and sweet. Feels like a gentle hug.

21. Your Power - Billie Eilish. Man, this is just a sucker punch. It sucks that the world is the way it is and men have to be a source of some of that. I just really appreciate this song and that it was really well made and careful about the subtext of each word.

20. Yellow (coldplay cover) - IAN SWEET. Listen, IAN SWEET you chose a really well written song so you better promise to make it unique and not just profit off from good songwriting. Oh!?! Yeah, this version takes the lyrics and reminds you of what it was like to listen to this song but also entangled in its lyrics.

19. Friend of a Friend - Robert Lilly. This song ended up setting the bar of what my indie songs of the year should reach and man did Robert set the bar high. I just couldn’t shake this song from my brain waves. Be running in my head at work.

18. Lowkey as Hell - Waterparks. Listen, the verses are alright but the chorus (especially the later one) is what makes this song for me. I just feel like belting it out whenever I hear it. It’s just soo good that it made it this high by mostly the chorus.

17. It’s Not You - Chet Faker. Chet Faker was killing it this year, go check out their songs. But this song was just so fun to sing along with and the bass groove made it so easy. It’s a well layered and written song. Just nailed a good song moment.

16. colimba - rocomoco. I love a good lofi song and it’s been a while since an upbeat one came along. And this is so simple but it dove into me and I couldn’t get enough of this little song.

15. La Nieve - Las Ligas Menores. The indie rock song that just vibed really hard and I didn’t even understand a word of it. The guitar tones and rhythm are perfection and the singers voice. Iconic really. Hope to hear more from them.

14. Tala Tannam - Mdou Moctar. An African Folk song just really pushed life and energy into my life in a way that I would have never imagined. The rhythm on this song is amazing! Using the acoustic guitar to fulfill both the rhythm and melody is so unique. Something rarely seen in mainstream music. Incredible work here.

13. Gatlinburg - Hannah Wyatt. A friend from college that posted her album and I gave it a listen and fell in love with her folk sound. If you like this song, you’ll love the rest but this song is the one that perfects her lyrics and folk sound, making use of banjo, violin, and guitar. It’s a song from the folky mountain towns for sure.

12. Get Down - Still Woozy. Indie alt pop perfection. The melody is sooo goood. I know as soon as this song came on that I’d be good on listening for the next minutes.

11. Don’t Let the Neighborhood Hear - Oh Wonder. The production from Anthony is really good on this song. The more I hear it, the more I hear of all the things he did to make this song so nuanced. And then the lyrics just hit home for every couple I feel. It’s truthful in a way that I feel is difficult to achieve.

10. Interior People - King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard. Alright, you can’t open up with a dulcimer and not have me immediately engaged, especially with a melody like that. Then top it off with a chorus that’s that good! It’s a really good song that feels fully realized.

9. Numbers - Weezer. Rivers just wrote a song that I couldn’t shake. Writing a song that felt like taken words from me. And I love how each band member do a really good job on making sure of doing their best without covering the other up.

8. Valentine - Snail Mail. The soaring chorus and easy to sing with. Snail Mail gave all she could with this song and it shows. It’s infectious and brilliant. She made a song that I didn’t think she would and nailed it.

7. Monday - The Regrettes. Another indie alt rock track but it only gets better. God I love this song and hearing it always feels so fun and great. Literally have me locked in on this artist now.

6. if i were you - Switchfoot. Switchfoot made a comeback that I wasn’t expecting and this song was the one that I couldn’t escape. And it used the 60′s sound to the best advantage. And the songwriting and how the song flows, genius. I can’t get enough of it.

5. Death Dance Approximately - Citizen. I wasn’t expecting citizen to make an album that would hit this hard. And make an emo/post hardcore song so dancable and catchy. Just sing with me about life falling apart while showing off those dance moves.

4. Making a Fire - Foo Fighters. This song soars! It hits heights that I’ve been waiting for the Foos to hit for some time now. The energy and drive of this song is unlike any other song of their career and I just want to feel as high as this song all the time.

3. Boliermaker - Royal Blood. This song smacks and it does it every time. Even on the days when I’m tired of this song, I’m still jamming just as hard the time before. Glad this song landed on their dance rock album cause I feel that made it pop the most with this producer.

2. Last Words - Jon Foreman. I feel this song every single time it comes on. The questions and desperation makes the soul just yearn for peace this song searches for. It’s so well written lyrically. Just sitting in a dark room with this song is enough for a lifetime.

1. Every Day Is Sunday - Yovote. They got me. A voice sample, a feel good indie song, and one that refused to get boring. And the lyrics outside of the voice sample are so good. And the amount of layering. This song was just everything for me.

[wordsandsound14]

Switchfoot albums ranked (not including interrobang)

I've been thinking about this a lot too recently. Ik I'm late to the party on this one but I don't get on reddit often. Only got on since the band did the ama. I won't include interrobang since it's so new and ranking it seems difficult. (worst to best)

11. Learning to Breathe - While this record has some of the best written songs (Learning to Breathe, The Loser, Love is the Movement), it also has some of my least favorites (Poparazzi, Innocence Again, Living is Simple). I often just find myself bored with this album and disappointed. There are plenty of dipping of toes in ideas and then abandoning them. For instance, the beginning of Erosion is such a cool unique sound and then it's abandoned for the rest of the song. The themes of this album are also really boring to me, even when I was a christian. I just found it wasn't taking a unique perspective or doing anything different with its themes when they have done so before.

10. Where the Light Shines Through - I feel this was the band when they were the most uninspired. It feels like it was trying to sell itself to the CCM crowd and make some waves there since it's been the most consistent place of making waves and it still didn't do that. Don't get me wrong, there are great songs here (If the House Burns Down Tonight, Float, Holy Water). The first half of this album is super good. It's that back half that feels like an axe to the first half. Every song on the back half has something that disappoints me. And I'm fine with christian themes and all but it felt like this album had more just praise songs vs the questioning of faith. Would've been a great EP and it kinda made sense that they went into hiatus after this album. I also feel that the themes of the album didn't really make it to it. Jon talked about how he was in a some struggle and storm before the album and then by the time they got recording it more so became an album after the storm. And I just wonder what was going on. Cause there's only small hints. I can only feel that an album that actually talked about that or coming out of the storm would've worked but we got way after the storm and leaving a lot of good inspiration behind in a ball of mystery that we still don't know about. I don't need to know every information that he went through but the songs got effected by it.

9. New Way to be Human - I think what holds this album down the most is it's lack of direction. I can feel them trying to tackle all of their ideas from folk to pop to indie while maintaining their identity. I just don't feel these ideas get fully fleshed out. But these songs are really well written and the philosophy bleeding into these tracks and ending up being a basis of many future songs can all be tracked back to this album. This album is just a very specific listen so I don't often turn to this album. I do think Something More is the most overlooked song, with Amy's song being a close second. I also think Incomplete is a just a better version of I Turn Everything Over so it feels like a repeat track. But I really appreciate what this record represents in their career and see it as a stepping stone of sorts. (Company Car is one of their best earlier works)

8. Native Tongue - Seems a lot of people have very different feelings about this work. I think the biggest thing that makes Native Tongue feel distinct is that it feels like a Jon Foreman project with Switchfoot. Like Jon was the only one who couldn't stay away from the studio and was calling the other members. They came and were happy to but it was Jon with the initiative. At least, it's how it sounds to me. A lot of these ideas are incomplete. But when they aren't, they hit really well (Native Tongue, Dig New Streams, Oxygen). And the amount of trying different things! Granted a lot of ideas of modern production ideas but I'm glad they happened. But some I'm not too fond of (Joy Invisible, Wonderful Feeling, The Strength To Let Go). I feel this album also really fell short without a good producer. It's not the production value that doesn't work but Switchfoot works best when there is a producer there that works with them and pushes them. I fell they could have been better but it also has some solid songs in here.

7. Legend of Chin - This is one of the most fun Switchfoot records but has such a distinct sound and charm to it. I understand that a lot of songs are about girls that Jon doesn't even know any more but there isn't a bad song on here. It's all just fun from 3 guys jamming in a room. I used to not like the closing track but it's grown on me and I crave that sound more and more. Some standout tracks are Home, Chem 6A, You. With Underwater being a super creative song. I don't have a ton to say other than this is root Switchfoot and their cores are on display here.

6. Fading West - I feel this is their most misunderstood record. The struggle this album went through is tremendous. Take the two best things Switchfoot is known for and strip them away and they still make a record worth listening too imo. It's not their best but it's really ambitious, even if accidental. Originally, they were going to only strip the guitars away but when you listen to the story of Fading West, going on a journey to feel inspired. There are plenty of lines hinting that Jon was having writer's block (blood clot pen). It does mean the lyrics suffered some here but I don't think they suffered a ton. They achieved the california surf music. However, I do think they missed a huge part that I feel the fans were wanting. It's the sound that's on the ep. It's the one we were advertised and didn't receive on the album. I would loved if the album had the sound of Edge of the Earth (the song). But I really appreciate the risk cause it's a huge one. (stand out tracks: Love Alone Is Worth the Fight, BA55, Slipping Away).

5. Vice Verses - This was the best they have ever been as musicians (you could argue this for Oh Gravity too tho). But the amount of pushing their musical talent is very apparent on this album. The bass lines and drum rhythms are amazing. The only songs I'm kinda eh about are Rise Above It (still has great production and energy) and The Original (still has amazing bass and guitar parts). This album does have a weird issue with the lyrics either hitting really deep parts of your heart or being a very vague or simple line. The production is also the best imo and everything is layered super well. The only production that I disagree on is on Where I Belong (the digital claps for why and some parts sounding a little inconsistent with the rest of the album). But the choices in the sounds of the guitars and genre jumps and the grunge. Still lacking in some areas but still a solid record. (Holds my favorite Switchfoot song Thrive)

4. Oh! Gravity. - Oh yes, the golden era as I call it. I pin this album as the core Switchfoot sound. If you want to hear what Switchfoot sounds like, this album nails it. Guitars, fun, great lyrics, and musical variety. I don't have much words like I did for Chin. It's a pretty simple album to digest and it's the quickest made one (from what i'm aware of) and it shows but in the best way possible. It's also only made better by the podcast series they made. The only things that hold this album down a bit is American Dream and Burn Out Bright being repeat tracks of another (American Dream being the better one) and the double edged sword of it being simple when surrounded by high effort long works that are beyond exceptional.

3. The Beautiful Letdown - The Classic Foot album that defined their careers. It's not a joke tho that everything went up a whole level with this album. Something clicked in Jon's head that turned out some of his best lyrics and the song formats and sound just grew a ton. Jerome being an essential new member. And only one song that's a little meh (Redemption) and even the meh song is still catchy. Overexposure might be why it's not higher but I feel I have more reasons being that it does sound dated. Most of the time for better but a little for worse. I also feel that if Drew was a part of this album, it would be up a another level also. There's just a slight amount of incompleteness to this record. Not sure exactly but regardless the songwriting on this album is amazing and the questions and the way they are asked remain timeless.

2. Nothing is Sound - Grunge at its best here. I'm still not certain what Jon was going through here other than what the lyrics mention but whatever he was feeling hits hard. It resonates so much. To this day, these songs hold my throat. Not a bad song on here. It's a really good album that only gets beat by it's production value. Some songs could've been produced better (ironically Jon mentioned that recently too lol). Golden, The Setting Sun, and We Are Young Tonight are the forefront of those. And it's not like they are terribly produced but they are missing a little from what they could be. But literally it. Front to back, this record just rocks while wallowing in despair from the fallen world and the loneliness and helplessness it brings. It also represents a huge decision on what to do after a breakout record and is one of the best records after a band reached public success.

1. Hello Hurricane - The whole sound of this record is the most complete the band has ever sounded to me. The writing on this album is so great. Not one song is a waste and process this album went through is amazing. I get that they can't (prob shouldn't) do this process but damn was it worth it. This project sounds so complete and so organically made, even with two songs that I feel could have been switched out. (Always isn't my favorite but I may having it be a song for a past relationship. But it also does still have a lot of raw emotion in it that I appreciate and can get past my own perceptions. It's the lesser of the offense. Free is the other one only cause it kinda is booty in studio. It's live version makes ya wish it was that way on the record). But i adore these lyrics and I love the sounds they used without washing it up with production but still using production (Sing it Out) as a tool. It's so good and I love this album so much

quick review of interrobang is that it’s a very solid record and I love the sound of it so far. It doesn’t take my top record but it’s an insanely catchy album with a lot of listens in the future. I’d probably rank it as 2 or 3. Not sure if it’s above or below nothing is sound. but really give it a listen. It’s exactly what i’ve been wanting from the band for so long

[wordsandsound14]

Just want to put it out there that Switchfoot blew this last record out of the water! While Lorde failed us in ways we didn’t think, Switchfoot did the opposite. Do yourself and give the record a listen because I can’t stop

[wordsandsound14]

Smash Appearances - Dr. Mario

3. Smash 4 - I’m not sure why Smash 4 brought this character back, even the design seems bored with itself. Dr. Mario himself isn’t that great of an inclusion but he was cool once in Melee because it’s like a meme pick that didn’t take much work to make. He’s cool there but not here. Smash 4 Dr. Mario is the epidemy of a lazy bring back. His taunts and animations even tell you that he’s not really here. 

2. Ultimate - I would have loved if his return was here, along with Pichu of obscure left behind characters. Regardless, the expressions of Dr. Mario marks his true return to smash. The additions to him to make him more of his own character with new animations, moves, and properties. (Back throw being the highlight with dair being a close second). Dr. Mario may not be much of his own character but I love with what they did with what they could.

1. Melee - This choice in character is just so left field and it’s one of the greatest things. Unfortunately, I’m not sure if smash has been able to capture this type of character pick again. There’s still the wacky choices like Wii Fit but I’m talking about the weird clones that melee had (Young Link, Pichu, and Roy) that helped widen the roster and also give people a good chuckle or understand the new character easier. However, the thing that holds this Doc above the others is how much I love the sound effects of this Doc. They changed his taunt sound for some odd reason and I really miss the Melee sound of his taunt and some other sound effects.  

[wordsandsound14]

Smash Appearances - Zelda

4. Melee - I really didn’t like this design of Zelda with her plastic hair and her awful pink dress. She comes off as discount peach in this game (especially since I didn’t know about Zelda characters at the time). Her colors are just really bad combinations in the game and her design here almost makes one want to just hit down special just so you can get a to a more entertaining/better designed character.

3. Smash 4 - How can you have a good design of Zelda and just make it worse. I agree that, along with Link, Zelda should change the way she looks in smash games per generation. Link doesn’t resemble his TP so much in 4 and more so just looks like a Link. Here, it’s clearly still TP and, while I love this one, it was really odd to her again like this. It was clear that the community didn’t want this design again, especially after playing TP and seeing that her role is minor. Aside from that disappointment, they just made this model worse. Removed the really pretty design at the bottom of the dress, they lightened up the model (hair and dress looks better darker), and missed out on giving her new animations. This is one of the biggest disappointments of appearances from gen to gen. Even when I love TP, she belongs in Brawl and it’s just sad to see how much of an opportunity was missed.

2. Ultimate - I initially wasn’t too fond of this Zelda (I know, I was wrong.) But her charm and charisma won me over. I think the most jarring thing was that there was a change and the design they chose. The design choice was strange since they made a toon design into a regular one without stripping away all of the toon design. Really it’s quite the feat design wise. I’m probably wrong for putting her in second but it’s my list so eat it. Anyways, the main thing that I was really just struck by with this design was the age. She’s so young (youngest ever I believe) and it felt out of place for Zelda characters. But, like I’ve said, I grew used to it and I just adore how alive the character feels because of this new design. New animations and voice acting. She’s just so bright and cheerful that it makes her character even more fun to play.

1. Brawl - Listen, TP being one of my favorite games garners this win. Being able to play this character model just feels special. This design only disappoints because I think it was a great moment to redesign the moves, since she wasn’t good in Melee, to remain true to character in the game. Experiment with the possibility of the magic of Zelda. I do get it tho, not much source material with TP and I doubt that they experimented much with Zelda’s role since Sheik had a design. Regardless, I just love how mature this Zelda is. How much wisdom that’s just innate with her design. She’s calm and focused. Just seeing her in smash reminds me of the moment that she takes off her hood in TP. You can’t make me hate this game and the design of characters in there. I’ll try not to gush over this game more... but no promise ;)

[wordsandsound14]

Smash Appearances - Sheik

4. Melee - Sheik is a character that’s honestly really hard to have a strong opinion on. Her design hasn’t changed much throughout the years and this is the most classic and memorable design. Literally the only thing holding it down is how awful of shade the yellow that’s used for her hair. But her character design alone is interesting enough to catch anyone’s eye, especially those unfamiliar with Zelda and wondering why Zelda’s down special turns her into a dude. (Give’em a break, it was before the internet had taken over and the knowledge of games was a little more difficult to come by on). Overall tho, I feel that they actually captured Sheik well and transitioned her into smash well, even if it is a bit generic.

3. Ultimate - I love the redesign of the logo on her chest but the scarf actually isn’t a touch I like. Idk, it feels counterproductive to being a ninja and doesn’t seem to fit her character. (I’m talking about her render.) Her colors also just seem muted in this game and make her feel less flashy and all the more forgettable. It’s above Melee due to being a good progression wise with the little touches that Ult added.

2. Brawl - Using the TP concept art to create the design of Sheik is really cool since we don’t see her in TP. It’s honestly just a more modern design than the slightly dated 64 design. Overall, this one improves upon the colors a ton and I love the braided hair.

1. Smash 4 - The colors pop most here and they add just enough to Brawl’s design to make it feel like it isn’t just a rinse and repeat. Honestly, this one is just a super solid Sheik design and there’s not more to want beyond this point. Ult just gives that BotW redesign and it’s alright but something about this one just sticks with me more.

[wordsandsound14]

Smash Appearances - Ice Climbers

3. Brawl - In subspace, their facial expression are pretty good. In regular game, they just look like they have no thoughts, head empty. Especially Nana. Something about them being in Brawl’s design and a combination of their original design doesn’t work well. Of course the extra detail looks nice on the character but it was the norm from melee to Brawl so it isn’t anything special. While I don’t think they can do much with the design of the character to make them pop, they lost the charm of the character in this game.

2. Melee - The charm of the character here was at their peak here. Their sounds are attached to this game. Granted, this character is grab the game but design wise, they captured all the charm they could in Melee. They are super cheerful and their design revolves around this happy nature. I just love their first inclusion being so embracive of what their games are about and what it made families feel when playing them.

1. Ult - It’s hard to not love their reappearance in smash. And they were left out right when the game went HD. Seeing their first HD render made me happy. I know it shouldn’t gameplay wise but they nailed the design of them. While not nailing the charm like melee, they weren’t too far off. And I love all the added detail on the fur and the updated colors on them. and the hammer having different shades on the wood. I think Ult just nailed the design of bringing them back to home in smash