Top 21 Albums of 2008

5. Cut Copy - In Ghost Colours

Wow, is mostly all I can muster up when I think of these guys. Four years later after a solid debut they drop this little sophomore album and bang, household name, and don't they just know it. Besides all the semantic bullshit and whatnot, what a fantastic record. I wonder if Bernard gets confused when he hears these guys on the radio.

Key Tracks - So Haunted, Feel the Love, Out there on the Ice



4. Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks - Real Emotional Tracks

Album number four, and easily Malkmus's most jamset record yet and everything you could ask for in a record.

Key Tracks - Gardenia, Dragonfly Pie, Hopscotch Willie



3. Deerhunter - Microcastle

Well hello again Bradford Cox. Following up on 07's masterpiece yes I said masterpiece Cryptograms, released only a few months after the Atlas Sound record, Microcastle not only arrived with a bang but expanded their fan base even further. This record is departure from the 07 release, focusing on a more poppier sound than noisy landscapes. While it doesnt touch on Cryptograms it was easily one of the best albums of 08.


Key Tracks - Agoraphobia, Nothings Ever Happens, Never Stops



2. Plants and Animals - Parc Avenue

In my opinion, these guys have crafted such a fine set of songs, a debut album putting most professionals to shame. The tracks seem so effortlessly put together and never get tired and are fresh everytime you listen to them. From chugging guitar lines to wonderful harmonies to laid back rhythms to choirs. Get ready 2009 these dudes are coming for you.

Key Tracks - 1 - 11


1. M83 - Saturdays=Youth

It took me awhile to figure out number one, but really after a short time of contemplating there really was no other answer. Anthony Gonzalez breaks through with a brilliant set of songs. Im still unsure whether this will be his masterpiece or not but it's definitely the album where everyone started noticed. Whether it's a nostalgic feel of the 80's or just the fine songcraft and electronic aspects combined with the gaze, the album works on so many levels and continues to astonish and impress listeners everywhere.


Key Tracks - Skin of the Night, Couleurs, Highway of Endless Dreams