The problem with year-end best-of lists is that by December I have trouble remembering what music I was jamming on much before September. That is why, with the first half of 2008 drawing to a close, I'd like to submit a partial list of "Best of 2008."
As much music as I've consumed over the past 6 months, there are really only 3 records that stand up to the distinction of "Best."
1. Thao and the Get Down Stay Down - We Brave Bee Stings and All
Asian former William and Mary student playing Modest Mouse-ish indie rock with pop hooks made of gold... This is seriously one of the most coherent and enjoyable pieces I've heard in a long time. The whole record clocks in right around 30 minutes. There is no time wasted and no filler. From start to finish, each of the 3 minute entries plays with a sense of personality and urgency. Whether it is the bouncy chamber pop feel of "Feet Asleep" or the rapid-fire anthem-like quality of "Swimming Pools," Thao makes every track obviously hers. Her husky slur stamps each musical foray as her own, whether the track is musically made of kinetic indie madness or laid-back jazz.
2. Kathleen Edwards - Asking For Flowers
I may be partial to Kathleen since I got to see her live this spring. She is harsh with words and opinions but sells her anger with a sweet swagger reminiscent of a young Lucinda Williams - and she can play the guitar and violin with frightening skill. "Flowers" ranges from political-made-personal narratives to I'm-about-to-divorce-your-ass odes to goofy reflections on friendships. Edwards, much like Thao mentioned above, is able to make each song she writes hers, regardless of stylistic or lyrical elasticity. This may be what seperates a musical artist from a musical performer.
3. Hark the Herald - Aroura
In an impartial court of musical law, this best-of entry might have to be thrown out due to the fact that my name is mentioned in the liner notes...
But when it comes to post-hardcore, there are few who can compare with this group - and the fact that I know them can't take away from that. HTH meld southern party rock flamboyancy with tight-jeaned emo and make a cello sound cool while doing it.
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