Noteworthy Albums from 2011
This isn’t a list of my top whatever albums from 2011. I think it gets a little old seeing Destroyer’s Kaputt, Real Estate’s Days, and Girls’ Father, Son, and Holy Ghost listed everywhere. They deserve it, for sure, but I want to spread the love a little bit.
Amen Dunes - Through Donkey Jaw
Many people complained about how this album ends. I often heard and read that after the first five tracks that this album drops out. How wrong they all are. The best track is “Bedroom Drum,” which is track number 10 and you can listen to it below. This album drops in and out. It is a build up to something wonderful. McMahon is able to guide the listener through the album if the listener allows. Its an extremely dark album, almost problematic at times, but remains beautiful and accessible.
Chad VanGaalen - Diaper Island
VanGaalen may be better known for his production of Women’s last two albums, but he is a masterful songwriter in his own right. This is a super cohesive album, which strings together from beginning to end. VanGaalen returns to a lot of the sounds that many got accustomed to after listening to Women. Check out “Sara” below and make sure to go dig through everything VanGaalen has had his hands on if you haven’t already.
Coasting - You’re Never Going Back
What can I say? I am crazy about these girls. After listening to their 7 inches and seeing them at Gonerfest, I couldn’t wait for this album to drop. If I were to make a top ten of 2011 list, this would make it. They had a vibe they wanted to achieve and nailed it. It may not be the most cohesive album, but I constantly find myself heading towards this album for a song.
Lorelle Meets the Obsolete - On Welfare
Lorelle Meets the Obsolete is a wonderful psych band from Guadalajara, Mexico. On Welfare is a collection of some super psychy-shoegaze tunes that beg you to listen to the whole thing. It is full of heat and isn’t afraid to assert itself. I can’t wait for some more tunes to surface.
Lorelle Meets the Obsolete - “These Days”
The People’s Temple - Sons of Stone
HoZac Records always has some amazing releases and The People’s Temple was one of my favorites from 2011. This Michigan definitely invokes the sound of the 60’s garage-rock bands, but they are able to assert their own identity into each song. They add something refreshing to each song while making you believe that you just dug some sweet record out of your mom’s basement. Check out the title track below and try and tell me that this doesn’t belong on this list.
The People’s Temple - “Sons of Stone”
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