Now that Santa is done checking off his list, it’s time for me to do the same.  The votes have been cast (all by me) and the results are in for the Top 10 Albums of Winter 2011.  Those lucky enough to make this list then went on to contend with the veterans of my Top 40 Albums of 2011.  When all was said and done, it was a tough decision paring the list down to a Top 10 overall, but I reached deep within and summoned the strength to….oh who am I kidding, I chose the music that kept my iTunes chugging and put the biggest smile on my face.

Hopefully you have found some great music in 2011 and are as excited as I am for more to come in 2012.  Cheers to all and on to the lists!! Continue Reading

Fall is fast approaching.  Leaves are changing color and soon the branches will bare themselves for the coming of a new year.  At least that’s what I hear.  I live in San Diego, so the four seasons are the stuff of grade school textbooks.  I’ve also heard of a “water cycle”.  I think I’ve seen people riding one on a lake.  Anyway, it’s time for a top albums update. Continue Reading

Occasionally I get an email from a friend about to embark on a music festival weekend, seeking advice on what bands to check out.  I’m always flattered and usually eager (to the point that my boss should be concerned) to dive head first into the lineup and/or schedule to start curating my fantasy music experience.

Seeing as how these events are always chock-o-block with seasoned artists as well as top rookie prospects, it never hurts to have a second opinion on what acts will maximize the dollars spent on the astronomical ticket prices. Continue Reading

JULY 2011

1. Cults | Go Outside
2. The Elected | When I’m Gone
3. Black Lips | Don’t Mess Up My Baby
4. Ty Segall | Imaginary Person
5. Handsome Furs | Serve the People Continue Reading

I have found more than one occasion this year to applaud The Antlers most recent album, Burst Apart.  Currently sitting atop my 2011 list of Top Albums, it proves a dense fusion of melancholy, yet powerful musicianship.  Start to finish, the NYC trio tender deep emotion for audiences listening below the surface of already brilliant sound waves. Continue Reading

Summer has now been breached but the spring sprang some great tunes that shan’t be overlooked.  The top 3 spots on my Albums of the Year list were all replaced by more recent releases and some less obvious shuffling also took place.  Sneak a peek at the music that has carried me beyond Independence Day and place your bets on who will remain through the end of December. Continue Reading

JUNE 2011

1. Cults | Abducted
2. Ty Segall | Girlfriend
3. tUnE-yArDs | You Yes You
4. The Wombats | Jump Into The Fog
5. Foster The People | Helena Beat Continue Reading