Best Albums of 2011
Here is my list of the top 10 albums for 2011:
- The Weeknd - House of Balloons
Hands down the best album I listened to all year. The enigmatic Abel Tesfaye released three albums in all in 2011, but none were better than the first one, House of Balloons. If you like a melange of lyrics that are similar to early 90’s R&B and lo-fi instrumentation, then this album is definitely for you.
Standout Track: The Morning - Bon Iver - Bon Iver
A strong sophomore album and an excellent live band. I look forward to seeing them again soon.
Standout Track: Perth - The Streets - Computers and Blues
Mike Skinner burst onto the Garage scene in 2002 and went on to release 6 studio album in 9 years and I consider half of them classics. He decided that Computers and Blues would be his last under The Streets moniker and I sure hope Mike will start releasing albums again soon (under any moniker).
Standout Track: Puzzled By People - Gillian Welch - The Harrow & The Harvest
The voice of an angel. I discovered Gillian in 2011 with her 5th studio album and first in 8 years. I am excited to listen to her entire catalog in the coming months.
Standout Track: Hard Times - The Decemberists - The King Is Dead
Not the most original music in the world, but that matters not so much when you have a tight knit group of extremely talented musicians who can play their behinds off live.
Standout Track: June Hymn - Adele - 21
This young lady can sing anything and make it sound like the most profound story you’ve ever listened to. Anything.
Standout Track: He Won’t Go - The Roots - Undun
The veteran Hip Hop crew were back with their 11th studio album in 2011. Their musical excellence and stay power are aspirational.
Standout Track: One Time - Zola Jesus - Conatus
One of the best voices I had the fortune of discovering in 2011. Listen to this album and you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about.
Standout Track: Shivers - J Masics - Several Shades of Why:
Songwriting at its best. Enough said.
Standout Track: Several Shades of Why - Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues:
Although this album didn’t blow me away like their debut did, it still oozes artistry at its finest and excellent musicianship.
Standout Track: Montezuma
And here are 10 notable mentions in no particular order:
- Dale Earndhardt Jr. Jr. - Nothing But Our Love EP
- Drake - Take Care
- Wilco - The Whole Love
- Jens Lekman - An Argument With Myself EP
- M83 - Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming
- Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committee, Pt. 2
- Wale - Ambition
- Skrillex - More Monsters and Sprites
- Mogwai - Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will
- Smith Westerns - Dye It Blonde
