Emotional Drumming Mix #7

Here is a mix compiling tracks from the last 20 albums I have covered in my Emotional Listening posts. It is zipped and shared on my Mediafire account. This might be one of my favorite ones yet!

Download HERE!

1. "Make Up With Me" - Let's Active (1983)
2. "Dreams Never End" - New Order (1981)
3. "Shape of the Fear" - Knapsack (1998)
4. "Tom Courtnenay" - Yo La Tengo (1995)
5. "Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five" - Paul McCartney & Wings (1973)
6. "One Sunday" - Idaho (1993)
7. "4010" - Christie Front Drive (1995)
8. "Tension" - Minutemen (1981)
9. "So Sick" - Unrest (1993)
10. "Jungle of Fear" - Chin Chin (1985)
11. "Equators to Bi-Polar" - June of 44 (1999)
12. "I Hope I Know You" - The Clientele (2007)
13. "Help Me" - Joni Mitchell (1974)
14. "I Fall Away" - The Bats (1990)
15. "You Tear the World in Two" - Pale Saints (1990)
16. "Oriental Alarms" - The Joggers (2003)
17. "Dose of You" - Nick Lowe (1979)
18. "Water Turns Back" - Cloud Nothings (2009)
19. "Always" - Velocity Girl (1993)
20. "That's How We Do It in L.A." - Lindsey Buckingham (1981)

Emotional Listening #37

Turning On - Cloud Nothings (Bridgetown, 2009)
I got into Cloud Nothings with 2011's self-titled jangly pop punk/emo fest, yet, perhaps sadly, was unknowble to join the indie rock world in celebrating 2012's Albini-produced, critically acclaimed follow-up, Attack on Memory. Sure, the production was great and all, but the songs just weren't really there for me, and I wasn't into the dark turn the band's music had taken. I am just more into  the brighter tones and faster tempos of the earlier material, includuing now the 2009 debut, Turning On, of which my friend and ex-coworker Tim-Tom opened my world to. This record is definitely lo-fi (almost annoyingly so), and a little more garage-y, but the poppy melodies and smart guitar chord usage are still there. Opener "Can't Stay Awake" and deep cut "Whaddya Wanna Know" are pretty much in line and on par with the songs on the self-titled record (aside from the shitty production), nerdy, high pitched vocals and all. My favorite moment, though, is the ballad, "Water Turns Back" (simple, nice melody, great chords). This dude was a pretty good musician and songwriter at such a young age, and Turning On is a fun, quality look at the early stages of that.
Top jams: "Can't Stay Awake," "Old Street," "You Are Opening," "Water Turns Back," "Whaddya Wanna Know"


This Conversation is Ending Starting Right Now - Knapsack (Alias, 1998)
In my high school and early college days, when I was especially all about the emo, I always knew about Knapsack, but never took the time to develop a sonic relationship with them. This is unfortunate, because I would have been obsessed with this record. This Conversation is Ending Starting Right Now, the band's third LP and swan song, is chock full of hooks and quality melodies that are somewhat reminiscent of Jawbreaker. The sound here is huge (especially the drums), and that works really well with the band's pop sensibility. I was expecting something more along the lines of Four Minute Mile and Nothing Feels Good, but instead hear a slightly more emo version of, I don't know, Dear You or Goddamnit? Regardless, this album RULES.
Top jams: "Katherine the Grateful," "Change is All the Rage," "Shape of the Fear," "Skip the Details," "Arrows in the Action," "Hummingbirds," "Please Shut Off the Lights"


Court and Spark - Joni Mitchell (Asylum, 1974)
I found a new go-to fall album, and it is Joni Mitchell's Court and Spark. Whooooooo boy, what an album. I was not surprised by the overall folk-y sound here, but was by the amount of jazziness in a lot of the songs' structures and arrangements, and also the element of sexiness that is present in places throughout. There are some insane moments, the greatest of which is the noodly, almost 90s Chicago emo guitars that come in and out of "Help Me" (which is easily THE jam of the album), and the blatant nod to soul music in the very same song. And, this happens a lot. It is so much more than just a folk record, and that is what will keep me coming back to it. Very much looking forward to diving into some of her other work.
Top jams: "Court and Spark," "Help Me," "Free Man in Paris," "Car on a Hill," "Just Like This Train," "Raised on Robbery," "Trouble Child"


Movement - New Order (Factory, 1981)
I was pretty bummed when at first I felt a little disappointed in New Order's debut LP, Movement. I started with their second one, 1983's Power, Corruption & Lies, and to this day am still enamored by it. I was expecting to have even stronger feelings with Movement. Even though that's not the case, it only took a few listens to get over that initial disappointment and recognize it as the solid, introductory statement of the band that it is. It is very dark, and not as guitar-oriented as I had hoped, but I've come to realize that it still has a really cool sound. It's more goth than bright, guitar-driven post-punk, aside from the album's bookends, "Dreams Never End" and "Ceremony" (which are definitely the best songs). But some of the more goth-y moments have turned out to be quite spectacular, namely in "Truth" and "Senses." And seriously, "Dreams Never End" just might be new favorite New Order jam.
Top jams: "Dreams Never End," "Truth," "Senses," "Chosen Time," "ICB," "Ceremony"

Emotional Listening #36

Solid Guild - The Joggers (StarTime, 2003)
The Joggers were (are?) an awesome guitar rock band that I would have LOVED in college. Solid Guild is their 2003 debut LP, and it features angular, technical yet melodic guitars within the context of a more complicated pop song structure. I dig the vocals, though they can be a little too 2002-era Hot Hot Heat at times, and the barber shop-style harmonies that pop up every once in a while are a nice touch. The songwriting is good, but the real draw for me is the musicianship all around. I'm always a fan of the merging of technicality (almost to a mathy degree) and pop sensibility. Seriously, this is a great record.
Top jams: "Loosen Up," "Hot Autism," "Back to the Future," "Neon Undercarriage," "Natural Novice," "Oriental Alarms," "Blurred Digits," "Same to You"


The Punch Line - Minutemen (SST, 1981)
I can already tell that the insanity of the band Minutemen over their career is going to be a hard pill for me to swallow. I have listened to some of their seminal Double Nickels on the Dime, and frankly it is way too silly for me. Their debut, The Punch Line, on the other hand, as ridiculous as it is (18 songs in 15 minutes!), is quite enjoyable. It's still zany as hell with some tougher punk vocals, pretty sparse, almost post-punk guitar, and some ridiculously funky (and awesome) bass playing via Mike Watt. It's hard to separate each song and all that I like about them because of the way they are all jumbled together due to the quick and urgent nature of the record. These dudes were having a lot of fun being both artsy and punk, and it is a blast to listen to.
Top jams: "Search." "Tension," "Games," "Disguises," "Monuments," "Issued," "Song for El Salvador," "History Lesson," "Fanatics," "No Parade," "Straight Jacket," "Static"


Perfect Teeth - Unrest (Teenbeat/4AD, 1993)
I think it was around this time last year that I was spending some time with Unrest's Imperial F.F.R.R., which is too inconsistent, but, still has some outright jams. Perfect Teeth, their 1993 follow-up, is much more cohesive, has even more jams, and, is just generally the superior album. Combining post-punk rhythms with punk urgency and 90s indie rock dynamics and melodic styles, this is an album for me. Admittedly, it did not blow me away quite like I expected, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it is excellent, and even gets better with each listen. The tracks that stand out the most are "Cath Carroll" and "So Sick."
Top jams: "Cath Carroll," "So Sick," "Light Command," "Make Out Club," "Breather X.O.X.O.," "West Coast Love Affair," Six Layer Cake"


Electr-O-Pura - Yo La Tengo (Matador, 1995)
As you all know, Yo La Tengo is one of the greatest modern bands around. It's insane how long they've been going, and still every three to four years they release an excellent album. That being said, I must say that 1995's Electr-O-Pura has to be my least favorite of theirs at this juncture. I do appreciate that it rocks a bit harder than 1993's Painful (even if I prefer that album), yet still maintains a lot of its moodiness. Don't get me wrong, it is a solid album, it's just that the number of standout tracks is fairly thin. However, a nice bonus here is that this is some of the strongest drumming I've heard from Georgia Hubley. Also to note - "Tom Courtenay" is one of THE GREAT Yo La Tengo jams. I love it when they do the melodic-yet-droney guitar thing.
Top jams: "Decora," "Flying Lesson (Hot Chicken #1)," "Tom Courtnenay," "Pablo and Andrea," "False Alarm," "The Ballad of Red Buckets," "(Straight Down to the) Bitter End," "My Heart's Reflection," "Blue Line Swinger"

Emotional Listening #35

God Save the Clientele - The Clientele (Merge, 2007)
I have no idea why this record didn't hit me so hard when it first came out. God Save the Clientele (the band's fourth proper LP) is fall music at its finest: soft whispers for vocals, arpeggiated guitars, strings, brushed drums and somber vibes all around. I finally came around on 2009's Bonfires on the Heath, and also have no idea why I haven't gone to their earlier stuff. "I Hope I Know You," "From Brighton Beach to Santa Monica" and "Somebody Changed" are all SO GOOD, and should have been considered for my 2013 fall mix.
Top jams: "Here Comes the Phantom," "I Hope I Know You," "The Dance of the Hours," "From Brighton Beach to Santa Monica," "Winter on Victoria Street," "Somebody Changed," "Bookshop Casanova," "The Garden at Night"


Year After Year - Idaho (Caroline, 1993)
A few months ago I downloaded some Idaho EPs and their 1993 debut full length, Year After Year, on a whim. Not long after, while I was working at Cafe Ollie in Ypsilanti, my boss Mark was raving about them, as did my friend from Bloomington, Frank Schweikhardt, a couple weeks later. So, I went for it, and while I didn't like this record as much as I was hoping (it is definitely too slow and boring in places), I still found plenty to appreciate. "God's Green Earth" is a gnarly opener, and "Skyscrape" is a slowcore anthem that absolutely had to have played a huge role in influencing David Bazan/Pedro the Lion. "One Sunday" is by far the most upbeat jam, and also the album's best, with its almost electro-sounding drums and jagged, jangly guitars that borderline on shoegaze. Shit gets pretty dark and dire as the album goes on, but, ends on a strong note with the title track and the appropriately titled closer, "End Game." I'm interested in moving forward with these guys. Anyone have any ideas as to where I should go next?
Top jams: "God's Green Earth," "Skyscrape," "Gone," "One Sunday," "Save," "Year After Year," "End Game"


Anahata - June of 44 (Quarterstick, 1999)
I don't mean to be a culturist, but it is shocking to me that a band so weird as June of 44 came from Louisville. They are one of those classic math rock bands from the 90s, and Anahata was their final album. There are certainly some quirky rhythms and sounds going on here, but nothing quite as complex as I had expected. I was surprised by the (sometimes) tuneful vocals. Even if the singing on "Southeast of Boston" goes a little out of tune, the melody is quite good and at least interesting. "Equators to Bi-Polar" showcases some tropical vibes in the guitars and drums, and is probably my favorite song here, while "Cardiac Atlas," with its nice and moody guitars, comes in at a close second. I don't love this record, and it's not something I'm going to feel called to listen to all the time, but I greatly respect it for its originality, and am glad I own it on vinyl.
Top jams: "Escape of the Levitational Trapeze Artist," "Cardiac Atlas," "Equators to Bi-Polar," "Southeast of Boston," "Five Bucks in My Pocket"


Band on the Run - Paul McCartney & Wings (Apple, 1973)
I won't argue with anyone who thinks Paul McCartney's solo material is cheesy, because most of it is. But you cannot tell me that the guy didn't know how to write a great pop song (not that he's dead, I just assume he's lost that skill by now). After getting entirely into Ram last year, I've decided to go ahead with Band on the Run, which also features McCartney's official backing band, Wings. It is nowhere near as good as Ram, but is still a solid power pop album with one tremendous jam: "Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five." Admittedly, that is pretty much the only bright spot on the second half of the record, but, man, is it a big one. The first five songs, however, are a different story: they are all good. Yes, even the title track. Obviously.
Top jams: "Band on the Run," "Jet," "Bluebird," "Mrs. Vandebilt," "Let Me Roll It," "Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Five"


Velocity Girl EP - Velocity Girl (Slumberland, 1993)
It is so crazy to me that Velocity Girl were on the Clueless soundtrack. Anyway, this EP is a collection of early singles from this Slumberland band, two of which are different versions of the same song (both being good). The Clueless song, "Forgotten Favorite" is so ridiculously corny, I have difficulty taking it seriously, even if it isn't that bad of a song. "Why Should I be Nice to You" and especially "Always" (LOVE the drony guitars) both rule, in all their fuzz pop glory.
Top jams: "I Don't Care if You Go," "Always," "Why Should I be Nice to You," "I Don't Care if You Go (Acoustic)"

Fall 2013 Mix

Fall is officially here, and I present to you my eight annual mix of fall jams. 20 songs to get you in the mood. Enjoy, and if you have any issues downloading, please let me know!

http://www.mediafire.com/download/hht2hywivuqwzcp/Fall+2013.zip

TRACKLIST
1. "Bird and Flag" - The Sea and Cake (1997)
2. "Honey Lake" - Frank Schweikhardt (2013)
3. "FBI and Their Toronto Transmitters" - Lilys (1994)
4. "Heart Beat" - Chris Cohen (2012)
5. "I'll Tell You Now" - Lindsey Buckingham (1981)
6. "An Impression" - No Age (2013)
7. "Hardly Getting Over It" - Husker Du (1986)
8. "Winning a Battle, Losing the War" - Kings of Convenience (2001)
9. "Fling" - Built to Spill (1994)
10. "Burial Ground" - Alec Jensen (2008)
11. "Andmoreagain" - Love (1967)
12. "Thirteen" - Big Star (1972)
13. "Bedlam" - The Bats (1990)
14. "Petrified Forest" - Cass McCombs (2007)
15. "I'll be Around" - Yo La Tengo (2013)
16. "It All Feels Right" - Washed Out (2013)
17. "Ms. Dot" - Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin (2013)
18. "She is Staggering" - Polaris (1999)
19. "Rainbo Conversation" - Stereolab (1997)
20. "Coffin Companions" - Owen (2013)

Emotional Listening #34

The Law of Things - The Bats (Flying Nun, 1990)
I've gotta say, The Law of Things, The Bats' sophomore follow-up to their glorious debut, Daddy's Highway, is by far my least favorite album of theirs yet. That's not to say it isn't good, because it totally is. There just isn't anything like "Block of Wood" or "Mid City Team." Not even close. Still, these jangle pop masters were just getting started in their triumphant run of consistently great records beyond this, and this here backstep is still a valuable entry. I particularly love the perfect meshing of electric and acoustic guitars on "I Fall Away" and "Bedlam," and also the amazing song title that is "Yawn Vibes." The Law of Things is still entirely The Bats, structurally and melodically, the quality just fell off a smidge.
Top jams: "Other Side of You," "Never Said Goodbye," "Yawn Vibes," "Ten to One," "Mastery," "I Fall Away," "Nine Days," "Bedlam"


Anthology - Christie Front Drive (Caulfield, 1995)
So emo. Seriously. Christie Front Drive is one of the most classic, perhaps criminally underrated of the mid-90s emo/post-hardcore movement. They were more in line with their slower, more straightforward contemporaries (Texas is the Reason, Mineral) than the more complex and upbeat (and my personal favorites), Braid, Cap'n Jazz and The Promise Ring. As far as I understand, CFD never released a proper full length, only 7-inches and EPs. This particularly release compiles ten of those songs. Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of the production here, nor the drumming, which is pretty bland. There also are some pretty cheesy, very dated moments, which you won't catch on legendary emo albums like Frame and Canvas or Nothing Feels Good. But, at the same time, there are some really great moments too, most notably the vocal melody during the chorus of "Away," and the guitar interplay on songs like "Pipe," "Slide" and "4010." These guys seemed to be way more into big chords than guitar wankery, which I actually appreciate with these mid-tempo, moody pop jams. It's funny, I don't love any one song here all the way through, but each one has it's own one (or a couple) specific moment(s) that blow(s) me away.
Top jams: "Turn," "Dyed on 8," "Long Out," "Pipe," "Dirt," "Slide," "4010," "Away"


Labour of Lust - Nick Lowe (Columbia, 1979)
My interest in Nick Lowe first came about when I first discovered his song "I Love the Sound of Breaking Glass" thanks to my friend Julian sometime in 2008, I think? Perhaps stupidly, I still have not spent any time with the record that song is featured on, Lowe's 1978 debut, Jesus of Cool (I'll get there eventually). But, I have been enjoying his 1979 follow-up,  Labour of Lust, quite a bit. It is some quality, truly well-produced power pop not unlike Elvis Costello's classics (which isn't surprising, as Lowe has produced for Costello). These songs are blatantly catchy, but, also very smart, which is how I typically prefer my blatantly catchy pop songs. "Cruel to be Kind" is an obvious hit, but the best moments are in "American Squirm" and "Dose of You."
Top jams: "Cruel to be Kind," "Cracking Up," "American Squirm," "Skin Deep," "Switchboard Susan," "Without Love," "Dose of You"


The Comforts of Madness - Pale Saints (4AD, 1990)
My girlfriend Sara first shared Pale Saints with me on an awesome back deck on a beautiful summer day when we were dog-sitting for some friends last year. Obviously, they stuck with me since I can clearly remember that very moment (I believe I was partaking in one of my fantasy football drafts). Unfortunately, I can't remember which album we listened to exactly, but I do not think it was The Comforts of Madness, their 1990 debut. I don't necessarily love every song, but, this is quite an album, and their sound is very much up my alley right now: an epic mix of melodic, dramatic post-punk (ala The Smiths), twee, shoegaze and dream pop (I feel pompous and dumb for dropping so many hip genre titles, I apologize). Chimey guitars, mostly quicker tempos, catchy vocal melodies, driving bass, but, an overall dreamy atmosphere. "You Tear the World in Two" and "Time Thief" are THE jams. Sara tells me this isn't even close to them at their best, so I am very excited to listen to some more.
Top jams: "Way the World Is, " "You Tear the World in Two," "True Coming Dream," "Language of Flowers," "Fell From the Sun," "Sight of You," "Time Thief"

2013 NFL Preview

I know this is more than a week late, but I'm gonna do it anyway. I came up with these predictions about two or three weeks before the season started. I am always wrong, and am certain that will be the case again. I'm gonna rush through some blurbage, instead of ramble and rant. Anyway, here we go!

DIVISION PREDICTIONS

AFC East
1. New England Patriots (11-5)
2. Buffalo Bills (5-11)
3. Miami Dolphins (5-11)
4. New York Jets (3-13)

Sure, Tom Brady has lost some weapons, but the Patriots are still the class of the AFC East, if not the entire AFC. Remember when they won three Super Bowls with great defense on little talent but Brady on offense? Not that that's what things are like this year (defense-wise), but I'm just saying. The only other things worth mentioning here are: C.J. SPILLER! And, the Jets are doomed.

AFC North
1. Cincinnati Bengals (11-5)
2. Baltimore Ravens (9-7)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7)
4. Cleveland Browns (4-12)

Now is the time for the Bengals to take over this division. It will probably be short lived, but I feel like they're on this upward trajectory thanks to A.J. Green, and that will move them beyond the grasp of Baltimore and Pittsburgh, who will both be decent, but definitely have a lot of work to do after all their turnover. The Browns are the Browns.

AFC South
1. Houston Texans (11-5)
2. Indianapolis Colts (10-6)
3. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-12)
4. Tennessee Titans (4-12)

Between what I consider their underrated passing attack, Arian Foster, and that nasty D, the Texans will legitimately compete for the AFC championship. I think Andrew Luck and the Colts are the real deal who made some moves to get even better. And, the Jaguars and Titans are both terrible.

AFC West
1. Denver Broncos (13-3)
2. Kansas City Chiefs (7-9)
3. San Diego Chargers (5-11)
4. Oakland Raiders (4-12)

Even before that seven touchdown performance in week one, and in spite of the suspension of defensive super stud Von Miller, Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos are far and away the best team in the AFC, possibly in the entire NFL. The Chiefs, under Andy Reid and Alex Smith, will be much better, and may even compete for a playoff spot NEXT YEAR. The Chargers should be bad, and the Raiders even worse.

NFC East
1. New York Giants (10-6)
2. Washington Redskins (9-7)
3. Dallas Cowboys (8-8)
4. Philadelphia Eagles (6-10)

The NFC East is a pure clusterfuck. Anyone can win it, but that's not because it's this great division or anything. It is just a mess. My odds are on the Giants or Redskins. Weirdly, I'm sort of rooting for the Cowboys because so many people hate them and Tony Romo. I would also be happy if the Eagles took it. I don't care that much though, this is just the way I think it's going to play out based on the talent these times have. What a vague preview!

NFC North
1. Green Bay Packers (12-4)
2. Chicago Bears (10-6)
3. Detroit Lions (7-9)
4. Minnesota Vikings (6-10)

Despite their defensive woes and losing Greg Jennings, the Packers are still by far the best team in the North, and second best in the NFC. The Bears are going to be just about as good as they've been the last three years, and still somehow miss the playoffs. Will their offense finally be as good as it should be? Probably not. My Lions. They're going to be way better, and I am pleasantly surprised by their week one performance. Still, mediocre at best. They need a lot of help. Adrian Peterson is an awesome super human, but even he is not enough for the Vikings to make a repeat performance of last year.

NFC South
1. Atlanta Falcons (12-4)
2. New Orleans Saints (11-5)
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-8)
4. Carolina Panthers (8-8)

This has got to be the best division in all of football, right? The Falcons' defense is just a little better than the Saints', and that's why they barely pull out the division title. That will be such a fun race to watch. And, I truly believe that both the Buccs and the Panthers are on the cusp of becoming playoff teams. The NFC is just too deep in talent right now.

NFC West
1. San Francisco 49ers (12-4)
2. Seattle Seahawks (11-5)
3. St. Louis Rams (7-9)
4. Arizona Cardinals (4-12)

I felt a little guilty of jumping on the 49er bandwagon, until discovering the true depth of Colin Kaepernick's talent in week one. Take away the run game from him, and he will throw the ball all over you and kick your ass. I love this guy, and he makes the 49ers the best team in the NFC. Believe it. The Seahawks will compete big time, but I think the 49ers have the edge. The Rams could be considered in that same tier with the Panthers and Buccs, but not quite yet. Larry Fitzgerald will have a return to fantasy glory, but that is the only good thing coming to this Cardinals team.

POSTSEASON AWARDS

Coach of the Year: Bill Belichick (New England)
Comeback Player of the Year: Maurice Jones-Drew (RB, Jacksonville)
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Eric Reid (SS, San Francisco)
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Montee Ball (RB, Denver)
Defensive Player of the Year: Aldon Smith (OLB, San Francisco)
Offensive Player of the Year: Adrian Peterson (RB, Minnesota)
Most Valuable Player: Peyton Manning (QB, Denver)

PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

AFC
1. Denver Broncos
2. New England Patriots
3. Cincinnati Bengals
4. Houston Texans
5. Indianapolis Colts
6. Baltimore Ravens

NFC
1. Green Bay Packers
2. San Francisco 49ers
3. Atlanta Falcons
4. New York Giants
5. New Orleans Saints
6. Seattle Seahawks

AFC Wild Card Round
Baltimore Ravens over Cincinnati Bengals
Houston Texans over Indianapolis Colts

NFC Wild Card Round
Atlanta Falcons over Seattle Seahawks
New Orleans Saints over New York Giants

AFC Divisional Round
Denver Broncos over Baltimore Ravens
Houston Texans over New England Patriots

NFC Divisional Round
San Francisco 49ers over Atlanta Falcons
Green Bay Packers over New Orleans Saints

AFC Championship
Denver Broncos over Houston Texans

NFC Championship
San Francisco 49ers over Green Bay Packers

Super Bowl XLVIII
Denver Broncos over San Francisco 49ers

Super Bowl XLVIII MVP
Peyton Manning (QB, Denver)

Emotional Listening #33

Law and Order - Lindsey Buckingham (Asylum, 1981)
I can't believe that I haven't even touched on any of the five classic and near perfect Fleetwood Mac albums from 1975-1987, and here I am writing about a Lindsey Buckingham solo record. I'll get to the Mac juiciness some day (or will I?), but I was that floored by this, Buckingham's first solo effort. And, it only gets better with each listen. It pretty much details Fleetwood Mac's transition from 1979's Tusk to 1982's Mirage in the best way possible. The "ra-ta-ta-tas" in "Bwana," unnecessary second drum track and fills in "Mary Lee Jones," and wacky shouting in "That's How We Do It in L.A.," all call back to the weirder Buckingham moments on Tusk, while smooth, sulky ballads like "Trouble," "I'll Tell You Now," and "Shadow of the West" all hint at what was to come on Mirage and then Tango in the Night. If you like those classic Fleetwood Mac albums, and you should, then there is plenty to love on Law and Order.
Top jams: "Bwana," "Trouble," "Mary Lee Jones," "I'll Tell You Now," "Shadow of the West," "That's How We Do It in L.A.," "Love From Here, Love From There"


Sound of the Westway - Chin Chin (Farmer, 1985)
I know I'm a couple years late at getting really into this, but, that's the wonderful challenge of good music. There is way too much of it out there, and that is not a bad problem to have. I purchased the 2010 Slumberland reissue on the cheap maybe a year or so ago at Encore in Ann Arbor. Sound of the Westway offers up some bad ass summertime girl punk. I think it's pretty clear that Chin Chin played quote a role in the development of Vivian Girls. Big 80s drums, great open chords, catchy melodies, tuff attitude. "Jungle of Fear" and "Stay With Me" both rule big time.
Top jams: "Dark Days," "My Guy," "Jungle of Fear," "Room of Sadness," "War," "Proud Soldiers," "Stay With Me," "Dead Life"


Afoot EP - Let's Active (I.R.S., 1983)
In addition to producing R.E.M. albums in the 80s, Mitch Easter had a band called Let's Active. Afoot was their debut release, and it is fantastic. I love every song, especially "Every Word Means No," "Make Up With Me" and "Edge of the World." Easter's nasally voice is a nice contrast to the big, yet sometimes subtle 80s production, and those jangly and chimey guitars that I love are all over the place here. The song structures are a little askew, which is another draw for me. But, seriously, all six songs are awesome. Now, tell me, is it worth it to go forward and devote some time to the LPs that followed?
Top jams: "Every Word Means No," "Make Up With Me," "Edge of the World," "Room With a View," "In Between," "Leader of Men" (AKA, all of them!)

Emotional Drumming Mix #6

Here is a mix compiling tracks from the last 20 albums I have covered in my Emotional Listening posts. It is zipped and shared on my Mediafire account.

Download HERE!

1. "All This I've Done for You" - Husker Du (1986)
2. "Carried Out to Sea" - Fucked Up (2006)
3. "Ripeness" - Echo & the Bunnymen (1983)
4. "When My Baby's Beside Me" - Big Star (1972)
5. "The Escape Engine" - Burning Airlines (1999)
6. "What's Happend to You My Dearest Friend?" - Another Sunny Day (1992)
7. "Bang a Gong (Get It On)" - T. Rex (1971)
8. "Love Action" - The Human League (1981)
9. "Distopian Dream Girl" - Built to Spill (1994)
10. "Borderline" - Camper Van Beethoven (1989)
11. "Darling Daughter" - Camber (2002)
12. "Pregnant Pause" - Cass McCombs (2007)
13. "Tears of Joy" - Black Tambourine (2010)
14. "Tired of Waiting for You" - The Kinks (1965)
15. "Off the Wall" - Michael Jackson (1979)
16. "Something That I Need" - Cheap Girls (2009)
17. "Bad Scene, Everyone's Fault" - Jawbreaker (1995)
18. "Hardcore Pops Are Fun" - Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti (2002)
19. "Come On Let's Go" - Broadcast (2000)
20. "Laugh Track" - Chavez (1995)

Emotional Listening #32

#1 Record - Big Star (Ardent, 1972)
About a year ago, my girlfriend Sara gave me quite a push to invest in Big Star. I eventually found #1 Record and Radio City for very good prices on vinyl, and put in some good time. I've mainly focused on #1 Record to start, and it was a pretty great choice. It really is insane that Big Star was not enormous in their time, as it is plain to see that every power pop band since has been deeply inspired by them. Sure, the songs aren't quite at that grandiose classic rock level like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, but, the hooks are pretty much endless. I have my preferred songs, but there isn't a stale moment to be heard here. Admittedly, I felt that the album was a lot too ballad-y at first, but, I'm over it. Those songs are gorgeous and sound like fall, which is a lethal combination. I'm not even going to touch the rock songs, because I could go on forever. This is just a bad ass pop record that is going to stick with me for a long time.
Top jams: "Feel," "The Ballad of El Goodo," "In the Street," "Thirteen," "The India Song," "When My Baby's Beside Me," "My Life is Right," "Watch the Sunrise"


My Roaring 20's - Cheap Girls (Paper + Plastick, 2009)
Cheap Girls, from Lansing, MI of all places, are awesome. I slept on them for too long, and finally woke up with last year's Giant Orange, which is excellent, and was #11 on my year-end list. My Roaring 20's is their sophomore album, and I don't like it nearly as much. Don't get me wrong. It's totally good, and there are some nice standouts ("Ft. Lauderdale," "Something That I Needed," most of "One & Four"). Here's the thing: A lot of the songs are hard to tell apart, and also the production is mediocre at best. Not that there is much variety on Giant Orange, but it just sounds better and the songs are of a higher quality. The band still does the 90s-alternative-rock-meets-pop punk thing well here, it's just not as charming. I'll stop whining. Still a fine album with some total jams.
Top jams: "Sunnyside," "Ft. Lauderdale," "Hey Hey, I'm Worn Out," "I Had a Motorcycle," "Sleeping Weather," "Something That I Need," "One & Four"


Kinda Kinks - The Kinks (Reprise, 1965)
I've been meaning to devote a lot of effort to The Kinks for a long time now. It seems like it would be an overwhelming process, so I'm going to take my time with it. I have started with Kinda Kinks, which I get the feeling that, in the Kinks' universe, is sorta comparable to the early Beatles records. However, Kinda Kinks is better. They had already started dabbling in psych rock ("See My Friends," which is actually a single that wasn't even on the album, it just happened to be tagged on toward the end of the version I had downloaded), and a lot of these songs are more off kilter than those cheesy, straightforward, but totally good Beatles hits. "You Shouldn't be Sad" and "Something Better Beginning" are pleasant surprises. And, I know it's one of their most popular songs, but I haven't been able to get over "Tired of Waiting for You" since it was one of my favorite jams as a little kid. Two observations: The drumming is subtle but really, really great. Totally impressed. Also, I've been told Alec Jensen sounds like Ray Davies. On multiple songs here, that comparison really comes through. Pretty cool. Anyway, I'm excited to eventually move forward with these guys.
Top jams: "Look for Me Baby," "Nothin' in the World Can Stop Me Worryin' 'Bout That Girl," "Tired of Waiting for You," "Don't Ever Change," "So Long," "You Shouldn't be Sad," "Something Better Beginning," "See My Friends"

Emotional Listening #31

Mission: Control! - Burning Airlines (DeSoto, 1999)
Burning Airlines was a post-Jawbox project from J. Robbins, producer extraordinaire of a lot of seminal/popular albums in emo/post-hardcore/punk/indie rock. Mission: Control! was their debut, and it is phenomenal. While Robbins certainly knows his way around a melody or hook, these songs aren't of the typical pop song structure. They are heavy, complex (with some truly insane but completely rock solid drumming), and yet still, very catchy. Mission: Control! is a melodic, technical rock 'n' roll record of the most excellent type. If you like jagged, distorted guitars, intricate drumming and pop melodies, this record is for you.
Top jams: "Wheaton Calling," "Pacific 231," "Scissoring," "The Escape Engine," "3 Sisters," "Flood of Foreign Capital," "Sweet Deals on Surgery"


Gone Glimmering - Chavez (Matador, 1995)
I hesitate to call Chavez math rock, as they were quite a bit more melodic and accessible than, say, Don Caballero. So, I will describe them as heavy, melodic, technical rock. A couple years ago my bud Julian called me crazy for not being familiar, and now I understand why. The sounds on Gone Glimmering are not unlike those of Hum, Shiner, Burning Airlines, etc. Huge guitars, vocal melodies akin to J. Robbins and Allen Epley, and impressive, intricate drumming that somehow is both focused and aimless (and also big). This record is right up my alley, and I regret not realizing that until now.
Top jams: "Break Up Your Band," "Laugh Track," "The Ghost by the Sea," "Peeled Out Too Late," "Wakeman's Air," "Relaxed Fit"


Porcupine - Echo & the Bunnymen (Sire, 1983)
Last year, I got way into Echo & the Bunnymen's 1984 masterpiece, Ocean Rain. This year, it's their prior LP, Porcupine, that is completely slaying me. While the highlights on Porcupine aren't quite as obvious as those on Ocean Rain, they are two equally stellar albums. Porcupine is brighter, louder and more full (more electric guitars and upbeat tempos), but, there is still a goth element to these songs. I wouldn't be surprised if I come to prefer this to Ocean Rain. This band was really good!
Top jams: "The Cutter," "The Back of Love," "My White Devil," "Clay," "Heads Will Roll," "Ripeness," "Higher Hell," "Gods Will be Gods"


Dear You - Jawbreaker (DGC, 1995)
I've known since high school that I am supposed to care about Jawbreaker, and I just never had. That was until I came across a used copy of an awesome vinyl reissue of Dear You at Underground Sounds in Ann Arbor a year or so ago. I've been listening to the record pretty frequently of late, and it's about damn time, right? I don't know that I would agree with those who throw the band under the emo umbrella, though I also do recognize that these songs have some elements of that genre. However, Dear You is simply a dark, melodic punk record with plenty of pop sensibility. The first three tracks here set the tone with Blake Schwarzenbach's thought provoking storytelling and excellent sense for melody. "Accident Prone" is one of the more emo jams, with all of its drama and dynamics. "Bad Scene, Everyone's Fault," a straight up pop punk song, takes the title for best moment on the album, though. I am very happy that I've finally come around.
Top jams: "Save Your Generation," "I Love You So Much It's Killing Us Both," "Fireman," "Accident Prone," "Oyster," "Million," "Bad Scene, Everyone's Fault," "Sluttering (May 4th)"

Emotional Listening #30

Black Tambourine - Black Tambourine (Slumberland, 2010)
Black Tambourine are considered one of the more seminal bands of the indie pop/twee movement of old. I get it, though I still find bands like Beat Happening and The Pastels a bit more interesting. Still, Slumberland's 2010 collection compiles quite a set of good jangly and fuzzy pop tunes. Call me crazy, but my favorite of the original batch of tunes is the short, aimless instrumental "Pam's Tan." Also, it's telling that the later recordings, including the "Lazy Heart" and "Dream Baby Dream" covers, are better than said original material. Bands like this once were and again have become a dime a dozen, but I do sense something special to Black Tambourine, even if I can't elaborate any more.
Top jams: "Black Car," "I Was Wrong," "Throw Aggi Off the Bridge," "We Can't be Friends," "By Tomorrow," "Pam's Tan," "Heartbeat," "Lazy Heart," "Tears of Joy," "Dream Baby Dream"


Key Lime Pie - Camper Van Beethoven (Virgin, 1989)
Last year I spent some good time with CVB's debut LP, Telephone Free Landslide Victory, and while somewhat inconsistent, it definitely grew on me and I came to appreciate it in all of its silliness. Next up for me is their 1989 pre-reunion swan song, Key Lime Pie, which I'd say is a much more serious listen. It's interesting because sonically, this is a much more cohesive album, but the band still incorporated a lot of the same genres they toyed with on TFLV (ska, polka, etc.). There are still moments here where I get distracted, but man, their are some great songs here. "Borderline" is a current knock-out jam for me.
Top jams: "Jack Ruby," "Sweethearts," "When I Win the Lottery," "(I Was Born in a) Laundromat," "Borderline," "June," "All Her Favorite Fruit," "Flowers," "Pictures of Matchstick Men"


Off the Wall - Michael Jackson (Epic, 1979)
As a youth, I didn't give much thought to MJ. I knew the singles and liked 'em fine, but that's as far as my relationship with his music went. I acquired Off the Wall and Thriller several years ago when I first started to collect vinyl, and I fell for them both pretty hard, especially thanks to the fact that I had since acquired immense appreciation for other music like this (smooth, sexy, funky, awesome chords). Lately I've listening to Off the Wall a bit more intimately, and my love for it has grown exponentially. If only it weren't for "She's Out of My Life," this record would be just about perfect. No joke.
Top jams: "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," "Rock With You," "Workin' Day and Night," "Get on the Floor," "Off the Wall," "I Can't Help It," "It's the Falling in Love"


Dropping the Writ - Cass McCombs (Domino, 2007)
I developed an interest in Cass McCombs' third album, Dropping the Writ, after a friend had put a song from it on a "best of 2007" mix she had made in early 2008. I'm not exactly sure why it took me until now to give it the opportunity it deserves, as it is a completely gorgeous record, and another in this batch that I'm focusing on in this post that is nearly flawless. I like if not love all ten songs here. This record is nowhere near as boring as 2009's Catacombs and 2011's Wit's End, and is much more in line with, and far surpasses, McComb's other 2011 album, Humor Risk. I guess I would generally describe this music as a mix of folk and classic pop music, and there are instances that really remind me of XO-era Elliott Smith and a smidge of Jim O'Rourke's more accessible albums. I wonder if I had started with Dropping the Writ, I would have experienced a higher level of enjoyment from McCombs' more recent albums?
Top jams: "Pregnant Pause," "That's That," "Petrified Forest," "Moving Shadows," "Deseret," "Crick in My Neck," "Full Moon or Infinity," "Wheel of Fortune"

Emotional Listening #29

London Weekend - Another Sunny Day (Sarah, 1992)
I discovered Another Sunny Day, your classic late-80s/early-90s London-based twee/indie pop band, thanks to Fucked Up's "Anorak City" cover on their Couple Tracks collection. London Weekend is their only LP, and for the most part, it is excellent. While "Anorak City" is the most obvious standout, and truly is an incredible pop song, "What's Happened to You My Dearest Friend?" is probably my favorite song due to its bright Cure-esque chord progression, 80s-style production, and the Johnny Marr-inspired acoustic guitar solo into the ending. There is plenty of melodrama, brit-pop balladry, and jangling guitars informed by The Smiths, but this is no knockoff. These songs hold up on their own merit. Things get real slow and sleepy towards the end, and three or four songs could have been cut, but, I would definitely recommend spending some summer days jamming this with the windows down.
Top jams: "Anorak City," "Things Will be Nice," "What's Happened to You My Dearest Friend?," "Can't You Tell It's True?," "Impossible," "You Should All be Murdered," "Horseriding," "New Year's Honours"


There's Nothing Wrong With Love - Built to Spill (Up, 1994)
For the longest time, I have really only cared about Built to Spill's 1999 masterpiece, Keep It Like a Secret, which is one of the great modern guitar albums. I've finally decided to put in some quality time with their previous records, and I must say, they're actually not as bad as I used to think. There's Nothing Wrong With Love, the band's sophomore LP, lacks the layers and heroics of the guitars from Keep It Like a Secret, but these are some nice jangly indie rock tunes with Doug Martsch's trademark: quirky vocals and gnarly albeit sloppy guitar solos. "In the Morning," "Big Dipper," and "Distopian Dream Girl" are absolute jams.
Top jams: "In the Morning," "Big Dipper," "Fling," "Cleo," "The Source," "Twin Falls," "Distopian Dream Girl"


Wake Up and be Happy - Camber (Deep Elm, 2002)
I know I shouldn't be, but I am slightly embarrassed that I was so invested in the blatantly emo record label Deep Elm back in high school. During this time, Camber was one of the label's less interesting bands: classic second-wave emo in the vein of Mineral, Texas is the Reason, and Christie Front Drive. After three albums of this, the band released their fourth and final LP in 2002, Wake Up and be Happy, which only has slight emo flourishes. It is much more of a throwback to straight-up 90s alternative rock. If you can get past Barry Lott's vocals, which seem a little forced, there are plenty of moments to appreciate, namely in "Short Sleeve," "Darling Daughter," and "Trick I Learned in the Army."
Top jams: "Devil You Know," "Short Sleeve," "West Village Idiot," "Wake Up and be Happy," "Darling Daughter," "Plissken," "Trick I Learned in the Army"


Candy Apple Grey - Husker Du (Warner Bros., 1986)
I purchased a used copy of 80s punk and alternative rock pioneers Husker Du's fifth LP, Candy Apple Grey, at Underground Sounds on Record Store Day a couple years ago. Perhaps thanks to the two bands I play drums in, I have been itching to spend some crucial time with the middle four albums in Husker Du's discography of late. For whatever reason, I started here, and it rules so hard. There are, like, two really shitty ballads, but beyond that, this record is fantastic. "Crystal" is a hell of an opener, and I love how pissed Bob Mould sounds on it. There are too many other highlights to name, but "Don't Want to Know if You Are Lonely" and "I Don't Know for Sure" are worthy. Lastly, closer, "All This I've Done for You," is my favorite Husker Du song thus far. Candy Apple Grey is raw and in some ways uneven, but those things add to the charm of the general awesomeness of the songs here.
Top jams: "Crystal," "Don't Want to Know if You Are Lonely," "I Don't Know for Sure," "Sorry Somehow," "Hardly Getting Over It," "Dead Set on Destruction," "Eiffel Tower High," "All This I've Done for You"


House Arrest - Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti (Ballbearing Pinatas, 2002)
Ariel Pink's discography is confusing! I don't understand how exactly everything was released, but as far as I understand, House Arrest was originally released in 2002 and then reissued by Paw Tracks in 2006? This is the fifth installment in his Haunted Graffiti series, whatever that means. Unsurprisingly, House Arrest is very lo-fi, but the musicianship and arrangements here are impressive. It doesn't hold a candle to 2010's Before Today or even 2012's Mature Themes, but these songs are still thoroughly enjoyable. There's less smooth and sexy 70s pop and a lot more 60s psychedelia, but considering the recording quality, that's probably for the best. If you need a starting point, the first two tracks, "Hardcore Pops Are Fun" and "Interesting Results" are the best anyway. I also fell hard for the haunting and hilariously titled closer, "Oceans of Weep."
Top jams: "Hardcore Pops Are Fun," "Interesting Results," "Helen," "Every Night I Die at Miyagis," "Alisa," "The People I'm Not," "Almost Waiting," "Oceans of Weep"

Emotional Listening #28

The Noise Made by People - Broadcast (Warp, 2000)
I used to play drums in a Detroit band called Computer Perfection, and three of the four other members were constantly encouraging me to invest time in Broadcast. Finally, I have, and it's been well worth it. I have begun my journey with their 2000 debut, The Noise Made by People, which showcases some nice, 60s style production (roomy, natural sounding reverb, muted bass guitar). Trish Keenan's (RIP) vocals are haunting and gorgeous. There's a definitely a psychedelic vibe in these songs, but more in the vein of Pet Sounds or a moodier, more subtle Stereolab than, say, The Flaming Lips. The Noise Made by People makes for an eerie yet thoroughly enjoyable listen, and would pretty much recommend it to any one of my friends.
Top jams: "Long Was the Year," "Unchanging Window," "Come On Let's Go," "Echo's Answer," "Papercuts," "You Can Fall," "Look Outside," "City in Progress"


Hidden World - Fucked Up (Jade Tree, 2006)
When Fucked Up's debut LP, Hidden World, came out in 2006, I was sort of in-between phases of listening to punk-informed music, and was mostly spending time with pop-oriented albums. Then The Chemistry of Common Life happened in 2008, and I was easily hooked. With 2011's David Comes to Life, my love for Fucked Up arrived full force, and I had since decided it was time to go back to that epic and gorgeously heavy debut. Hidden World is equally tough sounding and melodic, showcasing wonderfully catchy guitar leads and upbeat punk progressions that the band is yet to retire. It's a bit more rough around the edges and less accessible than David Comes to Life, but not by all that much. There are lots of surprises within the songs, let alone in the fact that this is a punk album that has interludes and is 13 songs and 70+ minutes of mostly relentless intensity. If you like your punk records short, and aren't into the tough guy wrestler yelling, then Hidden World is probably not for you. But I'd wager that there is enough melody in the guitars to still hook you good. While The Chemistry of Common Life, for me, is probably an 8.5 and David Comes to Life is most definitely a 10, I'd give Hidden World a rating of 9 out of 10.
Top jams: "Crusades," "David Comes to Life," "Invisible Leader," "Carried Out to Sea," "Two Snakes," "Manqueller Man," "Blaze of Glory," "Triumph of Life," "Jacob's Ladder"


Dare - The Human League (Virgin, 1981)
I'm gonna be quick about this one. I'm sure you know that The Human League was one of those popular new wave/synth pop bands of the 80s. Dare is their third album. Is it cheesy? I guess, only in that it is from the early 80s and the production and synths may sound a little dates. But, is it awesome? Surely. "Don't You Want Me" is the obviously awesome hit single, but there are two much greater highlights for me. "Darkness" is a mysterious mid-tempo jam with awesome chords and synth bass, and "Love Action" is just an incredible song. I don't need to explain, just listen to it.
Top jams: "Open Your Heart," "Darkness," "Do or Die," "Seconds," "Love Action," "Don't You Want Me"


Electric Warrior - T. Rex (Reprise, 1971)
Yup, I'm just now getting around to spending some solid time with T. Rex. Deal with it. Electric Warrior rules. I know they're considered one of the most classic/important glam rock bands, but this sounds more like a swampy, bluesy take on power pop to me. Almost like a cross of Hunky Dory, late-60s Rolling Stones and Big Star, maybe? These songs are way too subtle to be considered glam rock, anyway. "Mambo Sun" and "Bang a Gong (Get It On)" are two of the best songs I've heard recently.
Top jams: "Mambo Sun," "Cosmic Dancer," "Jeepster," "Bang a Gong (Get It On)," "The Motivator," "Life's a Gas," "Rip Off"

2013 MLB Preview

AL East
1. Tampa Bay Rays
2. Toronto Blue Jays
3. Baltimore Orioles
4. New York Yankees
5. Boston Red Sox

So, the AL East is gonna be insane this year. The Tampa Bay Rays need to find a way to hit better, and top MLB prospect Wil Myers may just be the answer. Having Evan Longoria healthy for an entire season surely wouldn't hurt either. Their base running and game management is top notch though, and their pitching, starting and relief, still may be the best in the division, even with the loss of James Shields. Toronto acquired pretty much every star the Miami Marlins had at the end of last year with the exception of Giancarlo Stanton, and also gained 2012 NL Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey and Melky Cabrera, coming off a batting title stained by PEDs. On paper, they are the best team in the East. I just don't necessarily believe buying a championship will work in a division that Joe Madden and the Rays are in. Baltimore stunned last year, and offensively could be even better this year as their young talent continues to mature. The rotation is too and experienced to make another run in the playoffs this year, but they are looking good for the years to come. The Yankees are SO injured and SO old, and that is going to lead them to still winning maybe 85 or so games, but missing the playoffs, and thus being a disgrace to their unrealistically expectant fans. Weirdly, the Red Sox are sort of rebuilding, and they will surely be better than they were last year, but still should finish last place here. The offense should be just fine, but that pitching could be atrocious.

AL Central
1. Detroit Tigers
2. Kansas City Royals
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Cleveland Indians
5. Minnesota Twins

The Detroit Tigers MIGHT have the best lineup in the AL, and definitely have the best starting rotation. While the Royals and Indians got better and should offer up more competition in the division, the Tigers should have an easy time winning it, and potentially partake in their second World Series in a row. However, remember how easy last year was supposed to be? The team still has its loose ends to tie up (defense, bullpen), which hopefully will be set by the trade deadline, but the good here FAR outweighs the bad. Everyone should know by now that the Royals can bat, and at the expense of Wil Myers, their rotation is relatively formidable now with James Shields and Ervin Santana on board. A bunch of White Sox over performed in 2012, and Paul Konerko did his usual thing, and I just don't see that happening in 2013. Chris Sale and Jake Peavy should keep this team either just above or just below the .500 mark. Yes, adding Nick Swisher was a smooth move for the Indians, but it doesn't help THAT much when their rotation is a complete disaster. Maybe Trevor Bauer can help that. Minnesota still has the best pure hitting catcher in Joe Mauer, and Justin Morneau went through a nice revival, but that team still sucks. Remember in 2010 when they won 94 games?

AL West
1. Los Angeles Angels
2. Texas Rangers
3. Oakland Athletics
4. Seattle Mariners
5. Houston Astros

Adding Josh Hamilton to the already stellar duo of Albert Pujols and Mike Trout puts the Los Angeles Angels at the top of the AL West. Sure, their pitching is questionable, but, that could also work out if C.J. Wilson returns to form and they can figure out how their bullpen should work. Despite the loss of Hamilton, the Texas Rangers batting is still dangerous as all hell. Adrian Beltre is coming off a season where he would have won the MVP award if Trout or Miguel Cabrera didn't exist. If Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus and Nelson Cruz continue their production of late, and the newer and more risky pieces fall into place like they should, Texas will not give up the division title without a fight, especially if their young pitching staff continues to solidify. It's hard to say if the Oakland A's or Baltimore Orioles were more surprising in 2012, but I'd bet on the A's. Now, which team is more likely to keep it up? That is an even better question. The Oakland hitters are young and flawed, but Yoenis Cespedes is already looking like a future superstar. Their young pitching staff is the strength here, and it will be fun to see how they continue to grow. The Seattle Mariners are on the upswing, and with the addition of Michael Morse could be sneaky scary. The pitching will be what keeps them from reaching true contention, even with Felix Hernandez leading the way. This will be the Houston Astros' first year in the American League, and they will get slaughtered.

NL East
1. Washington Nationals
2. Atlanta Braves
3. Philadelphia Phillies
4. New York Mets
5. Miami Marlins

I have to think that the Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves might be the two best teams overall in baseball. With the extra pieces they added, the general ridiculousness of their rotation and bullpen, and being no victim to no more innings limits on Stephen Strasburg, the Nationals are built for a World Series championship NOW. The Braves are not far off by any means. They are almost just as stacked, and adding the Upton brothers (Justin and B.J.) is the icing on the cake. If Kris Medlen is half as good as he was in 2012, tis rotation is completely terrifying. And to think that they get Brandon Beachy back around the All-Star break, whew. The Phillies are on the verge of rebuilding, but as things stand, they can still compete. Cole Hamels has come into his own as the team's ace, and Cliff Lee seems to only get better as he gets older. It's unfortunate that Roy Halladay seems to be on his way out. Their window for a World Series championship has officially closed. The Mets and Marlins are both non-factors this year, and each only have one outright bright spot (David Wright and Giancarlo Stanton, respectively).

NL Central
1. Cincinnati Reds
2. St. Louis Cardinals
3. Milwaukee Brewers
4. Pittsburgh Pirates
5. Chicago Cubs

I am 100% behind the recent decision to keep Aroldis Chapman as the Reds' closer, though it would have been a blast to watch him in the starting rotation. Thing is, they don't need him there, thanks to the young, talented guys they already have there. They finally have a quality centerfielder/leadoff man in Shin-Soo Choo, and throwing him in the mix with perennial MVP candidate Joey Votto, Brandon Phillps, Jay Bruce, etc. gives Cincinnati everything they need to repeat as NL Central champs, and maybe even more. They may have to deal with the lack of Chris Carpenter for another season, but the St. Louis Cardinals are still very good, and cannot be counted out when discussing the playoffs. If Jon Jay and Allen Craig are the real deal (my bet is that at least Craig IS), they should produce plenty of runs again, and perhaps at a more consistent rate in 2013. Their pitching is weaker than it could be, but Adam Wainwright should completely kill in his second year back from Tommy John surgery. If Ryan Braun gets in trouble for his latest PED accusations, then the Pittsburgh Pirates get third place. I'm going to assume that Braun is fine, though, and that being the case, Milwaukee's offense is golden, as it has been the past few years. Braun has a quality crew of supporting guys that will hit plenty of home runs and produce runs in other ways. It's the pitching, especially the bullpen, that is the problem. I just found out today they signed Kyle Lohse, which will certainly help Yovani Gallardo and the rest of the young, flawed, yet talented rotation. Closer John Axford had a terrible year in 2012, and beyond him, the bullpen is in rough shape. I don't have quite as much faith as a lot of other people seem to have in the Pittsburgh Pirates. Their offense has come together, and Andrew McCutchen is still improving, which is insane. Their rotation and bullpen could go either way though. They very well could finally break their streak of seasons with a losing record, but they will not compete for a playoff spot. The Cubs have some very exciting young players in Starlin Castro, Anthony Rizzo and Jeff Samardzija, but they are still several years away from being good.

NL West
1. San Francisco Giants
2. Los Angeles Dodgers
3. Arizona Diamondbacks
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres

Yes, the Dodgers lineup is basically a sort of 2009 All-Star team thanks to their trades with the Marlins and Red Sox before the trade deadline last year, giving them not only the highest payroll in 2013, but the highest in history. However, injuries heading into the start of the season may be the death of him. If everything works out with Carl Crawford, Hanley Ramirez, and Zack Greinke, and considering that they also have Matt Kemp, Adrian Gonzalez, and the best pitcher in the NL, Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers very well could win the NL West. However, my bet is on the San Francisco Giants, who return just about everybody from their 2012 World Series championship team. Sure, they don't have the most productive, exciting offense, but there defense is among the best in the majors, and the only rotation and bullpen that is better than theirs is Washington, and MAYBE Atlanta. If Tim Lincecum can return to pre-2012 form, the West is theirs, guaranteed. The Diamondbacks traded away Justin Upton, and though they still have plenty of talent on offense and on the mound, it's going to be another down year for them. The Rockies and Padres seem to randomly compete in this division every so often, and if either of them is going to do it, it's Colorado, as their offense could potentially be sickening if they can get full seasons out of Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez. Their pitching is virtually non-existent, as is the Padres'. Chase Headley was a revelation to them in 2012, but he's going to be doing some time on the DL, and they don't have much hope anywhere else.

AL Wild Card Game
Toronto Blue Jays over Texas Rangers

NL Wild Card Game
Atlanta Braves over Los Angeles Dodgers

ALDS
Detroit Tigers over Toronto Blue Jays, 3-1
Los Angeles Angels over Tampa Bay Rays, 3-2

NLDS
Washington Nationals over Atlanta Braves, 3-2
Cincinnati Reds over San Francisco Giants, 3-2

ALCS
Detroit Tigers over Los Angeles Angels, 4-2

NLCS
Washington Nationals over Cincinnati Reds, 4-2

World Series
Washington Nationals over Detroit Tigers, 4-3

AL Rookie of the Year - Wil Myers, Tampa Bay
AL Comeback Player of the Year - Victor Martinez, Detroit
AL Cy Young - Justin Verlander, Detroit
AL MVP - Mike Trout, Los Angeles

NL Rookie of the Year - Shelby Miller, St. Louis
NL Comeback Player of the Year - Ryan Howard, Philadelphia
NL Cy Young - Stephen Strasburg, Washington
NL MVP - Matt Kemp, Los Angeles

Favorite Albums of 2012: #20-1

DOWNLOAD MIX HERE


(20) - Open Your Heart - The Men (Sacred Bones)
Not a huge fan of the country rock songs here, but the ones that are reminiscent of Sonic Youth and Husker Du are excellent. Great bookends to this album, too.
Top jam: "Please Don't Go Away"


(19) Children of Desire - Merchandise (Katorga)
Mid-fi 80s goth jams with chorus guitars, drum machine and Morrissey vox. Not on Captured Tracks, but it certainly would fit in well there. "Time" is probably my favorite song of 2012.
Top jam: "Time"


(18) Gallery EP - Craft Spells (Captured Tracks)
Mellow 80s pop jams with chimey guitars, synths, programmed drums. I really liked Craft Spells' LP from 2011, and it seems the songs are getting even better.
Top jam: "Sun Trails"


(17) Spooky Action at a Distance - Lotus Plaza (Kranky)
Admittedly, the songs on this album are not too different from Lockett Pundt's Deerhunter songs. Bored vocals singing quality melodies, soft drums, and guitars that both chime and jangle and continue to layer on top of each other. Subtract the first and last songs, and this would've ranked even higher.
Top jam: "Remember Our Days"


(16) When I Couldn't Breathe - Sundials (Asian Man)
Jangly 90s indie/alternative with a slight pop punk edge. At first I was deceived by the outward simplicity of these songs, and then discovered all the subtle quirks hidden underneath. The melodies are great, and pretty much every song is a jam.
Top jam: "Mosby Blues"


(15) Of All Things I Will Soon Grow Tired - Joyce Manor (Asian Man)
Nine tracks of versatile, absolutely brilliant pop punk clocking in at just over 13 minutes total. RIDICULOUS.
Top jam: "Bride of Usher"


(14) Overgrown Path - Chris Cohen (Captured Tracks)
For several years, Chris Cohen was a crucial member of Deerhoof, and he also spent time in Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti. I am pleasantly surprised that he released a solo record in 2012 that is better than the one his former bandmates in the 'Hoof did. Smooth pop with those chimey guitars I love and keep talking about, and jazzy chords. Somewhere between 60s psych and 70s adult contemporary.
Top jam: "Caller No. 99"


(13) Wind Hand Caught in the Door - South South Million (Triple Down)
Trevor Naud and Daniel Clark from my favorite (and simply the best) Detroit band Zoos of Berlin have waited more than ten years to finally put this record out. I was lucky to receive it in an email from Trevor back in 2010, and it's been a joy to have been able to spend the last two+ years with it. Short, aimless, sample-heavy, experimental soundscapes with pop sensibility. Imagine if The Avalanches did drugs and only created ballads. Put it to wax, boys!
Top jam: "Wolf Dreams"


(12) Plumb - Field Music (Memphis Industries)
If you know me well, then you probably recognize the fact that Field Music are one of my absolute favorite bands to come out of the 21st century thus far. At first, I was very disappointed by this, their fourth LP. Then I got my head out of my ass. They're still doing the very complex 60s brit pop thing, but Plumb is even more subtle and orchestral, and even more like The Beatles. Still doesn't come close to touching 2007's Tones of Town, though.
Top jam: "A New Town"


(11) Giant Orange - Cheap Girls (Rise)
An awesome band from Lansing, can you believe it? I know they've been around a while, but this is my first full taste, and it did me well. 90s-style indie/alternative with some of the best melodies of the year and great riffage. Believe it or not, though, this is not the best this particular sub-genre of rock 'n' roll had to offer in 2012.
Top jam: "Manhattan on Mute"


(10) Oshin - DIIV (Captured Tracks)
Yes, I know stupid band name. But, with few standouts, this record does its job well. Clean, chimey, delayed guitar warped by all the layers, backed by driving bass and drums, and fronted by reverb-heavy, buried vocals. Mysterious! And totally awesome.
Top jam: "Human"


(9) Let's Get You Somewhere Else - Luther (Chunksaah)
Had I discovered this even a little earlier than the week of Christmas, it could have broken into the top five. More 90s indie/alternative with pop punk elements, but this time with a slight nod to emo thrown in at times for good measure. Really really great.
Top jam: "Rattlesnake"


(8) Runner - The Sea and Cake (Thrill Jockey)
As Travis Bravender would say, "This sounds like a record by The Sea and Cake." After Radiohead, they are the single most consistently amazing band in existence. Their latest does not take away from that whatsoever.
Top jam: "Pacific"


(7) Celebration Rock - Japandroids (Polyvinyl)
More Replacements-rock than the somewhat shoegaze-y party emo of Post-Nothing. Still it has its emo moments, and they are wonderful. I don't even pay attention to the unifying lyrics, the chord progressions are inspiring enough. Not the best guitar album of 2012 like I feel like almost everyone else is saying, but it definitely is up there.
Top jam: "Fire's Highway"


(6) Mature Themes - Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti (4AD)
Is it possible for Ariel Pink to get weirder and more silly than he was on 2010's near perfect Before Today? Apparently so. Is it possible for his songs to get even better? At first, I thought so, but now the jury's actually still out. Mature Themes has plenty of songs that are awesome on their own merit. But, it's the outright zaniness that makes songs like "Kinski Assassin," "Is This the Best Spot?," "Schnitzel Boogie" and "Symphony of the Nymph" great.
Top jam: "Mature Themes"


(5) Swing Lo Magellan - Dirty Projectors (Domino)
As situationally understated as Swing Lo Magellan is, it's nice to hear a more restrained, stripped down Dirty Projectors. I'm surprising myself by stating that. The drums and guitars are not as huge, and that is  exactly what makes this record so charming. Believe it!
Top jam: "Just From Chevron"

 
(4) Nocturne//Nowhere 7" - Wild Nothing (Captured Tracks)
Wild Nothing had an incredible year this year, and Pitchfork failed to acknowledge this fact. Doesn't matter. The Nowhere 7" that was released early in 2012 was a pleasant surprise, and the timing for Nocturne couldn't have been more perfect. No song here touches the best ones from my favorite album of 2010, Gemini, but it doesn't even matter as the album is still just about perfect. Bonus to hear these dreamy 80s goth-pop gems with some pep and in such high fidelity. Probably my favorite production of the year.
Top jam: "Midnight Song"


(3) Lonerism - Tame Impala (Modular)
Yes, I know. Modern psych pop with John Lennon's ghost singing. This record is incredible, and it's structure continues to catch me off guard (and that is a really cool thing). Awesome guitars, synths, drums, production, etc., etc. Very much looking forward to seeing them live next month.
Top jam: "Music to Walk Home By"


(2) Floral Green - Title Fight (Side One Dummy)
These young melodic hardcore punk boys really grew up! Those roots are still there, but Floral Green adds some Small Brown Bike and a touch of Hum to the mix. I would argue that this record is perfect. Not one moment here is less than excellent. Second best guitars of 2012.
Top jam: "In-Between"

 
(1) Just Married//An Obscure Moon Lighting an Obscure World EP - Glocca Morra (Kind of Like)
No one made better music in 2012 than the noodly, upbeat Philadelphia emo/punk band Glocca Morra. They've already made me forget about Algernon Cadwallader. Not really, but they've helped to soften the blow of AC's demise. Just Married showcases upbeat tempos, technical yet tasteful musicianship, great production, always shifting song structures, catchy melodies (in both the vocals and the guitars). An Obscure Moon Lighting an Obscure World is simpler, less emo, and more dark pop punk mixed with 90s indie rock in the vein of Archers of Loaf, I guess. Glocca Morra is most definitely an Aaron Quillen kind of band. What a treat to get two stellar releases in one year from them. Best guitars of 2012, hands down. These guys are THE GUYS!
Top jam: "Broken Cigarettes"