The Daily Muddle

Well, hello.  It has been quite the summer.  For those of you who know me, you know why I have been absent….for those of you who don’t….well, I’m not sure there is anyone who reads TDM who doesn’t know me.  So let’s just move on and talk about the music that got me through the summer of 2009.

First, 2 albums that I was late to the game on, which I purchased before my trip back east from Chicago that were staples all summer for me:

Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes

You’ve all heard it.  Most everyone loves it.  It took me a few listen throughs to actually warm up to it.  I think I may have been stand-offish because everyone had told me how great it is.  You know….when you’re supposed to like something there is that part of you that doesn’t really want to like it?  Well, that happened, but it didn’t take long for it to pass.

Personal favorite:

Ra Ra Riot - The Rhumb Line

Another great album from 2008.  It was my friend Emily’s album of the year and for good reason.  There are no real let downs on this album.  At the same time, you know the stage you go through with an album where it’s all you want to listen to?  That stage for me with this album wasn’t incredibly long.  Suspended in Gaffa certainly held my attention longer than the rest of the album.

Personal favorite:

Dinosaur Jr. - Farm

Probably going to end up as my rock album of the year, Dinosaur Jr.’s Farm is fantastic.  I had to drive to and from Vermont this summer (from Maine – it takes longer than you think) for my best friends wedding and this album was playing 90% of the ride.  A product of the great label Jagjaguwar, it is full of great instrumental sections.  If you’re looking for something a little more “rock”, check this album out.

Personal favorite:

Blitzen Trapper - Furr

I had heard of Blitzen Trapper last year, but never got around to purchasing the album. I did this summer and was very very pleased.  Furr has a bit of a country touch to it, which apparently I like.  For some reason they remind me a little bit of Okkervil River, which may be totally misguided.  It will take a few listen throughs to appreciate, but if you get through them I am confident you will like it.

Personal favorite:

Grizzly Bear - Veckatimest

Touted by many and for good reason.  I first heard Grizzly Bear on the Dark Was the Night compilation album and was really impressed.  After I heard all the praise for their new album, picking it up was a no-brainer.  I have difficulty comparing them to anyone, which is great….they have a different sound.  If that’s what you’re looking for, this album is a must….and even if you’re not….this album is a must.

Personal favorite (along with everyone else):

Patrick Watson - Wooden Arms

Probably my album of the summer.  Patrick Watson is the lead singer of the great band, The Cinematic Orchestra – this is his most recent solo effort.  Half of the time you don’t even know what you’re listening to and it’s amazing because in the end it all sounds so great together.  Definitely one of the funkier albums I’ve heard in awhile.  Try Beijing and you will know exactly what I’m talking about.

Personal favorite:

Fanfarlo - Reservoir

Listen once and you’ll be addicted.  They sound a little bit like Bishop Allen and someone else that I just can’t put my finger on (it’s driving me insane so if anyone has the answer, please let me know).  The download album is only $6 and worth every penny.  The album is full of catchy hooks and you will bouncing your head at work in no time.  Unlike some other catchy albums though – this one doesn’t lose it’s appeal after 5 listens.  If you’re in need of something you will immediately like, this is the answer.

Personal favorite: The Walls Are Coming Down

Well, that’s it.  Those were the albums that got me through the summer of ’09.  Enjoy.  I sure hope it’s not 40 days before I get to post again.

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