Top Ten: Albums Of The Year...so far

I love top tens. I love reading other peoples top tens, I love organising things into groups of ten and I love thinking about music in relation to the number ten. I know it's become something of a cliche (especially in relation to love and music) ever since High Fidelity graced our bookshelves and screens however I still believe in the power of ten.

I've decided to do a weekly/bi-weekly (depends how busy work is) top ten. So watch this space.

1. Lykke Li - Youth Novels
I listen to this record all the time. Near-perfect melodic pop served up in an effortlessly cool and unique fashion.

2. Aloha - Light Works
Technically 2007 but who has time for discovering new music in December? Aloha discover a new direction and it works brilliantly.


3. She&Him - Volume 1
Who new Zooey Deschanel's voice/songwriting ability was so amazing? Put it with M. Ward's subtle production, a cameo from a yazoo and you don't get much better. Easily puts Scarlett Johansson's 'record' to shame.


4. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago
Thank you to the man who gave me this record at the beginning of the year. It's difficult to listen to all the way through now but still a beautiful and earnest debut.


5. Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes
Love. Love. Love. Blue Ridge Mountains is perfection. I have a feeling this will be my album of the year...

6. Band of Horses - Cease to Begin
Great album. Still think the first album is better but so glad this catapulted them onto the main stage where they deserve to be.


7. Mystery Jets - Twenty One
They've ditched the dad, had a Duran Duran pastel makeover and created the best indie pop record of the year. Who said second albums were difficult?



8. Four Tet - Ringer
Technically an EP. Four Tet delivers, yet again.


9. My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges
Playful, creative and a truer representation of their live sound than previous albums. My Morning Jacket continue to push boundaries to their advantage .



10. MGMT - Oracular Spectacular
I tried to fight it, I couldn't stand the hype but actually it is a damn good record.

Difficult

It's been a difficult week. Actually it has probably been the most difficult week of my life.

I experienced grief like never before. Uncontrollable emotions which left me numb. After three days of self-indulgent tears I went home to help and be with loved ones. Such special people.

It's amazing how sudden death brings remarkable resilience and love. We shared happy lucid moments followed by horrendous feelings of loss. All in the beautiful Portuguese heat.

Enough said. It's not really blogging material, but I know my dear, dear friends will pull through this. With love to them all and their beautiful daddy.