It’s been a tricky task narrowing down a year of music into a top 10 list. 2013 has really spoilt me for choice! Unfortunately Kurt Vile, Broken Bells and Daniel Avery didn’t quite make it…but here are the one’s that really made an impression on me.
If you’re a fan of melancholic beats and alternative rock, you may uncover a few new favorites too. Enjoy.
Devandra banhart – Mala
For the dreamers and hopeless romantics out there, this is for you. Simple tracks with beautiful lyric’s. Mala is the eighth studio album by Banhart and my favourite yet. Track 4, ‘Never Seen Such Good Things’ – say no more.
Samiyam – Wish you were here
Straight forward Hip Hop with instrumental beats, this has quickly become a firm favorite of mine for its unique sound. Music producer Samiyam (Sam Baker) makes his debut rapping across the album, sampling soul and disco records. A real fresh approach to Hip Hop.
Junip – Junip
With Jose Gonzalez as the lead singer, you know you’re in for a treat. Back in November I went to see Junip perform their latest album at the Brudenell Social Club. I was lucky enough to see a lot of great bands last year but their performance possibly (Cloud Control were pretty amazing) topped them all. Check out their music videos too, mini cinematic masterpieces. A moving, thought provoking album.
Cloud control – Dream Cave
Alternative rock fans please gather, once you’ve heard this album you’ll be addicted like we are. Imperfect harmonies and beautiful roaring guitar solos. P.S Don’t tell anyone I told you but their doing a free gig at Nation of Shopkeepers on the 19th February…Ssssh.
Poolside – Pacific Standard Time
This album fulfils my entire disco, daytime dance, chillwave needs and more. Track after track of funky beats and playful lyrics. Not to mention an excellent Neil Young cover of Harvest Moon. Don’t believe me? Then listen for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.
King Krule – King Krule
Ghostpoet fans, don’t hate, embrace. Equally as talented British singer/song writer Archy Marshall has been making waves in the US and its no surprise! Melancholic rhymes you’ll either love or hate. Give it a try, you might like it.
Nils Frahm – Screws
Contemporary pianist Nils Frahm melts hearts with his debut album ‘Screws’. Frahm’s awkward compositions translate beautifully which make for an easy listen. Perfect for unwinding.
Evenings – Yore
Prepare to be transported to a trance like state in a sea of tranquillity. Too far? Maybe. But Evenings latest album release ‘Yore’ is so airy and uplifting it’s hard to keep you’re feet on the ground. Guaranteed enjoyment.
I’m a bit of a sucker for an ethereal female vocalist, if you are too then this ones for you. Opening track ‘The Trip’ sets the tone for the entire album and draws you all the way in. ‘Strange Pleasures’ is beautifully atmospheric. A mix of electro/sub pop and hazey instrumentals. Perfect.
Lower Dens – Nootropics
Synth lovers get on this. ‘Nootropics’ is an amalgamation of ambient drift, synth, folk wonderfulness. Almost haunting at times this album is a real mood setter. Husky, masculine vocals that make you swoon a little bit. Definitely one to download.
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