Oh 2009, you were an interesting year for music. On one hand, the auto-tune craze has surpassed unimaginative Nirvana rip-off bands as the worst part of music. On the other hand, there were a few really great records that I think can stand the test of time. They not only have great performances, but they leave big shoes to fill for the next generation of bands in their respective genres.
Thrice – “Beggars”
Thrice have certainly outdone themselves with a less is more approach for their latest effort, “Beggars.” This record is just the basic elements of rock and roll but somehow it’s way more interesting than any modern rock band getting radio play today. “Beggars” showcases Thrice’s evolved songwriting ability and musicianship without being two full of itself or showy. A lot of records this year were hard to digest in one sitting, but “Beggars” could quickly become a favorite meal in the coming months. Standout tracks include “The Weight,” “In Exile,” “Circles” and “Beggars.” Additionally, the CD version comes with a download card for five bonus songs including an excellent cover of the Beatles’ “Helter Skelter.”
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Converge – “Axe To Fall”
To say that Converge’s latest effort is heavy would be an understatement. All of the elements for a metallic hardcore masterpiece are in place: the meanest and most technical of instrumentation, the most vicious performance of vocalist Jake Bannon’s career and production so heavy and thick that it makes Slayer sound like the Jonas Brothers. However, under the heavy and furious exterior lie deeply thoughtful lyrics. At the end of the title track, Bannon proclaims along with Blacklisted frontman George Hirsch, “I need to learn to love me.” Stand out tracks include “Dark Horse,” “Axe To Fall,” “Worms Will Feed,” “Dead Beat” and album closers “Cruel Bloom,” featuring Steve Von Till of Neurosis and “Wretched World,” featuring Mookie Singerman of Genghis Tron.
Mastodon – “Crack the Skye”
The word “epic” is hands down the most played-out word when it comes to describing a band like Mastodon. That being said, Mastodon’s “Crack The Skye” is mind-numbingly epic. While some dismiss the band as “hipster metal,” Mastodon have clearly crafted a progressive masterpiece which will absolutely stand the test of time. Musically, each member of the band is at the top of his game. There is no over-the-top shredding but there are some very tasteful riffs that are about the song rather than the part. The album’s most valuable player goes to drummer Brann Dailor. Not only did his playing not detract from any of the songs, but he served as one of the record’s main lyricists. Stand out tracks include … well, all of them.
Check out our Blip.fm page to listen to some select tracks off of these albums.
Didn’t see your favorite record of 2009 included? Leave a comment and tell us why your favorite stood above the rest this year!
