For me, 2013 was the year I really filled up my vinyl collection. I caught up on some old classics while picking up anticipated new releases as soon as they came out. Some of this year’s releases have definitely become some of my favourites in my collection, but for this year alone, here’s my top 5.
Local Natives – Hummingbird
I absolutely love this album. I randomly bought it without hearing any songs solely based on the album cover. I’m so happy I did because the songs on Hummingbird individually and as a whole, are so beautiful and atmospheric. I don’t expect this record to collect any dust while in my possession.
Haim – Days Are Gone
I was stupid excited when I first listened to Haim. Their music seems to embody everything I loved in pop music while growing up in the 90’s mixed with the type of music I listen to now. It’s awesome seeing 3 sisters absolutely kicking ass in the music industry right now and I definitely think they’ve filled a missing gap in pop-rock music. Pick up Days Are Gone if you haven’t already and p.s., they’re coming to Toronto next May!
Alt-J – An Awesome Wave
This band took a while to win me over. Mostly because the pace of the music was so unfamiliar and I had no idea what the singer was doing. I saw the band perform at Osheaga and dug into the record once I got back home. Their song Tessellate starts off with this drumming that creates such an awesome beat, it’s almost addicting. Now, I listen to An Awesome Wave all the time and can’t wait to see them next time they play in Toronto.
Daft Punk – Random Access Memories
If Random Access Memories doesn’t make you want to dance, I don’t even know what to say. This might be the funkiest album released this year. It’s the usual exciting Daft Punk sound intertwined with so much funk, you won’t be able to sit down. Get excited, Daft Punk is back.
Arcade Fire – Reflektor
Talk about hype. The marketing of Reflektor was super cool with guerilla ads at Osheaga this past summer and in the streets of Montreal. The excitement for this album was a little crazy, especially being a longtime fan. As I was listening to it for the first time after rushing to the record store to buy it, I was all smiles. Reflektor definitely delivered. I love how Arcade Fire records are musical pieces of art. Each one is different from the last and holds their own, contributing to a solid discography.