Best of 2012 (So Far)

Sharon Van Etten – Tramp
I not only like Sharon Van Etten for her music but also her story.  Struggling with social anxiety is something that I have dealt with and her overcoming her fears and pursuing her music career successfully is inspiring.  Tramp started out as acoustic demos and have turned into a collection of songs that are straight from the heart.  Tramp undoubtedly tops my favorites list this year.
Favorite Songs:  “Give Out” “Serpents” “Warsaw” “I’m Wrong”

Polica – Give You the Ghost
Polica’s album Give You the Ghost took a few listens to really appreciate, but it quickly became a go-to album to listen to.  The use of vocal effects might make you stray away but the vocals are beautifully blended with other effects, double percussion, and bold bass lines.  I’m obsessed with the drumming on this album.  Two drummers might sound excessive but they mesh together with different patterns instead of mimicking each other to create a dynamic sound.
Favorite Songs: “Amongster” “I See My Mother” “Lay Your Cards Out”

Yppah – Eighty One
Eighty One feels incredibly good to listen to.  Electronic layers create a warm atmosphere that is accompanied by organic instrumentation. Anomie Belle, a singer, producer and classically trained violinist lends her talents to a number of songs on this album and it is a perfect addition to the music. I kept coming back to this album over the past few months and I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
Favorite Songs: “Film Burn” “Never Mess with Sunday” “Happy To See You” “Soon Enough” ok.. basically the whole album.

Marriages – Kitsune
Marriages is a post-rock trio comprised of members from another killer band Red Sparowes.  My only complaint with Kitsune is that I wish it was longer.  Deep bass lines and impressive guitar work sets a dark tone throughout the album.  Guitarist Emma Ruth Rundle provides vocals that are subtle yet mix seamlessly with the instrumentals.  This is a haunting album that I love to listen to.
Favorite Songs:  All of them. Listen HERE

Wait there’s more!
More albums in my rotation.

Frames – In Via

Emily Wells – Mama

Of Monsters and Men – My Head is An Animal

Burial – Kindred

Side Note: I’m sure you might think there are many other albums worthy of being the best of 2012 that aren’t included on my list. What do you consider the best?