1. Channel Orange – Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean completely caught the world by surprise once his album Channel Orange hit the shelves on July 10th 2012 and completely exceeded expectations and beat the odds in a very competitive music world. Originally a member of Odd Future, Frank decided to work on other projects by sampling his voice to other rappers and artists such as Jay Z, Kanye, and The Weekend. However he soon after wanted to release something of his own. This idea for a concept album depicting his life as a struggle for love and existential longing evolved into a masterpiece. A true innovation in r&b music. Critics hailed it for its originality and Frank’s passion to tell a haunting story through his virtuous singing ability and beautiful accompaniment. While many artists in Frank’s genre field stereotypically rap about their strengths–sex, money, power–Frank illustrates his weaknesses in his 17 track life testimony, not afraid to open up to the world about his personal beliefs, vices, and past experiences. His phenomenal vocal abilities, fluent song to song organization and tranquil but somber tone combine to create a magnificent work of art. A true staple in hip hop history.
Favorite Song: Bad Religion
Eight albums into their career, and Yellowcard put out arguably their best work since Ocean Avenue. To describe the album as good would be a disservice to the band. Every song is distinct and enticing with underlying messages of positivity and maturity, making this album a fantastic work of art in the band’s history. Ryan Key’s powerful voice drives the band through superb lyrical content in songs such as “A Vicious Kind” and “Always Summer” while Longineu W. Parsons III’s spot on drumming keeps a solid backbone for every instrument to work off of. Southern Air bleeds emotion and has a relatable theme on every track. Stories of survival, the loss of a loved one, overcoming pain to persevere into happiness all appear on the album at some point or another, showing the growth of the band in magnificent ways. Yellowcard shows how a veteran band of the pop punk scene can still write incredible new music without dealing with the issues of childhood and the confusing post college point of life. Beautiful music, poetic lyrics, and a strong message of positivity all combine to make an album that has the potential to stand the test of time.
Favorite Song: Ten
3. Please Remain Calm – Hostage Calm
Not too many bands today have the ability to write genuine, pure punk music. Luckily, Run for Cover band Hostage Calm defeats all standing stereotypes about the current punk scene in music. Please Remain Calm is the anthem to the American “occupy” idealism that has been permeating throughout our society for the last year and a half. Hostage Calm introduces their theories on the current state of the country, in an intelligent and organized fashion as well as other topics such as marriage, and the struggle to continue with a broken heart. The band’s lyrics prove to be their most unique aspect. Taking influence from many older lyric writing styles from decades ago makes the album almost feel like a breath of fresh air. Their self-proclaimed “60’s pop melody, 70’s punk energy and 80’s new wave panache” brings a somewhat nostalgic feel to older listeners, but a new, eye opening vision to younger ones. One basic but important aspect of Please Remain Calm is that the music itself is simply an enjoyable experience to listen to. Please Remain Calm appeals to most; not too raunchy, but not soft by any means. Music you can relax to, or jam to: whatever the mood demands.
Favorite Song: Patriot
4. Handwritten – The Gaslight Anthem
Along with Hostage Calm, The Gaslight Anthem ranks among the few punk bands that strive to keep the scene alive with unique variations of punk music and their own personal case, Bruce Springsteen influenced lyrics. However that’s not only what keeps their music moving. The wonderful instrumentation from lead guitarist Alex Rosamilia segues the listener to a spectrum of diverse sounds and different appeals, and not to mention Brian Fallon’s pounding voice moves each song in a way few punk singers can. His special blend of raspy country-esque tone and pure rock and roll dynamic makes his voice very special, and provides a clear personality on Handwritten. Everyone can find something likable about the record. Some more than others, but nonetheless it provides a change in style for those stuck in a music drought. I would easily recommend this to any friends who enjoy classic rock or even country if they are open to something new.
Favorite Song: Handwritten
5. Everyone That Dragged You Here – Real Friends
Chicago natives Real Friends, the most independent and label-less band on this list, put out five songs with their Everyone That Dragged You Here EP or (ETDYH for short) earlier this year, and they immediately took me by surprise. As a band that labels themselves as pop punk/emo, they are a nice change to the current scene of that same genre. Much different than the other four bands on this list, Real Friends strive to make mean, sad, and crunchy songs for their fans, something I wouldn’t recommend to just anyone. However the lyrics are real, heartfelt and the music is incredible. The aggressive guitar work from Dave Knox and Eric Haines acts as the blood pumping muscles in the body of the band, delivering each chord as if it were telling a story. This goes without saying that lead singer Dan Lambton, the voice of the group, weeds out all of his imperfections and regrets into a five song punch in the face. However, it fits the group well, and is melodically catchy enough for someone to latch onto. Had there been more songs, it would have been ranked much higher, but for what they wrote, quality over quantity once again wins the best route award.
Favorite Song: Everyone That Dragged You Here