Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have many favorite songs. Knowing this, you can see how it was nearly impossible for me to compile a list of the top albums released in 2008. However, I did my best to come up with a well-rounded list, and here it is for the public to know what I am listening to as I walk down Wisconsin Ave. on my way to class. I took some suggestions, but as I did not have time to sit down, listen to the whole album and then write my review, I decided just to have an honorable mention section at the end. Also, as always I’m open to suggestions, so contact entertainment@thewarrior.org.
Belle and Sebastian- The BBC Sessions, Matador Records
I’m going to be completely honest and say that I have always loved Belle and Sebastian. Even though I already have most of the songs that are on this compilation of (mostly) previously unreleased songs, the quality is slightly different, which makes it new and exciting. Although it is not too new, it is like meeting an old friend. Since the band has not put out an album since 2006’s The Life Pursuit, this was somewhat eagerly anticipated since it is unknown whether or not the band will put out another album. For my sake I hope they do.
Elvis Costello- Momofuku, UMG Recordings
Who doesn’t love Elvis Costello? I mean, honestly, what can’t that man do? Although he has apparently been threatening retirement for decades, thankfully, it has yet to happen. My personal favorite song is “No Hiding Place,” which features Rilo Kiley’s Jenny Lewis on supporting vocals.
She and Him- Volume One, Merge Records
She and Him is a side project of M. Ward and Zooey Deschanel. Although the album mostly consists of covers, Deschanel’s beautiful voice and Ward’s unmistakable husky voice form a perfect duo.
Jenny Lewis- Acid Tongue, Warner Bros.
A follow up to 2006’s Rabbit Fur Coat, Acid Tongue is definitely edgier than indie-country. Elvis Costello was featured as a back-up vocalist on “Carpetbaggers,” which is pretty cool, but my indisputable favorite song is “Black Sand.”
TV on the Radio- Dear Science, Touch and Go Records
This is just a great album, there is no getting around that. The songs are catchy without losing their former edge.
The Ting Tings- We Started Nothing, Sony BMG Music Entertainment
All I can say is “Shut Up and Let Me Go” is my ring tone. I’m not one to pass up a good electronic dance song. And “That’s Not My Name” is insane.
Beyonce- Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It), Sony BMG Music Entertainment
Since I don’t have the whole album, there isn’t much that can be said, but Beyonce’s vocals are amazing. I love this song, it is arguably one of the best.
Honorable Mentions: Taylor Swift, Fearless (Big Machine); Jason Mraz, We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things. (Atlantic);
As a side note: I think I need to add that in doing research for this article I looked up the Billboard charts for 2008 and was saddened when I found that the Twilight soundtrack was at the top of the charts.
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