Top 15 Albums of 2011: 5-1

5. Rural Alberta Advantage- Departing

Looking at the cover and listening to the songs inside, it basically describes life in northern Alberta.  Since I believe the lead singer, Nils Edenloff, grew up in Fort Macmurray the songs here are heartfelt and intensely packed with the feelings of someone living in a boring, isolated town.

http://www.allmusic.com/album/departing-r2119668









4. Feist- Metals

This album is full of lovely soft spoken vocals and catchy guitar playing.  I just love all the melodies and "A commotion" is quickly becoming one of my favorite songs.  While this album is not as instantly accessible as her previous, I found this one to be more rewarding with each listen.

http://www.allmusic.com/album/metals-r2286941/review










3. ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead- The Tao of the Dead

Concept album based on a graphic novel by Conrad Keely. Not too many bands are making music like this anymore.  Just consider that the 52 min album is split into two tracks.  Crazy stuff.  If you enjoy kind of proggy hard rock then definitely check this out.

http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-tao-of-the-dead-r2120576/review










2. Raekwon- Shaolin vs. Wu-Tang

Modern classic Wu material here.  The Chef brings in all the best guest mc's, such as Inspectah Deck, Meth, Ghost and even a cameo from Rick Ross that made me a fan.  And it all closes with a truly epic sample from Ennio Morricone on "Masters of our Fate".  Wu-Tang is alive and well here.

http://www.allmusic.com/album/shaolin-vs-wu-tang-r2128097










1. Destroyer- Kaputt

This was the album of the summer for me.  It features dreamy ethereal music, full of horns, saxophone and poetic lyrics.  This is original and somewhat retro as well.

http://www.allmusic.com/album/kaputt-r2102478/review