Favorite CDs of 2011

It's time once again from my list of favorite CDs from 2011. Unlike many lists, my criteria are twofold: first, the CD had to be released in 2011, and second, either Caesar or myself purchased a copy. Which is why you won't see many of the top-selling popular albums on this list so I don't want to hear any complaining about who's not on the list. This is totally subjective....

10. Alpocalypse by "Weird Al" Yankovic: I've been a fan of his parodies since the Dr. Demento days. This album proves that he still has the comedy-musical chops. Just take a look at his parody of Lady Gaga's Born This Way: Perform This Way

9. Biophilia by Björk: the album is not as electronica as previous albums, featuring a more earthy and experimental feel.

8. New Blood by Peter Gabriel: covers of his own songs but with a full orchestra (minus any electric instruments)

7. Marc Broussard by Marc Broussard: a nice mix of southern soul music. If you ever have an opportunity to see him live, he puts on a great show.

6. 50 Words for Snow by Kate Bush: downtempo songs featuring mostly Kate and the piano. For me, it's one of those albums that I put on and actually listen to the music, to the stories that she's telling.

5. Torches by Foster the People: it's quirky, and I like it. That is all.

4. The Silent Surf by All India Radio: the past few years, I've noticed myself listening to more and more mood music. Nothing with heavy guitars, thumping drums, or trancelike electronics -- just casual, downtempo instrumentals. This is the best of All India Radio's albums to date, as far as I'm concerned.

3. Barton Hollow by The Civil Wars: think of The Swell Season (who won an Oscar for Falling Slowly from the movie Once) only with a more folk-Americana feel.

2. Wasting Light by Foo Fighters: simply awesome. And I love Dear Rosemary with Bob Mould.

1. Ceremonials by Florence + the Machine: I actually like this album even better than their first effort, Lungs. The songs have a more cohesive sound from the first album, carried not only by Florence's amazing and strong voice, but also by the music and lyrics themselves.



Image from Pop Crush.