Chris Conlan's 2009 Top Ten
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1.
Set Your Goals - This Will Be the Death of Us
I did not see this album coming; especially after listening to Mutiny. Press and fans alike raved about their first album, but it is nothing compared to This Will Be The Death Of Us. The boys in Set Your Goals have set the milestone for other pop/punk acts, even the likes of New Found Glory who always seem to be at the top. All I wish is that these guys get all the praise they deserve for creating the best album of the year and maybe the best pop/punk album of the decade.
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2.
Oceana - Birtheater
I'm so glad I took the advice from a friend on AIM, when he suggested that I check out Oceana. I was reluctant at first because it seemed most bands on Rise Records all weren't my cup of tea. So after constantly putting it off, I finally sat down and listened to the band's sophomore album, Birtheater. To my surprise, I came across a diamond in the rough and an album that has yet to leave my mp3 player. Although the band disbanded earlier this year, they are back together. Now I hope Rise Records pushes this band because they have "it".
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3.
Architects - Hollow Crown
Unrelenting and unstoppable are two words that come to mind when listening to Architects' Hollow Crown. They just absolutely destroy your speakers with tracks like "Early Grave" and "Follow The Water". This has got to be the heaviest record in 2009 (well at least in my opinion). Hopefully, these Brits pick steam up here in the states because it seems like the masses think Slipknot is a heavy band. Pfft.
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4.
Every Time I Die - New Junk Aesthetic
At first listen to New Junk Aesthetic, I can honestly say I wasn't that impressed. After that listen, I came to the realization that I was I was completely wrong. How could I think anything bad about Every Time I Die? I'm dead serious when I say that because when it comes to consistency, this band is the epitome of it. On New Junk Aesthetic, you get ETID at their finest. Keith's vocals are cockier than ever and the music has a swagger to it that will make chicks just want to.....
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5.
Dave Matthews Band - Big Whiskey And The GrooGrux King
Dave Matthews Band is undoubtedly one of the most talented bands in the music game today. If you don't believe me, you have to see them live because it is probably the best concert experience you'll ever get to attend. On their new album the guys have brought themselves back into the limelight, because it seemed as if their past efforts haven't been as solid. Even with the loss of founding member LeRoi Moore, the guys of DMB poured their heart & soul into this record. So spread the love and play some DMB.
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6.
Manchester Orchestra - Mean Everything To Nothing
People were always talking about this band, way before they even signed on at Columbia for the release of their debut album. Even with all the talks, I still didn't listen to them. I can't honestly tell you why, but I'm a dumb for not doing so. Mean Everything To Nothing is a work of art that cannot be explained, just has to be heard. From start to finish, the guys of Manchester Orchestra show why they are a top contender in your "New Favorite Artist" list.
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7.
Erik Hassle - Hurtful
I'll probably get ripped on for picking this album, but I'm a HUGE sucker for pop music. So when I heard the lead single from Erik Hassle, I was swept off my feet with joy. There honestly has been an album like this is quite some time; at least in my opinion. All that Erik needs to hit it big in the UK is to get out on the road with Lady Gaga. Long live POP! Seriously, if you don't think "Hurtful" is catchy, you need to get your ears checked.
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9.
Evergreen Terrace - Almost Home
This band just keeps getting better with age and with Almost Home secure themselves a spot as a top Metal Blade act (eat your hear out Unearth). The music is just ferocious and makes you just want to cause some havoc. For all lifters out there, this is an essential to have on your mp3 player.
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10.
Ace Enders and a Million Different People - When I Hit the Ground
Ace Ender hit the nail on the hammer with this disc. It his best work by far. It's amazing to see how far Ace has come since the days of The Early November. This band has a ton of potential and I hope it gets noticed. 2010 should be a good year.
