I've seen a few people do this and thought I'd share myself. Keep in mind I love all kinds of music. If you have a list of your favorites, share it with me :)
1. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West
So set aside your personal feelings and opinions towards Mr. West. He's a genius and this record proves that. So well put together; Beautiful, sad and ugly all at the same time. The imagery in his short film reflecting the feelings he had/has... to his lyrics; honest and harsh... incredible. This was hands down my favorite record of the year.
"I hit the Jamaican spot, at the bar, took a seat. I ordered the jerk, she said 'you are what you eat.'You see I've always loved a sense of humor, but tonight you should have seen how quiet the room was"
2. Bad Books - Bad Books
Kevin Devine and Andy Hull are brilliant together. I love Manchester Orchestra but definitely prefer the sound they created on this record. Favorite song is "Texas."
"My heart is pumping my blood. Your hearts not beating at all. In a way it makes sense that it isn't, it just never was."
3. Smoke & Mirrors - Lifehouse
For those who know me you're probably thinking this album made the cut because I'm biased to them. Which, you're right. But honestly.. through whatever I'm going through in life.. Jason Wade always has the right thing to say. This is not my favorite record from them but I love the direction they took.
"And if I fall and crash and burn at least we both know that I tried. And as I crawl, there's lessons learned. Yeah they remind me I survived."
4. Go - Jonsi
I think we were all waiting for a more upbeat Jonsi. "()" had over 4600 plays on my iPod and now I find myself only playing "Go" at night. Plus I love that he's singing more in English now.
"We all grow old, use your life. The world goes and flutters by."
5. The Suburbs - Arcade Fire
Arcade Fire has such a great story. They never took no for an answer. That is incredibly encouraging to me as an artist. I clean the house to this record... literally and figuratively.
"Some cities make you lose your head. Endless suburbs stretched out thin and dead."
6. Recovery - Eminem
What a come back! I was getting nervous that he was done but I underestimated him. Em will always be that artist that when I hear his verse come in he has my undivided attention. Favorite song is "Talkin' To Myself."
7. Lost Boy - MyChildren MyBride
Even though I grew up with the ring leader of this band and have a history of friendship... this record is amazing! I think they finally have all the right members. This is not my favorite genre but this is definitely my favorite record from them. I really related to Matt's frustration. The tables really turned.
"Never again, never again will my voice fall on deaf ears."
8. Sigh No More - Mumford & Sons
They just took "Folk" to a whole nutha level ;) Start to finish!
"And you have your choices, and these are what make man great. His ladder to the stars."
9. Pink Friday - Nicki Minaj
Hip Hop really needed this one. She's vibrant, she's vulgar.. and she just doesn't care. Another strong woman "turn on" to me. Besides, she's made quite an impression on a certain community.
"I'm fightin' for the girls that never thought they could win."
10. Formalities - The Spill Canvas
I've followed these guys since "All Hail The Heartbreaker." The aggression and passion that Nick Thomas has is incomparable. This record is on my gym play list :)
"Let me hear you beg, or I'll take the other leg. Then you'll really be hoppin' to those bars. I'm leavin scars. Are you gonna cry? I thought you were a tough guy? Turns out your nothing but weak like those you mock. Is it any shock?"