Sorry, but it’s time for the obligatory.

I had quite the internal struggle this past week over whether or not to do a “year in review” type blog. Everyone does it. It’s beat to death every December. I tried to steer clear, but I just couldn’t think of anything else to write, so this is my stick, and with it I plan to beat the dead horse and offer you my top ten albums of 2010.

And in keeping with my penchant to offend and stir up controversy, please feel free to leave me a comment on what you think I may have snubbed or what you think I may have overrated, and I will be happy to laugh at your ignorance.

Without further ado:

#10. MGMT “Congratulations”

Their sophomore effort was met with some opposition, and some critics even panned it, but I thought they really hit their stride here.

#9. The Black Keys “Brothers”

Great modern plug and play bluesy rock. A duet creating walls of sound. ’nuff said

#8. Broken Social Scene “Forgiveness Rock Record”

It’s no “You Forgot it in People” but it’s damn good. Can’t go wrong with a single called “Texaco Bitches”

#7. Girls “Broken Dreams Club EP”

Its only 6 songs and 20+ mins, but it is REALLY good. Endlessly re-playable, heart wrenching music. Read more here.

#6. Twin Shadow “Forget”

Kick ass modern New Wave all done by one guy (presumably in someone’s basement.) I’ve already talked about them, and if you forgot, check it out here.

#5. Broken Bells “Broken Bells”

Although some people I know, ahem!, would disagree, this is a really fun album. James Mercer and Danger Mouse are the best collaboration of 2010.

#4. The Morning Benders “Big Echo”

SO GOOD! Built to Spill meets Grizzly Bear meets Dr. Dog. Jangly instrumentation and disconnection that you don’t have to try to like (I’m talking to you Dirty Projectors fans)

#3. LCD Soundsystem “This is Happening”

They done did it again. Awesome dance(?) rock. James Murphy is the coolest talk/singer in the world. No one does it like him. You’re welcome aforementioned people…

#2. Arcade Fire “Suburbs”

Brilliant music. Probably the best collection of musicians on the planet.

#1. Deerhunter “Halcyon Digest”

If you listen to the podcast, you knew this was coming. If you didn’t, first of all Go Fuck Yourself, then get un-fucked by listening to the show “Cusp” (and all the other episodes) and read my review.

So there you have it. And 2011 is already looking good with a few highly anticipated albums set to drop. Here’s a song from one such album, “The King is Dead” by The Decemberists.

Music