Paddy Casey is among Irish musical royalty. With two previous, multi-platinum selling (in Ireland) albums released he may just be Ireland's best kept secret. Casey's primary strength is his Dylan-esque songwriting style with an Elton John-esque musical flourish. Casey mixes folk, pop and blue-eyed soul for a unique, but completely accessible sound that feels both fresh and comfortable, worn-in and, crisp & clean; the freshly laundered fluffy robe of the musical world. Addicted to Company is Casey's third attempt at breaking the UK and US markets, and a more worthy attempt there never was. You'd miss a lot if you missed this impressive, fun, energetic Irish newcomer.
5. Girl In A Coma – Both Before I’m Gone
This American all-girl pop-punk band was discovered by Joan Jett who signed them immediately to her Black Heart record label. Girl In A Coma’s (GIAC) upbeat brand of pop-punk is coloured with the sepia toned smoothness of The Smiths (from where their name originated) and Morrissey but with a strong twist of 50’s rockabilly. GIAC’s debut album Both Before I’m Gone is free of the added saccharine, totally lacking the committee input and marketing-friendly formula that is so evident in most mainstream music. Both Before I’m Gone is pure honest music and talent all wrapped up in an energetic, rocking, retro-swish album that is a completely accessible and a guilt free listen.
4. The Ting Tings - We Started Nothing
It's been a long time since someone actually took pop in new direction. The Ting Tings debut album We Started Nothing is enough to make any jaded audiophile throw a party, and luckily this is the perfect album for a party. And why would they be celebrating? Well it might be the fact that a major label like Columbia is finally willing to underwrite real, non-committee chosen music, made by real musicians who aren't pretty, straight teethed, blond, American-dream wannabes, but instead by real artists who, write their own lyrics and music, who have talent and artistic vision. And also because, maybe just maybe, the world of mainstream music can finally breath in a huge lung full of fresh air. This DJ inspired alt-pop duo make music that is both edgy and playful. It will take your hand and lead you to a place that may make you feel a little uncomfortable at first, but once you've spent some time there it will change your entire pop music perspective and you'll never be able to hang-out with Britney,Beyonce , or Christina again. If you haven't heard of The Ting Tings, then you're already two steps behind. Time to catch-up and get yourself a copy of one of the best albums of the year!
Article comments
1 - Jordan Richardson
Cool list.
I really enjoyed the Ting Tings album this year. It's probably my personal favourite from your list. Gonna have to check out Jem. I didn't even know she had another one out, so thanks for enlightening me there.
:)
2 - A.L. Harper
They are all fabulous albums. or I wouldn't have put them on my list!
But yes The Ting Tings are fantastic. I'm sure they are only going to get better!
A.L.
3 - Donald Gibson
I reviewed a compilation album last year that had a Tings Tings cut on it ("Fruit Machine"), which drew me to getting their album. They're playing a club gig here near my hometown in a month or so; I may have to check that out.
4 - A.L. Harper
I couldn't vouch for their live show, but you'd hope with that kind of energy on an album, that their live show would be something amazing!