3. The Script – Script
Dublin based The Script is certainly the next mega-band-on-the-block and their self-titled debut album proves that. Bristling with melodious high-pop rock tunes, The Script is occasionally reminiscent of early The Police, U2 and even Van Morrison but still maintains an independent music feel and distinct sound that is all their own. It’s almost hard to believe that RCA would sign such a band, running over with obvious originality and intelligent, compelling lyrics. This beautifully crafted album is one that many will love and others will hate much like Maroon 5’s debut Songs About Jane, and look where they ended up.
2. The Bittersweets – Goodbye, San Francisco
The Bittersweets are the vanguard of the alt-country folk-pop sound that is spreading and finding fans from across the musical genre board. The Bittersweets’ sophomore album Goodbye, San Francisco lives up to the band’s name; filled with effervescent, bittersweet, nostalgic melodies, rippling with bluesy guitar riffs, round sweet harmonies and the smooth, honeyed vocals of frontwoman Hannah Prater. The most impressive thing about the Bittersweets is their ability to create mellow, sentimental emotion that is pleasingly poignant without ever being overcooked, mawkish or syrupy. Don’t miss The Bittersweets, because you will regret it later.
1. Snowpatrol – A Hundred Million Suns
The fifth full-length album for this Glasgow based mega-band is a departure from their usual broken-hearted fare, both lyrically and musically. No one has ever written bereft-without-you, didn’t-know-what-I-had-till-lost-you lyrics like GaryLightbody , but with A Hundred Million Suns he has turned those considerable, if dreary, talents in on themselves, writing lyrics and music that are actually upbeat. Songs that say “I love you and I’m happy in our relationship”, “WOW how fabulous is this relationship stuff” and “I’ve never loved you more than I do right now”. But it’s not just those famously teary-eyed, grief-stricken lyrics that have changed. The band have managed change their already creamy-smooth, hot-buttered sound just enough that it sounds like Snowpatrol but more upbeat, stronger, happier melodies, more acoustic guitar and less obvious riffs all add to this new Snowpatrol. The final sound is one that is recognisable, so you’re not threatened by a totally new sound, but still different enough that you can see a new direction for this well seasoned and much adored band. A Hundred Million Suns is an accomplished album with a fresh yet comfortable sound, that you will listen to it over and over again.
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!