By Mike Demarais
Class of 2010
Blakroc- Blakroc — This album is a collaboration between the indie blues band the Black Keys and some of the best hip-hop artists in the industry. Some artists featured on this album include Mos Def, Jim Jones, Q-Tip, Ludacris, and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard. The diversity on this album is truly amazing and not comparable to any other rap/rock collaboration that can be heard today.
Matt & Kim – Grand — Although they’re known best for their single “Daylight”, which has been featured in several commercials including the new Bacardi ads, Matt & Kim’s latest album “Grand” shows the same upbeat and minimalist style as seen in their hit single. Sounding similar to Modest Mouse and the Dirty Projectors, this album is great if you like simplistic beats and upbeat lyrics.
Passion Pit – Manners — Passion Pit, a local Cambridge-based band formed in 2007, made it big this year. Their single “Sleepyhead” was on a few radio stations, but the real gem is “Little Secrets,” the second song on their first studio recorded album “Manners.” Their music can be classified as synthpop and is very similar to M83 and Phoenix (listed as one of the best albums of 2009).
Passion Pit Fast Fact: Believe it or not, the singer is not a woman; somehow the lead singer reaches freakishly high notes but it works perfectly in the dreamlike tracks. Seriously, if you haven’t listened to this album, your life is not complete. That’s a Mike Demarais guarantee.
Grizzly Bear – Veckatimest — This album is sure to become an indie classic. With a mellow and very rhythmic sound, Veckatimest is a great album to just relax to. If you like Radiohead, Arcade Fire, or Bon Iver, checking out this album will be the most worthwhile thing you have done all year.
Animal Collective – Merriweather Post Pavilion — Rated the best album of 2009 by Pitchfork and Spin Magazine, this album has turned some heads. Released January 6th, 2009, “Merriweather Post Pavilion” displays possibly the best synth/electric music of the last few years. Sounding a lot like MGMT and Daft Punk, Animal Collective’s single “My Girls” is a continuous loop of trippy synth beats and mind-bending vocals. For anyone with an interest in electric synth music, Animal Collective’s “Merriweather Post Pavilion” is a great album to get into.
