2011’s top 5 albums, according to matt mercieca
PJ Harvey – Let England Shake
Okay, I know that this album has received a lot of hype and praise, but rightly so! Let England Shake is a monument of PJ Harvey’s work; she has been in the industry for so long and to produce an album of such a high calibre is a very impressive feat in itself. Each song is better than the last and shows just how far she has come as a musician, from humble rock songs to multi instrumental compositions. This album is a must for every music fan’s collection.
Top track: ‘The Last Living Rose’
The Airborne Toxic Event – All At Once
The follow up to their 2009 self-titled debut, this album has been a few years in the works, but delivers everything you could possibly want in a album. Whilst the group might not have a huge following in Australia, this is one album and band that will give your ears a treat if given the chance. All At Once shows how much the band has grown, whilst keeping their charm and lyrics that grab at your heart and capture emotion so well. The music has also grown with this album with many songs seeming more orchestral then previous work. Mikel Jollet you have done it again!
Top track: ‘All for a woman’
Seeker Lover Keeper – Seeker Lover Keeper
The Aussie diva supergroup have plucked every note and heart string with their work. Since its release, this is one album that has stayed in my CD player all year and I still can’t get enough! Beautifully composed songs and lyrics to match, show just how talented the trio – Sarah Blasko, Holly Throsby and Sally Saltman – really are. What is really amazing about this is album is just how good each song is, it is one of those rare albums where you find yourself mesmerised in the music until it’s all over.
Top track: ‘On my Own’
Yuck – Yuck
Anyone who knows me will tell you I have a very soft spot for 90s/grunge bands so it is no surprise that Yuck’s self-titled album has not left my car stereo all year! This album is a great combination of sound, taking influences from noise rock to grunge in order to create their own blended style of noise rock. “Sonic Youth and Dinosaur Jr’s love child” is the perfect way to describe Yuck. The reverb turned up all the way and nicely distorted guitars give you everything you need to get the party started!
Top track: ‘Get Away’
The Joy Formidable – The Big Roar
I’ve been a fan of this band ever since seeing them at Splendour in the Grass 2010, so it was with great pleasure and anticipation to finally be able to get my hands their album. The album itself delivers everything one would expect from the group: some great high energy tunes will get you moving and no doubt keep any music fan happy. This is a very strong and solid album and is a real treat for any music fan; this is one album that will keep everyone at a party happy!
Top track: ‘Whirring’