Sunday, February 28, 2010

Favorite Albums of 2009

Just like I've done in in the past, it's time to list my favorite albums of 2009. I know we're already two months into 2010, so it's probably too late to do the "end of the year" countdowns, but oh well. The beauty of having my own blog is that I don't have to worry about meeting deadlines.

1.) Zee Avi [Self-Titled]
Although it was a real tough decision, this was definitely my favorite album of the year. I already wrote a previous blog about her, so I don't need to go into too much detail. All I'll say is that I'm glad I was able to catch one of her live shows in the summer. She was playing some pretty big venues on her tour, so my friends and I were lucky enough to see her perform at a real intimate venue in Hermosa Beach...for only $10!!
FAVORITES: Poppy, Honey Bee

2.) The Counterparts [Self-Titled LP]
Although it didn't get my top overall spot, this was my favorite hip hop album of '09...hands down. After hearing their Appetizer sampler CD in Fall '08, I knew this would be a solid album once it was released. This is a perfect balance of beats and lyrics that make for a "no-filler" kind of album. I listened to it non-stop in my car for at least a week straight when it first came out. And even though I was featured on the song "Universe" (shameless plug: I'm the 3rd verse), that had nothing to do with my final decision...I swear! This would still be the best hip hop album of '09 even if I didn't have a guest spot.
FAVORITES: What We Do, Home in the Bay, Until

3.) Brother Ali - Us
After listening to his two most recent albums, this guy has definitely become one of my favorite MCs. It took a little while for me to get used to the sound of his voice, but once that happened I couldn't stop listening. I admire and respect MCs who are willing to put everything out there, and Brother Ali is one of the most honest dudes in the game right now. And his beats are always so damn dope! He's got a great production team behind him.
FAVORITES: Fresh Air, House Keys

4. K'Naan - Troubadour
I almost slept on this album, but decided to check him out after hearing some of his collabos with Wale as well as through word of mouth. You'll be disappointed if you're expecting a traditional "hip hop" album because he raps and sings over production that's heavily influenced by his African roots and rhythms. Overall, it's just a good musical album.
FAVORITES: Somalia, 15 Minutes Away

5. Jay-Z - Blueprint 3
This was definitely a solid release. After so many years in the game, this guy can still hold it down and can probably crush any mainstream MC out there. Since there's so many people who are exposed to his music, I probably don't need to go into too much detail.
FAVORITES: D.O.A., Empire State of Mind

6. Zion I - The Takeover
I bought this album in the early part of the year, listened to it a few times, then kind of forgot about it until a couple months ago when I was getting revisiting music for the purpose of this blog. Amp Live, the producer, has always had a wide range of beats that were showcased perfectly on The Takeover. There was a good mix of the grimy sounding 808's, synths and just plain old head nod music that let Zion, the MC, do his thing. This is one of my favorite hip hop groups who don't always get the credit they deserve (I'm even guilty of underrating them sometimes too). I would recommend any of the albums in their catalog. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
FAVORITES: Antenna, Coastin'

7. Fatgums x Bambu - ...A Peaceful Riot...
One of my favorite producers and one of my favorite MCs on the same project?! Yeah, I was definitely waiting for this one to come out, especially after hearing their work together on Exact Change (which got my vote for the Best Album of '08). My only complaint is that I wish it was a full length album instead of just an EP! lol. As an added bonus for me, my band (The Committee) had the opportunity to perform at the album release party. Good times...
FAVORITES: Good Clothes, Peddlin' Music.

8. Easy Star's Lonely Hearts Dub Band
A reggae band that covered The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album. They've also released reggae renditions of Pink Floyd and Radiohead albums. 'Nuff said.
FAVORITES: With A Little Help from My Friends, When I'm 64

9. Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement
I saw someone post his video on Facebook, then a week later someone else posted another one of his videos. Since I respect those people's taste in music, I knew I had to check it out for myself. This is a good album that's reminiscent of the old Motown sound.
FAVORITES: Just Ain't Gonna Work Out, Maybe So, Maybe No (which was also my favorite video of the year)

10. Aimee Allen - A Little Happiness
Just like in the case of Zee Avi, I heard about Aimee Allen through an MTVu video contest. I originally went there to support Inverse (who ended up winning), but I became a fan of hers in the process. I haven't heard her previous work, which had a big rock influence, but this was definitely a good summertime album with its chill, laid back vibes.
FAVORITES: On Vacation, Santeria (Sublime cover)


HONORABLE MENTION:
1. Wale - Attention Deficit
2. Blue Scholars - Oof! EP
3. Crown City Rockers - Day After Forever
4. Alicia Keys - Element of Freedom
5. Anjulie - [Self titled]


BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT:
Mos Def - The Ecstatic (I wasn't really feeling the production. C'mon Mos!! I know you still have it in you!)


FAVORITE MIXTAPES:
1. DJ Jazzy Jeff - He's the King, I'm the DJ [FREE download]
This is a pretty lofty claim, but I think this just might be my favorite mixtape of all time. He covers a wide range of MJ's library and also threw in some real dope remixes. This is feel good music at it's finest! Don't sleep on this one!

2. Sabzi - 69 Rolls & Oof! Mixtape [FREE download]
Another perfect selection for the summmer! If you like that chill island vibe, this is a mixtape you don't wanna miss out on!

3. DJ Un.D.Fine - Soul Nice Reggae Mixtape
This DJ from the Mass Movement crew always comes correct with his mixtapes. I don't know if Soul Nice Reggae is available for download or purchase, but you won't be disappointed with this reggae mix of classic hits.