Articles

01. A Fine Frenzy: Happier
Better known to her Mom and Dad as Alison Sudol, this gorgeous singer is something like a combination of Colbie Caillat and some anti-folk artist from the Juno soundtrack. As for Happier, it's a breezy Summery track with some light breathy vocals. Really like this actually.

02. Agnes: On and On
Poor Agnes. Looks like she's gonna be a #1 hit wonder after failing to replicate the success of her surprise smash Summer hit Release Me. This basically sounds like an inferior version of that song. Theres nothing to distinguish this from any songs we're likely to hear in the Eurovision, only a month and a half away. Yup, 'nuff said.

03. Alicia Keys featuring Drake: Un-thinkable (I'm Ready)
Alicia Keys keeps the momentum going for her The Element Of Freedom LP with this promotional single. It's actually a really beautiful song but probably wouldn't work as an official single. Drake's harmonies work well with Alicia's soulful vocals.

04. Avril Lavigne: Alice (Underground)
"IIIIIIIIIIIII....Iiiii'lll get byyyyyyyyyyyy..." yells Avril on the lead single of the Almost Alice soundtrack. Well we certainly won't Avril as you're making my ears bleed with your banshee howl. I can't help thinking this would have been way better in the hands of a more stronger singer like Alanis Morrisette or Amy Lee. However, the thundering percussion and the quiet piano melodies make this just about bearable.

Sidenote: What's the deal with the Almost Alice soundtrack? I mean you think a soundtrack based on a Tim Burton film would be that bit more alternative and gothic sounding. But instead we get 3OH!3, All American Rejects, Owl City and Metro Station --- talk about disappointing acts.

05. Bombay Bicycle Club: Evening/Morning
It's okay and that's all I have to say. It's more of an instrumental than a song with vocals. The video disturbs me greatly.

06. Enter Shikari: Tribalism
The clue is in the title - this song is... um well...tribal. Enter Shikari are a hardcore punk band so vicious vocals and loud screaming are to be expected. This isn't quite as noisy as official single Thumper though.

07. Evanescence: Together Again
Ahead of the release of their new album this Autumn, Evanescence do their bit for Haiti by releasing a B-side of their 2006 album The Open Door as a charity single. This is a typical Evanescence track...dramatic strings, tinkling pianos, creepy choirs and Amy Lee's haunted wail. It's all a bit too melodramatic for a Haiti single but if you're a fan of the band, I recommend you go out and buy this.

TRACK OF THE WEEK!
08. Gabriella Cilmi: On A Mission
All my personal (stalkerish) obsessive feelings of love (and lust) for Cilmi aside, this is actually a fantastic tune. It sounds like it came right out of the '80s and everything from the production to the chorus to the verses and even the cringeworthy rap breakdown in the middle are all amazing. If this is what she's doing at 18, can you imagine what a fantastic artist she will be in a few years time.

09. Glee Cast: Endless Love
It's all about the ballads this week on Glee as the episode these songs are taken from is called 'Ballad'. A big solid cheesy cover of Diana Ross and Lionel Richie from Hot Social Outcast Girl and The Shoe (Uncool Glee Leader). I actually hope the TV footage is used as a music video for this song 'cause the Shoe's facial expressions are absolutely hilarious.

10. Glee Cast: I'l Stand By You
The Jock takes the lead with this song. I cringed so much in his soppy cover of The Pretenders/Girls Aloud song/cover.

11. Glee Cast: Don't Stand So Close to Me/Young Girl
The Shoe does a really good job of this mash-up of songs by The Police and Gary Puckett & The Union. However, this is more episode centric and works better if you see it on TV.

12. Glee Cast: Crush
This actually far surpasses the 1998 original by Jennifer Paige basically 'cause Hot Social Outcast Girl has a much better voice. My favourite Glee track this week.

13. Glee Cast: (You're) Having My Baby
This is a cover of a song by Paul Anka and Odia Coates. Again, I cringe everytime I hear the Jock sing and I'm kind of annoyed his Pregnant Baby Mama didn't join him. Still his voice is good enough.

14. Glee Cast: Lean On Me
And this is the big heartwarming ballad that the whole Glee Club come out and sing for the Jock and his Baby Mama. It might bring a tear to some people's eye but for a heartless cynic like me, I just stare stony faced at the screen when this is sang.

15. Goldfrapp: Rocket
As I've said on the Goldfrapp post already, it's unlikely that they'll ever surpass their hippyish folky album Seventh Tree with me. However, Rocket, a synthy, icy mid-tempo '80s throwback is a quiet grower. I love it.

16. Hadouken!: Mic Check
This is actually amazing. The ravey instrumental for this is worth purchasing alone. If this comes on in a club, I will definitely be first on the dancefloor for this beauty.

17. Hermione Hennessy: Fall At Your Feet
This song is by the British raised daughter of late Irish singer Christie Hennessy. This is actually a really enjoyable song. Might work best for the adult contemporary crowd but this actually sounds like The Corrs.

18. Ja Rule featuring R. Kelly: Incredible
Are we seeing the return of classic R&B? I sure hope so. But maybe just 'cause R. Kelly sings the chorus on this track. This takes me back to the early 2000s when R&B was so good and not trashy and generic like it is now. This is all classic piano loops and smooth harmonizing from Kelly. Ja Rule's pretty good too.

19. Jimi Hendrix: Bleeding Heart
This is classic rock 'n' roll from the legendary guitarist. This is very enjoyable but I'm really against the release of posthumous singles and albums. These were all probably demos Hendrix created and didn't think was good enough for a studio album and now they appear 40 years later after his death (my God, has it been that long)! Will appear on his upcoming album Valleys Of Neptune.

20. John Mayer: Heartbreak Warfare
As much as it pains me to say this, this womanizing racist actually has a lot of talent. Great rock track. Kind of sounds like Coldplay.

21. Kat DeLuna featuring Akon: Push Push
She sounds like a combination of Shakira and Rihanna. In other words, she has no originality and needs Akon to help her out on this dancehall R&B track. Unlikely to be a hit. If her brilliant Run This Show couldn't make it, then I doubt this will.

22. Kid Cudi: Know Why
Poor Cudi looks like he's fallen into the same trap as fellow intelligent rappers Wale and Lupe Fiasco in that he's unlikely to see the success of a hit like Day 'N' Niteagain. Can't believe this song will be ignored when crap by Flo Rida and Pitbull will be snapped up by the masses.

23. Lil John: Get In And Get Out
I like the beat for this but that's about it! Jeez John, do you actually talk like that in real life.

24. Livvi France: Automatik
After the terrible Now I'm That Bitch, Livvi returns with a rather good club banger. But aren't we hearing this from everyone in the charts at the moment especially Lady GaGa. Sounds like Just Dance and Poker Face.

25. Ludacris featuring Chris Angel: Mindfreak

26. Ludacris featuring Trey Songz: Sex Room

27. Ludacris: Sexting

^^^^The above three are all promo singles from his Battle Of The Sexes album. It's a fun album and the songs are all fine but fairly standard run of the mill rap tracks. I love Sexting. I thought I had made that word up myself but obviously not. :(

28. Monica: Everything To Me
The incredibly soulful Monica makes a nice yet unextraordinary return to the World of music. This is really good but nothing we haven't heard before.

29. McLean: My Name
Boring. Who is this guy? This sounds like a Taio Cruz B-side. Next!

30. Norah Jones: Stuck
I'm pleasantly surprised. I was expecting another sleepy ballad from Miss Jones but she's really moving outside the box with this more interesting second single from upcoming album The Fall. I might check it out if this single is an indication of the new album.

STINKER OF THE WEEK!
31. Pixie Lott: Gravity
I really like Pixie and think she's amazingly talented for her 19 years and think she gets an awful lot of unnecessary abuse. But this song is kind of disgraceful as a single. I haven't listened to her album Turn It Up but I've heard there's much better songs on the album like Here We Go Again and Turn it Up. Okay, so it's not the worst song ever but Pixie sounds like she has a headcold with that nasal singing against the mid-tempo setting. "Gravity, gravity, gravity..." is repeated too many times on the chorus and I don't like that a deep male voice sings it too. Its just annoying.

32. Robbie Williams:Morning Sun
It's good but it's not great. Robbie plays it safe with this so-so ballad. I'd prefer You Know Me anyday.

33. Sean Garret featuring Plies: Lay U Down
Ah go away, T-Pain impersonators!!!!

34. Shane McGowan & Friends: I Put A Spell On You
This is my favourite Haiti charity record. Really raw and emotive vocals from Shane McGowan, Paloma Faith, Johnny Depp, Bobby Gillespie, Glen Matlock, Chrissie Hynde and Eliza Dolittle. Not sure if a cover of the Screaming Jay Hawkins hit is appropriate in relation to Haiti. But hey! This is a good record people will want to buy instead of feeling obliged to buy.

35. Steve Aoki featuring Zuper Blahq: I'm In the House
This sounds suspiciously like Will.I.Am on this novelty dance track which uses the hook "I'm in the house!" for chart success. We all know how crappy Will is solo and over a dance beat, he's probably worse. This isn't Will.I.Am. but it sounds identical to him. This is obviously cashing in on the success of Sidney Samson's Riverside (Let's Go!) which this track also sounds like.

36. T-Pain featuring Young Jeezy: Reverse Cowgirl
If you've heard one T-Pain track, you've heard 'em all. Auto-Tuned drivel.

37. Young Jeezy featuring Plies: Lose My Mind
Much like his collaborator above, if you've heard one Young Jeezy song, you've heard them all from the gruff voiced rapper. What's he doing releasing his own solo material. Do what yo do best: being a rent-a-rapper.

That took FOREVER!!! Please feel free to compliment/argue with my reviews!

first, i make a list of my top-25 artists overall. then, for each of these artists, add the 7 most similar artists to your list. Delete any duplicates, count up the number of entries on my list and this gives me some idea of how ecclectic my listening habits are. A score of 25 represents an extremely unvaried musical taste while a 200 represents an extremely varied one. 90-110 would be average...
(if there are duplicates due to different typing or spelling variations, i choose the next similar artist on the list)

1. Kaysha
Nichols
Elizio
Jamice
Nelson Freitas
Soumia
Warren
Thierry Cham
=8

2. Lokua Kanza
Tshala Muana
Papa Wemba
Toto Bona Lokua
Koffi Olomide
Richard Bona
Cheikh Lô
Samite
=6

3. Tshala Muana
Pepe Kalle
Sam Mangwana
Papa Wemba
Madilu System
Tabu Ley Rochereau
Koffi Olomide
Lokua Kanza
=5

4. Michael Jackson
The Jackson 5
The Jacksons
Janet Jackson
Michael Jackson & Paul McCartney
Jermaine Jackson
3T
Diana Ross
=8

5. Papa Wemba
Koffi Olomide
Tshala Muana
Tabu Ley Rochereau
Sam Mangwana
Lokua Kanza
Madilu System
Pepe Kalle
=1

6. Bob Marley & The Wailers
The Wailers
Peter Tosh
Bob Marley
Bunny Wailer
Rita Marley
The Upsetters
Black Uhuru
=8

7. Lara Fabian
Julie Zenatti
Céline Dion
Natasha St-Pier
Hélène Ségara
Isabelle Boulay
Garou
Patrick Fiori
=8

8. Inword
Rudeluck
Ken Boothe
Paykan
Confiance
Mangalepa
Maître Nono Manzanza/Percussions Elima
Franco Simaro et le Top OK Jazz
=8

9. Awilo Longomba
Koffi Olomide
Kanda Bongo Man
Pepe Kalle
Extra Musica
Zaiko Langa Langa
Tshala Muana
Papa Wemba
=4

10. Zap Mama
Angélique Kidjo
Les Nubians
Miriam Makeba
Erykah Badu
Me'Shell NdegéOcello
Rokia Traoré
Leela James
=8

11. Patrice
Martin Jondo
Nosliw
Jamaram
Gentleman
Mellow Mark
Sebastian Sturm
Seeed
=8

12. Jupiter Bokonji and Okwess International
Franco & Sam Mangwana
Tabu Ley Rochereau
Franco
Théo Blaise Kounkou
Kékélé
I.K. Dairo
Super Cercul
=7

13. 周杰倫
林俊傑
南拳媽媽
王力宏
S.H.E
陶喆
F.I.R.
蔡依林
=8

14. Ronny Jordan
Down to the Bone
Young Disciples
Norman Brown
Incognito
Jeff Golub
Galliano
Corduroy
=8

15. Falamansa
Rastapé
Circuladô de Fulô
Bicho de Pé
Trio Virgulino
Trio Forrozão
Forrueiros
Estakazero
=8

16. Dolla
Clipse
Drew Sidora
Gina Rene
Ciara
Deep Side
Red Cafe
Yung Berg
=8

17. R. Kelly
Jay-Z & R. Kelly
Usher
Ginuwine
Joe
Tyrese
Jaheim
Trey Songz
=8

18. Sarah McLachlan
Natalie Merchant
Jewel
Jann Arden
Paula Cole
Chantal Kreviazuk
Tara MacLean
Sheryl Crow
=8

19. Davy sicard
Baster
Ousa nousava
Danyel Waro
Ziskakan
Alain Peters
Rosa Passos & Henri Salvador
Tristan Caldwell Band
=8

20. Ani DiFranco
Melissa Ferrick
Dar Williams
Erin McKeown
Indigo Girls
Anaïs Mitchell
Catie Curtis
Chris Pureka
=8

21. Manu Chao
Mano Negra
Che Sudaka
Sergent Garcia
Hot Pants
Babylon Circus
Amparanoia
Los Fabulosos Cadillacs
=8

22. J Rice
Travis (of NLT)
Claude Kelly
Lil Eddie
Lonnie
Kai Holmes
Lee Carr
Johnta Austin
=8

23. Gage
Mathieu Edward
Corneille
Singuila
Wallen
Zaho
Vitaa
Amel Bent
=8

24. Lenny Kravitz
Fun Lovin' Criminals
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Eagle-Eye Cherry
Matchbox Twenty
Jamiroquai
Train
R.E.M.
=8

25. Abégé
Talina
Jocelyn Deloumeaux
V-RO
Lindsey Lin's
Zouk Look
Jim Rama
Loony Johnson
=8

TOTAL = 183/200
143/160

what's your score?!?

luckyleon's top albums (overall) 1. Stevie Wonder - The Definitive Collection (53) 2. Jah Cure - True Reflections...A New Beginning (45) 3. Various Artists - Live At Last.fm/Presents (41) 4. SWV - Best of SWV (41) 5. Jodeci - The Show, The After Party, The Hotel (40) 6. The Smiths - The Queen Is Dead (38) 7. Wiley - Playtime is Over (35) 8. The Isley Brothers - The Essential Isley Brothers (34) 9. Chris Brown - Chris Brown (31) 10. Terence Trent D'Arby - Introducing the Hardline According to Terence Trent D'Arby (31) 11. Chris Brown featuring Keri Hilson - Exclusive - The Forever Edition (30) 12. Notorious B.I.G. - Ready to Die (29) 13. 50 Cent - Before I Self-Destruct (28) 14. Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell - United & You're All I Need (28) 15. J. Holiday - Back Of My Lac' (28) 16. Eric Roberson - Presents: The Vault - Vol. 1.5 (27) 17. Eric Roberson - Music Fan First (26) 18. Various Artists - Shark Tale (25) 19. Jackson 5 - The Ultimate Collection (24) 20. SWV - It's About Time (24) 21. Snoop Dogg - Doggystyle (23) 22. Eric Roberson - Left (21) 23. Prince - Purple Rain (21) 24. Trey Songz - Trey Day (21) 25. Lil' Kim - Hardcore (20) 26. Dru Hill - Enter The Dru (20) 27. Mary J. Blige - Share My World (19) 28. Goapele - Change It All (19) 29. Various Artists - DJ Cameo Presents Bassline CD1b (19) 30. Mary J. Blige - What's The 411? (19) 31. Eric Roberson - The Appetizer (18) 32. Michael Jackson - Invincible (18) 33. R. Kelly - R. Kelly (18) 34. Bow Wow - Unleashed (17) 35. Michael Jackson - Ben (17) 36. Marques Houston - Veteran (16) 37. Young Money - We Are Young Money (16) 38. Sting - The Very Best Of Sting And The Police (16) 39. Donell Jones - My Heart (16) 40. Bobby Valentino - Special Occasion (16) 41. LL Cool J - Mr. Smith (16) 42. The Smiths - Louder Than Bombs (15) 43. Roberta Flack & Donny Hathaway - Roberta Flack Featuring Donny Hathaway (15) 44. Rihanna - A Girl Like Me (15) 45. Stevie Wonder - Music Of My Mind (15) 46. Newham Generals - Best of Newham Generals Vol. 1 (15) 47. Bow Wow - New Jack City II EP (15) 48. Bobby Caldwell - What You Won't Do For Love (15) 49. Wu-Tang Clan - Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) (15) 50. B5 - Don't Talk, Just Listen (15)

Are you a happy person?:
April Rain by Delain

What is your passion?:
Apron - Legio Diabolica by Orkrist
I don't even know what that means...

What do you regret?:
Comforting Lie by No Doubt
Too much lying ain't good, that's true...

How would you describe yourself?:
Medie-Orakler by Teknisk Uheld
Lol, I'm a media oracle. That's kinda cool :D

What is your greatest strength?:
Growing On Me by The Darkness
Ew? :/

What is your greatest weakness?:
Nightquest by Nightwish

What do you do in your free time?:
The Ancient War Spirit by Orkrist
Fight?

Are you intelligent?:
Stayin' Alive by Bee Gees
Intelligent enough, it seems.

What is your goal in life?:
Slow Down Baby by Christina Aguilera
Life does seem to go kinda fast right now, but I wouldn't exactly say that it's a goal of mine to slow it down...

How do you act towards others?:
18 Wheeler by Pink

Are you a generous person?:
Mein Teil by Rammstein

How do you deal with anger?:
Cancer by My Chemical Romance
Shit... I don't see myself as that dramatic...

How do you cope with sadness?:
Yardie Bone by Sean Paul

What makes you really happy?:
Beep (Album Version) by The Pussycat Dolls
HAHAHAHAHHA XD

What pisses you off?:
All the small things by blink-182
Guess that's right...

What do you look like?:
Tale of the Sea Maid by Leaves' Eyes
That doesn't sound all that bad :)

How would you describe your life right now?:
Live To Tell The Tale by Nightwish
True enough...

What will your life be like in 5 years?:
Let it will be by Madonna
Making no sense? Nothing new, then.

How will you die?:
Ain't Your Fairytale by Sonata Arctica
I don't think anybody should know that, so that's all good.

What are your fears?:
Angmareddon by Orkrist
Armageddon?

If you wrote an autobiography, what would it be called?:
Ring the Alarm by Beyoncé
Cool xD

Love Life
Are you single or taken?:
Spend Some Time (Featuring Obie Trice, Stat Quo, and 50 Cent) by Eminem

Are you in love?:
Me, Myself And I by Beyoncé
Selfcentered, much?

What do you think of the opposite sex?:
Hold on by Jet

What does the opposite sex think of you?:
Piece by Piece by Katie Melua
Hm?!

Are you sexually active?:
Good Morning Revival by Good Charlotte
Hahahahah :D

Have you broken anyone's heart?:
Life Burns! by Apocalyptica
Auch...

Has anyone broken yours?:
Talebanmark by Alexanderband

How would your significant other describe you?:
Lost by Visions of Atlantis
Dude, that's mean.

How would you describe your significant other?:
Ouverture by Within Temptation And The Metropole Orchestra

What do you want in a relationship?:
Phonography by Britney Spears
Hahaha. No!

Do you mind being single?:
Friday On My Mind by Gary Moore
Nope :D

How do you kiss?:
Higher Than Hope by Nightwish
Awesome.

Do people fall in love with you easily?:
Lose Yourself by Eminem

What is your view on love / relationships?:
Have At Thee! by Say Anything
Right-o...

What is a challenge to you in a relationship?:
Life's Vortex by After Forever

How do you feel about your current status?:
I Wish You Were Here by Incubus
Define "you"...

Will you get married?:
Dangerously In Love 2 by Beyoncé
Beyoncé, go away.

Will you have kids?:
If I Could Turn Back The Hands by R. Kelly
Very clear answer. Lovely :p

How did you meet your current boyfriend, girlfriend, or crush?:
Figured you out by Nickelback

Are you happy?:
Boogie Wonderland by Earth Wind & Fire
Totally, it seems.

Family And Friends
Do you have a lot of friends?:
You're Crashing, But You're No Wave by Fall Out Boy
Nope?

What do you think of your friends?:
Pale by Within Temptation
Most of them are, I guess. Especially now, in the winter.

What do your friends think of you?:
Janie's Got A Gun by Aerosmith
Dangerous...

How would you describe your closest friends?:
Alright by D.A.D.
Perhaps a little more than that?

Do you and your family get along well?:
Detective by No Doubt

How would you describe your father?:
Date With The Night by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Eh, not really >_<

How would you describe your mother?:
The Cross by Within Temptation
Not in a religious way...

How would you descrive your sibling(s)?:
All You Need Is Love by The Beatles
Don't have any :p

How would your father describe you?:
Guilty Pleasure by Cobra Starship
No. wtf :S

How would your mother describe you?:
The Land Of Ice And Snow by Stratovarius
I'm not THAT white! Eh... right now I might be. Damned winter.

How would your sibling(s) describe you?:
Goodbye to the Circus by Aqua

How would random strangers describe you?:
Right Here by Kelly Osbourne
:p

What do your teachers think of you?:
Baby I Love u ! by Jennifer Lopez
OMG what is WRONG with this thing? :S

What do you think of yourself?:
Cheap Trick Kinda' Girl (Original Club Mix) by Infernal
This is sick...

Theme Songs (What song would describe these situations?)
Your birth:
Good Girls Go Bad (Feat. Leighton Meester) by Cobra Starship
Mwahaha.

Your teen years:
Stockholm syndrome by blink-182

Becoming an adult:
Don't Talk Just Kiss by Right Said Fred
Hahaha :D

Your first kiss:
Believe by Elton John
What?

Losing your virginity:
Attention by The Academy Is...
Haha...

Accomplishing a goal:
Captain Shmoie by songstowearpantsto.com
I'm the captain. Eh.

Graduating high school / going to college:
Hearts On Fire by John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band

Getting a job:
I Want To Be The Boy To Warm You by The White Stripes
The boy?? :S

Getting married:
The Diva Dance by Inva Mulla Tchako
Don't get it...

Having a child:
Slate of Suspense by Visions of Atlantis
Ew.

Getting your heart broken:
Sweet Sacrifice by Evanescence

Doing drugs:
Everytime by Simple Plan
No. Drugs are disgusting!

Being with the one you love:
Signs (Featuring Missy Elliott) by Beyoncé
Seriously, what are all these Beyoncé songs doing here? :S

Having A Mid-Life Crisis:
The new transmission by Lost Prophets

At death:
The Fantasy by 30 Seconds to Mars

At your funeral:
Someone To Die For by Jimmy Gnecco Feat. Brian May
Awww.

Your personal philosophy:
On The Other Side by Delain
Good song, though?

Your life overall:
Listen With Your Heart I by disney
...

My top tracks of the year 2009

Big Boi, The Rangers, G-Side, Florence and The Machine, Tha Dogg Pound, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, MJG, Jay-Z, Fabolous, Gucci Mane, R. Kelly, Clipse, Royce Da 5′9″, Willie Is, The Streets

This took me forever to compile. It took lots of searching through my library, catching up on some late-in-the-year releases, and going back and reminding myself of some of my faves from early in the year…The only rules were that the ALBUM (the Drake mixtape would have charted on my top, but it topped the mixtapes instead) had to be released in 2009 (thus, why an album like Beyonce’s “I Am… Sasha Fierce”, which had tons of hot singles this year, is not included on this list).

Check out my picks below and PLEASE leave comments, questions, praise, hate, or suggestions for my lists…Thanks in advance!


My Top 20 Albums of the Year
20) Rihanna - Rated R
Never would have thought she would be on my list over Chris Breezy, but once I finally gave in and listened to it, she edged him out...
19) Melanie Fiona - The Bridge
Soulful melodies and great production make this the female throwback album of the year...
18) R. Kelly - Untitled
Still one of the reigning king of modern R&B
17) Kelly Clarkson - All I Ever Wanted
Glad she went back to more of a pop sound on this one
16) Robin Thicke - Sex Therapy: The Experience
Most improved artist of 2009..."Something Else" sucked...this album is hot!
15) Norah Jones - The Fall
Love every album she makes...
14) Mariah Carey - Memoirs of an imperfect Angel
Back on track with this album after the mediocre "E=MC²"
13) Toddla T - Skanky Skanky
Like drinking an energy drink
12) Mary J. Blige - Stronger withEach Tear
Surprisingly good...best Mary album of the decade
11) Mayer Hawthorne - A Strange Arrangement
Male throwback album of the year
10) Laura Izibor - Let the Truth Be Told
VH1 constantly playing an introduction to her this summer is the reason for me checking out this album...I'm glad I did
9) Tonéx - Unspoken
The most underrated artist of the decade…immensely talented and his albums consistently expand boundaries
8) Adam Lambert - For Your Entertainment
I had very high expectations for this album as a fan of his from when he was on American Idol and he matched them with this great debut
7) Kid Cudi - Man On The Moon: The End Of Day
Easily the hip-hop album of the year.
6) Major Lazer - Guns Don't Kill People...Lazers Do
This ridiculously catchy album is bursting with energy and will have you on your feet dancing in no time!
5) Alicia Keys - The Element Of Freedom
Every track is beautiful...Alicia is 4 for 4 in terms of her albums in my book!
4) Ryan Leslie - Ryan Leslie
The production on this album is brilliant…just like R-Les himself
3) The-Dream - Love vs. Money
Another masterpiece from The-Dream. He definitely took a few risks on this one - and they wound up paying off
2) Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca
It's hard to peg this album as any one style, but it works! From beginning to end rhythms and chords change, guitar licks come out of the blue, and background voices sing weird harmonies, but it is so amazing the way all of it comes together in this epic album!
1) Maxwell - BLACKsummers'night
This album was well worth the eight-year wait. One of the best albums of not only the past year, but also...the whole decade. A MUST-LISTEN for everyone. An INSTANT CLASSIC!

5 Honorable Mentions (no particular order)
Chris Brown - Graffiti
k-os - Yes!
LMFAO - Party Rock
Chrisette Michele - Epiphany
Black Eyed Peas - THE E.N.D. (THE ENERGY NEVER DIES)

3 Albums I Discovered Through Best of Lists
(still trying to figure out if/where they would place on my list...I might edit my list later on...so Rihanna and Melanie beware!)
Passion Pit - Manners
Florence + The Machine - Lungs
Fever Ray - Fever Ray

Songs of the Year
5) Laura Izibor - Shine
4) Alicia Keys - Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart
3) Laura Izibor - From My Heart To Yours
2) Dirty Projectors - Stillness Is the Move
1) Maxwell - Pretty Wings

Mixtapes of the Year
5) Novel - Suspended Animation
4) Ne-Yo - Common Sense 101
3) Mick Boogie & Terry Urban - 2009: The Grammy Remix Tribute
2) Usher - The King Is Back
1) Drake - So Far Gone

Best Live Album of the Year
Adele - iTunes Live from SoHo

Top 5 Most Disappointing Albums
5) 50 Cent - Before I Self Destruct
4) Ciara - Fantasy Ride
3) Joss Stone - Colour Me Free!
2) Queen Latifah - Persona
1) Kris Allen - Kris Allen

Top 5 New Artists
5) Mayer Hawthorne
4) Laura Izibor
3) Adam Lambert
2) Kid Cudi
1) Major Lazer

My Most Anticipated Albums of 2010 (no particular order)
Maxwell - blackSUMMERS'night
Usher - Raymond vs. Raymond
Missy Elliot - Block Party
Erykah Badu - New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh)
The-Dream - Love King

PLEASE COME BACK SOMETIME THIS DECADE!!!
Lauryn Hill
Amy Winehouse
D'Angelo
Justin Timberlake
Mystical

40. Tori Amos – Abnormally Attracted To Sin (45 plays)
Abnormally Attracted to Sin is the Tori's tenth studio album. Not her best work, but it’s vocally sweet and hypnotically somber, so she deserves this position in my chart.
Check it out: Lady In Blue

39. Jay-Z – The Blueprint 3 (40 plays)
I’m not a fan of him but Empire State Of Mind is incredible good.

38. Mika – The Boy Who Knew Too Much (44 plays)
Overall it can't come close to ‘Life In Cartoon Motion’, just not so catchy as his previous album.
Highlight: Rain

37. R. Kelly – Untitled (38 plays)
Interesting fact: R. Kelly's Untitled was originally going to be called 12 Play: Fourth Quarter. That name was apparently scrapped sometime before R. Kelly walked into an Atlanta club and spoke thus: "I'm working on a new album and I'm calling that muthaf*cka Untitled. Y'all call it what y'all want."
Best track: Go Low

36. Depeche Mode – Sounds Of The Universe (48 plays)
This is Depeche Mode's 12th studio album, but they are still on top! Good old rock music :)
Highlights: Wrong, Jezebel

35. Ciara – Fantasy Ride (73 plays)
This album is pretty much average compared to her previous albums. I hope that next CD will be more like ‘Goodies’ or ‘The Evolution’.
Check it out: Turntables

34. Moby – Wait For Me (74 plays)
In My Opinion ‘Wait For Me’ is the saddest album in Moby’s oeuvre. Some songs are just heartbreaking…
Highlights: Mistake, Wait For Me

33. Mary J. Blige – Stronger withEach Tear (34 plays)
"Stronger With Each Tear might not have the raw emotionalism of some of her earlier work but it's clearly a polished performance from a woman who's 100% comfortable in her own skin, healed wounds and all".
Favorite songs: We Got Hood Love, Kitchen

32. Maisey Rika – Tohu (67 plays)
Maisey Rika, has one of New Zealand's most impressive lead vocal style, fused with her honest and thought invoking messages. Some have described her sound similar to Tracey Chapman or Sade, with a splash of India Arie.
Best tracks: Ladeda Day, Musical Pillow, Musical Bed

31. Paloma Faith – Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful? (61 plays)
There is no doubt that she is an excellent singer with a solid voice and there is some very solid material on her latest CD, songs such as New York and My Legs Are Weak

30. Syleena Johnson – Chapter 4: Labor Pains (64 plays)
Another CD - another chapter. Pure R'n'B from Johnson! Syleena is currently in the studio beginning work on Chapter 5 and it is hoped that Kanye West and Carvin & Ivan will be among the producers on the yet-to-be-titled fifth installment.
Somethin' 4 u: Is It Because I'm Black, shoo fly

29. Katy Perry – MTV Unplugged (30 plays)
Excellent songs + good vocals + tons of energy = Great unplugged session.
Highlight: Ur So Gay

28. Maxwell – BLACKsummers'night (90 plays)
This is a wonderful return of Maxwell. What can be better than sexy, powerful and smooth voice? Definitely recommend it if you like HQ soul music.
Check it out: Bad Habits

27. Алина Сиппс – Джаз Кафе (97 plays)
Один из 2-х русскоязычных альбомов, которые представлены здесь. Интересное сочетание репа и джаза. В общем и целом очень добротный диск, который можно рекомендовать поклонникам обоих жанров.
Трек на зацен: Бухарест (feat. БелыйМЦ)

26. Kris Allen – Kris Allen (108 plays)
When I first heard the snippets I wasn't so sure how much I was going to like the album. But now I can say that this is a good debut for Kris.
Best tracks are: Can't Stay Away and Written All Over My Face

25. Brian McKnight – Evolution Of A Man (73 plays)
Overall great effort from Brian, my personal favorites are JustAlittleBit and Ibetchaneva

24. Whitney Houston – I Look To You (86 plays)
Whitney's first studio album in nearly 7 years and thankfully it's a solid album. It's good to have our Whitney back! Yes, her voice on the whole does have a slightly harsher sound to it, but it's still Ms. Houston.
My Recommendations: Salute, Call You Tonight

23. Kelly Clarkson – All I Ever Wanted (148 plays)
Good pop-rock music. It’s not as good as ‘Breakaway’, but better than ‘My December’ and if you are a fan of Kelly you will love this CD for sure.
Highlights: Long Shot and If No One Will Listen

22. Ledisi – Turn Me Loose (112 plays)
“Turn Me Loose probably should be called Turn Back the Clock for all the retro soul moves Ledisi makes But then again, she makes everything old new again with a fresh attitude and state-of-the-art production”. Soul, Jazz, Funk, R’n’B and even some hip-hop vibrations are represented on this CD.
Highlights: Turn Me Loose, Knockin'

21. Black Eyed Peas – The E.N.D. (99 plays)
With ‘I Gotta Feeling’ the Black Eyed Peas landed themselves the anthem of 2009, it was a very big hit like in every single country. But for me it’s not their best work to date, I do miss the old BEP… Still ‘The Energy Never Dies!’ :)
Favorite songs: Imma Be and Boom Boom Pow

20. Alexandra Burke – Overcome (131 plays)
8 months after being crowned victor of the X Factor, Alexandra Burke delivers ‘Overcome’. It looks like she has really become a good singer cause her debut album is surprisingly good.
Strongest Songs: The Silence, Good Night Good Morning (feat. Ne-Yo)

19. David Guetta – One Love (158 plays)
David Guetta's name is synonymous with the world's greatest house and dance music. He has been France’s No. 1 club DJ for a decade, and was named the world’s No. 1 House DJ in 2008. David has made 4 great albums and my personal favorite is ‘Guetta Blaster’, though ‘One Love’ is the most successful one (topped the charts in 17 countries).
My Recommendations: One Love (feat. Estelle) and Choose (feat. Ne-Yo & Kelly Rowland)

18. Винтаж – Sex (226 plays)
Одна из немногих групп на российской эстраде, которую можно слушать и получать удовольствие. Чего-чего, а удовольствия в этом альбоме полно – одно название чего стоит. :) Радует то, что и помимо знаменитой ‘Евы’ у группы нашлись не менее хорошие песни.
На кач: Одиночество любви, Мальчик

17. Stefanie Heinzmann – Roots To Grow (204 plays)
Stefanie Heinzmann is a Swiss soul singer. She gained public interest in early 2008 when she won a talent contest hosted in Stefan Raab's Late-Night-Show TV total on the German ProSieben network. In 2009 she released her 2nd album titled ‘Roots to Grow’, it's a pretty good album, though there aren't many standout tracks.
Check it out: How Does It Feel, Bet That I’m Better

16. Sofa – DoReMiFaSoFa (213 plays)
Sofa is a polish group formed in 2003, which plays experimental, roots, soul, funk, hip-hop, R’n’B, jazz, electronic, alternative. They are like ‘SiStars vol. 2’ for me, can’t help myself – just love good polish music :)
Best songs: Don't Run [Do You] (feat. Frank McComb), Keep on shakin', We Broke/Retrospektik Pt. 1

15. Rihanna – Rated R (113 plays)
Very unexpected CD from Barbadian singer. I am not in love with every song, but I must admit that ‘Rated R’ is her most diverse album to date.
The stand out tracks for me are: Cold Case Love, Photographs and Russian Roulette

14. Outlandish – Sound Of A Rebel (139 plays)
Another solid hip-hop album from the world famous Danish band. I really like Arabic and Indian element in their oeuvre, these guys are extraordinary talented. There’s no powerful song like ‘Aicha’ or’ Callin' U’, though the rhythm, the sound and the lyrics of new material are awesome.
Strongest songs: Rock All Day, Someday, Crash n´ Burn

13. Chrisette Michele – Epiphany (154 plays)
She is one of the many artists that I've discovered in 2009 and ‘Epiphany’ is one of those rare cd's where all songs are excellent - I can play it constantly without skipping any track. The CD is worth buying.
Highlights: Blame It On Me, Notebook, Epiphany (I'm Leaving)

12. Beyoncé – I Am... Yours: An Intimate Performance At Wynn Las Vegas (113 plays)
This is a must-have if you are a true fan of Beyoncé. She can write, sing, perform and just make you feel great. This live album is fantastic! Nothing else to say :)
My Recommendations: Scared Of Lonely, Hello, Sweet Dreams

11. Beverley Knight – 100% (243 plays)
Beverley is one of the best British singers in my opinion, but this is the first complete album that I love, cause every track is great. Her vocal ability is faultless, her lyrics can touch every piece of your heart and soul… That’s 100% guaranteed.
Best songs: 100%, Bare, Turned To Stone

10. Daniel Merriweather – Love & War (261 plays)
I don't remember the day when I decided to download his album and I don’t know why I did it, but it was definitely worth it. After several successful collaborations with some artists, Daniel released his official debut album, Love & War which became quite successful in the UK, selling more than 200 000 copies to date.
Check it out: Red, Water And A Flame

9. Jason Mraz – Jason Mraz's Beautiful Mess - Live On Earth (213 plays)
Well, I am a big fan of this guy - “We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things.” still is on a heavy rotation on my PC and I pod. ‘Live On Earth’ is the second official full length concert recording from Jason and it shows that Mraz is one of the few artists who sing even better live. Unforgettable 76 minutes of pleasure guaranteed.
Strongest Songs: Only Human, Coyotes, The Boy's Gone and many more!

8. VV Brown – Travelling Like The Light (282 plays)
Having never heard of her before, I have downloaded 'Travelling Like the Light', and I was pleasantly surprised. Really great album as all the songs are really good and catchy. Too bad that she is so underrated.
Highlights: Shark in the Water, Crazy Amazing and Game Over

7. Robin Thicke – Sex Therapy: The Experience (197 plays)
This album is pure sex laced with a nice mix of slow jams and crazy beats. Jay-Z, Kid Cudi, Estelle, Jazmine Sullivan and many more special guests are here for your entertainment. If you loved ‘The Evolution of Robin Thicke’ then you won't be disappointed with this one.
Highlights: Rollacoasta, Million Dolla Baby, 2 Luv Birds & Jus Right

6. Alicia Keys – The Element Of Freedom (248 plays)
Alicia brings something new every time she drops an album. The album has an innovative, experimental touch to it that works very well. Overall I'm enjoying listening to this set, though it’s a little step back compared to ‘The Diary of Alicia Keys’.
The stand out tracks are: Try Sleeping With A Broken Heart, Un-thinkable (I'm Ready), Lover Man

5. Laura Izibor – Let the Truth Be Told (261 plays)
I just love everything about this woman: her strong voice, her shining lyrics, her unique style and her beautiful appearance. ‘Let the Truth Be Told’ is one of the best R’n’B albums of this decade, especially considering the fact that this is her debut.
Strongest songs: If Tonight Is My Last, Perfect World, Yes (I'll Be Your Baby)

4. Melanie Fiona – The Bridge (387 plays)
Melanie Fiona is the best new artist among those who have made their debut this year. And if you didn't know Melanie Fiona, she is someone to look out for. I believe with her own sound and strong vocal she will be more successful in the near future.
Check it out: Monday Morning, It Kills Me, Priceless, Johnny

3. Jamie Cullum – The Pursuit (526 plays)
This is by far Cullum's best album to date because there are no filler tracks at all like on previous albums. He just keeps getting better and better with every CD. I wonder how he will surpass himself? :)
Highlights: Music Is Through, If I Ruled The World, Don't Stop The Music, Love Ain't Gonna Let You Down, Mixtape

2. Joss Stone – Colour Me Free! (578 plays)
This lady is the definition of soul music for me, she never disappoints! I’m happy that she's stayed true to herself - with her voice, her look, and her success, Joss could probably be a huge pop star if she wanted to, but instead she chooses to continue doing what she does best. It's just a shame that she's had problems with her record company and that it hasn't been promoted more.
My Recommendations: Could Have Been You, Lady, 4 and 20, Governmentalist (feat. Nas), Mr. Wankerman

1. No Angels – Welcome To The Dance (1503 plays)
This is a difficult time for girls - awful incident with Nadja, problems with a record company and the fact that Germany doesn't care about homegrown international-sounding Pop acts anymore. That’s why ‘Welcome to the Dance’ is Angels biggest flop to date. But for me this is officially their best work, I was sooo addicted to it some months ago! I guess they should promote their stuff in other countries.
Highlights: One Life, Derailed, Dance-Aholic, Too Old, Thunderstorm

Holy fuck, I might say this about every other artist I post about but you will never understand how much I love and have loved These New Puritans - from the beginning, into eternity. Their mysterious scripts, their obsession with J Dilla and hectograms, their blog, the twin brothers, the garments they wear, their cryptic lyrics - every aspect of the band has me fascinated.

Read more on TNPs and see their new video here: http://truants.blogspot.com/2009/12/purcell-vs-fat-eyes.html


These New Puritans
J Dilla
Vampire Weekend
Yeasayer
KASMs
R. Kelly