Albums stun 2007 music industry
2007 was an explosion of musical talent that surfaced in the most unexpected places. With each genre, artist and song, emerged some of the best albums of the 21st century.
Andy Downs
Issue date: 12/3/07 Section: Intermission
Arcade Fire-Neon Bible
The sophomore full-length release from the Canadian multi-instrumentalist group is a dark, eerie protest album recorded in an abandoned church. The band shines on the Springsteen-esque fist-pumper, "Windowsill."
Bright Eyes-Cassadaga
Poetic brainchild Conor Oberst pieces together a powerful protest record, but instead of whiny emo songs about himself, Cassadaga unveils the country-folk, anti-war side of Oberst. Check out "Four Winds."
Draft Punk-Alive 2007
The French robot duo returned this year with a live album that plays like an interwoven remix of their greatest hits and showcases the 11 tons of equipment they haul to events. The entire album plays through with charm.
Dinosaur Jr.-Beyond
The godfathers of loud, alternative rock returned with their original lineup after more than 15 years for an instant classic full of J Mascis' guitar-shredding. Sounds of 1989's "Bug" show in "Crumble."
Elliott Smith-New Moon
A posthumus collection of unreleased material from the deceased songwriter displays Smith's ability to make you feel - happy or sad. The two-disc set is one of the year's best.
LCD Sounsystem-Sound of Silver
Enthusiasts of dancing look no further, for the crisp, refreshing side of LCD explodes on "Sound of Silver." Indie rock meets electronica as usual for the accomplished beat-driven group.
Menomena-Friend and Foe
The Oregon-based trio of multi-instrumentalists utilize keys atop complex drum beats and driving guitar riffs, all conjoined with the computer-programmed sounds filling the airy parts of songs.
Rilo Kiley-Under the Blacklight
"Under the Blacklight" granted the Jenny Lewis-led indie group Fleetwood Mac comparisons and modest mainstream success with jingles about prostitution and sex. Check out the album's title track.
Spoon-Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga
Indie rock's Spoon returned to the scene this year with a new, poppier side to their sound. Frontman Britt Daniel pushed this album through waves of class and elegance while releasing a solid rock album.
The sophomore full-length release from the Canadian multi-instrumentalist group is a dark, eerie protest album recorded in an abandoned church. The band shines on the Springsteen-esque fist-pumper, "Windowsill."
Bright Eyes-Cassadaga
Poetic brainchild Conor Oberst pieces together a powerful protest record, but instead of whiny emo songs about himself, Cassadaga unveils the country-folk, anti-war side of Oberst. Check out "Four Winds."
Draft Punk-Alive 2007
The French robot duo returned this year with a live album that plays like an interwoven remix of their greatest hits and showcases the 11 tons of equipment they haul to events. The entire album plays through with charm.
Dinosaur Jr.-Beyond
The godfathers of loud, alternative rock returned with their original lineup after more than 15 years for an instant classic full of J Mascis' guitar-shredding. Sounds of 1989's "Bug" show in "Crumble."
Elliott Smith-New Moon
A posthumus collection of unreleased material from the deceased songwriter displays Smith's ability to make you feel - happy or sad. The two-disc set is one of the year's best.
LCD Sounsystem-Sound of Silver
Enthusiasts of dancing look no further, for the crisp, refreshing side of LCD explodes on "Sound of Silver." Indie rock meets electronica as usual for the accomplished beat-driven group.
Menomena-Friend and Foe
The Oregon-based trio of multi-instrumentalists utilize keys atop complex drum beats and driving guitar riffs, all conjoined with the computer-programmed sounds filling the airy parts of songs.
Rilo Kiley-Under the Blacklight
"Under the Blacklight" granted the Jenny Lewis-led indie group Fleetwood Mac comparisons and modest mainstream success with jingles about prostitution and sex. Check out the album's title track.
Spoon-Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga
Indie rock's Spoon returned to the scene this year with a new, poppier side to their sound. Frontman Britt Daniel pushed this album through waves of class and elegance while releasing a solid rock album.