Top Releases of 2012

A year ago today I was doing the same thing I am doing now, looking ahead onto a new year that is full of wonder and possibilities.  There is no way I can fully know what to expect, and it's impossible to look into the future and get a solid grasp of what the music world will throw my way; right now, it's all up for grabs.  What's going to be my favorite album of 2013?  What is going to disappoint me?  Which band will release a debut album that blows me away?  These are the same questions I (and all of us for that matter) was faced with at the beginning of 2012.  I didn't have answers, I didn't have a clue.  It's for this reason that I love lists, if nothing else it's a reflection of the year that passed, a representation of the artists you listened to and the albums that grew to symbolize a small segment of your life.  It's all there, neatly organized in a countdown. For me, that's why I do lists.  I don't do them because I want to brag about what I listened to, nor do I think my list is better than everyone else's.  No, I do it because it gives a certain portrayal of who I am for that year, it shows what I was into and what I cared about.  Going through the years of previous lists, it's fascinating to look back and see how I've changed and how my music tastes shifted.  Each list fills in the answers that you asked yourself at the beginning of each year, and it exhibits that child-like excitement and curiosity that you felt 12 months prior.  To go back and observe that introspection is a wonderful thing, and the best part?  You get a chance to do it at the beginning of each and every single year.  The music side of me now has a clean slate going into 2013, and whenever a part of you has an uncertain future, how can you not help but feel a flurry of anticipation?  That's how I feel now, and that's how I felt then, way back in January of 2012.  Now, though, my questions have been answered, and 2012 will slowly disappear behind us (but that doesn't mean we won't forget it) as new and inspiring music makes its way into our ears.  So, without further adieu, here are my favorite releases of the year that passed....

25.  Blondes by Blondes

"Lover"

24.  Strange Weekend by Porcelain Raft

23.  Duality by Captain Murphy

22.  Shrines by Purity Ring

"Crawlersout"

21.  Allah-Las by Allah-Las

"Tell Me (What's On Your Mind)"

20.  Confess by Twin Shadow

"Beg For The Night"

19.  2 by Mac DeMarco

18.  Our House on the Hill by The Babies

17.  Heaven by The Walkmen

"We Can't Be Beat"

16.  Spiderwebbed by Stumbleine

15.  Melody's Echo Chamber by Melody's Echo Chamber

14.  Gossamer by Passion Pit

"It's Not My Fault, I'm Happy"

13.  Coexist by The xx

"Tides"

12.  Shields by Grizzly Bear

"Gun-Shy"

11.  Sweet Heart Sweet Light by Spiritualized

"Little Girl"

10.  There's No Leaving Now by The Tallest Man on Earth

"To Just Grow Away"

9.  Nocturne by Wild Nothing

8.  Oshin by DIIV

7.  Attack on Memory by Cloud Nothings

"Fall In"

6.  Bend Beyond by Woods

"Impossible Sky"

5.  Kindred EP by Burial

"Loner"

4.  Spooky Action at a Distance by Lotus Plaza

3.  Bloom by Beach House

"Lazuli"

2.  Lonerism by Tame Impala

"Music To Walk Home By"

1.  Celebration Rock by Japandroids

"Evil's Sway"

So there ya have it, 2012 in a nutshell!  As with every list I'm sure you agree on some while you completely disagree with others, but that's the beauty of music...no one has to agree on anything, we all just listen to what we like.  Anyway, I look forward to what will hopefully be a stellar 2013 music year, there are sure to be some great releases heading our way (Beach Fossils and Toro Y Moi, I'm looking at you) as well some debut hopefuls (ON AN ON, my fingers are crossed!).  Here's wishing everyone a happy new year, and hoping that your holidays were merry!  Thank you all for reading, it has been a pleasure writing for you, and I hope to see you guys soon!!!

Summerays

The last time that I checked in with Summerays, the solo man Luke Teeters' newly released single had me feeling nostalgic about my college life and the graduation of some of my good buddies. But that's what beach rock tends to do to me, instill some nostalgia, and Teeters is wonderful within this style of music.  In preparation for the release of his debut album, Summer Daze, Summerays has premiered yet another winner through the blog Start-track.  The leading single is called "Ahoy There!", and it's what you'd expect from an idea born in the sandy coasts by the water.  The short, sun-filled, feel good ditty is accompanied with another new song, "Sunshine", which has been released via a music video.  Have a listen to both below, and then visit Facebook for more information.  Bandcamp and SoundCloud also have some additional tracks from previous releases.  And remember!  Keep an eye out for Summer Daze, which will be released Bandcamp style on January 1, 2013 on a pay as you want basis.  Get ready!

Work Drugs

The Philly glo-fi group Work Drugs has begun prepping music fans for their 2nd album, so consider yourselves lucky, because that means new songs.  Arriving in time before the apocalypse, the band has put out a new single in celebration of their two year anniversary, "Young Lungs".  At least now we have two days to enjoy it before the world ends.  "Young Lungs" contains a lot of what you would expect from Work Drugs; it's a smooth, synth-filled jam complete with their newfound tool, the sax.  The difference is that "Young Lungs" is one of their noisier, more complex tracks to date.  Here, you won't find much empty space, and it's nice to see that extra capacity being used.  As mentioned before, "Young Lungs" will appear on their sophomore album, which is slated for a 2013 release.  Have a listen to it below to get a first taste.  For more, you can visit their respective Facebook, Twitter, Bandcamp, and SoundCloud pages.

New Animal

Today I was introduced to the Atlanta-based duo New Animal, and while I might be a tad tardy on this one it's better late than never, right? The band consists of members Kris Hermstad and Derek Burdette, two dudes who have been buddies since their middle school days.  Despite all the years, they didn't collaborate musically until 2010, after which they put together three releases over the course of a year, including a self-titled debut.  The range in their songwriting is impressive, touching upon a multitude of genres and writing styles including kraut rock, lo-fi, and electronic expressions.  What caught my eye, though, was their most recent single "Falling Up", which came late this summer.  If this is the culmination of everything they've done then I can't wait to hear what comes next.  In an atmospheric haze of psychedelic pop, "Falling Up" is an emotional reflection on "the ability to let go", an idea that is captured using somber tones mixed with a high-pitched, brooding vocal track. Check it out below, then hit up their homepage or Facebook if you want to learn more. Spinner is offering a free download if you choose to use it.

 New Animal - Falling Up by Old Flame Records

Beach Fossils

Don't you love it when your day gets off on the right foot?  I woke up today, quite unenthusiastically, expecting a day full of bullshit classes when all of a sudden I found out that Beach Fossils had announced a new album and single.  In one full swoop my day became much, much better.  With bassist John Pena involved in his solo act Heavenly Beat and lead guitarist Zachary Cole Smith doing his DIIV shindig the past year, I wasn't sure when this was going to happen.  Alas, the answer is here now; Clash the Truth will be released on February 19th, 2013 via the always brilliant Captured Tracks.  Along with the announcement they have also released the first single from the forthcoming LP entitled "Careless".  It's instantly recognizable as a Beach Fossils brainchild, utilizing carefree guitar riffs that glisten with every pluck.  The track is also drenched with lush atmospheres, indicating that we might see a bit of a divergence from their past work. Have a listen below, and then pick up your gift of a free download here.  Snag it while you can!

 Beach Fossils // "Careless" by capturedtracks

Last Lynx

So I come back from Thanksgiving break and amongst the e-mails I received in my past week of dormancy is one from the Swedish group Last Lynx. Lemme tell ya, the quintet from Stockholm hit it right on the mark...their new song is just what I wanted to hear to kick things back into the gear.  "Killing Switch" is the newest song to come from Last Lynx and the first original tune being released for about 11 months.  The track has instant likability, hooking the listener with a steady drum beat and infectious guitar lick.  The bass helps carry the song throughout its duration, aiding the edgy rhythm in cutting forward.  All in all "Killing Switch" is undeniably catchy, and it's sure to warrant multiple listens.  Have a listen to it below, then be sure to head over to their SoundCloud for more tracks and Facebook for more info on the band.

 Last Lynx - Killing Switch by LastLynx

Josh Kumra

If there is one thing that can be said about Josh Kumra's new single "Waiting For You", it's that his inspiration for the song comes from a wide array of origins.  He uses his raspy vocals to accentuate the underlying blues, acoustic, and rock tones that serve as the foundation.  As "Waiting For You" builds along its path, Kumra creates drum beats and guitar licks that appear to lurch forward in an attempt to escape the speakers its caged in.  The accumulation of these separate elements creates a unique and catchy song, one that makes it clear why he has been growing in popularity across the pond in the U.K.  "Waiting For You" is the first track available to hear from Kumra's upcoming album, which doesn't have a title or official release date yet.  Still, if anything "Waiting For You" clearly displays Kumra's songwriting potential, and will certainly get a majority of people excited to hear the full LP. Stream the track below, then be sure to make some visits to his Facebook, Twitter, and SoundCloud.

 Josh Kumra - Waiting For You by JoshKumra

Backlights

Sometimes it's just nice to get lost in the wash of breezy, jangly guitars and cavernous vocals that comprise the dream pop genre.  The instrumentation has a funny way of lifting the listener skyward, suspended along a journey, until the song gently places us back on solid ground. "Location", the current single from the Brooklyn band Backlights, follows a similar methodology. Starting with slow and delicate guitar picking, "Location" begins to take off near the middle of the song, introducing us to busier noises and more enthused vocals.  The build of energy pulls us in, bringing the listener through a wonderfully serene sonic voyage.  The track comes to us off of the newest EP by the band, High Ceiling Nice Fiction, which was released earlier this year on October 20th.  As of now, Bandcamp is offering "Location" as the singular stream on the EP with other songs available for purchase (as well as the EP, obviously).  I've posted "Location" below, so be sure to check it out, and afterward you can find out more by visiting their Facebook or Twitter.  Dig it!

Location

Big Tree

Around this time last year, Big Tree was preparing to release their sophomore LP This New Year complete with the addition of a new vocalist and drummer.  Adding the two brought the band count to 5, which made their move out west more of a commitment.  Drawn to the allure of northern California, the group ditched their Brooklyn lives believing that the move westward was necessary for the evolution of the band.  A year later, and here we sit awaiting the release of their new Little EP (due November 16th), a work Big Tree claims pays homage to how California re-directed and re-inspired their sound.  To get into even more detail, the concepts that make up the lead single "Time" are extracted from "the band's altered perception of time on the road", as well as the nostalgia associated with relocating and the excitement of the unknown.  Beautifully voiced by Kaila McIntyre-Bader, "Time" is an amiable and breezy indie pop jam with slick guitars and catchy melodies, making Little an EP to get excited about.  Check out "Time" below, with a download available at SoundCloud.  There is also more to look at in their Facebook and Twitter pages.  Have a happy and safe Halloween everyone!

 Time by BigTree

Blue Boats

In early September of this year, the U.K. film student Oliver Gale graced us with the wonderful single "Summer's Down", a song that made the transition from summer to fall much more bearable.  Now, Gale has released his newest single entitled "I Am The Only One", a slow-burning ballad bursting with emotion. Whereas previous tracks were more jovial, his new track flexes his songwriting capabilities, putting his melancholy styles on display.  In-between his verses, Gale unleashes high-pitched bellows, indicating what seems to be a cry for help.  In the forefront the lines "you have done enough" are on repeat, exhibiting a sense of anger and sadness.  Yet, towards the end we're treated to an uplifting guitar riff, an infectious rhythm which lifts us from the doldrums and instills hope in the future.  All and all it's a wonderful piece of music, and one that should snag the interest of previous Blue Boats fans.  You can listen to the new "I Am The Only One" below, then be sure to take a visit to his Facebook and Twitter.

 I Am The Only One by Blue Boats

Trails and Ways

So it has happened, the moment I've been eagerly waiting for has arrived.  Ever since I heard their song "Mtn Tune" earlier this summer, the Oakland band Trails and Ways has been one of my favorite emerging acts as of late.  I felt this was only proven further when they released their Sure Thing EP, a compilation of wonderfully executed covers.  Around this time they promised more material would be on its way soon, a vow which has been fulfilled today.  "Border Crosser" is the first original track they've made since "Mtn Tune", and it's pretty significant considering that it represents the leadoff single from their debut full-length album, Trilingual.  This is our first glimpse at how Trails and Ways is going to fit their lush dream pop styles into a conglomerate, a consistent and fitting conceptual whole. We won't know the complete details until Trilingual drops early next year (exact date still unknown), but from "Border Crosser" we can gather that the band is in touch with their opinions, utilizing music as a medium to put forth their ideals.  Inspired by one member's grandparent's journey to California, we are carried on a melodious voyage that hints at sacrifice and the importance of family.  On "Border Crosser" their verdict is clear: love for one another doesn't, and shouldn't, know any boundaries.  With such meaning defined in the history it's obvious this song is important to them, and as such it would make sense that a statement piece like this symbolizes the kickstart of their first ever LP, the beginnings of their voyage.  I've posted "Border Crosser" below for you to listen to, with a free download available here.  All you need to do is like their Facebook page.  You can also follow them on Twitter, with additional streams at SoundCloud.

 Border Crosser (free download) by TRAILS AND WAYS

Work Drugs

One of the hardest working bands out there, and one that has become a favorite here at Audio Splash, is the Philadelphia "glo-fi" group called Work Drugs.  For a few years now they have been putting out new material at a constant rate, always leaving their fans with a fresh array of music.  Single after single, EP after EP, album after album, I just can't say I've ever left disappointed.  So it shouldn't come as a surprise that as the hype surrounding their most recent full-length, Absolute Bearing, is starting to wind down, a new track has been dropped on us.  It's called "Tigerbeats" and it comes to us off of the band's forthcoming album, Delta, which is due out later this November on Bobby Cahn Records.  The song was written about a recent night of debauchery at Philly's infamous Barbary indie dance party, which I'm guessing (and hoping) was a great time.  To enter into their world of smooth, hypnotic, feel-good synth atmospheres, you can take a listen below.  You can then hit up SoundCloud or Bandcamp for a free download with Twitter and Facebook available for more info.  Don't forget to keep an eye out for Delta later this November!

 Tigerbeats by Work Drugs

Team Genius

Well, that was a hell of a lot of fun to listen to.  A few days ago the Brooklyn based group Team Genius had an EP Release Day in preparation for the follow-up New York Songs, their forthcoming album.  During the Release Day Team Genius uncorked three separate EPs of varying themes; Whiskey Songs, Pop Songs, and Loud Songs, an ambitious project that covers a lot of ground.  The EPs work though, they're full of character and they stick true to their intended personalities.  As you would imagine, each one has a different feel to it.  Whiskey Songs has a dated novelty and carries a sense of camaraderie, the aesthetic of which sounds like Titus Andronicus.  Loud Songs is...well, louder; the tempos are faster, the reverb a little rougher, and the vocals more projected.  Alternatively, Pop Songs is conventional, containing the melodies and styles the average listener is more associated with.  They may be distinct, but if there is one element that ties all of them together it's friendship and teamwork.  The EPs honestly sound like a blast, like Team Genius had the best time making them.  That sense of fun and creativity really shines through on each release.  I've posted some of my favorites below, and one from each EP: "I Wouldn't Change A Thing" from Whiskey Songs, "All Ours" from Loud Songs, and "Love and Love Songs" from Pop Songs.  As awesome as these are, don't forget about November 6th when the New York Songs LP drops.  You can stream the remaining tracks over at their label's SoundCloud, and if you want more on the band both Facebook and Twitter will do just fine.

 Team Genius - I Wouldn't Change A Thing by Paper Garden Records

 Team Genius - All Ours by Paper Garden Records

 Team Genius - Love and Love Songs by Paper Garden Records

Hey Sholay

It has only been a few weeks since the digital release of Hey Sholay's album ((O)), but excitement for their current single "My Blood" is in full swing.  Perhaps it could be for the character the track achieves; the lead vocals are equal parts inspiration and saddening, but full in emotion.  Maybe it's the accessibility it offers; it's a slice of indie pop cake, complete with a swell of melodious guitars and an inviting chorus.  Not to mention, the build throughout the whole song is well worth the reward at the end; a deep bodied congregation of well-composed instrumentation, an attempt to erase any empty space.  It pays off beautifully.  Now, Hey Sholay has released a video to go along with the song.  It was shot by the band over the course of two weeks on a strict budget of 40 pounds.  Prop feathers, blood, petrol, and the odd snack are listed as the reasons for spending.  You can check out the video directly below, but if you prefer there is a stream of the song under that.  You can learn some more about Hey Sholay over at their Facebook or Twitter with some additions listens available at SoundCloud.  Dig it!

 Hey Sholay // My Blood (Radio Mix) by Hey Sholay

Strange Talk

I'm back!  And there's nothing better than returning to work after a week in the sweltering desert in the middle of nowhere and then being greeted with an energetic and lively track that subsequently removes you from the realities of the world once more.  When you listen to "Cast Away" by the Melbourne four-piece Strange Talk, you become completely absorbed in its delivery, its draw, and its message.  In this sense, Strange Talk has landed upon a gem; "Cast Away" is friendly to listeners of all ages and genres, delivering relatable qualities that dodge the pattern of recycled pop garbage.  For this, Strange Talk has successfully been able to carve out a unique enough niche to garner the attention of people all over the interweb.  In these days, that means the world.  I'm confident that the infectious synth washes will win you over, too.  "Cast Away" comes to you as the first single off of their debut album, which is due out in the early months of 2013.  Coinciding with the audio release of "Cast Away" is the music video for it, something you can thank Nylon Magazine for debuting.  I've posted the video for "Cast Away" below, but if you want the usual audio stream I've included the SoundCloud player below it.  Since I know you'll be tempted, you can learn more over at Facebook, Twitter, or listen to more of their work at SoundCloud.  Get listening!

Strange Talk - Cast Away from Strange Talk on Vimeo.

 Cast Away by Strange Talk

Work Drugs

The awesome Philly band Work Drugs has just announced their newest, and also last, single off of their Absolute Bearing LP.  It's called "Council Bluffs" and it "borrows on themes of social injustice, westernization, and the frustration that often accompanies songs of social protest".  It contains the classic smooth vibe that Work Drugs has done so well in solidifying.  You can check out the album here on Bandcamp.  Work Drugs also has outlets on Facebook, Twitter, SoundCloud and a homepage, so be sure to check those out.  "Council Bluffs" is streaming below.  Have a good weekend everybody!

 Council Bluffs by Work Drugs 

Unfortunately, I'm not going to be around next week on a count of I'll be camping in a desert in the middle nowhere until next Saturday.  Posts will resume when I return to civilization.  Try not to miss me too much.

Lux Lisbon

The debut album from London rockers Lux Lisbon may have been released in January, but their new single "Your Heart Is A Weapon The Size Of Your Fist" is in full-swing.  Coming after the record's success, "Your Heart" is a fast-paced banger with swirling synths, blistering drums, and a passionate vocal track.  Part of what makes the song so appealing is tension-filled build, which starts off as a steady back with muddled lyrics.  It's not until "Your Heart" really breaks free that your exposed to the raw energy and emotion contained within.  During this explosion of sound we're also given insight into the complexity of everything that's going on, truly exposing us to how much of a gem it is.  Have a listen to it below to catch the vibe, and then head over to Bandcamp to snag the rest of their catalogue. There are also some goodies located at their Facebook page.  Enjoy!

Blue Boats

One of the first things that came to mind when I first heard "Summer's Down" by Blue Boats was that I couldn't believe it was the result of a side project.  I'm not talking about a side project from another band, I'm talking about a side project from a totally different field.  Oliver Gale, the real guy behind the name, is a film student over in the U.K.  If I had secondary occupations that resulted in something as good as "Summer's Down" is for Gale, I'd be very satisfied with myself.  Until I find that talent, though, I'll have "Summer's Down" to listen to.  Coming at a time when the seasons are changing and the weather is getting colder, Gale delivers a wonderful surf rock ballad, causing me to reminisce on the days walking down the Californian beach. The official release date for "Summer's Down" is September 24th, but we're lucky enough for him to have given us a plethora of streaming options.  You can listen to it below, or you can head to Bandcamp.  You can also see his other work over at SoundCloud. Facebook and Twitter offer some social media outlets.  Check it!

 Summer's Down by Blue Boats

Trails and Ways

Everyone seems to be talking about the Californian quartet Trails and Ways these days. It's for good reason; their affinity for twangy dream pop has carved a wonderful niche for the up-and-coming band.  Sure they might be "dream pop", but are more grounded than the spaced out likes of ethereal gazers, something which has garnered the attention of thousands of people.  Now, they've unleashed the music video for their most recent single "Mtn Tune".  It features the band as they rock climb, bike, and perform atop of 40 ft. tall volcanic rock...pretty much doing everything that makes California awesome.  Catch that below, and after the jump check out their Ghost Beach cover of the song "Miracle".

 Miracle (Ghost Beach Cover) by TRAILS AND WAYS

Kasket Club

It was around a month and a half ago that I first wrote up on the newly formed duo Kasket Club.  At the time of the post, Kasket Club had released a few songs but had yet to put out anything official as a whole.  That has all changed now with the creation of Kasket Club, the group's first debut EP.  The five-song collection continues Kasket's worry-free attitude, putting out sleek and laid-back vibes in a form most resembling electronic chillwave tendencies.  As much as I loved the first output by Kasket Club, I feel confident in saying that this is an improvement.  The songs sound better constructed, and even include more foreign elements like disco.  The small touches they include in Kasket Club make it all the more rewarding.  Although they're all good, I've posted favorites "Patience" and "Sunday" below.  The EP is offered for free, so after listening check out Bandcamp or SoundCloud to snag some downloadables.  Their Facebook page offers additional information.

 Patience by KasketClub

 Sunday by KasketClub