1. The Shins – Wincing the Night AwayYou gotta hear The Shins newest album. “It’ll change your life.” Echoing the sentiment of what Sam from Garden State probably would have said, Wincing the Night Away is an indie rock epic. She has it right! The Shins have changed my life!2. Spoon – Ga Ga Ga Ga GaIt is hard not to be ga-ga over the sixth release from the Austin quartet. Each track is crafted well, appealing to both indie and mainstream music lovers alike. 3. Feist – The Reminder1 … 2 … 3 … 4 … tell me that you love me more. I will! Jenny Feist never ceases to amaze with honest lyrics and thoughtful songs that genuinely make you feel good inside.4. Okkervil River – The Stage NamesThe Stage Names is folksy and poppy in all the right places. This release could be the soundtrack of your life if it were a movie … maybe?5. Kings of Leon – Because of the TimesNashville rock n’ rollers Kings of Leon reign supreme with their all out, balls-to-the-wall release, Because of the Times. It is a must have, especially if you like your music gritty, powerful, melodic and with plenty of spirit. Long live the kings!6. The White Stripes – Icky ThumpThe White Stripes return in typical fashion. Only Jack White can pull off a Mariachi band and Scottish bagpipes mixed with physchadelic riffs and create something worth listening to.7. Foo Fighters – Echoes, Patience and GraceFor their latest album, the band called in Colour and the Shape producer Gil Norton. It shows. It is their best release since Colour and a throwback to what made them successful, no-holds-barred rock intertwined with acoustic gems.8. Arcade Fire – Neon BibleOne of the most anticipated releases of 2007, Neon Bible lived up to the hype. It’s dark theme and punchy melodies give it a “Phantom of the Opera” feel, while keeping the same sensibility that garnered praise in their first album, Funeral.9. AA Bondy – American HeartsFormer front man of Verbena captures the spirit of America, while presenting awe-inspiring minimalist effort worthy of attention. 10. Miracle Fortress – Have You Seen In Your DreamsThe dark horse of the list keeps it simple with their dreamy pop style. Sometimes the best things in life are made of dreams.
Local pick of the year:Melba Toast – Trip the Light