The Year In Review: Music

Generally speaking, 2005 has been a good year for music. I’ve discovered plenty of new and upcoming artists who have made the past 12 months worthwhile. But notably, we’ve seen a sudden influx in singer/songwriter’s success.

From the more obscure but talented – such as Stephen Fretwell and David Ford, to the more commercial and mainstream, the likes of James Blunt (enough already!) and Daniel Powter, an element that has contributed in witnessing a surge in acoustic and piano driven hits. There were also a few pleasant surprises; KT Tunstall delivered perhaps one of the most accessible records of the year.

As for bands, well, I’ve been a little disappointed with some of the bands that the media has labeled at the next big thing (Maximo Park, Kaiser Chiefs). On the other hand, several of my all-time fave groups released new and brilliant records, as you would see in the list below, including THREE, yes, THREE, records from the one and only musical genius, Ryan Adams.

Here are my tops picks of the year.

Best Albums of 2005

1) Warnings/Promises – Idlewild
2) On The Outside – Starsailor
3) Cold Roses – Ryan Adams & The Cardinals
4) 29 – Ryan Adams
5) Jacksonville City Nights – Ryan Adams & The Cardinals
6) All Maps Welcome – Tom McRae
7) X&Y – Coldplay
8) Pushing The Senses – Feeder
9) Howl – Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
10) Magpie – Stephen Fretwell

**other noteworthy artists include Athlete, Elbow, My Morning Jacket and Thirteen Senses.

ps. Season's Greetings to all of you lot out there. Happy Holidays. (bit late, sorry!)