Top Ten Albums of Summer 2007

By: Bryan Gutridge

Its pretty clear from the weather that fall is quickly taking over the sunny summer days, and with that comes an obligatory wrap up of some of the greatest records that dropped over the last few months and helped shape and define our days spent lounging. First a slight warning: this was a heavy summer for indie rock with little to no great metal, punk or hip hop albums on the scene. I’m just as disappointed as any of you. With that the top ten albums of Summer ‘07:

1.Spoon - Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga: An essential on any list of this past summer’s albums, and most likely a top contender for best albums of the year. Its almost too much to take in at once just how great this record is. There are no missteps and it almost seems to get better as it nears the closer. Then, put on the headphones and listen to all the intimate details and studio play that make this album truly amazing. Choice for parties, walking about the city or driving to a choice vacation spot. (more...)

2. Feist - The Reminder: Feist has always been an interesting voice since her entrance into the indie scene but it wasn’t until this summer that her position was cemented as the poet laureate of hipsters. Her soothing voice, willingness to experiment with her sound and not be pinned down and her gorgeous lyrics make this album a primer for Feist. Great for late night gatherings or nursing last nights hangover. (more...)

3. Turisas - The Varangian Way: My favorite metal album of the summer, if not the year thus far, Turisas is an epic Viking band that has crafted equally epic album. This thing is an adventure leading the troupe through battles with monsters, forging weapons and parties in great palace halls. Mixing typical Nordic metal elements with violin, accordion and synth solos Turisas really make their own sound, and while it may sound a bit much this album proves it can work to great degrees. The sound and chorus filled, sing-along cheers make this a great album for late night drinking with friends and keeping up the neighbors. (more...)

4. The National - Boxer: Yet another amazing indie album that summer '07 offered up, this one is more sad and introspective then the others mentioned. While Nick Cave-esque music isn’t exactly typical summer fare, this record is just too good to be ignored. (more...)

5. Justice - Cross: The party record of the summer without a doubt. Ideal for dancing or getting pumped for a night out at the clubs. Catchy, upbeat and undeniably fun. (more...)

6. Amiina - Kurr: Another electronic offer this time from the established Icelandic region known for its dreamy sounds (e.g. Björk, Múm, and Sigur Rós with whom Amiina often plays). These four women have crafted a beautiful album of layered synths, strings and whispered vocals. Its very reminiscent of the aforementioned Múm without the glitchy IDM beats. Come to think of it, I don’t think there is a single drum beat on the whole record, and that is by no means a condemnation. This is the perfect album for an idyllic picnic or driving out into country to watch the stars. (more...)

7. Dizzee Rascal - Maths + English: My choice for hip hop album of the summer. I’m just a huge Rascal fan and was more than appeased with his latest outing. Its an incredibly fun record that remains grounded in the world Rascal has forged over the last five years as UK’s poster boy for dirty hip hop. Hands down more pleasing than the hyped mainstream hip hop records. Great for summer parties. (more...)

8. Liars - Liars: Watching the career of this three-piece has been quite a trip. They simply never go where you might expect and each new album is determined shift in sound and approach. Who would have ever imagined crafting a more-or-less straight up rock album could be noteworthy? This record proves that with all their experimenting and purposely weird songs, these guys still know how to bring it. (more...)

9. M.I.A. - Kala: Although it came late in the summer this is still a must for parties in the sweltering heat. Even if I can’t always understand just what in the hell she is saying it certainly sounds like fun. (more...)

10. Okkervil River - The Stage Names: This was a tough choice for me. Undeniably a great record, but I still miss the more folky sounds of their earlier efforts; the songs that sound dark and somewhat frightening, but still soothing and intimate. Its great to see a worthy band become rock stars especially when they don’t sacrifice their integrity or individuality. (more...)

Other albums worth mentioning: Tinariwen - Aman Iman, Tomahawk - Anonymous, Flight of the Conchords - The Distant Future, Interpol - Our Love to Admire, UGK - Underground Kingz.