Hey, music fans and friends, it's time once again to share my favorite music from 2015.
The songs on my year-end list are not what I consider true "singles" but rather my favorite 25 songs from 2015. I've not heard all the amazing music released this past year, but I do consume a healthy dose of tunes every single day. Below are 13 of those songs with Youtube links if you can't access my Spotify list. Let's proceed, shall we?
1. "Chateau Lobby #4 (in C for Two Virgins)" - Father John Misty - I Love You Honeybear
Former Fleet Foxes drummer Josh Tillman has quickly become my favorite young singer-songwriter. His detail to imagery in both audio and album artwork have very few peers, too. (See image above.)
2. "Rose Mary y Yo" - Carlos Timón - Solar Rapé
Some have said, me included, that this music spins like a Spanish version of Belle & Sebastian meets Jobim! Regardless, his album is one of the best of year.
3. "Speed Trap Town" - Jason Isbell - Something More Than Free
This roots-folk Nebraska homage is gut-wrenching and devastatingly beautiful. For me, this former Drive-By Truckers dude has left his old outfit in the dust.
4. "The Blade" - Ashley Monroe - The Blade
Hands down, my favorite country single of the year. Think a young Dolly Parton when she was turning out timeless classics.
5. "Rock & Roll Is Cold" - Matthew E. White - Fresh Blood
From his second long-player; this singer, songwriter, producer and owner of Spacebomb Records comes on like some modern-day soul svengali. This track is a delicate take on the sound and vibe of Delaney & Bonnie. And, as to be expected, washed in great production, too.
6. "King Kunta" - Kendrick Lamar - To Pimp a Butterfly
Pound for pound, the best rapper on the planet. His album is deep lyrically and musically, tracks built on jazz and electric instruments that will keep it on repeat. Is that a Will Smith sample?
7. "L.A. Lately" - Israel Nash - LA Lately
This up-and-comer once called N.Y.C. home. His nod to CSN&Y and especially Young is hard to dispute, but he is clearly steering his own vessel. pedal steel, cosmic lyrics and all.
8. "Warrior" - Laura Marling Short Movie
From Miss Marling's fifth long-player, and one of my faves of the year, this Nick Drake-like track is another impressive song to add to the 25-year-old singer-songwriter's growing canon of must-own work.
9. "Tennesse Whiskey" - Chris Stapleton - Traveler
He and Sturgill Simpson are my new go-to country dudes. Bought the CD during a summer documentary roadtrip in Roswell, NM. Top 10 album, too. Outlaw and badass, for real.
10. "Garden of Lavender" - Sun Kil Moon - Universal Themes
More riveting diary-inspired music from Mark Kozelek's nom de plume; a ten-minute journey to the center of his soul.
11. "The Noisy Days Are Over" - Field Music - Commontime
This U.K.-based outfit's new album won't be released until February 2016, but I couldn't resist adding this tasty XTC-meets-Vampire Weekend ditty.
12. "Restless" - New Order - Music Complete
They're back! And even without Peter Hook's signature bass lines, this alt-dance-rock song works just like it always has, even though I was way skeptical this Manchester outfit could still deliver the grooves and melodies without him.
13. "Soft Spoken Words" - Trixie Whitley - Porta Bohemica
Trixie Whitley, one of my favorite artists in any medium, won't be releasing her third effort until February 2016, but I'd be remiss if I didn't include this single that was released last month. If this slow burning alt-rock mid-tempo ballad is any indication, we are in for a treat.
For my remaining 12 tunes, as well as my other music playlists, subscribe to me on Spotify at puffdusty.
Happy Xmas...Is War Over?