Best of 2010 // The Albums

[via nevada moonrise]

Our look back at the year that was concludes with Waterloo Sunset’s personal favorite long-players from the past twelve months. Of course this is just a snapshot of the music that caught WS’s attention, but these records made a particular impression. More so than in recent memory, most of the albums were growers, but the time invested was well worth it, and they’re all worth your time as well.

Like I said last year, I’m still drawn to long-players because they elevate the art form to something of a transcendent, personal, memorable level. It’s particularly intoxicating to throw these on the stereo, turn off the computer, and experience them individually, free from outside concerns--antiquated, yes, but essential in this day and age. Words/songs after the jump (in no particular order); send along your faves in the comments as well.

Under The Covers: Best Album Art//2010

Your mother admonished you, "never judge a book by its cover." But when it comes to music, a record's cover can set the general tone and aesthetic like the first welcoming steps into a deeper ocean. With the digitization of everything, album art seems to be going by the wayside, but there will always be the select few that know how important it is to catch an eye in order to catch an ear.

Below are some of the best album covers of the year, not limited to any one genre or theme but picked based on typography, photography, and overall graphic design. If you think of any we missed, let us know in the comments. We're always up for a good look.


Field Music--Measure




Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark--History of Modern

*More covers after the jump below:

Real Love

John Lennon--"Real Love (Demo)"

Episode 26: Best of 2010

[via strange eyes]

The calendar's turned to December, and it's time to howl out WS's favorites. Here are some of the best songs of 2010, packed into an extra-sized mixtape for your listening pleasure. Sit back, relax, and enjoy; further 2010 thoughts on the way in the coming weeks. Tracklist below:

Side A
_____

The Besnard Lakes--"Albatross"
Deerhunter--"Revival"
Soft Healer--"Movie Light"
Twin Sister--"Lady Daydream"
Spoon--"Who Makes Your Money"
Beach House--"Silver Soul"
Pure Ecstasy--"Alexandria"
The Morning Benders--"Excuses"

Side B
_____

Cut Copy--"Where I'm Going"
The Walkmen--"Angela Surf City"
Department of Eagles--"Brightest Minds"
Hauschka--"Alexanderplatz"
Phosphorescent--"Nothing Was Stolen (Love Me Foolishly)"
The Rolling Stones--"Plundered My Soul"
Lower Dens--"Hospice Gates"
Arcade Fire--"Sprawl II Mountains Beyond Mountains"
Sharon Van Etten--"Love More"

Listen:
Waterloo Sunset Episode 26: Best of 2010 by artblevy