Top Records of 2017


1. Jessica Lea Mayfield- Sorry is Gone (ATO) A stellar collection of personal explorations based on Mayfield's experiences as a domestic abuse survivor. A haunting release which juxtaposes the ethereal quality of her voice with heavy, confessional lyrics. The music is not the singer-songwriter folk of her earlier records but more of a melodic pop.


2. Propaghandi-Victory Lap (Epitaph)  I never thought I would rate a Propaghandi album so highly, but this is a definite stomper of a record. Propaghandi has been putting out metal-tinged records with singalong lyrics and tough melodies for awhile, but on their seventh album, they found the sweet spot, melding their astute political lyrics, which have only gotten more specific over the years, and damn catchy tunes.

3.  War on Drugs-A Deeper Understanding (Atlantic) Adam Granduciel delivers a perfected version of his Americana-tinged singer/songwriter journeys. Greater production and instrumentation that leads many critics to call it heartland rock, even with the electronic effects, do not diminish from his storytelling capabilities.

4. Lydia Loveless-Boy Crazy (and Singles) (Bloodshot) I would not normally put a singles collection of old material on my list, but these songs deserved a reissue. Loveless is one of the few songwriters working today who can instill emotion and pathos even in the most bawdy and unexpected lyrics. She can write about one night stands like most writers cover a death in the family or a loss of a lifelong love. When her drawl, filled with pathos, reaches heights of passion, I cannot help but smile. These are the stories of our lives, both mundane and dangerous.


5. Cory Branan-Adios (Rough Trade) Branan always knows his way around a well-worn lyric. He also knows how to rock. On Adios he manages to do both to perfection. Stylistically, he still runs the gamut from slow musings with Tom Waitsian instrumentation to straight ahead rockers. His voice and flair for clever lyrics puts him miles ahead of many in the singer-songwriter game.


6. Protomartyr-Relatives in Descent (Domino) Some call it postpunk and others call it indie rock, but Protomartyr does not need a label. They make creative, challenging music with guitar rock underpinings and literary, poetic lyrics. Their musical talent and ability to make the genre sound refreshing makes this a truly welcome experience if you like guitar heroics without indie rock pretense or classic rock hubris.


7.The Cunninlynguists-Rose Azura Njano (RBC)  It is a shame that the Cunninlynguists do not get more attention. Year after year, they make smart and challenging hip hop records that speak to overarching societal problems, replete with Deacon and Natti's sharp, rhymes and Kno's impeccably original production. Rose Azura Njano is no exception. It covers the racial and cultural divide in America much better than many higher profile rap releases with humor and aplomb. " " for example, is a perfect summation of issues. Composed of several eps with extra tracks, it is an important release for 2017 and a great addition to their catalog.


8. Quicksand-Interiors (Epitaph) The band's first album in 22 years finds them making creative and crisp post-hardcore that recalls the band's 90's output and the state of affairs during that decade.Yet their songwriting and slow, metallic chug does more to expand the style than most of their younger peers. It is good to have them back.

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