Favorite Albums of 2010

For me, 2010 was most notable due to the awesome connections I’ve made, most of which spawned from a passionate interest in punk rock that has been growing exponentially since I was twelve years old. I saw several bands multiple times, interviewed many, and drove thousands of miles to do so. I had what was arguably one of the best weekends of my life at the Fest, a surreal experience that was characterized by so many incredible moments that there’s no way I could do it justice here. I’m incredibly grateful to the people who facilitated my work with National Underground, and I could not be more proud of the writing I’ve done for them. These are my ten favorite records of this year.

10) Against Me! - White Crosses

If “Bamboo Bones” is any indication, then Tom Gabel is capable of writing the greatest album of all time. Combined with its b-sides, White Crosses can easily be arranged into a more-than-solid rock album. Against Me! has faced many challenging setbacks, but the band has thankfully persevered, and they have released the album that they’ve seemingly always wanted to create.

9) Smoke or Fire - The Speakeasy

The Speakeasy arose from circumstances that nearly led to the band’s demise. They chose to press on, however, and their latest full-length stands as a testament to that dedication. Subtracting most of the gruffness that characterized the first two albums, The Speakeasy instead places more of an emphasis on melodic vocals and on a willingness to expand musically.

8) Defiance, Ohio - Midwestern Minutes

Defiance, Ohio’s fourth full-length once again recalls the unifying themes of friendship, togetherness, and traveling, while each member puts forth his/her characteristic contribution, from Geoff’s socially-conscious lyrics to BZ’s carefully arranged use of the violin.

7) Pianos Become the Teeth - Old Pride

This year’s release of Old Pride is technically a reissue of an album that came out in 2009. Regardless, it would seem unfair to ignore it entirely, as it undoubtedly deserves recognition. Combining unconventional, lengthy song structures with cathartically emotional lyrics, Old Pride solidifies Pianos Become the Teeth as being truly representative of the post-hardcore sub-genre.

6) Alkaline Trio - This Addiction

This Addiction is a solid entry into an exceptionally solid discography. Here, the trio revisits the musical palette from which it secured its devoted fans, proving that the band is inseparable from Chicago’s flourishing punk rock scene. Longing for the much-revered “return to roots” can and should now be put to rest.