Several albums and artists stuck out in 2011 and a few new faces made a mark as well. There were a lot of new releases this year so there was a lot to look at, however only a handful really topped all of the others.
5. The Decemberists - The King is Dead
A solid album through and through, each song building on the story of the album. They released a follow up, Long Live The King, it is a short album but it adds on to the Decemberists 6th full length album.
4. Foster The People - Torches
The freshman record for a band originally out of Cleveland Ohio was an instant success with their single "Pumped up Kicks." It is a cool blend of surf rock, electronica, and just having fun. A debut album you don't want to miss.
3. The Airborne Toxic Event - All At Once
A very anticipated album from the beginning was well received by fans. The songs on the sophomore album were even stronger, but still driven by powerful lyrics like their debut record in 2009.
2. Death Cab for Cutie - Codes and Keys
Death Cab showed a bit of growing up in their latest album lyrically. Many fans were disappointed but many were also glad to see the band
evolving. There were still many hints of the Death Cab of old intertwined with bold sound choices. One thing you can always trust about this band is that they will surprise you with each album.
1. Civil Wars - Barton Hallow
This album took many by surprise because the single from the album was a harder, gritty, southern country anthem. Expecting the whole album to have melodies like that was farther from the truth. It is one of the most intimate feeling albums that has come out in years. As you listen you feel like they are in front of you singing from their diaries. They way they sing you feel their emotions in their words. The music world will hear more from them, hopefully sooner than later. For a debut album it is one of the best from a band for some time. Pick this album up, you will not be sorry.
