Morgan’s Top 10 Albums of 2014
Posted: by Morgan
Allow me to preface this post with the fact that I dislike the list-centric culture of online journalism today. Nevertheless, it always seems necessary to have these EOTY pieces as a way to revisit and reflect on the best art of the last 12 months. Especially with 2014 gifting us with so many amazing records and bands. There were surprise gems (Somos) and welcome comebacks (The Jazz June) and even some let downs (here’s to looking at you, The Gaslight Anthem). Some of my favorite releases aren’t even seen here (cc the Beach Slang and Antarctigo Vespucci EPs). So with this in mind, as it is every year, creating and ordering this list proved difficult. Are there maybe more technically impressive albums than say Moose Blood and Major League? Of course. However, what I found this year was that the more honest the music, the more I connected I felt. Thus, I listened more. Those connections are what made 2014 truly great, and I hope that after you see this list you’ll go check out something new, especially if it’s a record you may have passed on the last few months.
1) The Hotelier – Home, Like Noplace Is There
There is just something inherently beautiful about this album that sets it apart from every other piece of music released this year—be it the intellectual lyricism, momentous breakdowns, or raw emotional barrage. There is little doubt in my mind that this is a record that will continue to be significant well beyond the start of the new year.
2) Modern Baseball – You’re Gonna Miss It All
With my first semester of college down, I am yet to find a band that better encapsulates young adulthood better than Modern Baseball. You’re Gonna Miss It All touches on a multitude of topics through songs with a variety of tempos in a way that is wholly relatable.
3) Cayetana – Nervous Like Me
Now that we’ve finally begun to discuss the sexism that exists our various scenes, it’s only fitting that all-girl group Cayetana dropped one of the best and most honest indie rock records of the year.
4) Joyce Manor– Never Hungover Again
Joyce Manor has perfected its specific flavor of short and sweet rock music and this last release is no exception with its tightly constructed arrangements.
5) Aaron West & The Roaring Twenties – We Don’t Have Each Other
Once the temperature finally dropped in the northeast, Dan Campbell’s side project really hit its stride for me with its intriguing take on stylized songwriting and storytelling.
6) The Menzingers – Rented World
I finally discovered The Menzingers in 2014 and I never plan on looking back. Their variety of catchy punk rock has become a staple for me the last few months and “In Remission” is a strong contender for my song of the year as well.
7) Fireworks – Oh, Common Life
Oh, Common Life was one of my most listened to records the first half of the year with its superb pairing of pop-centric instrumentals and more serious lyrical topics.
8) Moose Blood – I’ll Keep You In Mind From Time To Time
This up-and-comer from the UK crafted an emo debut rife with infectious melodies that leaves listeners excited for the future of these young rockers.
9) Have Mercy – A Place of Our Own
Cleanly produced, yet gritty and expressive punk rock pushed Have Mercy onto a bigger label with increasing anticipation for its sophomore release and this record succeeded in pleasantly surpassing all of my expectations.
10) Major League – There’s Nothing Wrong With Me
A shift away from cliche pop-punk and a change in vocal duties fostered incredible growth from Major League, giving it that outside edge to break my top ten.
