Top Twenty Albums of 2006: 6-10
- Six
The Submarines - Declare a New State!
I think it's safe to say that this is the happiest breakup album that you'll ever hear. Maybe it's because Blake and John, the breakeruppers-in-question, are now married. Or maybe it's because they've got a gift for bubbly pop of the highest order. If you can't check your cynicism at the door, you should probably go mope somewhere else. But if you've got a sweet tooth like me, you'll find a love here that won't tear you apart.
Featured Track: "Peace and Hate"
- Seven
Mark Erelli - Hope & Other Casualties
This album didn't make it to number seven as the sum of its parts. Rather, it's ranked this highly as a nod to a handful of extraordinary songs, through which Erelli did something that few songwriters are able to do: he spoke to me. These are songs that I needed to hear. Erelli's writing is discontented in the best way, in that his songs long for what should be instead of what is. And, more importantly, he still believes something better is possible. Thanks, Mark.
Featured Track: "Seeds of Peace"
- Eight
Bruce Springsteen - We Shall Overcome: The Seeger Sessions
You wouldn't think a collection of folk ditties assembled by a guy in his late fifties in honor of a dead socialist would make for a great party album. But if the greying rocker is the Boss and he's assembled a group of friends to tear through the American songbook without rehearsal and without a net, you might need to adjust your expectations. Springsteen has given us a raw, raucous, foot stomper of a gift, as vital and passionate as anything he's done in years.
Featured Track: "Pay Me My Money Down"
- Nine
Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova - The Swell Season
Glen Hansard takes time off from The Frames' quest to become Ireland's greatest band and takes on countryman Damien Rice on Rice's home turf: sparse arrangements, soaring emotive crescendos, and beautiful female harmonies. The Swell Season scores a lush, heartbreaking, flawless victory. Watch your back, Bono!
Featured Track: "Drown Out"
- Ten
Headlights - Kill Them with Kindness
Last year, I didn't discover The Stars in time for them to make my Top Twenty list. Sorry about that. In an effort to make up for that omission, I give you a record with very similar strengths: the debut full-length from Champaign's Headlights. With intertwining male and female vocals, dreamy shoegazer textures and impeccable pop craftsmanship, they've certainly got the goods. Will you forgive me now?
Featured Track: "Put Us Back Together Right"