My Favorite Songs of 2009

Many have listed top albums of 2009. My musical tastes extend into some different zones, which are better characterized by throwing out my favorite songs of 2009. I am only including one per album, so that the entire list does not come from the Avett Brothers. Truth be told, I did not have as much time to seek out new music, so most of these lists are bands I discovered through sites like Paste or NPR. Several were recommended to me by friends with better taste than myself.

In a particularly, non-particular order:

1. Swag Surfin’ – Fast Life Yungstaz – I still love this one. Whenever it comes on on my way to school, it will certainly bring a smile to my face. Great song to have on when there is no one else in the car to make fun of you.

2. Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise- The Avett Brothers – Ok I could go on about them forever. They are great. See them live. Lots of times. They are great. Lots of times.

3. Then- Brad Paisley I cannot help loving Brad Paisley. He has talent along with a healthy sense of humor about himself and country music. This song always makes me think of my wife. Forgive Brad for his wardrobe. He means well.

4. Sugarcane- Michael Ford Jr. and the Apache Relay- If you like Ryan Adams, the Avett Brothers, or Nickel Creek. You need to give these guys a listen. Take traditional bluegrass instruments with better songwriting. These guys are recent students from Belmont so give some TN some love.

5. Money 2 Blow – Drake – While this song is not strong for its personal finance advice, it’s not Drake’s fault if the Club owners provide it. This song has a terrible focus on things that will never satisfy, but I was sold when he used Hook and Rufio in first verse.

Russell Moore and The IIIrd Tyme Out

6. Hard Rock Mountan Prison (‘Til I Die) – Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out – Great new bluegrass songs from a great band. Quick tempo and good harmonies.

7. You Never Know- Wilco – Loved this song when they released it before the album. Not their best CD, but enjoyable as always.

8. Throw Down Your Heart- Bela Fleck Many people do not realize that the banjo is an African instrument. Bela takes his instrument of choice back to its roots. Even those who consider themselves too good for bluegrass, may find something in this album.

9. Low Rising – The Swell Season – Definitely the best Irish/Czech combo out there. Heartfelt songwriting with perfectly accompanying instruments.

10. Black is the Color – The Dry Spells – Cool band. Eerie instruments and vocals that get in your head much like the Fleet Foxes.

11. We On Deck – Al Kapone. It’s Al Kapone Al-Kapeezy OH BOY! Got to give love to my favorite resident rapping Memphian(Yo Gotti moved to Atlanta). There are other people on this track, but Al Kapeezy is the main event. Young AJ is a good start to the track.

12. Tennessee Jed- Levon Helm – Anyone who has ever listened to The Band knows Levon’s brash, soulful voice from songs like Ophelia and the Night They Drove Old Dixie Down. This is a great album with a bluesy, gospel feel.

13. These Words- Jill Andrews – For all lovers of her group the everybodyfields or Patty Griffin, this EP (I love saying EP) is a must.

For great music reccomendations for the past year, check out WNCW’s top 100 albums of 2009. It is always a great mix of the traditional indie favorites, bluegrass, and classics. It lacks on the rap side, but they can’t be perfect. The DJs each have their own list as well on the right-hand side. Check out this station if you are ever in the Carolinas. Please let me know some of your favorites.