10 Great Albums of 2011 You May Have Missed

1. Dreamers of the Ghetto – Enemy / Lover

My favorite debut of the year // These Rock anthems caught my attention on the first listen and just gets better over time. // Props to my buddy Scott Crowder for introducing me to this one.

—

2. Burlap to Cashmere

Ambitious folk music with a latin flair often brings to mind Cat Stevens and Simon & Garfunkel. // One of my favorite bands from the 90′s, back together again.

—

3. The Apache Relay – American Nomad

Heard about this one from friends at work. Puts me in a great mood every time I hear it. // Great for a road trip. // Makes me want to be in a band.

—

4. The Head and the Heart

Piano, guitars, violins, incredible vocal harmonies, hooks…need I say more? // Yes, the album cover is strange. Don’t let that keep you from checking this out. // Start with “Rivers and Roads” and “Sounds Like Hallelujah”.

—

5. Givers – In Light

This could be called Pop music for people who hate Pop music. It will lift your spirits and reveal a love for happy melodies…Indie Rock style.  // Beginning of the album needs time to grow on you. I fell in love with every song starting with track 5 to the end.

—

6. Raphael Saadiq – Stone Rollin’

This guy is bringing back the sounds of 50′s Soul, R&B and Rock & Roll, and he’s doing it quite well!

—

7. Stephen Marley – Revelation, Pt. 1: The Root of Life

My favorite Reggae album that is not by his Father, Bob. Really great stuff here.

—

8. Cut Copy – Zonoscope

Heavily influenced by 80′s music such as New Order, Depeche Mode & The Smiths.

—

9. Josh Garrels – Love & War & the Sea in Between

One of the finest singer/songwriter albums I’ve heard. Great vocalist & lyricist and the music is pretty good too.

—

10. Matthew Mayfield – Now You’re Free

Another Singer/Songwriter, but this one leans more toward Rock & Roll and Pop/Rock. In a genre where most of the music seems to sound the same, Matthew Mayfield stands out. Extremely pleasant to listen too and doesn’t grow old.