Ramblings From Justin Penney: Best of 2007

2007-12-25

Best of 2007

There's a week left so these opinions are not likely to change.

Best Album That I Don't Listen To Enough

The Stage Names - Okkervil River

The had me at the line, "the president's dead," and kept me through a journey of nostalgic songs with numbers in the lyrics. Luckily, they are not the "100th red balloon" and are getting noticed. I rarely sit down and listen to this album, but when any song comes on I get a chill in my spine that makes me pause and listen.

This Album Makes My Wife Freak Out

There's No 666 In Outer Space - Hella

My wife can barely handle Shellac or Form of Rocket, so when this album comes on she loses it. I will look at her sitting across from me in our truck and she will be contorted into some rigid posture. I always inquire as to her well being and she says, "I'm fine," in that "OH MY GOD YOU ARE KILLING ME!" kind of way. After a few probes she will admit that the music is making her crazy.

This Album Made Me Laugh

I Still Have A Pony - Steven Wright

As a teenager I was addicted to any comedy I could find on cable. Caroline's Comedy Hour and any comedy specials on HBO made cable TV in my book. Steven Wright always grabbed me with his deadpan delivery and obtuse observations. He still does! This album takes a few more brain cells than some but the giddy laughter is worth a little effort.

Album By A Band I Didn't Like Until I Saw Them Live

It's A Bit Complicated - Art Brut

I had Bang Bang Rock And Roll and followed them through to this album still not knowing if it was ironic or clever. After seeing them with The Hold Steady at The Granada I have my answer. Yes. It's cheeky and serious in the same line. I can now un-ironically listen to this album in all it's glory.

I Hope They Don't Let Me Down

Mansard Roof and EP - Vampire Weekend

Their inclusive world music style draws me in. I hope they don't end up being a band that smelly hippies follow around. As of right now, this is a band that get both my wife and I bouncing around.

When I'm 64, I Want To Sing Like This

Memory Almost Full - Paul McCartney

Did you hear those nearly screamed notes?

Hooks, Lines ... and Sinkers

Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga - Spoon

Underdog is the most played song in my truck. My whole family enjoys this sparse and catchy gem! Cherry Bomb also gets us bobbing our heads. These make up for the more boring and moody parts.