Faves of 2008: #8 and #7

#8: Death Cab For Cutie: Narrow Stairs

As a long time admirer of Ben Gibbard, I always get excited for his and Death Cab For Cutie’s new releases. Of their release this year, the track that got the most air-time was “I Will Possess Your Heart,” which is not my favorite track from the album. However, I still admire them pushing this song, even with its 2:00 instrumental intro.

It took me many listens to warm up to this album. My favorites on this record are those that remind me of songs that emulate “We Have the Facts and We’re Voting Yes.” (Which is my favorite Death Cab album, easily.)

Luckily, I got my fill of great tracks from this album. I really enjoyed “Your New Size Bed,” “Gravevine Fires,” “Cath,” and “Long Division.” If you think about it, based on the names of these songs, they could easily turn into cheesy sonnets, and yet, they’re smart, witty and are great analogies for something bigger.

Favorite song: "Talking Bird"

#7: Thao

We Brave Bee Stings and All came out early in the year. This was one record that I was very slow to listen to. Even someone left me a blog comment (thanks Les!) that I should be listening to it… and yet, I guess I had to discover her for myself. I’m glad I did.

I really love Thao’s unusual voice. I guess it’s the imperfect voice that makes her so intriguing. With the upbeat rhythms and unusual lyrics (sometimes difficult to decipher), this is definitely a different record amongst my top 10. The staggered rhythms are sort of bluesy, but really nice.

My top songs on the record are "Bag of Hammers" and "Beat (Health, Life, and Fire)", but the track I can’t get sick of is “Chivalry.”

Favorite song: "Chivalry"