While 2012 didn’t host the end of the world, it did produce some interesting new music. Here are a few of the more notable albums released in 2012.
Ben Folds Five came out of the woodwork to release their first album since 1999. The Sound of the Life of the Mind is a full-length disc featuring Ben Folds’ creative ability to combine catchy tunes with meaningful words and, as usual, some kick-ass piano.
Another great new album is There’s No Leaving Now by The Tallest Man On Earth (the moniker of Swedish musician Kristian Matsson). Like his past releases, this album is also full of heartfelt, folky tunes. When listening, you can almost picture him sitting on the stage of some ill-lit coffee shop, playing his acoustic guitar as the audience swoons over his quirky voice while sipping cappuccinos.
Pseudo-local favourites Mother Mother have also come out with a new record, The Sticks. While their tunes are still funky, their maturation is also quite evident, as this record displays a level of professionalism sophistication not heard in earlier releases.
From just across the water, Vancouver-based duo The Zolas released their sophomore album, Ancient Mars. Ancient Mars sticks with their piano-rock style, but adds a more serious tone to their previous fun-filled songs. This is demonstrated in songs like “Ancient Mars” and “Local Swan.” Wintersleep also came out with a new album. Hello Hum is their fifth full-length in just under a decade, and is an excellent addition to the record collection of any indie-rock fan.
New to the scene are Colorado rockers The Lumineers, who released their debut self-titled album in 2012. An album full of folk rock, The Lumineers also saw critical acclaim with its hit single “Ho Hey.”
Lana Del Rey burst on to the music scene last year with her album Born to Die. Until the release of the title-track single, “Born to Die,” Del Rey was practically unheard of. Now she’s one of the biggest up-and-coming artists out there. Her unique raspy voice has managed to entrance the minds of listeners worldwide.
What may be one of the best albums of 2012 comes from Canadian music vets Stars. The North, their seventh studio disc, continues to build their legacy, featuring such songs as “Theory of Relativity” and “The 400.” This newest installment keeps in tune with past releases, blending together their eclectic lyrics, electric instruments, and indie-rock vibe.