Happy Music Monday! Say, did you find any new music this year? Anything you really liked? We sure hope so. Today's a celebration of Scott's personal favorites of 2013, but there's no reason YOU can't make your OWN list too! He'll go first, then you can show him up, okay? Okay.
As far as I can tell, a band from the early 1990s got into a time machine and came forward to 2013 so they could release their first record. That's the only explanation that makes any sense! This band is like a lovely hammer tossed at the glass pane that is modern rock music, and I couldn't be more pleased to have a copy of my own. If you like this, you'll like every other song on the record. Promise.
Four more of Scott's picks inside. Then it's your turn. See you after the jump.
Adolescent? Sure! But oh so appealing. This pretty cinematic tune is just begging to be on a John Hughes soundtrack, and I'm sure it's already inspired some kid to pick up a guitar and learn to play. It's total pop, but it's such lovely pop. I've yet to hear a Frankie Rose project I don't enjoy.
Ghostface Killah - Rise Of The Ghostface Killah NSFW but not as much as you'd think
Adrian Younge could probably turn the sound of a car crash into a warm and soulful melody, so it's no surprise the music on Twelve Reasons To Die is outstanding. But so is the rapping and the plot. Yes, the plot. See, a guy is killed and pressed into twelve records, which are handed to some Mafia gangsters, then the guy comes back to life and- you know what, just go enjoy it.
Janelle Monae - Dance Apocalyptic
I would have put this one on the list just for the cover, but guess what? The stuff inside is BETTER than the cover! Her concept is lofty sci-fi, her central themes are quite thoughtful, her music is really good, and her stage presence is just ridiculous. My only regret is that I still haven't been able to see her live.
Mickey & The Soul Generation - Message From A Black Man
No, it's not new new. Yes, it was re-issued this summer so I think it still counts. Also, it's one of the albums I've most enjoyed this year, so whatever. You don't like how I judge records? Make your own list! But be sure to listen to this outstanding instrumental first, because you will not want to miss out.
Throw your favorites of 2013 into the comments below. Also let us just remind you: some images come from the corresponding Wikipedia page and are here under fair use. And hey, HAPPY NEW YEAR! See you in 2014!