Quinn's Top 5 Albums of 2010 (so far)

This week, we'll all be posting our "Top 5 Albums of 2010 (so far)," one writer each day.

In the past, I never could get myself to actually rank my top albums, just because I find it rather difficult. Plus, I feel as though it shouldn't really come down to a "who's better than who?" or anything. These lists are just a culmination of opinion, so let's not get all carried away.

Based on their content, I felt like I should arrange my choices in the following order.

1) Titus Andronicus - The Monitor



I don't really know where to begin. This is an album, a true album. As I said before, The Monitor is sprawling and entirely ambitious both sonically and in terms of its content (apparently a loose concept on the Civil War). Songs flow distinctly but evenly into one another and help to create a body of work rather than a collection of material. It's such a commendable piece because of how it all works together. This was well thought out. It is well-organized and just blows my mind that they pulled this all off so successfully. It was part of the inspiration behind this.

2) LCD Soundsystem - This Is Happening



Rumor has it that this album is LCD Soundsystem's/Sir Murphy's swan song. If so, James Murphy is taking the project/band out on a very high note. When you learn how Murphy approaches songwriting, it makes you respect and appreciate his output even more. This Is Happening is catchy, but also filled with such detail. Murphy not only sees the big picture, he also cares deeply for the very small details of his songs. The music is interesting and carefully thought out without ever taking away from the fun of each song.

3) Ted Leo & The Pharmacists - The Brutalist Bricks



Ted Leo (and The Pharmacists) strike again. Ted and Co. are always consistent and know how to craft songs that can stand the test of time. More importantly, Ted Leo approaches his songs with a certain conviction that hits hard and leaves a lasting impression. He is at once both articulate and raucous, and executes with such invigorating energy. The Brutalist Bricks is another great addition to a long line of strong releases.

4) Wolf Parade - Expo 86



Only two songs on this album wrap up before the four minute mark. The other nine songs run from four to six plus minutes. Why does it matter? Well, they never get to a point that makes them feel as though the music is just dragging along. Under the guiding hands of Wolf Parade, these songs are adventurous and chock full of riffs and effective instrumental breaks. These are songs that twist and turn, toying with the simplistic nature of the quick 3-minute song skeleton.  Expo 86 shows great growth and an exercise of power.

5) Sparta Philharmonic - (trans)migratory birds



The Bortnichak brothers (Greg and Alex) have been at it for over a decade now and (trans)migratory birds sees them really coming into their own. It's not that their previous releases weren't strong, but with (trans)migratory birds we hear a band on top of their game. Despite this philharmonic consisting of just two (of the nicest) dudes (you'll ever meet), they make music that quite befits their name. After years of paying their dues in the underground, DIY scene, I can only hope that this album gives them the attention they truly deserve and have more than earned. Epic, intimate, vulnerable, powerful, visceral, and undeniably moving.