Mark Koselek's sun kil moon project- "Ghosts of the Highway". Ok this was released in November 2003, but I listened to it throughout 2004 as well as picking up another 3 of his cds. This is the one that started it all, and still seems the best of the bunch but they are all pretty great. The quality of the songwritting and the pacing of the album (mixing crazy horse like rockers w acoustic ballads) is pretty much perfect, (unlike his live show at the shoe). The etherial sound of his voice and his wash painted lyrics are a blend made in heaven. IT gets rave reviews from other friends who I haver played it for. If you have any of his other stuff and love it, dont miss out on this one, (on sale now for the low price.......)
The other pick would have to be Arcade Fire . Derek and I have been discussing how maybe this band will usher in a new era of sincerety and heartfelt passion in pop music. I cant handle the ironic tonge in cheek bullshit most bands push out any longer....They managed to capture a sence of the live showin the disc and the show for me had to top the list for concerts last year (but thats another list topic....) These kooky looking freaks are the real deal I think, no poseurs would choose this geeky a look..... The range of material on the album is something I hope they continue rather then honing in on one aspect of their sound...I never new eighties influenced rock could sound this great,( it helps not having that stupid production w the big drum bash). These 2 albums are polar opposites , but both have honesty rarely seen these days.