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[SKOA Presents] The 50 Best Albums Of 2011: 15 - 11
15. Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committee Part. 2 [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
After postponing Hot Sauce Committee Part One so that MCA could kick cancer in the ass, the Beastie Boys came back with a vengeance on their eighth studio album, Hot Sauce Committee Part Two. It has been a thrill and a priviledge to grow old with the Brooklyn trio and the boys certainly did not let us down this time around. Combining old school style rhymes and trying a few new sounds on for size, they've managed to deliver another solid album complete with songs that will stick with us for years to come. Plus who could forget the epicness of the longform music video for "Make Some Noise" that's full to the brim with celebrities, complete with Seth Rogen, Elijah Wood and Danny McBride as the younger version of the Beasties. I also thoroughly enjoyed Nas' appearance on "Too Many Rappers" as well as tracks like "Taddlock's Glasses", "Lee Majors Come Again" and "Don't Play No Game That I Can't Win" featuring Santigold. This album sat well in my heart over the course of the year and I look forward to more albums in the future from Brooklyn's finest. —Kibbe
15. Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committee Part. 2 [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
After postponing Hot Sauce Committee Part One so that MCA could kick cancer in the ass, the Beastie Boys came back with a vengeance on their eighth studio album, Hot Sauce Committee Part Two. It has been a thrill and a priviledge to grow old with the Brooklyn trio and the boys certainly did not let us down this time around. Combining old school style rhymes and trying a few new sounds on for size, they've managed to deliver another solid album complete with songs that will stick with us for years to come. Plus who could forget the epicness of the longform music video for "Make Some Noise" that's full to the brim with celebrities, complete with Seth Rogen, Elijah Wood and Danny McBride as the younger version of the Beasties. I also thoroughly enjoyed Nas' appearance on "Too Many Rappers" as well as tracks like "Taddlock's Glasses", "Lee Majors Come Again" and "Don't Play No Game That I Can't Win" featuring Santigold. This album sat well in my heart over the course of the year and I look forward to more albums in the future from Brooklyn's finest. —Kibbe
14. Doomtree - No Kings [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Minnesota rap outfit Doomtree (P.O.S., Dessa, Sims, Cecil Otter, Mike Mictlan, Lazerbeak and Paper Tiger) have been making waves for sometime, but with their sophomore crew record No Kings, the group once again pushes the standard of indie hip hop from the genre mashing production down to flawless raps and lyrics. This album is an all around group record as well, which differs a lot from your typical crew record where one person handles production on a track and drops a verse. No. With No Kings each member assisted with crafting records unique sound and provides a little bit of everything from Blues to Electronic to Rock to Soul. If this record is a preview of what is to come in Doomtree's future, I cant wait to see what comes next. If you are looking for a great rap record, look no further than No Kings. —Rocko
13. DJ Shadow - The Less You Know, The Better [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
After dropping a mediocre 3rd LP, the king of sample based instrumental hip hop returns to form with his latest record The Less You Know The Better. Combining elements from all genres, DJ Shadow's 4th LP bangs so hard from beginning to end it makes you forget about that last "hyphy" album and reminds us of the sound that we fell in love with from his first 2 albums. The album even features a few guest appearances (Talib Kweli, Pos of De La Soul, Tom Vek and Yukimi of Little Dragon) which give the album a nice twist in style every now and then but hardly take away from the overall sound of the record. So if you are looking for a fun, drum break heavy, electronic album look no further than The Less You Know The Better. —Rocko
"Scale It Back" Feat. Little Dragon
12. Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds - Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
August 2009 was a tough time for fans of the brothers Gallagher, as the elder, Noel, left legendary Manchester band Oasis. Sure, they've fought before, but this time it was serious and Oasis as the world had loved them were finished. Fast forward to 2011 and Noel Gallagher returns to the world in which he most definitely belongs, fronting his new band Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Noel has always had a knack for writing infectious guitar led numbers, and this album proves that. Album opener "Everybody Is On The Run" sets the scene for the journey you are about to take, while singles "AKA... What A Life" and "The Death Of You And Me," despite being a little more radio friendly, still show what Noel is capable of doing. Instead of this being the Liam & Noel show that we've endured for the 18 year career of Oasis, this is all Noel, and that is a very, very good thing. Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds perfectly encompasses what we've always wanted from a Gallagher, and it's one we all knew Noel could create given the freedom. Bravo. —Shey
11. Childish Gambino - Camp [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Hip hop isn't a genre that I can typically enjoy thoroughly, and it takes a lot for a hip hop album to draw me in. Childish Gambino's Camp has done what most hip hop albums haven't or can't, utilizing the artist's comedic roots by taking what is generally a stale genre and giving it a witty and clever overhaul. Each line that Gambino spits out is comedic gold (such as "Backpackers": "That well spoken token who ain't been heard, the only white rapper who's allowed to say the n-word"), and, coupled with his improved production styles and vocal work, Gambino has shown that he means business. It's not just his comedic abilities that stand out, though, as the artist has placed emotional brevity into every song on the album, and it's these upfront, emotional confessions that show us that he is not just a musician, or a comedian, but a real human being. The realness of his lyrics and his emotional state allows for empathy on the listener's part, and this creates a connection that is difficult to find within the realm of hip hop. Whether it's the on-again-off-again relationship in "Heartbeat," or his disengagement from his own black community in "Backpackers," or the childhood heartbreak of "Kids (Keep Up)," each song evokes emotions that almost anyone can relate to in some way or another, and it is this relationship that makes Gambino's music and lyrics so powerful. No longer is Donald Glover just a comedian; he is going above and beyond to turn hip hop into something that anyone can immediately relate to, and, in every way, he succeeds. —Adrian
[SKOA Presents] The 50 Best Albums Of 2011: 20 - 16
20. Thundercat - The Golden Age Of Apocalypse [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Definitely one of the most underrated albums of 2011, the Suicidal Tendencies/Flying Lotus bassist shines with his smooth, soulful/jazzy solo debut. The Golden Age Of Apocalypse is one of those perfect chillaxing (yep, I used that term) albums you throw on a nice weekend morning and just vibe out to. Especially with standout tracks like "Daylight" or TC's cover of George Duke's classic "For Love (I Come Your Friend)," this album is definitely one not to pass up. —Rocko
20. Thundercat - The Golden Age Of Apocalypse [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Definitely one of the most underrated albums of 2011, the Suicidal Tendencies/Flying Lotus bassist shines with his smooth, soulful/jazzy solo debut. The Golden Age Of Apocalypse is one of those perfect chillaxing (yep, I used that term) albums you throw on a nice weekend morning and just vibe out to. Especially with standout tracks like "Daylight" or TC's cover of George Duke's classic "For Love (I Come Your Friend)," this album is definitely one not to pass up. —Rocko
Thundercat - Daylight by BRAINFEEDER
19. The Drums - Portamento [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
In their 2010 self-titled debut, The Drums carved a spot for themselves as an indie pop gem, and, while not doing anything particularly new, managed to create an incredibly unique and engaging persona. The band has taken this a step further with their sophomore effort Portamento, a twelve-song arch rife with dark undertones and charming subtleties. Following the departure of guitarist Adam Kessler, the New York outfit has picked up the pieces and carried forward to create an album that stands out as one of the most unique indie records this year. While it may not have the anthemic sounds of previous works, such as "Forever and Ever Amen" or "Me and the Moon," Portamento delivers a dark yet wonderful package. The album's lead single "Money" immediately jumps into a catchy and fast-paced array of guitar, bass, drums before Jonathan Pierce's incredible vocal range is introduced, and "How It Ended" offers a sentimental and touching tale amidst a catchy combination of instrumentation. These songs, and the rest of the songs on the album, emote an incredibly sombre tale, one that focuses heavily on death and loss, but, surrounding these melancholy emotions are fantastic arrangements of instrumentation. By combining the ugly aspects of love, loss and life, conveyed through the brooding vocal work of Pierce, with a well-crafted exhibition of musical talent, The Drums have delivered a fantastic representation of how indie pop can and does work. —Adrian
18. Holy Ghost! - Holy Ghost! [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Earlier this year, DFA electropop duo Holy Ghost! released their self-titled debut album, a wonderfully crafted gem that blends the allure of '80s disco house music with a crisp, modern sound. Each song is filled with layer upon layer of drums, synthesizers, pianos, vocals, bass, and subtle guitars that somehow combine to create perfectly synchronized throwbacks to '80s and '90s disco house. "Do It Again" energetically kick-starts the album, taking you through a fantastic dedication to the heyday of a genre that is making a comeback. "Wait and See" is unbelievably catchy, and has one of the best music videos of the year, "Hold On" quickly throws you into a magnificent soundscape of electropop goodness, and "Some Children" grabs your attention with its smooth basslines, groovy synthesizers and charming vocal work. Each song on this album is unique in its own way, but fit within the album as a whole, and there's no denying that Alex Frankel and Nick Millhiser are experts at making damn catchy music. Holy Ghost! have captured exactly what made a thirty-year old genre work and infused it with modern styles and techniques, as well as their own personal influences. The result? A fantastically well-put-together electropop dream. —Adrian
17. Danger Mouse & Daniele Luppi - Rome [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Although I have always been a pretty big fan of everything that Brian Burton (who is better known as Danger Mouse) lays his hands on, I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical about the Rome project when I first heard about it. Music inspired by the music heard in spaghetti westerns? What even is that? Wait, Jack White and Norah Jones are going to be involved, too? I really had no choice but to hope for the best and fear for the worst. Fortunately, with the help of Italian composer Daniele Luppi (who also shared Burton's love for spaghetti westerns) the two were able to piece together beautiful dream-filled musical landscapes that for a moment seem as if they can't get any better until you hear the tracks that White and Jones are featured on. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I preferred Jones' vocal performances on the record over White's, which should be taken as more of a compliment to her than an insult to him as I have yet to not stop falling in love with "Season's Trees" over and over again.
I think what I have enjoyed the most about Rome in the time that I have spent with it is that with every spin of the record I am able to recognize how effectively it is able to take you somewhere that you've never been before without leaving your room. It doesn't go out of its way to attempt to be timeless, but somehow manages to pull it off anyway. - Kibbe
16. James Blake - James Blake [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
It's difficult to remember that James Blake's eponymous debut album was released this year, as the solo artist's career has risen to exponential levels since the February release of James Blake. Even with the numerous EPs, the collaborations with Bon Iver, and the touring, we can't forget the album that made Blake what he is today. The self-titled effort is James Blake at his core, it is the compiled essence of what makes him as great as he is. Every song on the album displays Blake's ability to create depth out of minimalism, of his want to introduce sounds and production styles that have yet to be explored or fully realized by other dubstep musicians.
This unique sound is where Blake shines, as each song carries with it an essential sound, but throws something into the mix that makes it different from every other song on the album. It is Blake's capacity to keep you engaged in every song, despite the fact that can oft be very simple, that make him a truly great artist. Whether it is the slow but satisfying progression from "Lindisfarne I" to "Lindisfarne II," or his fantastic cover of Feist's "Limit To Your Love," or the build up and pulsating dubstep release of "I Never Learnt To Share," each song is captivating in its own merit, and, at the same time, the album as a whole is a coherent, consistent envisioning of Blake's genius and talent. While Blake has done so much since his self-titled debut, we can't forget that this is the album where Blake is most poised and more consistent and confident than anything he has released thus far in his career. This is the album that defined James Blake. —Adrian
[SKOA Presents] The 50 Best Albums Of 2011: 25 - 21
25. Theophilus London - Timez Are Weird These Days [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Following up his critically acclaimed mixtape/unofficial album, This Charming Mixtape and his A Lovers Holiday EP earlier in the year, fashionable rapper Theophilus London earned our undivided attention on his proper debut full length release, Timez Are Weird These Days. I have enjoyed watching London develop over the past few years as he continues to evolve and challenge himself to break new ground. Older fans will appreciate that he didn't stray too far away from what we've grown to love about him while newcomers will find the album approachable enough to dive right in alongside the rest of us. There are many quality tracks that I will continue to rock into the new year, including: "Wine and Chocolates", "I Stand Alone", "Last Name London", "Girls Girls $", and "Lighthouse".—Kibbe
25. Theophilus London - Timez Are Weird These Days [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Following up his critically acclaimed mixtape/unofficial album, This Charming Mixtape and his A Lovers Holiday EP earlier in the year, fashionable rapper Theophilus London earned our undivided attention on his proper debut full length release, Timez Are Weird These Days. I have enjoyed watching London develop over the past few years as he continues to evolve and challenge himself to break new ground. Older fans will appreciate that he didn't stray too far away from what we've grown to love about him while newcomers will find the album approachable enough to dive right in alongside the rest of us. There are many quality tracks that I will continue to rock into the new year, including: "Wine and Chocolates", "I Stand Alone", "Last Name London", "Girls Girls $", and "Lighthouse".—Kibbe
24. PJ Harvey - Let England Shake [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
With a four year break between 2007's White Chalk and the album we're awarding spot 24 in our 2011 List, Let England Shake, there's always a moment of panic before hitting play for the first time. PJ Harvey manages to deliver a a history lesson on my beautiful homeland, England. The instrumentation may be sparse but the way it's delivered makes this album a fine piece of music. One which I enjoy from start to finish, which is a rarity. PJ's lyrics and melodies are subtle yet striking and a big step away from White Chalk. The subject matter may be gloomy and bleak, "The Words That Maketh Murder" looks to England post WWI, but as oppose to shying away from listening you want to go back for more. Maybe turning the volume up a little to notice another little nuance here or there. The Mercury Prize recognised this as the finest album worthy of their praise in 201 and we like it a lot too, so thank you PJ for delivering us with a great album. —Shey
23. Cults - Cults [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Just as the summer was reaching its peak, Cults' delivered the perfect summer record. With a carefree, cheerful sound, the band's self-titled debut album arrived at the perfect time. The album is so well crafted in that, all throughout, it is impossible not to envision the sunshine and the fresh air, and encapsulate the do-whatever-the-fuck mentality of the summertime. The album's lead single, "Go Outside," is all about doing just that, about going outside and enjoying the beauty and fun that is the world. Each song on the album is so frivilous, with Madeline Follin's almost child-like vocals blending beautifully with Brian Oblivion's subtle guitar riffs. If there was an album this year that perfectly captured the innocence of youth and the airy, cheerful nature of the summer, this is it. — Adrian
22. Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. - It's A Corporate World [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
When Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. dropped their debut album It's A Corporate World this past June, I had no idea what to expect, but, after my first playthrough of the album and every playthrough since, I was outright impressed. Every song on the album feels like it should be there, as the record seamlessly goes from one track to the next with unwitting charm. From album opener "Morning Thought," to the heartfelt "Nothing But Our Love," to the summery and charming "Simple Girl," to the energetic and passionate "We Almost Lost Detroit," Daniel Zott and Josh Epstein have crafted an amazing album. In no way should this duo be known solely for their bizarre name, as their incredibly unique sound and undeniable talent show immense promise that shouldn't be overlooked. —Adrian
21. Mayer Hawthorne - How Do You Do [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
This October brought How Do You Do, the sophomore album from Mayer Hawthorne. When last we met Hawthorne, he was recounting his romantic woes on his debut album, A Strange Arrangement, where it was apparent that a relationship was on its way out. This time around, however, the Detroit crooner has clearly started a new chapter in his love life as he details the intimate moments at the beginning of a new relationship for the self-proclaimed hopeless romantic. His lyrics are as sincere as his vocals are smooth as he maintains a delicate balance of being a charming ladies man on songs like "Get To Know You" and "No Strings" while still being a perfect gentleman who finally seems to be ready to settle down as heard on songs like "Finally Falling", "Hooked" and "You Called Me." While the album is not completely romantic, it definitely sets the tone of the night should you queue it up while spending time with a special someone. It should also be noted that the iTunes version of the album has a catchy bonus track, "Henny & Gingerale" that is worth the extra effort to own. —Kibbe
[SKOA Presents] The 50 Best Albums Of 2011: 40 - 36
[SKOA Presents] The 50 Best Albums Of 2011: 45 - 41
45. TV On The Radio - Nine Types Of Light [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
44. YACHT - Shangri-La [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
43. Girls - Father, Son, Holy Ghost [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
42. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
41. Cut Copy - Zonoscope [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
[SKOA Presents] The 50 Best Albums Of 2011: 50 - 46
50. Cassettes Won't Listen - EVINSPACEY [Amazon] [iTunes]
49. Black Lips - Arabia Mountain [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Black Lips - "Modern Art" by Some Kind of Awesome
48. Iron & Wine - Kiss Each Other Clean [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]
Iron and Wine - "Tree By The River" by Some Kind of Awesome 47. My Morning Jacket - Circuital [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound] 46. The Rapture - In The Grace Of Your Love [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound] 
[SKOA Presents] 6DB Unofficial CMJ Showcase!
Okay, so we may have jumped the gun about this announcement on Friday, but what's that new old saying? If at first you don't succeed, call it 1.0.
ANYWAY, Some Kind of Awesome is happy to announce that we have partnered up with the likes of The Audio Perv, Audible Treats and Whips & Chords to bring you The 6DB Unofficial CMJ Showcase. Now, not once but twice in a week, you can come hang out with us at The Delancey and catch some really outstanding bands that we are super excited to be supporting.
On Friday, October 21st at The Delancey (168 Delnacey St. NY,NY) from Noon to 6pm, you can catch:
We've also teamed up with FLüD Watches, Aeriel7 Headphones, and Native Instruments to offer some really great giveaways before and during the show. To be entered for the giveaways during the show, simply head over to the Eventbrite page for the show and RSVP now.
About Our Partners
The Audio Perv is a New York-based blog who is notorious for their ability to churn out all artist performances on TV to the internet with the greatest of ease.
Audible Treats is a Brooklyn-based entertainment marketing and publicity firm specializing in print and online media coverage. Working closely with the best record labels and lifestyle companies since 2004, Audible Treats creates customized, effective marketing and publicity campaigns for countless clients, ranging the spectrum from Grammy-winners to self-funded artists including T-Pain, Too $hort, David Banner, Anthony Hamilton, Slightly Stoopid, Black Milk, The Pharcyde, and many more. By combining out-of-the-box creative strategies with industry know-how, Audible Treats plays a vital role in assisting clients to meet their goals.
Whips and Chords is run by Zooey Miller, a professional of many trades (music and sex). Her blog features great new music and advice on sex (you should be careful reading at work, you might turn on your coworkers!). You can also follow her on Twitter.
About Our Sponsors
Aerial7 headphones were founded on the idea that sound can be combined with awesome, eye catching design. Their devotion to art, streetwear, action sports and DJ culture inspire their cutting edge style.
Flüd Watches was founded in 2007 in an effort to bring the watch back as one of the ultimate accessories. Flüd watch's goal is to create unique, fresh watches for the casual and streetwear scene without the pretentiousness or price tag.
Native Instruments creates innovative hardware and software for music production and performance - for producers, guitarists, sound designers and DJs. Their new KOMPLETE8 Ultimate package is the premium bundle for modern music production, live performance, and sound design, and the last word in NI excellence.
[SKOA Presents] The Audio Perv and Some Kind Of Awesome's Unofficial CMJ Day Party!
We are jumping up and down with excitement to announce that Wednesday, October 19th 2011 during CMJ that we have partnered up with everyone's favorite late night video provider The Audio Perv for a CMJ Day show of awesomely pervy proportions.
Performing between Noon and 6pm at The Delancey (168 Delancey St. NY, NY):
Viva Brother *Exclusive Acoustic Set*
We really slaved over this event and we hope it shows in the lineup! Keep your eyes peeled here for more information about each artist as we get closer to the event.
Show is 21+ and ABSOLUTELY $FREE.99!!!
You can RSVP for the event on Facebook or Eventbrite. We hope to see you there!
This show is also brought to you by Music Unites.