The major chords from “September” by Earth Wind and Fire have roamed through my mind lately. Perhaps the impending close of the year reminds me how unpredictable the journey turned out. How fortunate I’ve been.
Couldn’t predict I’d have a new job nor the challenges it presented; however, I met the tasks and find myself in a positive place. Work empowers my ambition to succeed in more ways than just my personal career.
For the first time in years I’ve made my own friends. Taking better care of my body become a higher priority in my life. I’m extremely proud of the mile stones I’ve reached.
There’s still more to achieve but I look better and better in mirror, and I really like that feeling. I think I’ve defined this year, personally, by reaching for the things I want even if I don’t have the most confidence.
Seizing opportunity, and forgetting any doubts.
I can’t say the year was easy but the struggle(s) strengthened me. It’s rewarding to compare where I am today versus this past January.
My listening habits reflect, in a way define, the year for me. I had a difficult time selecting records and organizing my top ten albums, yet the final list turned out strong just like this year.
Some of my favorite artists and bands made their way back or their first trip to my list. You’ll see some repeaters and some who I’m glad can finally gain some praise.
The Pillows
One aspect that made assembling this year’s list difficult was the lack of time spent with music. I listened to less albums this year compared to the last two. 2017 also had monster releases which have only begun exiting their album cycles.
I’ll remember this year more for new up and comers emerging onto the scene. Establishing themselves so we will remember them and look forward to their next projects.
Perhaps we’re turning a corner in this over saturated climate with advancements in digital platforms and the artists themselves.
Yes, everyone has access to producing their own music now and pour money into promoting it. Bands can find me easily through Facebook ads while uploading their music independently.
This has also empowered brilliant artists of lesser means to reach us. Take This Curse, from New Jersey, a band with a few thousand Facebook followers.
I shouldn’t know about them, but through my digital channels I found a gem. Right out of the gate they show advance aptitude in crafting a diverse debut album of emo, progressive, and metalcore songs.
More on rising up and coming artists next month. In December, I’ll post several lists throughout the weeks to tease my annual top ten albums of the year.
Putting these top lists together has become a tradition for me. I start thinking about the best records I’ve heard some time after my birthday. In my private Facebook group I’ll start throwing out feelers to see what my friends think about certain records.
Facebook has also helped me gauge with my musician friends, of a certain genre, what’s registering, what I’m missing, and more importantly what gems I can keep stashed for myself.
Usually it’s the latter I enjoy gloating about the most. This year I’m feeling mighty about my finds and This Curse is just a little teaser.
Check back December 1st for the best new bands I discovered this year, and return each week for a new list until I start revealing my annual top 10 of the year.
See you next week!
Disaesthetic 