Throughout December we at PT:HQ are bringing you end of year lists from bands, labels and promoters. We’ll have a new one for you everyday so keep your eyes peeled for them! See all the lists here.
DAN from SAMOANS
Top 3 albums of 2014
Sylvan Esso – self titled
I’ve been a huge fan of Amelia Meath for quite some time. She’s best known for being in an Americana folk vocal group Mountain Man who provide backing to one of my other favourite singers Feist. The last few years I’ve delved deeper in to the world of electro and by far this is one of the best records I’ve heard in a long time. It’s uplifting and inspiring.
Pink Mountaintops – Get Back
Pink Mountaintops have been around for years but only came to my attention this year, mainly due to the fact that J Mascis from Dinosaur Jr. plays on this album. I bought it and wasn’t disappointed. It’s renewed my faith in guitar music.
Death From Above 1979 – The Physical World
I’m what you’d call a DFA geek (I even have the 1979 tattoo) and was excited to hear that they were finally bringing out a new record after having such a long break after getting back together. I’ve heard a few people speaking negatively about this record, but I couldn’t disagree with them more. This record is fucking incredible and gets better with every listen.
Top 3 songs of 2014
Sylvan Esso – Hey Mami. That bass line!!
Prince – Clouds I’ve listened to this religiously since its release. Prince knows how to come back and school everyone in how to write a song.
No Devotion – Stay After seeing these guys perform this on tour and knowing the story behind the song, this is up there as one of the best songs released this year. A great start for the guys and always makes me smile to hear it.
Top pick for 2015
Cosmo Sheldrake. I saw this guy support Sylvan Esso in Cardiff and he blew me away. He uses samples in an exciting and unique way. Reminded me of a cross between The British Expeditionary Force and Bjork. He’s just signed to Transgressive so an album looks on the way!
I’d also have to pick Down I Go, who Chris, our drummer, got me in to recently. They had a kickstarter fund to record a new album successfully funded earlier this year. They are insanely good and have one of the best guitar sounds around. There’s never a dull moment in their songs! Check out their EP ‘Gods’.