Here, in a somewhat particular order, are my favorite albums from 2007. Or at least my favorite albums that I heard. There’s SO much music out there…

• The National, Boxer

  :: This album is so perfectly understated that I discover new things to love about it on every listen. If I had to pick my favorite album from the year this is it.

• Apparat, Walls

  :: Organic electronica. Fades into the background perfectly, but can jump to the front of your brain in an instant if you let it.

• The Budos Band, The Budos Band II

  :: Perfect combination of homage and innovation.

• Feist, The Reminder

  :: Yes, I know everyone had this on their top ten lists. There’s a reason.

• The Shins, Wincing the Night Away

  :: Another band that didn’t try too hard to impress following up their breakthrough.

• Arcade Fire, Neon Bible

  :: I was disappointed in this album until my friend Dan pointed out how heavily Springsteen-influenced it was. Then I got it.

• Aesop Rock, None Shall Pass

  :: I guess the biggest compliment I could give him is that I just discovered this year that he’s white. And Jewish.

• Radiohead, In Rainbows

  :: Innovative, almost to a fault, but they managed to exceed my expectations. The big “Fuck you” to the RIAA was a plus too.

• The Bad Plus, Prog

  :: The “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” cover borders on muzak, but otherwise as strong as These Are the Vistas

• Finian McKean, Monsters of the Deep Woods

  :: The woods are not deep, my friend. You are. Or something. This album is emotional and cathartic, is what I’m tryin’ to say. And good. Real good.