December 31, 2005

2005 TAM Music Awards

Nothing really floored me this year. Plenty of good music was made just nothing that made my jaw drop. Coldplay tried but wasn't consistent. My fave King's X got harder and almost made it. There's always next year.

1. In the Clear by Ivy

   Ivy gave us cool pop, smooth singing, and icy sexiness. This album has lots of hooks and emotion behind the breathy vocals.

2. Body of Song by Bob Mould

   Mould returns to his power-pop sound his fans adore. Crunchy guitars combine with pop hooks. This is how we like our rock and roll.

3. Buzzin' Fly Volume 2 by Ben Watt

   This is the first mix album to get a TAM award. Watt tried to create a concept album around the feelings of New York City after the Sep. 11 attacks. There's haunting poetry, funky beats, and plenty of New York style. Watt succeeds in his task.

4. Confession on a Dance Floor by Madonna

   Yes, she's getting old, but she made a great dance album. It's full of energy and life even though it has some stupid lyrics. Just ignore them and her Flashdance-inspired videos.

5. Speak for Yourself by Imogen Heap

   This woman touches your soul with her voice. That's talent. This electronica has layers of sound but you can still feel Heap through it all. Electronic gizmos or not, this woman is going places.