- Ryan Adams
We reflect back on the year that was 2011 and with that, here’s the first of our Best Of lists.
Albums
1. Low | C’mon
Terrible title. But who would have thought that Low’s 10th album would be the best album of 2011?
2. Bill Callahan | Apocalypse
Someone has to chronicle the apocalypse, and it may as well be Bill Callahan. & songs and not a note wasted.
3. Mogwai | Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will
Probably the best title of the year. Would be an excellent introduction for anyone checking out Mogwai.
4. Gillian Welch | The Harrow & The Harvest
When an album as good as this takes 8 years, you have to wonder: why hurry?
5. Richmond Fontaine | The High Country
Combining an album with a novel could have been a real failure. This was an ambitious idea, and saw them embrace their even darker side.
Gigs
1. Ryan Adams at The Olympia
Banishing all memories of his Cardinals gigs this was a quietly giddy experience.
2. Gillian Welch at Grand Canal Theatre
Something special. A man, a woman and 2 guitars should not be this good.
3. Mogwai at The Olympia
Extra marks for extraordinary support act RM Hubbert, this saw Mogwai on punishingly good form.
4. Morrissey at Vicar Street
An intensely celebratory experience with one of music’s remaining icons.
5. Bill Callahan at The Academy
Bathed in white light, a towering performer.
Films
1. The Skin I Live In
Almodovar back on form for a less feminine than usual movie.
2. Upside Down
Hugely entertaining take of Creation Records’ founder Alan McGee with some seriously awesome music.
3. Pearl Jam 20
Cameron Crowe’s misty-eyed overview of Seattle’s most enduring band.
4. We Need To Talk About Kevin
This movie will creep you out. Great performance from Tilda Swinton.
Killian Laher
