Here’s a few albums I’ve loved this year. (in no particular order)  Some of these were found for free on NoiseTrade  and most of the these albums can be listened to for free at Spotify  But if you love these albums I encourage you to buy them! 

It’s interesting to me that my music selections have mellowed over the years.  I still love my hard rock albums but most of the new music I listen to is much, much softer.  Here’s looking forward to a lot fo great music in 2012! 

       Josh Garrels - Love & War & The Sea In Between

      Found on Noise Trade.  This album is very cinematic and wouldn’t         be surprised to it as a backdrop to a movie. 

______________________________________________________________________

    Beta Radio - Seven Sisters (released in 2010 but I love this album!)

    Found last year through a photographer’s website.  This is her brother’s band and I love their vocals, lyrics and especially what they are doing with the banjo.  At the time of writing this they have a free Christmas ELP on their website as well.

______________________________________________________________________

    The Civil Wars - Barton Hollow

    I can’t recall how I found this group but I love their vocals.  

_____________________________________________________________________

    Mat Kearney - Young Love

    I’ve been a long time follower of Mat Kearney since I saw      him open for Shane and Shane several years ago.

_____________________________________________________________________

   The Head and the Heart - The Head and the Heart

   Found through a photographer’s blog.  Fun and quirky lyrics. 

_____________________________________________________________________

   Brett Dennen - Lover Boy

   I first heard Brett on Grey’s Anatomy (great source for new, obscure and melodramatic music) a couple years ago.  I’ve been following him since.  This is probably his most upbeat album. 

_____________________________________________________________________

    The Decemberists - The King is Dead

    I’ve been following the Decemberists since their Crane Wife album.  I’ve seen then went back and have gotten all of their albums.