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Top 5 of 2001

by Vance Chiara

1. Jim O'Rourke - Insignificance (Drag City)

What can I say about Jim O'Rourke? The man makes damn fine music. Jim's been known to delve a bit into the "noise/experimentation" category, but Insignificance is another of his more pop-sounding offerings. With beautiful guitar work, catchy melodies and lyrics that will make you think twice about what you are hearing, this album is a masterpiece. Oh, and the inside cover features a painting of an octopus having sex with a chubby bald man. You just can't go wrong with this album.

2. Papa M - "Whatever, Mortal" (Drag City)

I love everything about this record. From the silly title (made even sillier by an accompanying photo in the liner notes) to the Simpsons dialog used as a backdrop in one of the songs to the haunting vocals of Mr. David Pajo. The quality of the recording varies, giving a raw, unpolished feel to the overall folk sound of this album. And as an added bonus Will Oldham guest stars.

3. Frank Black and the Catholics - Dog in the Sand (What Are Records?)

Dog in the Sand is the perfect blend of alt-country and good old rock 'n' roll. After his career with the Pixies and his various solo work, Frank Black is still making excellent music. And those Catholics of his do one hell of a job backing him up.

4. Weezer - Weezer (Geffen)

Say what you will about Weezer, I just can't enough of "The Green Album," as it's known to most. I, for one, am glad these guys are back making music again. After five years of being absent from the music scene, Weezer has made a tremendous comeback. Though the band's lineup underwent some minor changes, the sound hasn't suffered any. They still got it.

5. Mark Eitzel - The Invisible Man (Matador)

With a little help from Pro Tools, Mark returns with his best solo effort since 60 Watt. This time around, Eitzel throws some electronica into the mix. From deep, heart-wrenching songs like "Sleep," to the playful and surprisingly upbeat "Proclaim Your Joy" and a touching tribute to Jeff Buckley, this album gets better with every listen.

Issue 8 1/2, February 2002 | next article


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