Caitlin Lavin writesCHIRP Radio Best of 2012 (Caitlin Lavin)

Throughout December, CHIRP Radio presents its members’ top albums of 2012. Our next list is from DJ Caitlin Lavin.

1. The Men - Open Your Heart (Sacred Bones)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   A successful sophomore concept from this NY group - filled with aggressive rock and punk, to krautrock instrumentals to even a country ballad (though some find the last one a mis-step). This is definitely my record of 2012.
2. Orca Team - Restraint (Happy Happy Birthday to Me)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   “Arctic Surf” from the sodden shores of the Pacific Northwest. I love this record that it sounds poppy, while haunting and distant at the same time.
3. Royal Headache - Royal Headache (What’s Yr Rupture?)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   Originally released in their native Australia in late 2011, I’m counting that Royal Headache is one of my favorite records of 2012, thanks to the US re-issue from What’s Yr Rupture. The best description I’ve heard about Royal Headache - a rawkous garage rock if it was fronted by Rod Stewart. Singer “Shogun” has a voice that’s soulful, urgent and warm - it’s the best thing garage has going in 2012.
4. Neneh Cherry & The Thing - Cherry Thing (Smalltown Supersound)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   Most Americans probably think that Neneh Cherry hasn’t done much since “Buffalo Stance,” but in actuality she’s been a player in the jazz scene for 20 years. Here, she teams up with experimental group The Thing to create the most accessible record either party has made.
5. Terry Malts - Killing Time (Slumberland)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   Another project from the members of San Francisco’s Magic Bullets. While their previous band focuses more on 80’s indie like The Smiths and The Cure, Terry Malts are like Ramones mixed with the Beach Boys. Hardcore-leaning pop punk that is oh-so fun.
6. Michael Kiwanuka - Home Again (Interscope)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   Another artist who’s voice defined 2012 for me. Vintage soul inspired by the likes of Bill Withers, Otis Redding and Randy Newman.
7. Japandroids - Celebration Rock (Polyvinyl)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   Japandroids’ sophomore record is full of anthemic punk rock filled with passion and ennui without being corny. I have yet to meet a person who has listened to this record that has not been affected by it.
8. The Orwells - Remember When (Autumn Tone)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   A group of 17-year-olds from the Chicago burbs have created one of the best garage records of 2012. Filled with Black Lips and Strokes-esque swagger - move out the way, Smith Westerns.
9. Boomgates - Double Natural (Bedroom Suck)
   BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
   Another Aussie group makes my top list of the year. Boasting members from the likes of Eddy Current Suppression Ring and other projects, Boomgates have created a lo-fi sound inspired by Big Star, Camper Van Beethoven and the Church. If this album came out in the 80’s it would’ve been a favorite Flying Nun classic.
10. Orcas - Orcas (Morr Music)
    BUY: Reckless / Permanent / Insound / iTunes / eMusic
    A collaboration between two of the most prominent artist currently in the ambient genre - Benoit Pioulard and Raphael Anton Irisarri. Both have cited their Pacific Northwest home as an influence, and the result is lush and mysterious. If “Twin Peaks” was revived for today’s audience, I think Orcas would have to be the soundtrack.