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Marites Velasquez writesCHIRP Radio Best of 2021: Marites Velasquez
Throughout December, CHIRP Radio presents its volunteers’ top albums of 2021. Our next list is from Outreach Director Marites Velasquez.
Oh, 2021. We did our best. At least we got to enjoy new music along the way. Here are my favorites:
#1 Volcano Park by Meat Wave (self-released)
Every new release from Meat Wave seems to top the one before, and this EP did not disappoint. I know it's good if it's been on repeat. Favorite track: "Yell At The Moon"
#2 Jubilee by Japanese Breakfast (Dead Oceans)
I cried the first time I listened to this album. It moved me. It spoke to me. It struck me in the just right way. Favorite track: "Paprika"
#3 Sometimes I Might Be Introvert by Little Simz (Age 101)
So many solid jams. I could throw this record on while doing anything and end up in a good groove. Favorite track: "Woman"
#4 On All Fours by Goat Girl (Rough Trade)
Moody, strange and wonderful. Favorite track: "The Crack"
#5 Romantic Images by Molly Burch (Captured Tracks)
She released a bunch of singles leading up to the full album release, and I liked all of them, so it was easy to like the whole thing. Favorite song: "Heart of Gold"
#6 Spread Joy by Spread Joy (Feel It Records)
The whole record goes by in less than 15 minutes, but this fast and fun debut is full of ear worms that last all day. Favorite track: "Unoriginal"
#7 --io by Circuit Des Yeux (Matador)
It's so dramatic, but I'm here for it. Favorite track: "Vanishing"
#8 Daddy's Home by St. Vincent (Loma Vista)
I appreciate the era and styles Annie Clark plays with in her latest, maybe because I got in to Pink Floyd this year. Favorite track: "Live In The Dream
#9 Always In Motion by Mini Trees (Run For Cover Records)
Don't overlook this one. Sweet, emotional and melodic. Favorite track: "Carrying On
#10 Path Of Wellness by Sleater-Kinney (Mom + Pop)
I'm loyal, but I can also respect the evolution of Corin Tucker and Carrie Brownstein. Favorite track: "Path Of Wellness"
Honorable Mentions
Late to the party (AKA older releases I got really into in 2021):
Sweeping Promises - Hunger For A Way Out
The Wants - Container
Mini Trees - Slip Away
Elastica - Elastica
Pink Floyd - Animals
2021 Honorable Mentions (in no particular order):
Hlday Magik - Music 4 Ur Ears
Courtney Barnett - Things Take Time, Take Time
La Luz - La Luz
Lala Lala - I Want The Door To Open
Julien Baker - Little Oblivions
SAULT - NINE
Dry Cleaning - New Long Leg
Strange Relations - Belonging
Bachelor - Doomin' Sun
Japanese Breakfast - Sable (Original Video Game Soundtrack)
Next entry: CHIRP Radio Best of 2021: Libby Wait
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