2002: 20 in 2002, The 20 Best Records of 2002
After our first full calender year as an online magazine, we've decided (like so many before us) to compile a list of 20 records that have left an indelible mark on our ears in the year 2002
After our first full calender year as an online magazine, we've decided (like so many before us) to compile a list of 20 records that have left an indelible mark on our ears in the year 2002. Filled with both audio happiness and certain madness, many will say that 2002 was a good year for the music industry. With many a great bands and records emerging this year, collecting this list was no easy task. So we hope that you enjoy this list - we compliment it with a few personal lists from staff members, musicians and some of our faithful readers who have made our very first full year online an enjoyable, learning experience.
A big thanks to all those who have dropped by, read our work and contributed in anyway. Also, a big thanks to all the bands, artists and great people we've met and worked with in 2002. We hope to see you all in 2003.
Taking Back Sunday - "Tell All Your Friends" (Victory)
I still remember when I first got this CD. It came with such high hopes I was almost expecting to be let down, but I picked it up one day and popped it in the CD player as I headed home. As I walked through the park and over MacDougal (literally, though I wasn't wearing clogs) I had to stop and sit to take it all in, and this was just the first track. It seriously rocked, it was incredibly catchy, and the lyrics were dying to be sung along to even if I didn't know the words. Very rarely does a CD come out that I like every single song. - AJ Naito
Dolorous Canter - "The Alpha Project EP" (Schoolcraft)
Introduce yourself to Dolorous Canter. Their high energy blend of hardcore with emotionally driven melancholia is an incredible fusion resulting in a truly outstanding aural experience. In 28 minutes and 2 seconds, Dolorous Canter takes you on a musical passage that can be best described in one word - 'epic'. It is grand, loud, powerful, moving, emotional and most importantly, sincere and honest. [Read our review]
Eminem - "The Eminem Show" (Interscope)
Whether you hate him or love him, there is no denying the impact Emimen has had on not only the world of hip hop/rap, but on the entire music and entertainment industry. When not criticizing mainstream America (in "White America"), he's taking his personal life out into the open ("Cleanin' Out My Closet"). His honesty and brash attitude have not only captivated fans of his genre but intrigued, mesmerized and angered the rest of the entertainment world. With the success of his first movie, there is no telling where he might go next. 2002's 'The Emimen Show' (powered by a driving first single in "Without Me") garnered not only commercial success, but acclaim from even his biggest critics.
Hot Snakes - "Suicide Invoice" (Swami)
Featuring members of Drive Like Jehu and Rocket From the Crpyt, Hot Snakes' 'Suicide Invoice' is a rollicking, loud and crunchy rock outing. From the fuzzy, distorted opening of "I Hate the Kids" to the high toned, catchy vocal and guitar work of "XOX" - certain flair permeates throughout the record. Its aggressive, acute approach epitomizes the band's desire to just rock and not worry too much about being innovative or new.
Jets to Brazil - "Perfecting Loneliness" (Jade Tree)
In defining the album in its entirety, one can say that 'Perfecting Loneliness' can be found somewhere in between 'Orange Rhyming Dictionary' and 'Four Cornered Night'. It is an earnest attempt not to recapture the certain flavor of the first record, but to continue developing and building that JTB sound. 'Perfecting Loneliness' is an intricate, yet simplistic record - a perfect accompaniment to their two previous efforts. [Read our review]
Chevelle - "Wonder What's Next" (Epic)
Mainstream modern rock has seen its fair share of KoRn rip off bands and Incubus wannabes. Some fledgling rock bands even have the audacity to imitate Tool - but when Chevelle rolled in with 'Wonder What's Next', they not only defied previous stereotypes and sounds, but they created an atmospheric sound which is simply grand. Their first single 'The Red' is easily the most powerful modern rock track of the year and it's merely a preview to the grinding eeriness that is present throughout the album. While modern rock does little to revolutionize music, it can give us some loud and truly moving work as showcased here. Chevelle will most definitely leave us wondering what's next.
Chamberlain - "Five Year Diary" (Ignition)
Reserved for those who've mastered the methods of soulful heartland rock 'n roll, this musical form of art transcends boundaries of genres and musical styles; Chamberlain managed to capture the imagery of the lonely imagination. With the 1996 release of their much praised LP, 'Fate's Got a Driver', they not only captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide, but provided incredible groundwork for a truly defining music career. 'Five Year Diary' is an incredible 28-track, double-disc compilation of some of their finest work. While they may have made their exit, 'Five-Year Diary' proves that their music will be remembered and cherished long after they took the stage for the last time. [Read our Chamberlain feature interview]
Spoon - "Kill the Moonlight" (Merge)
This quirky but beautiful musical endeavor is one among many of Spoon's eccentric catalogue. With plenty of instrumental led vocal crooning and vibrant sounds, 'Kill the Moonlight' is as fantastic as it is creative. From the catchiness of "Stay Don't Go" to the electronic induced beats of "Paper Tiger", 'Kill the Moonlight' is a pleasant and unexpected jaunt into the musical world of Spoon. You have to like the vocal rhythm and electric pulse that vibrates from the opening track 'Small Stakes' - it's just surreal and distinctive.
Nappy Roots - "Watermelon, Chicken and Gritz" (Atlantic)
While other hip hop artists garnered much of the attention in 2002, Nappy Roots' southern fried, laid back approach was perhaps the most interesting and introspective. This sextet of rhymes showcased more than just a penchant for melody (the smooth, catchy and up beat 'Aw Naw') but they managed to truly inject their personality into the record. Their Sunday country feel best displayed in 'Po Folks', this roots/rap record is one I'm not afraid to blast out my car on any given day. Is it still cool to call things 'dope'?
Queens of the Stone Age - "Songs for the Deaf" (Interscope)
Rock has never been so intuitive. QOTSA take a much more complicated road to rock royalty and have succeeded with an enthusiastic, complex and heavy record. From psychedelic guitar work to assertive vocals and strong drumming (provided by one Mr. Grohl on this record), QOTSA mix dreamy rock with sheer lunacy and power on this outing. With the first single "No One Knows" holding the fort, it's with other tracks like the fast, punchy "A Song for the Dead" and wavy "The Sky is Fallin" that distinctly separates this album from other rock efforts.
Killswitch Engage - "Alive or Just Breathing" (Roadrunner)
The premiere metalcore release of the year, 'Alive or Just Breathing' is the quintessential mix of brutal fury and melodic prowess. It doesn't get any louder, any more earth shattering than tracks like 'Numbered Days' and the single 'My Last Serenade'. Play this extra loud at your local junior high dance or Bar Mitzvah.
Guided By Voices - "Universal Truths and Cycles" (Matador)
Believe what you may, but Guided By Voices should be classified among indie rock elite with the likes of Pavement. 2002's 'Universal Truths and Cycles' does more than re-establish their grasp on indie rock supremacy. Just listening to the foot tapping, raucous single 'Everywhere With Helicopters' will shake away any preconceptions and doubt. They've managed to tangle melodic intangibles with indie rock sensibilities that are highlighted by the beautifully smooth 'Cheyenne' and the staggering, moving finale in 'Father Sgt. Christmas Card'.
Bad Religion - "The Process of Belief" (Epitaph)
The forefathers of punk rock make their triumphant return that has them not only rejoin Epitaph, but welcome back Mr. Brett into their lineup. What resulted was their most powerful, fast moving and thought provoking record since the days of 'Suffer' and 'Against the Grain'. While many of today's punk bands struggle with identity and potential commercial value, the experienced, seen-it-all, done-it-all teachers return to share a history/future lesson with an unsuspecting public. Like one time travelling righteous dude once said, "Most triumphant".
The Flaming Lips - "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots" (Warner Bros)
In a world of loopy, floaty and often dreamy guitar driven pop - The Flaming Lips are without doubt, floating up on a high cloud. It was never going to be easy topping 'The Soft Bulletin' but 'Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots' is pretty damn close. Layered with electronic sounds, beautiful lyrics and a well created instrumental atmosphere, the world of The Flaming Lips is high above somewhere among the stars. And if happiness does make you cry (as they sing in "Do You Realize?"), we'll soon be drowning in tears.
Over It - "Timing is Everything" (Lobster)
The sound of youth has never been so honest, heartfelt and moving. What so many young aspiring bands lack, Over It is packed with to the brimful. 'Timing is Everything' is fast, driving, melodic punk rock with a very distinct rock vocal aesthetic that is unmatched by any alike this year. - Billy Ho
The emotionally charged 11 track album is a perfect example of 4 people coming together and having a musical connection with one another. - Kamtin Mohager
Wilco - "Yankee Hotel Foxtrot" (Nonesuch)
Jeff Tweedy and company are no strangers to controversy. It is such that this record was delayed before finding a home on Nonesuch. Thankfully the public saw its light of day in what can be said is Wilco's finest work to date. Breathtaking, incredibly well written and soulfully earthlike, 'Yankee Hotel Foxtrot' is something out of fairy tales. Beautiful instrumental work, vocals and a captivating completeness makes for a stellar effort. Take a listen to the electronically tinged, gracefully soothing "Heavy Metal Drummer". Wilco's latest is splendid in every way.
Interpol - "Turn on the Bright Lights" (Matador)
While the reviews and buzz surrounding their full length effort 'Turn on the Bright Lights' has been overwhelmingly positive, it is with merit and justification. Upon feasting your ears on this eerie, enigmatic triumph, you can easily understand why so many will feature this as a year's favorite. It is powerful, vibrant, moody and dark, 'Turn on the Bright Lights' simply oozes musical sophistication. [Read our review]
The Gloria Record - "Start Here" (Arena Rock)
There is a certain atmospheric wonder to the sound of The Gloria Record. A certain magnetic quality that when coupled with the mesmeric voice of Chris Simpson, creates a truly beautiful, escaping sound. Like moving through mountains and stunning landscapes, the music of The Gloria Record is ever flowing. Delightful, charismatic and truly magnificent, 'Start Here' marks their long awaited departure from the gates. [Read our review]
And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead - "Source Tags & Codes" (Interscope)
Every so often the boundaries between tranquility and sheer chaos are blurred. Harmony is entangled with madness creating a more complex, unexplainable entity that one can only hope to fully understand. One a musical front, …Trail of Dead's "Source Tags & Codes" is such an entity; so complicated, so chaotic, yet so beautiful and at peace all at the same time. This is without doubt the year's most innovative, creative and mesmerizing release. (But somehow, not #1) [Read our review]
Idlewild - "The Remote Part" (Parlaphone/EMI)
There are several layers to music - some of the layers; the outer most parts are distinguished upon first listen. Those first impressions are what separate listeners - to those who understand and enjoy the music and those who don't. While Trail of Dead's "Source Tags & Codes" was near groundbreaking in its innovative, complex madness, there was one record that was in a sense, better. 'The Remote Part' has secured itself as Sound the Sirens' best record of 2002 because of its overall captivating experience. Critically speaking, there was enough intelligent song writing and arrangements to satisfy diehard music critics. Yet it had a certain aesthetic quality that a more wide range audience could appreciate. You can listen to this album at almost any given time, in almost any mood, and still be captivated by its allure. It's intrinsically austere, yet powerfully and emotionally moving. Blending in power pop with rock and punk while maintaining a distinct, poetic and pop feel, it is your accompaniment to any musical mood and desire. Remarkably perfect in almost every way - 'The Remote Part' is suited for all who take the time to listen. [Read our review]