Most Important Albums of 2007

In particular order:

In Rainbows, Radiohead.

In Rainbows is the exciting narrative of an album that existed in part, almost in entirety, long before becoming a whole. In Rainbows teaches us that, if you are made of absolute amazing, that you can create beautiful topographies of sound without having to write new songs. Still the most beautiful and enjoyable album on my playlist.

"Nude," back in 1998


The Cool, Lupe Fiasco

The Cool tells us not to be cool, and to graduate from school. The Cool also tells us about cheeseburgers and gold watches during an amazingly well-produced stretch of music. Some low-points, but the album is absolutely worth getting. Just listening to it makes my mind rush with ideas.

"Dumb it Down"


Hissing Fauna, are you the Destroyer?, Of Montreal

Hissing Fauna, are you the Destroyer? is music for bi-polar people, or kittens. Kevin Barnes makes you want to dance and kill yourself at the same time. Terrifyingly amazing. Something to listen to when you're down, or if you're afraid of being too happy.

Barnes' EP, Icons, Abstract Thee includes a song happier than anything on Hissing, and one yet more depressing.

Others may have their favorites and similar lists, but my strongest personal investment is with these three.

How Nice

What is this?

UF President Gets Extension and Raise (The Ledger)

Have I entered a new phase of anger? Should I be not upset that Bernie Machen is getting a raise? I do hope it inspires him to tackle the budget crisis, because I certainly have heard little progress in that realm.

Should I be as angered as I am that the University of Florida is run more like a corporation than an institution of learning? Should I not desire to profit intellectually? Is there a tragic, life-altering, and all-too depressing lesson to be learned here?

Probably.

Anyway, go listen to The Cool by Lupe Fiasco. Definitely worth the time investment.