1.) The White Stripes – Icky Thump

I’ve regretted every moment I didn’t get to enjoy The White Stripes prior to my discovery of them in early May. I’d heard of them prior, but something about their singles or the marketing or whatever it was, I wasn’t ready. I dismissed them as just another new band, with nothing real to offer. I was so wrong. I picked up the first five albums in May, and listened to them straight through. I love every song on every album. I’m a huge White Stripes fan. I was excited to learn a new record was coming. I was thrilled after I heard the titular single. I am/was overjoyed when I first listened to the whole album from top to bottom. This is the best rock and roll album I’ve heard in a long long time.

Every song is brilliant, Jack and Meg are musical genius, audio soul mates.

Even if you’re not a fan of The White Stripes this album is worth a listen.

2.) The Avett Brothers – Emotionalism

From the second I heard the banjo on Conan, when the Brothers were on, I knew there was something special about to happen. I scoured the net for some sort of taste of this band. I couldn’t find anything except one or two songs. I wanted, needed more. Something in their music spoke to me like I was a teenager again, but not. I’ve since purchased all their albums, and I love every song or every album, but this one, Emotionalism is their best by leaps and bounds. Every song touches my heart and soul in a way I can’t really place into words. If I were to ever meet these guys I’d thank them. They helped me wake something up and I’ve been different ever since.

3.) Blitzen Trapper – Blitzen Trapper

Really great record from a really great band out of Portland, Oregon. These guys have a little something special that not a lot of bands have. Their music is fun, but serious. Sad, but happy. I really love this record. “The All-Girl Team” and “Ansel and Emily Desader” are stand out tracks on a phenomenal record.

4.) How I Became The Bomb – Let’s Go

Wow. This album, although very short (7 songs) and not available except through the band’s sometimes working web-site. May be one of the most under appreciated and unknown great rock bands of our time. I dare you to not love it. “Killing Machine” will rope you in and “Kneel before Zod” will have you screaming along!

5.) Tokyo Police Club – A Lesson In Crime

Another short album, 7 songs again. But, I’d rather have 7 fantastic songs then 14 OK songs and one great single any day. Tokyo Police Club is a super fun record, it sounds low budget, but that adds to it’s appeal and the fun times that can be had. A real rock album for real rock fans.

So there you have it, five fantastic records to buy and enjoy this hot hot summer.