Yes, yes I know 2010 is barely gone, but there are oodles of records that people are anticipating for 2011 already; and, while I can appreciate those waiting for the new Converge that is slated for this year, my list is probably different (or maybe not) than many people’s lists. Here is my top 5 records and a couple of honorable mentions for 2011 (if they come out, as I can be overly anxious in anticipating records… see Three Mile Pilot’s or Integrity’s latest LPs)
1. Neurosis- no title yet
The mighty Neurosis rises from its slumber like the demigod Chthulu to lay waste to our mortal world. Has it really been four years since Given To The Rising? In any case, this new record should be some more quality crushing music with which to be obliterated. I don’t know if I can accurately convey how much I want to hear this record.
2. Earth- Angels of Darkness, Demons of Light Vol. 1 & 2
Not one, but rather two new albums from Earth are due in 2011. These albums should be interesting to hear where their music goes following the subtle transition of The Bees Made Honey In The Lion’s Skull from the sounds of Hex…; the precedent that Dylan Carlson and company have set for themselves is rather high, as is my anticipation for these albums.
3. Mamiffer- Mare Decendrii and Lilac
Over the last 18 months since Hirror Ennifer fell into my lap (not literally of course, but you get the picture), I have listened to a great deal of Mamiffer; this obsession only increased as I purchased several tape splits over that period and culminated with the recent split with House Of Low Culture (an awesome record I might add). Well, 2011 tentatively looks to have two new records coming from Mamiffer; and the scope of them both is rather interesting. The five song Mare Decenendrii was recorded with Randall Dunn and many compatriots and took a year to make (the grand piano was recorded at Studio Litho to tape, definitely exciting) while Lilac was recorded mostly on a 4 track, which sounds like maybe it will be a bit more of a personal record.
4. House Of Low Culture- no title yet
I got hooked on House Of Low Culture when Neurot recordings released Edward’s Lament (I am still waiting for a vinyl release of that bad boy). Mr. Turner has been doing a bit more with the project of late (see the split with Mamiffer and a digital release of the compilation Housing Tracts) and rumor has it that a new full length is on the way from the outfit this year. I hope so, because it has been quite a while since Edward’s Lament.
5. Rival Schools- Pedals
FINALLY, Rival Schools is putting out a new album. I love Guided By Fate and the “Unreleased Album”, but it is time for new tunes from this band. Thankfully, the long wait is almost over and done. I know a bunch of other people are excited about this record too.
Honorable Mentions
- Jesu- as yet untitled full length
- Locrian & Horseback collaboration
- Iroha- S/T LP
- Vestiges- The Descent Of Man, Seven Sisters Of Sleep- LP
(Bob)
