Feature / Music
Pass The Mic: Record Labels and Artists on 2008

Words: Michael • Posted pre-2010

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Lipona (Yamil Velez)

What are your top five albums that were released in 2008?

  1. A Wilhelm Scream - Career Suicide
  2. The Gaslight Anthem - The ?59 Sound
  3. Dillinger Four - Civil War
  4. Fucked Up - The Chemistry of Common Life
  5. Polar Bear Club - Sometimes Things Just Disappear

What band did you discover in 2008 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? What made them significant?

I had never really gotten into Propagandhi when I was younger but a friend played "Potemkin City Limits" for me and I was blown away by Hannah's lyricism. I love the fact that he doesn't mince words and the vast knowledge he uses to back up his positions. All throughout that album, I was impressed by the obscure references to historical events and the witty comments along the way. Through Propagandhi, I have learned how to become a more honest lyricist and their music has also opened my eyes to some of the injustices that occur all around the world.

How will you remember 2008? (In terms of music)

This year saw some great debuts from up and coming bands, namely The Gaslight Anthem and Polar Bear Club, and a solid release from one of my favorite bands of all time, A Wilhelm Scream.

Vinyl record sales saw a significant increase this year while hard copy sales continued to dwindle. Is this a return to the glory days for vinyl or just a phase? Explain.

With albums shifting toward the digital standard, I think vinyl records command a certain sense of nostalgia that CDs can't quite compete with. It seems like the rise in vinyl sales could be attributed to their collectability. With music going digital, wouldn't it make sense for fans to buy vinyl in order to have a piece of musical history? The collection aspect of vinyl is what I think has drawn more people toward the medium and I believe this a trend that will continue so long as there are fans that appreciate band memorabilia.

What was the most memorable moment for you in 2008? (Can be in terms of anything)

The election of Barrack Obama was probably my most memorable moment in 2008. Early this year, it was highly unexpected that the US would ever have an African American president but as time progressed, it became more and more of a possibility. It was one of the greatest moments in our history and I'm glad I was able to witness it.

What can we look forward to from you in 2009?

We're going to start recording for our upcoming EP during Early January and it should be out sometime in February. We're also planning on touring extensively and recording our upcoming full-length later on in the year.

What three records are you looking forward to most in 2009?

Propagandhi, A Wilhelm Scream, and The National

Homepage: http://www.liponanudes.com

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