I’ve always held the theory that 1994 was the peak of Hip Hop. At that moment in time Hip Hop was perfect. It had something for everyone. In fact I even have my own personal “1994” mix that I listen to every now and again, when I feel like reminiscing.
1999 was also a good year, there we some solid albums that were released. While it may not have been “1994” it was better than 1998.
Thus following the “five year paradigm” that I created, in my head, I had high hopes for 2004. There were quite a few releases that I was really looking forward to. Some delivered, some didn’t. But what I’m focusing on this week are The Best of the Best (in alphabetical order).
Bjork – Medulla
Bjork recorded one of the most unique sounding albums of the year, and it’s even “unique sounding” compared to her previous albums. It’s an album that’s entirely a cappella. The melodies are created from numerous people, including Mike Patton, Rahzel, and a couple of choirs. It may take a couple of spins to get accustomed to, but after that you will find it mesmerizing.
Choice Cuts: Who is it, Where is the line, Triumph of the heart
De La Soul – The Grind Date
I’m ashamed to say, but I was honestly surprised at how dope this album was. A De La album is always a solid album, but this one is a certifiable banger. They have never sounded more vital, in every sense of the word. It’s completely skip-proof and your head will nod throughout the album. De La have always been “groundbreaking” or “ahead of their time” but this time out, they’re perfect. (They also get props for a clever inlay book.) Tied for “Album of the Year.”
Choice Cuts: The Grind Date, Church, Rock Co.Kane Flow
Handsome Boy Modeling School – White People
The first album by Handsome Boy Modeling School, So, How’s Your Girl, was a classic. Classics are difficult to follow up. The usual suspects are there, Nathaniel Merriwether (Dan the Automator), Chest Rockwell (Prince Paul), Del the Funky Homosapien, and Father Guido Sarducci. Enrolling for classes this year are, Tim Meadows, Pharrell Williams, Jamie Cullum, John Oates, and Jack Johnson. And how can you not like an album that clowns Jay-Z like nothing since Ether?
Choice Cuts: Breakdown, If It Wasn’t For You, Greatest Mistake.
Interpol – Antics
I was really looking forward to this disc and they didn’t disappoint. It’s gloomy and it rocks. Maybe it’s the earnest sound and jaded reality that provided the contrast to the sureality of Las Vegas, but this album was on heavy rotation. Its the perfect follow up to an amazing debut and the perfect soundtrack for rainy days (despite how rare they are in Las Vegas.)
Choice Cuts: Evil, Take You On a Cruise, Public Pervert
Madvillain – Madvillainy
How could you have a combination of MF Doom and Madlib and not have a great album? Just the thought of those two collaborating has to cause you to ponder. And as your imagination runs wild, it’s still going to come up short of the reality of this album. This is a feast for the ears. Your first listen, you focus on the beats. The second spin the lyrics take over. By the third time you press play, you’re fully immersed in one of the most subversive discs released this year, (it covers war, infidelity and bad breath). It’s also one of the best.
Choice Cuts: America’s Most Blunted, Great Day Today, Rhinestone Cowboy.
Modest Mouse – Good News For People Who Love Bad News
I’ll admit that I only picked up this disc because Ocean Breathes Salty caught my ear one day. But my coming late to the party doesn’t take away from a solid disc of disjointed tunes. It sounds fresh and fun, with a pinch of jaded bitterness. The more I listened to the album, the more I neglected the singles, and the more I noticed the “truths” in the songs. Whether the album mirrored my mood or influenced it, I can’t tell, but this might as well have been my soundtrack.
Choice Cuts: Bury Me With It, Bukowski, Blame It On The Teutons.
Mos Def – The New Danger
Poor Mos Def, people think that fame has gone to his head, and not in the “LL” way. He releases one of the most creative and artistic discs of the year, but he’s bashed by fans for not giving them what they want. Mos tries making actual music, and sings. He’s still as “conscious” as before, only this time he’s a “conscious artist” not a “conscious MC.” As opposed to giving the fans ice cream on a hot summer day, Mos delivers a nice juicy orange; it’s natural, it’s better for you, and ultimately it’s more satisfying.
Choice Cuts: The Rape Over, Grown Man Business, Modern Marvel.
Nas– Street’s Disciple
To say that Nas is at the top of his game wouldn’t be correct, he debuted at the top of his game. What this album represents is a return to form. Nas claims the crown of the “King of New York” and this time the crown doesn’t weigh heavy on his head. He tells vivid stories, experiments with voices (both sonically and in terms of point of view), devotes a song to his inspiration, and even shows some love for Kellis. He also produces the best double album I’ve ever heard, one devoid of filler. Tied For “Album of the Year.”
Choice Cuts: You Know My Style, Reason, U.B.R.
The Von Bondies – Pawn Shoppe Heart
When I saw the picture of what Jack White did to Jason Stollsteimer during a brawl I decided that I was going to buy this album out of sympathy. Imagine my surprise when it actually rocked. It sounds rough enough to be refreshing, yet polished enough not to be distracting. And anyone who tries to put their own stamp on Otis Redding’s “Try A Little Tenderness” should make the list for gumption alone.
Choice Cuts: C’mon C’mon, Pawn Shoppe Heart, The Fever.
Wordsworth – Mirror Music
Anyone who claims that Kanye West has the greatest debut this year, or that Eminem’s album was lyrically satisfying, clearly hasn’t heard this album. If there were any justice in the world, Wordsworth would have the former’s buzz and the latter’s acclaim, and both of their sales, combined. Wordsworth is the personification of everything great about Hip Hop. His lyrics grab your attention and make you marvel at how fluid his flow is. Tied For “Album of the Year.”
Choice Cuts: 12 Months, One Day, Shoulder.
So there you have it. That’s my Best of the Best. I’m sure that you’ll disagree or think that I’m missing something, so feel free to drop me a line. Next week I may finish out my Top Twenty. I’ll probably also give you a sample of my “2004 Mixes.” But in the meantime read this stuff;
Essential
Greg gives you the rundown of his faves of 2004.
Aaron & Nick give you the Best and Worst in Hip Hop. I agree with some, and disagree with others.
Gloomchen has some other ideas about the best of what 2004 had to offer.
Tom also adds his voice to the choir of 2004’s Best Albums.
Eric not only covers 2004’s best bets, but he also revises his list from 2003. That’s dedication.
Not only does Jeff have gifts for all of us InsidePulse Music staffers (which serves as a reminder of why I moved), but he’s got a treat for you too; that guy from the Eastsidaz!
Michael gives us all a course on Emo.
And be sure to vote for InsidePulse’s Year End Music Awards. Let your voice be heard. (You can also vote for the Music Staffer of the Year.)
Substantial
Ari has some essential viewing.
Jeff digs Detachable Penis.
Melchor digs Prince (so do I.)
Curious about MSD’s thoughts on 2004? Read This. He’s got loads of them.
Some other thoughts on 2004 can be found here and here.
Five Albums That Almost Made The “Top Ten” (in no particular order)
1. Ghostface – The Pretty Toney Album
2. Spymob – Sitting Around Keeping Score
3. The Roots – The Tipping Point
4. Ryan Adams – Love is Hell
5. PJ Harvey – Uh Huh Her
