Best Of 2008

Gemma – Best Artist/Band Under 21

It was very hard to pick my top 5 bands/artists under 21 because I’ve noticed that the number of young musicians has grown so much and they’re all very talented. I’m glad to see teenagers finding their purpose so young in life. That said, I’ve gathered the five bands/artists under 21 that impacted my life this year, and I can only hope that you’ll take my word for it and check them out because I’m glad I got to share these musicians with you.

1) John Gold

At just 18 years young, John Gold has already put out two full length albums: “Cryptiquotes” and most recently “Hours”. John writes, produces and records his music all by himself. The reason that I chose John Gold as my top artist under 21 in 2008 is because his music really touches me. Every time I need some time to myself I can put on some of his music and just relax and it really makes me feel better because his voice is so soothing. John’s lyrics are very relatable and honest; he writes exactly what he goes through as a young man. He writes about experiences many people his age go through. Also, if you listen closely I believe his lyrics can tell you a lot about the humble and selfless person he really is.

2) Never Shout Never

This kid is the most adorable boy I’ve ever heard (and seen, of course). His music is so catchy and his love songs are so cute. I keep hearing about him more and more these days, so many people are discovering his young talent. At just 17 years young, Christofer Drew has tons of fans and more than 26 million plays on his MySpace page. I can honestly say that I am impressed with NeverShoutNever. His music is very much worth listening to and I think everyone should check him out.. You might end up dancing in your chair but where’s the wrong in that?

3) Close But Not Quite

The reason I chose Close But Not Quite as my 3rd favourite band under 21 this year is because I’ve never seen such a serious band as young as these boys. They truly amaze me with their commitment and talent. Their music is very unique and well put together, the band is a mix of Hip Hop and Rock. One of their songs happened to really get to me this year and I could consider it one of my favourite songs ever. See if you can guess which it is. I think they deserve this exposure because they’re just too good to go unnoticed.

4) Run Doris Run

This young band from Long Beach, California, have proved themselves well with their album “Vultures” which was released in November, 2008. They have grown so much from their first EP, “The Bigger Picture”. Lyrics are very important to me and Run Doris Run amazes me with theirs because they are very simple and direct, yet truly deep. Their new album, “Vultures”, is themed around the fact that people in this world will pick at you and try to tear you apart, but they encourage you to stay strong through it all. The band itself consists of five guys who are undeniably funny. Their YouTube videos will leave you on the floor laughing. Personally, I think this band has the whole package and I believe they definitely have what it takes to make it in this industry.

5) Sound The City

One day I was on Confront Magazine’s MySpace page accepting friend requests and one band in particular caught my attention so I decided to check out their songs. Let me tell you that I’m so glad I did! Sound The City are so amazing, their music sounds like it should already be on the radio. Their sound is very fun and exciting; the type you can play at a party with your friends. I really have a thing for Electronic Power-Pop music and this has got to be one of the best bands in their genre. Another great thing about them is they love to keep in touch with their fans and I don’t know about you, but I love when bands take the time to appreciate us.

Stephanie – Best Show

1) Public Enemy @ Metropolis (June 30^th)

One of the best shows I have ever seen; No expectations! I paid $50 thinking that I had to see them live once and it paid off…big time. My friends and I dressed up as Flavor Flav and we had a blast. The band played for more than 2 hours. They were generous, passionate and full of energy (and they are kinda old!).

2) Karkwa @ Metropolis (Dec 11^th)

I’m not a big fan of our French music in Quebec, but I’m a big fan of this band. They are labelled as the ‘Radiohead of Quebec’ and it’s up to you to see the resemblance or not, but they offer a great show. I would recommend it to all my friends, even the ones who don’t understand a word of French.

3) Dirty Tricks (Nov 21^st)

I had a couple (a lot) of Irish Car Bomb and Jagermeister shots in my body, but still this show was a revelation. I had heard about this band through some friends of mine but never paid attention. When I saw that they were playing at this tiny venue for $7, I decided to go and invite my friends. It was amazing! The set was way too short though, but it was definitely worth it. Another great band from Quebec.

4) Eagles of Death Metal (Nov 14^th)

Again, with no expectations I went to the show because my friends were going and ended having a great time. The singer, Jesse Hughes, is one hell of an entertainer. You can see that he is into the whole ‘rock and roll lifestyle’. I ended up putting their two latest albums on my iPod. Would love to see them live again.

5) Coldplay (July 29^th)

I’ve decided to put Coldplay as my fifth choice because Madonna, Sigur Ros, Radiohead and The Roots were kind of ok, but not excellent. The band was more generous with their fans; they even played in the crowd for 2-3 songs! I wish that they had played some older tunes(they only did one song off of ‘Parachutes’), but I had a great time that evening.

Honourable mentions to The Black Keys, Erykah Badu, Gogol Bordello (only saw one song) and Foo Fighters.

So there you have it: the CONFRONT Crew’s top picks of 2008. Here’s hoping that 2009 brings us many more wonderful audio pleasures. On that note, we would all like to wish you love, health and wealth in the new year should you desire them and of course remind you that you are welcome to join the CONFRONT Community to share your own picks for 2008.

Happy New Year!!!

The CONFRONT Crew