And such. Everybody’s doing it, so here’s my take. While I frequently check in with them, I don’t entirely agree with Pitchfork’s Top 50. Granted many of their picks are releases I meant to check out but didn’t get around to. But only a few of my faves turned up.
Neko Case “Blacklisted”
Sigur Rós “()”
Interpol “Turn on the Bright Lights”
Flaming Lips “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots”
Sleater-Kinney “One Beat”
Not listed were Sondre Lerche’s “Faces Down”, the Breeders “Title TK”, Imperial Teen’s “On”, or Low’s “Trust”…to name a few. Oddly enough, the New York Times gave the 20 Years of Dischord Discography (which I am currently enjoying) a favorable review.
live music news
I was able to get to a few live shows in 2002. The ones I enjoyed most had to be Nick Cave, Neko Case (twice, once opening for Nick Cave) and the multiple Low shows I was fortunate enough to attend. Especially their hometown record release show at the Sacred Heart Music Center. Sadly I didn’t make it to many punk/hardcore shows. I’ve turned into such a homebody. Perhaps I’ll have better luck next year.
sad music news
Too many musicians died in 2002. I’m likely leaving many out, but here are a few who were far too young:
Joe Strummer: 21 August 1952 - 22 December 2002
Run DMC’s DJ Jam Master Jay: January 21, 1965 - October 30, 2002
Mary Hansen of Stereolab: November 1, 1966 - December 9, 2002
Dee Dee Ramone: 1952-2002