My Favorite Albums of 2005

After listening to countless records for review and pleasure this year, I have compiled a list of my favorite albums of the 2005. I shared the full list with the email subscribers of the Arjan Writes earlier this week. I decided not to make this a countdown, because I enjoy some records more than others depending on my mood, location, time of day etc. I picked these albums based on originality and the unique flavor they added to 2005.

Happy New Year!

Brokeback Mountain "Original Soundtrack " (Verve Records)
When I met Jake Gyllenhaal in the summer of 2004, he told me he was in the middle of shooting "Brokeback Mountain." At the time, I had no idea the impact this movie would have on mainstream culture. The soundtrack is just as compelling as the movie with Gustavo Santaolalla's dramatic score and songs by Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, Rufus Wainwright and Teddy Thompson. If there is one soundtrack to have in 2005 it is this one.(Buy it!)

Girls Aloud "Chemistry" (Polydor)
Good pop is not dirty, and Girls Aloud's "Chemistry" is anything but smudged. At first sight, the group appears to be all about flawless hair and make-up. But after hearing "Chemistry" it is clear that this band is not just another plain girl group. The Girls' producers deserve props for coming up with song arrangements that are well-crafted in Britain's long-standing pop tradition. Clever hooks, cheeky lyrics and catchy harmonies make this one of my favorite albums of the year. Yum! Bring it on, girls. (Buy it!)

Fischerspooner "Odyssey" (Capitol)
Fischerspooner's "Odyssey" is by far one of the most underrated records of the year. Warren Fischer and Casey Spooner collaborated with top tier songwriters like Linda Perry and Mirwais on this CD to turn their eclectic, artsy style in something more radio-friendly. They fully achieved that on this record. Songs like "Happy," "Cloud" and "Kick In The Teeth" belong at the top of every pop lover's playlist. Highly recommended.(Buy it!)

Diplo "FabricLive 24" (Fabric)
This year is most definitely the year of Diplo. The DJ broke out of underground obscurity with his production of "Arular" by indie darling MIA. But there is more the Floridian has accomplished in 2005. Diplo compiled "FabricLive 24," an eclectic mix of hip hop, rap, '80s beats and Brazilian favela funk. I love it when a DJ takes risks to create a pulsating sound that continues to stay fresh. (Buy it!)

Antony & The Johnsons "I Am A Bird Now" (Rough Trade)
Late 2004, I predicted that Antony was "poised to be one of the most noteworthy acts of 2005." After listening to his third album "I Am A Bird Now," I was completely blown away by his melancholic songwriting and inimitable vocals that invoke memories of Al Green and Tracey Chapman. I've spoken with Antony a number of times and I can honestly say that he is one of the most fascinating personalities I've ever met. As far as I'm concerned this album will go into music history as a masterpiece. (Buy it!)

Imogen Heap "Speak For Yourself" (RCA)
I planned not to rank my favorite records of 2005, but Imogen Heap's "Speak For Yourself" definitely ranks near the top of my list. Imogen has the gift of melody and a knack for intricate, pop-electro productions. On top of this, she has a penchant for capturing seemingly small emotions and trivial moments into beautiful songs. Listen to "The Moment I Said It" and "The Walk" to know exactly what I mean. (Buy it!)

Nightmare of You "Nightmare of You" (Bevondshire/EastWest)
I have a thing for simple melodies and clever lyrics. Enter Nightmare of You. The Brooklyn quartet has created an album full of little gems, that reflect wit, heartache and pure passion. Watch out for the band to slowly but surely gain momentum in 2006. (Buy it!)

Goldfrapp "Supernature" (Mute)
Goldfrapp's electro-glam might not be so original as Alison Goldfrapp claims, but it is most certainly a successful interpretation of their musical influences. On "Supernature," Alison and Will Gregory have refined the sound of their previous two albums to create a modern-day disco record that revives the-oh-so-gay glitter ball glory with edgy sounds, Alison's sexy performance and Studio 54 nostalgia. (Buy it!)

Stellastarr* "Harmonies For The Haunted" (RCA)
Some argue that indie rockers Stellastarr* hit the sophomore slump with "Harmonies For The Haunted," but I have been enjoying the album. I must admit that they truly won me over when I saw the four piece perform in Atlanta, GA this October. In the vein of Coldplay and other emo rockers, Stellastarr* pulls together propulsive rock riffs with Shawn Christensen's emotive crooning that is truly invigorating. (Buy it!)