BWC Readers: Best Albums and Films of 2006

Ya know, I'm sure that some folks will consider this a gross/crass profanity in the indie rock church, but can we really consider a Christmas album the best album of 2006? Mr. Stevens is carving out his own niche in music history with his musicality, but seriously now -- the best album of 2006? Too many of you fine folks have sipped the juice too often....

Only one of my picks made the top movies or music. However, I wonder if the people who voted John Mayer into the top ten bought more than ten discs this year. Even his "blues" project would have been a better choice.

Those voting for the Killers should likewise be slapped. Get thee a Hold Steady disc if you want faux-Springsteenesque rock.

This irrational criticism of personal taste was brought to you by Dan Gibson.

O, Regina Spektor, where art thou?

Anyone? No?

Really?

Mmmmm.... Regina Spektor....

That lovely black & white video of her that's playing on VH1 these days (when they actually PLAY videos) makes me want to....

Dress in black & white along with her.

"And it breaks my heart...."

And I thank you for your irrational criticism of personal taste, Mr. Gibson. I applaud your choice of The Hold Steady over The Killers -- Brandon Flowers is NO Springsteen (& Craig Finn's lyrics are MUCH better).

While I didn't include it on my list, the Sufjan Christmas album is pretty incredible, and deserves its spot even being a holiday release. It's that good...well, at least parts of it are.

I suppose it's partially my fault for not sending in my votes, but I can't believe that Keane's "Under the Iron Sea" wasn't on this list. And what about MuteMath? The Album Leaf? I completely agree with Sufjan being honored twice. As a song-writer, he has both inspired and depressed me with his creative prolificacy. The Killers' new album is a huge disappointment. There are a couple songs where I think he's actually not sure what note he's even trying to sing. On other tracks, the band is playing like they're all drunk. Is sloppy the new tight? Am i missing something? I like the idea behind most of the songs, but either the production or the performance was rushed. I also wrinkle my nose at John Mayer, but only because of his upbeat loverboy-style lyrics. Other than that, it's a great top ten list. If only I had participated. Then I wouldn't feel like such a jerk for writing this after the fact. Please don't hate me, responsible people, for my humble opinion, which is the correct one.

That top 10 list is quite shocking. I would like to know a) who reads BWC, and b) where they all were when Beirut released his stunning "Gulag Orkestar," and if they have ever heard of M. Ward, Damien Jurado, Calexico, Islands, Yo La Tengo, Neko Case, Twilight Singers, Joanna Newsom, Regina Spektor, The Mountain Goats, State Radio, Muse, Tom Waits, and The Format? All of whom released exceptional albums this last year. I am comforted, though, by the placement of Sufjan's Christmas album (but the Avalanche? Come on!), The Decemberists (well deserved) and Gnarls Barkley. There may be hope for the majority of BWC readers yet. And, to reiterate the previous poster, please don't hate me if you disagree with my correct opinion.