Just like Christian, I’ve cheated a bit with some albums from 2011, but they have been so frequently listened to this year that I just couldn’t leave them off the list. Here’s my top picks of 2012:
10. H.E.A.T. – Address the Nation
Of course I have to start off my list with a Swedish band. I might not be the biggest fan, but this album has something to it. Maybe it’s their new singer, former Swedish Idol winner Erik Grönwall, to whom I actually am a big fan. That guy sure knows how to sing.
9. LA Guns – Hollywood Forever
Since I saw LA Guns this summer, I’ve been listening to them a lot. This album might not be as good as their old stuff, but it sure deserves a spot on this list. So does a mention of their energy on stage. I can’t wait to see them again.
8. Europe – Bag of Bones
Definitely not a one hit wonder, even though many people in Sweden sees them like it. Something I find quite bizarre, since they more than once has proved they still are a force to be reckon with. Bag of Bones is no exception.
7. Rival Sons – Head Down
Both Ally and Christian have said all that needs to be said. Not much else left to say. Just listen.
6. Van Halen – A Different Kind of Truth
It’s nice to have David Lee Roth back behind the mic. And even though it took a few listenings before I could really enjoy this, I’ve realized it is album that I keep going back to. I want more.
5. Pompei Nights – Rather Die Than Livin’ In Boundaries
With their own documentary series on web-TV, I’ve been able to follow this up-and-coming Swedish band this fall, as they are chasing their dream to become rock stars. Which might not be the easiest thing if you’re still living at home and your main focus is drinking beer. But what started out as something I was laughing about turned out to be something I looked forward to every Saturday when a new episode came out. And their music is not too bad! The album is produced by Martin Sweet from Crashdïet so it’s pretty much that kind of classic sleaze that seems to be the Swedish formula.
4. Slash – Apocalyptic Love
Slash and his guitar – when is that ever wrong? I also agree with Christian, it’s clear that it’s a bit more of a band effort than the solo debut and that is definitely a good thing.
3. Imperial State Electric – Pop War
This album with 70’s rock with Glam influences is definitely a favorite from this year. Imperial State Electric is the latest project from Nicke Andersson, former front man of The Hellacopters, and I can’t wait to hear even more new material. It’s that good.
2. Aerosmith – Music From Another Dimension
It’s Aerosmith. There’s not much more to say, if you ask me. Finally they are back and they rock again. I also happen to be one of the people that enjoy songs like “What Could Have Been Love” so this is, to me, just an awesome album.
1. The Treatment – This Might Hurt
This has definitely been the band of the year for me. I first saw them when they opened for Steel Panther and then again this summer when they had the luck to be the opening act on The Tour with Mötley Crüe and KISS. And what a discovery it has been! This Might Hurt has been on constant repeat for most of the year and I’m not even beginning to get tired of it. I rarely suggest people to buy CD’s but if I would, this would be the first one to mention. I promise you would not regret it. Not at all.
Really excited to see what great albums 2013 will bring. Happy New Year, everyone!
Saturday, January 5, 2013 at 12:01AM 