YHO’s Best Songs of 2009
Thursday, December 31st, 2009
If you need a crash course in “best of” songs for the closing year, look no further. Here’s our roundup of quality tracks that have been on repeat:
1. “You Told a Lie” by Camera Obscura
2. “You and I” by Wilco featuring Feist
3. “The Giant of Illinois” by Andrew Bird from “Dark Was The Night” compilation
4. “Basic Space” by XX
5. “Skeletons” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
6. “Cheerleader” by Grizzly Bear
7. “Eet” by Regina Spekter
8. “I Was Only Going Out” by Loney, Dear
9. “Gimme Sympathy (Acoustic)” by Metric
10. “Knotty Pine” by Dirty Projectors and David Byrne from “Dark Was The Night” compilation
11. “Middle Cyclone” by Neko Case
12. “In These Arms” by The Swell Season
13. “Laughing With a Mouth Full of Blood” by St. Vincent
14. “All is Love” by Karen O and the Kids from “Where the Wild Things Are” soundtrack
15. “The First Days of Spring” by Noah and the Whale
16. “I Wish it was Christmas Today” cover by Julian Casablancas … just barely making the cut this week.
Preview some tracks here.
Now, you tell us who and what topped your track list this year.
Imogen Heap is back supporting her recent release “Ellipse” and will be showcasing her one-man-band skills at in the Venue on the 12th. After riding the wave that was “Let Go” for some time, the British singer/songwriter is right back where she left off. Be sure to catch this impressive solo act live.
Who else fell in love with the movie “Once”—especially the gorgeous soundtrack and stunning Marketa and Glen, now known together as The Swell Season. The good news is this duo is back with their latest full-length album, “Strict Joy.” The sound that made them famous, including catchy hooks and beautiful melodies, is emulated in each track on their new album. The bad news? The show already looks to be sold out. Try your luck at Craigslist.
One of my favorite new-to-me bands hail from Portland Oregon, called Blind Pilot. This duo set out on a bike tour traveling from Vancouver to San Francisco playing shows and peddling their album, all on bicycle. Luckily, they kept the momentum going by releasing their 2009 album, “3 Rounds & A Sound.” Catch them (and maybe their bikes) on November 29 at Urban Lounge.
Boston-based Passion Pit will be here to share their electronic sounds at Urban Lounge on October 7. What started as a music project for singer/songwriter Michael Agelakos’s girlfriend (on Valentine’s Day, no less) is now a successful, five-piece band. Be sure to check out their recent release, “Manners.”
Where do you start with a band like Yo La Tengo? Formed in 1984, this rock trio has a stocked anthology. They’re adventurous, eclectic and a band that’s constantly redefining itself. If you have yet to see this quintessential band play live, do yourself a favor and see them on October 12 at the Urban Lounge.
The genius Bob Dylan will be stopping by Utah once again to play at Saltair. Although Dylan’s voice has changed in recent years, he remains a worthwhile performer with impactful songs that become even more exceptional live. (He’s still Bob Dylan, after all.) Find out if he’ll play classics like “Mr. Tambourine Man” or “The Times They Are A-Changin’” on October 19.
Portland natives Blitzen Trapper stop by again on October 21 with alternative artist Mirah. You can expect a decent amount of energy when these groups go live. Blitzen Trapper will take on a variety of sounds, but watch out for their lo-fi, electronic grooves. Mirah, on the other hand, will share her passionate and sultry tunes in support of her recent release, “(A)spera.”
Ah, yeah! It’ll be the Yeah Yeah Yeahs visiting on September 13. This punk trio is fronted by true rock star Karen O., who will also be taking the helm with the “Where the Wild Things Are” soundtrack, to be released later this year. Right now, the group is supporting their latest release, “It’s Blitz!” You’ll catch Karen O. giving it her all on state—and then some. This girl knows how to put on a show. Catch them at In the Venue.
Idaho neighbors and natives Built to Spill are back to woo you with their accomplished repertoire. This band is about to release their ninth album October 6, and in the meantime, they’ll be playing live shows coast to coast. Drop in to see this popular indie act at Murray Theatre on September 19.
Who else owned and adored the album “Diary” by Sunny Day Real Estate? The band that shaped you into the indie music lover you are will be here like a blast from the past on September 20. After announcing they were disbanding in June 2001, the guys are reuniting to play songs from their 2000 album, “The Rising Tide.” See them live at Murray Theatre.
If you hadn’t already, you may have fallen for the dreamy sounds of Iron & Wine when their song “Flightless Bird” was featured in the hot vampire flick “Twilight.” Dig deeper into their anthology to hear more from frontman and singer/songwriter Samuel Beam. He’s a must-see on August 20.
Girls rule when Cat Power visits with The Pretenders and Juliette Lewis on August 23 at Red Butte Garden. Cat Power, or Chan Marshall, is known for entertaining crowds with her bluesy, sultry voice. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery, this is a good way to end your outdoor concert experience for the summer.
On July 9, 
As for Ms. Indie Queen herself, 
On July 16, it’s 
Indie legends 
The Helio Sequence bring their ambient rock to the Urban Lounge on June 12. The duo combine electronic with indie rock to create a unique, even lush, sound. If you like Built to Spill or My Bloody Valentine, you’ll definitely like their sequence of sounds.
Austin rocker Ben Kweller is out supporting his latest folk-rock album, “Changing Horses.” Even with the addition of a pedal steel guitar, the voice that is unmistakably Kweller’s shines on this twangy, loose-feeling album. See Ben get a little bit country at Avalon Theater on June 13.
Or, if you’re up for a night with the girls, visit recent 
Looking for something new? Tune in to Oregon native Laura Gibson, who is quickly becoming an indie sweetheart. Despite its mellow quality, her music is uplifting. Those needing a pick-me-up can see her at the Urban Lounge on June 26.
If you haven’t joined the fan group of Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie already, it’s time to get onboard with Flight of the Conchords. This New Zealand duo began playing their funny tunes in 2002 and hit jackpot with an HBO series that started in 2007. It’s the careful songwriting and humorous ballads (and lovable personalities) that keep fans smiling and laughing out loud. Catch both hilarities at Abravanel Hall on May 17. Though, on an unfunny note, it appears the show is sold out. Maybe Cragislist can help?
Mellow indie artists Horse Feathers will be playing Kilby Court on Friday, May 22. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, the songster trio plays beautiful, raw, contemporary folk music. If you’re a fan of Band of Horses or Devendra Banart, check out these up-and-comers.
The red-head lady that’s been getting a lot of buzz of late—as rightfully so—is the one and only Ms. Neko Case. Neko’s latest album, “Middle Cyclone,” dropped in March and has many falling for her magical voice. If you missed her free show at the Twilight Concert Series last year, see her instead at Red Butte Gardens at the end of the month. This class act is a flawless performer who leaves you awe-struck.
Are you a fan of Stars or Camera Obscura? Chances are you’ll also like the poppy sound of Illinois natives Headlights. They’ll be stopping by Kilby Court on Monday, April 13 to play from their latest album, “Some Racing, Some Stopping.” You’ll enjoy their light-hearted, happy sound—just in time for spring.
Speaking of lady songsters, Mirah (or Mirah Yom Tov Zeitlyn) will be playing Kilby Court on April 14. Catch an earful of beautiful tracks from this Washington gal, who’s playing in support of her album, “(A)spera.”
See alt crooners Clem Snide on April 13 at Urban Lounge. This east coast group brings a plethora of sounds from indie-rock to folk. My favorite Clem Snide songs are the simple, bare-boned tunes that leave lead singer Eef Barzelay’s vocals to shine. Their latest, “Hungry Bird,” is full of tracks just like this.
When you think of the 2001 film “Amelie,” I’m sure the big-eyed main character pops into your head as well as the stunning soundtrack (not to mention cinematography). With strings, piano and accordion, Yann Tiersen set the perfect tone to accompany Amelie’s fantastical world. If you’re a fan of instrumental, or tunes that will take you to Paris, this show isn’t to be missed. Catch the praised composer at Urban Lounge on April 25.
Oregon natives Blitzen Trapper will be playing Kilby Court on March 13. If you’re a Beck fan, chances are you’ll also like this lo-fi indie band. Blitzen Trapper takes on sounds from rock, country and pop, so they’re ready to satisfy any musical taste.
All the way from Denmark, the experimental group Efterklang will also grace SLC on March 13, so choose wisely. Efterklang is a chorus affair—all band members contribute to the song writing, recording and producing of albums. Fingers crossed they’ll put some of the creativity that goes into the music videos into a live show—that’s what turned me onto this band in the first place. Either way, they’re a worthwhile listen.
As longtime fans of Bishop Allen, we wouldn’t dare miss their upcoming show. The Harvard grads are supporting their new release, “Grrr….” Their track “Dimmer” is getting lots of air time and falls in tune with what we’ve come to expect from these Ivy Leaguers: music that’s upbeat, clever and catchy. Get into the beat on March 26 at Kilby Court.
If you’re aching for new music and have an affinity with bands like Cold War Kids and/or Dr. Dog, definitely tune in to San Diego-based indie rockers Delta Spirit. Their soulful sound is evidenced on their album “Ode to Sunshine”—and who doesn’t love a bout of sun in the winter? Plus, you have two chances to check ‘em out on February 10 (an early show at Kilby Court), or later at Urban Lounge.
Whistler, violinist, guitarist, vocalist and glockenspielist(!) Andrew Bird will show off his various talents on-stage at Murray Theater on February 25. Bird is promoting his buzz-worthy release, “Noble Beast,” which is thee record to add to your collection. Each track is filled with catchy and breath-taking rhythms and melodies. You’ll be whistling and clapping along.
It’s that song from the iPhone commercials that won’t leave your head—the one that features all the cool apps available on the gadget. Time to get to know the band behind the catchy tune. It’s the Submarines, and the song is “You Me and the Bourgeoisie.” And the duo behind the bubblegum pop is John Dragonetti and Blake Hazard. Chances are if you dig the commercial, you’ll enjoy the rest of their songs. And the opening act, the Morning Benders, should make a nice complement.
As indie actors and film-makers congregate in Park City for the Sundance Film Festival, so do some amazing songsters. If you’re a fancy festival credential holder (or simply good at sneaking into the Sundace Music Cafe) you’ll have a chance to catch Rachael Yamagata on January 17 or 18, or Damien Rice on the January 19. For details about more solo acts and major bands visiting courtesty of Sundance, see 
Credentials aside, you can buy tickets to see vocal powerhouse Adele on January 23. Last year, she topped the charts with the soulful “Chasing Pavements.” The remainder of her debut album includes a Bob Dylan cover, R&B-style tracks and acoustic folk-like songs. Thanks to her commanding voice, the live versions of her songs will make for an unforgettable evening. But hurry; her shows often sell out.
Were you a fan of 2006’s “Little Miss Sunshine”? Then it’s likely you’re familiar with the next band’s sweeping songs. Devotchka is a Denver-based group with eclectic sounds ranging from indie rock to gypsy-like. To pull it off, Devotchka relies on a wide array of instruments like horns tand strings and even bazoukis, which should make for an engaging show on January 28.
8. Death Cab For Cutie: 
6. Vampire Weekend: 
4. Someone Loves You Boris Yeltsin: 
2. Mates of State: 
This Thursday: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. If you’re into Talking Heads and/or David Byrne, this could be a match. It didn’t take long for the popularity of this once-solo band to get signed and then release a 2007 album “Some Loud Thunder.” Rock out (while clapping and yeah-ing, of course) at the Gallivan Center.
Next Thursday: Stunning songstress Neko Case will be gracing us with her presence on August 28. The alternative country singer/songwriter has an accomplished repertoire of musical contributions, my favorite of which is 2006’s “Fox Confessor Brings the Flood.” As a whimsical storyteller with stunning vocals to boot, Case’s show can’t be missed. Seriously.
And finally, if you’ve never had the chance to see Mr. Tambourine Man himself, get thee to Bob Dylan’s show on August 31. He’ll be playing at Deer Valley, the perfect venue for such a legendary performer (just don’t forget a blanket and a good jacket). You know you want to tell your grandkids that you heard the Bob play live.