2009 Reckoning: Music

Here are my favorite records of 2009.

1. Wilco (the album)
Wilco makes another, comfortable masterpiece. The album gets better with every listen. Summer

2. The Decemberists The Hazards of Love
A full bodied, indie-rock opera. . . Summer

3. Mark Olson and Gary Louris Ready for the Flood
Everything you love about the Jayhawks, but sparse, as if to remind you why they were important in the first place. Summer

4. Justin Townes Earle Midnight at the Movies
A warm record for autumn evenings by the fire. . . Autumn

5. Phish Joy
Phish return, healthy and happy, after a much needed rest. Autumn

6. Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band Outer South
Conor Oberst keeps crafting new music. I keep listening. Summer

7. Son Volt American Central Dust
A surprisingly quiet record. . . but the rock n roll and pedal steel are worth the patience. Summer

8. Neil Young Fork in the Road
Neil Young has become my favorite liberal commentator. . . and he continues to be one of our finest electric guitarists. Summer

9. Monsters of Folk
These gentlemen sound like they enjoy each other's company. . . and I keep getting Conor Oberst records. Autumn

10. Assembly of Dust Some Assembly Required
There are a few vintage Reid Genauer songs here. Essential listening for those who appreciate Strangefolk. Autumn