Curious what notable personalities in the scene think was great this year? So is TGEFM! So we reached out to some of our favorite luminaries ranging from musicians, label personnel, and more for their “Best of 2023” lists. Now, listen: TGEFM is not a taskmistress. Contributors can write these out however they want. So if it doesn’t actually look or read like a list… and sometimes it really is just a list with no other observations! Who cares?
When Andy Pohl isn’t busy with Tsunami Bomb he’s busy slinging albums as Sell The Heart Records (or is it the other way around?). Anyhow, what I’m sayin’ is that Andy is a busy ma, both on the stage and behind the scenes. But not so busy that he couldn’t toss its a list of what tickled his ears and music senses this year.
Samiam – Stowaway:
Tremendous album from a band that already has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they know how to create incredible full albums of music.
Paint It Black – Famine:
Wow, hits like a fist to the jaw. Poignant and urgent lyrical themes atop bombastic instrumentation
Flying Raccoon Suit – Moonflower : Best Ska record of the year, no doubt about it. This band absolutely nailed it with this record.
Snooper – Super Snooper:
Spastic yet contained, I love how this album takes you on a sonic journey and makes your foot tap at the same time.
Black Pumas – Chronicles of a Diamond:
Another glorious album from The Black Pumas. Just rolls over you like a nice warm breeze.
Militarie Gun – Life Under The Gun:
The band continues to show that they are at the top of the class in this musical space.
Hammered Hulls – S/T:
Very pleasant surprise here. I’m a sucker for that Dischord sound and this was a really great example of it
The Iron Roses – S/T:
Such a joyous album, I love that they have the ability to create such a huge sound that truly gives you an impression of what they are like live.
3rd Secret – 2nd 3rd Secret:
I absolutely love what this band is doing. It scratches that 90s era itch that will forever be with me while also not relying too heavily on nostalgia.
Corey Hansen – Western Cum:
Was turned onto Corey Hansen quite randomly, and I just really love what he’s doing here. A little bit country, a little bit rock n’ roll, a little bit spacey…. I dig it.
