Rainard Jalen

To explain, I was simply trying to lay a decent foundation for an on-going discussion. Clearly there is nothing especially interesting about the opening post, but I think it is fairly comprehensive in its detailing of the most important releases in indie/alternative. The truth is I have heard very few of any of those records (mostly because I have listened to virtually nothing all year aside from f'cking Elvis Costello, the bastard whose early music is too gripping to make me want to listen to anything else. Damn you Elvis.)

I'm really just curious to gather other people's opinions as I think it would benefit my own decision-making process when it comes to choosing what to bother with.

In all honesty the only records of the bunch that I really want to hear are TV On The Radio's new one and the latest offering from Wild Beasts. That's playing it safe, as these are bands I already like and have enjoyed listening to in the past. I want to be a little more adventurous hopefully, as I have been in previous years.

I'm not particularly excited by the Fleet Foxes release, simply because I wasn't big on the debut. Perhaps I should give it a go though.

PJ Harvey's England Shakes I have heard a few times but only really as background music. Maybe I should delve a little deeper.