Every year I publish a list of my favorite albums that have been released that year. This list isn’t meant as a competition, rather it’s a celebration of work from very talented artists. All articles were published exclusively here at nixbeat.com or at Heatwave Magazine. I hope you enjoy and Happy New Year!

1. The Jackets – Queen Of The Pill

“Queen of the Pill boasts the raw snarl of the fuzzed out garage-punk found in Way Out and combines it with Shadow of Sound’s refined freakbeat influenced garage-psych style. However, what sets Queen of the Pill apart from the previous records is The Stooges-esque proto-punk attitude twisting with elements of King Khan & The BBQ Show’s style, which should come as no surprise since King Khan was involved in this record’s production.”

Top Track: “Queen Of The Pill”

2. Jordan Jones – Self-Titled

“Jordan Jone’s debut release is a power pop masterpiece.  Within this records grooves are sounds begging, if not demanding to be heard. It’s the kind of music that flawlessly delivers a certain calm and charming sound sound that blends a kind of nostalgic sense for early 2000’s style of power pop rock n’ roll. This is due to Jones’ unique style that invokes The Booze twisting with the power pop delivery of the Biters, but channeling the romanticism of The Speedways.”

Top Track: “Wrote You A Song For Me”

The Woolly Bushmen – In Shambles

“Those who dug their first record will find familiarity with this album. In Shambles has a ballads, fuzz garage and of course rock n’ roll.  In Shambles also shows of the emotive range of Herschfeld, which combined with the tightness of the band, hits close to perfection.  This is a record for lovers of  infectious vintage sounds and for those looking for something delightfully new. The Woolly Bushmen knock it out of the park again. Congrats lads. Now go buy this record.”

Top Track: “Let It Be Known”

Los Pepes – Positive Negative

“Not acquiring this album would not only be a mistake, but a betrayal of crucial judgment.  This record ought to be put on your turntable and blasted from start to finish with the help of some liquid courage inducing vibrancy.  If not for you, then do it for the neighbor’s sake.  To do anything less may deprive those in close proximity of a vital headache, or inspiration. After all, we need something wild and electric like Los Pepes “Positive Negative” for our bleeding ears and soul.”

Top Track: “We Need It”

5. Daddy Longlegs – Lowdown Ways

“Overall this record demonstrates certain level of wild brilliance and charm.  Daddy Long Legs boasts powerful pub rock n’ roll by invoking nods to the greats like Eddy and The Hot Rods, but really channel the living spirit of Dr. Feelgood during the Wilko Johnson years. This is evident by vocalist Brian Hurd’s rough, whiskey soaked voice and mannerisms that bring forth a fondness for the late rock n’ roll gentleman Lee Brillaux.”

Top Track: “Pink Lemonade”