Year-End Report: Top 50 Albums of 2011 20-11

The Top 20 has finally arrived after a short intermission. I know that you have probably been dying with anticipation. These ten records include many psychedelic rock bands and singer/songwriters. Although 2011 wasn't a particularly good year for heavy music, some hardcore/metal bands did manage to stake a claim in the Top 20. Also, everyone's favorite band that set the bar too high for themselves. Read all about it and listen to some fantastic tunes after the jump.

Stream the New J Mascis B-side from the “Circle” Single

Sub Pop has released a stream of the soothing, moody new song “I’ve Been Thinking” from Dinosaur Jr. mastermind J Mascis. It is the B-side from the “Circle” 7” which will be issued on November 22. The A-side is an Edie Brickell & New Bohemians cover that has been a staple of Mascis’ live shows. It was also a Japanese bonus track on J's solo full-length, Several Shades of Why, one of the year’s best records. After the jump, you can stream the song and watch a performance of “Circle” courtesy of Pitchfork. I have also included the 1988 music video for the original song.

SXSW 2011 Recap: Day 4, March 18

Friday was up there with Wednesday in terms of sheer awesomeness. All of the prior day’s mistakes were rectified. I saw so many great bands that are just now beginning to make noise in 2011. It was also one of the days where I participated in everyone’s favorite SXSW pastime: drinking. Before hitting up the first set, my friend and I fueled up on some delicious Texas BBQ at Iron Works which I can now highly recommend. While eating, we were able to spot Billy Gibbons and Devin the Dude. You know it’s good BBQ when those guys show up.

SXSW 2011 Recap: Day 2, March 16

The second day of SXSW was much more enjoyable: I actually got sleep the night before; I was more prepared for how to get around; and I didn’t forget my camera. Not only was I in good spirits because of these things but it was also the day where I would see many of my most anticipated sets.

Out on the Farm

If you haven't heard the new Dinosaur Jr. album Farm, stop what you are doing and give it a listen. Don't worry if you have a very important report due this afternoon that your boss is all over you about. Listening to J. Mascis effortlessly blaze through scales on the guitar is much more important. The classic JLouMurph lineup is back with another timeless piece of grungy rock and they are taking it on the road. I can't stress enough how great their new album is and how amazed I am that they can retain the same energy that they had back in the 80s. They have solidified their position as the best aging rockers in music and the video for "Over It" also displays that they still know how to have fun as well. Below is the video, the tour dates, and standout track "I Want You to Know". Lou Barlow is doing double duty opening a number of these dates.