As in previous years, let’s sum up last year with some near meaningless awards that show little change:
- Best album of 2007 - There’s a fair bit of competition here, mostly niche rock stuff. Although there were solid showings from Fighting with Wire, Biffy Clyro and Reuben, I think the album I’ve listened to (and had stuck in my head) most is the lo-fi noise of “Curses” by Future of the Left. It’s not going to find a big following, but the people it finds will be infected with the sharp vocal hooks throughout. A classic.
- Bravest album of 2007 - While it falters in the opening track and the later track about middleweight boxing in the ’80’s, JetPlane Landing’s latest offering, “Backlash Cop”, proves to be a unique masterpiece. Leaving the tight rock of their second album behind, the boys from Derry have done what no-one expected of them: a rap-blues-funk concept album about jazz and blues legends. It absolutely should not work, but track after track deliver strong beats, lyrics and tight rhythm.
- Best new band - no-one. I didn’t really get into any new bands this year that I can think of. If you want some new stuff, I can recommend most people on Captains of Industry. My own fault for focussing on bands I already had.
- Best Use of William Fichtner - The man, the legend. His appearances are growing increasingly rare but he shone as Agent Alexander Mahone, the man sent after the escapees in Prison Break, season 2.
- Best Book I read this year - Although I don’t have too much to pick from, I think “Post Office” by Charles Buchowski is my favourite. A great read.
A lot of similarities with the 2006 awards then, but that’s no great surprise. 2007 seemed like a year for things coming together rather than upheaval. We shall see what 2008 holds.