For the Record - Most Anticipated Albums of 2011

There are no such things as “good” or “bad” years for music, only relatively good or bad years for music. 2011 is shaping up to be a relatively awesome year. In only four months we’ve seen new and exciting albums by Panda Bear, Radiohead, James Blake and Cut Copy, and the next eight months aren’t looking too shabby either. So to give you a preview of what’s on the horizon, I thought I’d share some of my most anticipated albums of 2011.



Wilco – Get Well Soon Everybody

There’s a common school of thought that, despite his hobo-like appearance, Jeff Tweedy is a demi-god. Wilco fans often cite the breezy pastoral sensibilities of Summerteeth and the breathtaking experimentation of Yankee Hotel Foxtrot as evidence of his divinity. Part alternative country, part experimental rock, the band’s sound is difficult to define, so it’s impossible to know what to expect from their new album due out in September. I guess the best you can do is expect it to blow your mind.

Lil Wayne – Tha Carter IV

Any normal artist as prolific as Lil Wayne would release a studio album every six months. But factor in the drug problems and jail stints, and you might have to wait a few years. After three years, Weezy is scheduled to drop the follow-up to 2008’s outstanding Tha Carter III later this year. Now we can only hope he keeps his promise to “be the same Martian [he] was when [he] left, just better.”

The Shins – TBA

Natalie Portman once famously claimed that The Shins will “change your life.” Whether or not that’s true, their brand of clean and thoughtful guitar pop has helped to define the indie rock sound of the 2000s. With three of the most critically acclaimed albums of the decade under their belt, this next album’s got some big shoes to fill, but frontman James Mercer is up to the task. In a recent interview, he described the new album as “sort of aggressive in a new wave way.” I don’t really know what that means, but I think I like it.

The Avalanches – TBA

It’s been over 10 years since the release of this Australian electro outfit’s groundbreaking, sample-heavy debut album, Since I Left You, and talk of a follow-up has been limited to hearsay ever since. But now it’s official: the new album is slated for release later this year, and although the album is still shrouded in mystery, the band has stated, “It’s so f****n’ party you will die.” Well, I’m excited.

My Morning Jacket – Circuital

Over the past twelve years, My Morning Jacket’s home-brewed, psychedelic roots rock sound has always managed to stay fresh and current. Every album feels strangely unique and familiar, experimental and comfortable. Circuital, recorded in the band’s hometown of Louisville, Ken., already boasts its first single of the same name. A slowly evolving dance between ethereal hums, chugging drums and some mean guitar solos, “Circuital” bodes well for the full-length MMJ release later this month.

Outkast – TBA

Surprise! Outkast has appeared on every “Most Anticipated Albums of the Year” list since 2006, and yet the new album never seems to materialize. 2011 might finally be the year. Pending the success of their solo projects (Big Boi’s was very successful, and Andre 3000’s is on the way), the Atlanta duo promised to begin work on a new album. Judging by Big Boi’s recent display of honed craftsmanship, this will be one of the best hip-hop albums of the year.