Embark on a musical journey as Ratboys, the talented band known for their unique sound, shares their favorite albums of 2023. From the enchanting melodies of Parannoul to the heartfelt lyrics of Sufjan Stevens, this list is a testament to the diverse and captivating music that has graced our ears this year. Join us as we explore the sounds that have left a lasting impact on Ratboys and music enthusiasts alike.
Parannoul – After the Magic: A Fresh and Deliberate Sound
Discover the enchanting sound and texture of Parannoul's album 'After the Magic' as Ratboys' guitarist, Dave Sagan, shares his admiration for this record.
Parannoul's 'After the Magic' album takes listeners on a journey reminiscent of teenage years filled with word-of-mouth musical discovery. Dave Sagan, Ratboys' guitarist, describes the overall sound as fresh and captivating, evoking memories of the first time he listened to iconic albums like Death Cab's 'Transatlanticism' and Aphex Twin's 'Drukqs'.
The combination of auto-generated and tenderly deliberated sounds creates a unique listening experience that showcases Parannoul's talent. With every track, this album leaves a lasting impression, making it a must-listen for music enthusiasts seeking fresh and innovative sounds.
Cobra Man – New Paradise I: An Infectiously Catchy EP
Join Ratboys' guitarist, Dave Sagan, as he introduces Cobra Man's EP 'New Paradise I' and highlights its catchy and epic qualities.
Cobra Man's 'New Paradise I' EP is a hidden gem that deserves recognition. According to Dave Sagan, this EP is perfect for setting the mood while cleaning up the house for a party or simply enjoying a night of infectious tunes.
The EP's catchy melodies and epic vibes create an irresistible combination that will have you hitting the repeat button. It's a testament to Cobra Man's ability to deliver music that is both captivating and undeniably cool.
Cory Hanson – Western Cum: A Sonic Landscape of Desert Expanse
Explore the sonic landscape of Cory Hanson's album 'Western Cum' as Ratboys' drummer, Marcus Nuccio, shares his admiration for the expansive guitars and captivating riffs.
Cory Hanson's 'Western Cum' album immerses listeners in a sonic landscape that mirrors the vastness of the desert. Marcus Nuccio, Ratboys' drummer, expresses his love for the album's huge and all-encompassing guitars, which create an atmospheric experience.
The captivating riffs in 'Western Cum' have a mesmerizing quality that leaves you wanting to hear them repeat forever. It's a testament to Cory Hanson's ability to create music that transports you to another world, evoking a sense of awe and wonder.
Hotline TNT – Cartwheel: Crunchy and Melodic
Join Ratboys' drummer, Marcus Nuccio, as he introduces Hotline TNT's album 'Cartwheel' and highlights its perfect blend of crunchiness and melodic sweetness.
Hotline TNT's album 'Cartwheel' combines the best elements of two beloved bands, Yuck and Ovlov, to create a unique and captivating sound. Marcus Nuccio describes the record as exquisitely crunchy and redlined, while still maintaining a melodic and sweet quality.
The waning days of fall are the perfect backdrop for immersing yourself in the music of 'Cartwheel.' Its energy and charm make it an ideal companion for embracing the changing seasons and enjoying the beauty of the world around us.
Geese – 3D Country: A Psychedelically Apocalyptic Experience
Discover the unconventional and unhinged sound of Geese's album '3D Country' as Ratboys' drummer, Marcus Nuccio, shares his love for the band's unique vocal stylings and apocalyptic rhythm section.
Geese's album '3D Country' defies conventions and embraces a truly weird and apocalyptic sound. Marcus Nuccio expresses his admiration for the band's unhinged vocal stylings and the locked-in rhythm section that creates a vision-quest-like experience.
The songs in '3D Country' take listeners on a psychedelic journey, where the unconventional becomes the norm. It's a testament to Geese's ability to push boundaries and create music that challenges expectations.
Sufjan Stevens – Javelin: A Testament to Honest and Intimate Songwriting
Join Ratboys' vocalist and guitarist, Julia Steiner, as she explores Sufjan Stevens' album 'Javelin' and highlights his capacity for honesty, empathy, and nostalgia.
Sufjan Stevens has long been a favorite songwriter, and his album 'Javelin' solidifies his position at the top. Julia Steiner, Ratboys' vocalist and guitarist, expresses her admiration for Sufjan's ability to evoke honesty, empathy, and nostalgia through his music.
'Javelin' showcases Sufjan's talent for creating intimate and introspective songs that resonate deeply with listeners. It's a testament to his ability to capture the essence of human emotions and inspire us to be more present in our daily lives.
Youth Lagoon – Heaven Is a Junkyard: A Warm and Reassuring Album
Discover the comforting and warm sounds of Youth Lagoon's album 'Heaven Is a Junkyard' as Ratboys' vocalist and guitarist, Julia Steiner, shares her love for the Fender Rhodes piano, bass drum, and soothing vocal harmonies.
Youth Lagoon's album 'Heaven Is a Junkyard' has quickly become a favorite for Ratboys' vocalist and guitarist, Julia Steiner. She describes the album as an old friend, with its warmth and comforting sounds.
The Fender Rhodes piano, bass drum, and soothing vocal harmonies create a sense of familiarity and reassurance. 'Heaven Is a Junkyard' is the perfect companion for moments when you seek solace and a reminder that everything will be alright.
Palehound – Independence Day: A Breakup Album Filled with Fun
Join Ratboys' vocalist and guitarist, Julia Steiner, as she introduces Palehound's album 'Independence Day' and highlights its unique blend of breakup themes and enjoyable melodies.
'Independence Day' by Palehound is a breakup album like no other. Julia Steiner expresses her love for this record, which manages to be both fun and emotionally charged.
The album's concentration of great hooks, clever lyrics, and cool production choices is off the charts. From start to finish, 'Independence Day' captivates listeners with its infectious energy and leaves a lasting impression.
Gia Margaret – Romantic Piano: A Conversational and Observant Album
Explore Gia Margaret's album 'Romantic Piano' as Ratboys' bassist, Sean Neumann, highlights the artist's transformation into a mediator and the observant storytelling within the songs.
Gia Margaret's album 'Romantic Piano' stands out for its conversational and observant nature. Sean Neumann, Ratboys' bassist, shares his admiration for Gia's ability to use the environment around her to tell stories in the most observant of ways.
'Romantic Piano' immerses listeners in a world where nature and human experiences intertwine. From the choirs of cicadas to the familiar sounds of footsteps, Gia Margaret captures the power of small moments in shaping who we become.
Feist – Multitudes: An Ascension of Confrontational Honesty
Join Ratboys' bassist, Sean Neumann, as he introduces Feist's album 'Multitudes' and highlights the artist's captivating and confrontational approach to music.
Feist's album 'Multitudes' showcases the artist's ability to captivate listeners with her confrontational and honest approach. Sean Neumann describes the record as liberating and powerful, with Feist fully embracing every tool in the toolbox to rock your head off.
'Multitudes' is a testament to Feist's artistry and her ability to create music that is both compelling and credible. It's a must-listen for anyone seeking an immersive and captivating musical experience.
