Submitted by Dan Ficker - inReview.net webmaster
1. Mute Math Mute Math
There's no doubt - much like 2006, Mute Math's full-length album was my most spun of 2007. Actually, most of 2006's list was also tops of 2007. But, hey, I can't feature the exact same list every year, so we're just gonna skip The Elms and Mat Kearney. These are all great, but there's no doubt that Mute Math is still #1 in my book.
2. Relient K Five Score and Seven Years Ago
Some folks didn't really care for the almost-emo feel of the Mmhmm record, and although I still love it, after a couple years of listening to songs about breaking up with your girlfriend, I want the old Relient K back. And back they are. Even more than ever there are tight harmonies, slightly silly songs, and songs with a great Christian message. The out-of-the-box storytelling of "Deathbed" also offers something completely new, which is a trademark of Relient K.
3. Muse Black Holes and Revelations
When I first got this two years ago, I didn't care for it because it seemed to be jumping on the 80's bandwagon. However, after a couple more listens (and a look at a couple brilliant music videos), I now love it. "Starlight" and "Supermassive Black Hole" make an amazing one-two punch, and "Knights of Cydonia" is an epic battle crammed into six minute of pure energy.
4. John Reuben Word of Mouth
To me, John Reuben is the everyman. Well, OK, if you don't think you're that odd, I'd back up and say that I identify with John Reuben maybe even more than any other artist. Also known as "Cool The Underdog", John raps about middle-class suburban life and life in Christ with all the sarcasm and lack of confidence that I feel on a day to day basis. Plus, John has the best music videos, hands down.
5. Over The Rhine Changes Come
Over the Rhine, also from Ohio like John Reuben, are an amazing band, and I'm constantly reminded that I need to buy their other albums. The albums I have, Ohio and Drunkard's Prayer, are both amazing, but are a bit slower and alt-country than almost all of my collection. That's why I love Changes Come, a great live album. The live band is more raw and gets time to rip out some guitar solos. I love the 9+ minute versions of "Lifelong Sunshine" and "When I Go," and the soaring closing title track.