Floating World by Anathallo

Pros: Masterful blend of spiritual themes, Japanese poetry, colorful instruments and sounds.
Cons: Changes pace a little too suddenly at times; occasional patience-testing atonal segments.

When I make my annual Top 10 lists chronicling the best music I discovered during a given year, I really should add a new category: "Best Album that I'm Now Slapping Myself in the Forehead for Not Investigating Sooner, Despite It Being Recommended to Me ...

Pros: Excellent muscianship, poetic lyrics, outstanding vocal work, the band shifts moods effortlessly mid-song
Cons: None for me, but some people might not be as interested by the longer tracks.

Adam Laclave, lead singer of Macrosick, made a list recently of bands who are so good they make him want to just give up music. For me, Anathallo is one of those bands. The level of musicianship on this album makes for a listening experience that ...