2018 has been an interesting year. It’s one that shall henceforth be referred to as the, “Year of the Seriously WTF?” because every week brought us something we never thought would or could happen. Thank goodness for the sweet escape of great music, right? Here’s what got me through this bizarro year:
I’ll leave the year-in-review stuff to others but when it comes to music, that is something I can confidently comment on. Here are some of my favorites:
The Tillers: The Tillers
The Tillers in my opinion are the OG Americana band in Cincinnati. Every single show, video, album they do is perfection. Plus, they are just the nicest guys on the planet.
“The Tillers for many years now have put out some great records. Each one has shown growth from the personal to the musician. For every song is a little autobiographical in some way, I believe. With that belief these records show a band that started as a trio, shot a video on pickup truck, had Tom Brokaw visit while he did a documentary on Route 50, and with the passing of their friend still carry on and are now a foursome. Through all of this we get to hear it in the records. Lives on the road and people’s couches, coast to coast, and overseas and back again for the joy of song and sharing that with everyone they meet.” – Moose Gronholm (CincyMusic)
The Pistol Mystics – Ammunition
The Pistol Mystics surprised all of us with their debut EP this year. Ammunitionis powerful, well-produced, and just damn good. Proof is in the pudding as they won a Cincinnati Entertainment Award this year for Best Punk Band. Go give a listen to “All Wound Up.”
Ampline - Passion Relapse
We were waiting a long time for this album and it was well worth the wait. Ampline is a staple band in Cincinnati and we are proud of it. A favorite from the LP is the title track, “Passion Relapse.”
Telehope - Hello to the Now
Take my word for it, Telehope is going places. I can see them being the next Walk the Moon. I do believe that Telehope is one of the most hard-working bands in Cincinnati. My favorite from the album is, “Younger.” Also check out the video for, “Have My Heart.”
Automagik – Goldmine
The recently released Goldmineby one of our favorite bands, Automagik has been a magical Christmas surprise. The album was pressed and released by Soul Step Records and the wax mage variant sold out in 45 seconds! WHAT?! Get hip if you are already not. My favorite is, “Stop Drop Dance.”
Brandie Carlile – By the Way, I Forgive You
I just can’t stop listening to this album. As many times as I listen to it, I still get taken away. My favorite review of a show this year was of her at the Taft Theatre. I am a mom so of course, my favorite is, “The Mother.”
Beth Hart – Live at The Royal Albert Hall
I adore a live album. Especially from such a force as Beth Hart. If you ever get a chance to see her live, do it. But until so, listen to this album. “Leave The Light On” is my favorite.
Post Malone – Beerbongs & Bentleys
Why do I love Post? First of all, “Rockstar ft. 21 Savage” is catchy as hell. Plus, Post was so great live at Bunbury Music Festival. Also, I just want to go to Olive Garden with him.
Dave Matthews Band –Come Tomorrow
Those of you who know me, know that I LOVE DMB. However, I am going to come clean. I do NOT like studio DMB albums. I am that music snob who only likes Dave live – preferably Dave and Tim solo. But I enjoyed this album. My favorite is, “Here On Out.”
