The Daily Nebraskan gives Orphans "Album of the Year" honors!
The Daily Nebraskan published their "Top 6" albums of 2006, and Tom Waits' "Orphans: Brawlers, Bawlers & Bastards" took home the top honors. See the list of albums below:
1. Tom Waits - "Orphans: Brawlers, Bawlers and Bastards"
A three-CD set that does more than any greatest hits album could ever do for this incredibly versatile artist. The collection spans his career through rarities, covers, B-sides and a few new tracks dating back to the mid-1980s. The set includes ragged balladry, stripped-down blues and just plain bizarre tracks.
2. Damien Jurado - "And Now That I'm in Your Shadow"
This West Coast singer/songwriter's quiet and somber release is both vivid and articulate. Jurado's lyrics have never been this consistently beautiful until "Shadow."
3. M. Ward - "Post-War"
Matt Ward changes pace with his latest disc, trading his usual gentle sound for a more abrupt approach. "Post-War" demonstrates his ability to change and manipulate his sound, making him one of today's most innovative solo artists.
4. Medeski, Scofield, Martin and Wood - "Out Louder"
Jazz music continues to blossom and develop in the notes of this outstanding jazz trio. It's been 10 years since they last teamed up with jazz guitarist John Scofield, but they're back together on this year's best jazz disc.
5. Six Organs of Admittance - "The Sun Awakens"
Guitarist Ben Chasny blends folk, raga, psychedelic and blues sounds with distorted guitars and eerie vocals on "Sun." The production is incredible, giving all instruments and Chasny's every breath room to evolve and resonate.
6. Joanna Newsom - "Ys"
The latest from this classically trained harpist listens like an audio book with gorgeous imagery and magnificent melodies. Her voice is both shrill and tender as she leads us through the creative walls of her mind.
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