As 2010 comes to an end, we are taking a look back at some of our favorite posts of the year by our guest editors.
Like most bands, the Whigs—guitarist/vocalist Parker Gispert, drummer Julian Dorio and bassist Tim Deaux—have had to endure their fair share of rough patches during their eight-year existence, including major-label troubles and lineup changes, but perhaps these bumps in the road were merely the stars aligning for the Athens, Ga., trio. The label issues prompted them to record and release their debut album, 2005’s Give ‘Em All A Big Fat Lip independently, earning them the title of “the best unsigned band in America” from Rolling Stone. It wasn’t long before they were signed to ATO Records—which issued the band’s critically acclaimed second release, Mission Control, in 2008—and playing high-profile shows at festivals and late-night talk shows and touring with some really famous names. New album In The Dark is the Whigs’ grittiest and most explosive album yet. Ever the kings of the road, the Whigs are currently on tour in support of the release, but they’ll also be guest-editing magnetmagazine.com all week. Read our brand new Q&A with the Whigs and our 2008 feature on them.
Dorio:
1. Trances Arc
Killer, no-frills rock ‘n’ roll band from Atlanta, Ga., that is putting out their best record yet, TA. Buy this album! And listen to “Boom City.” Thank you. Video
2. Jonny Corndawg
A legend in the making, a true American hero. I vote Jonny Corndawg for everything. His new album is out soon. Video
3. Drive-By Truckers
Engineers of pure, unapologetic rock ‘n’ roll. Their new album, The Big To-Do, is out now. Video
4. MGMT
Listening to this album makes me feel like I am riding a dolphin through a sea of jelly beans. It is called Congratulations and is out April 13. Video
5. We Are Scientists
I had the pleasure of hearing their new album, Barbara, and it’s awesome! I can’t wait to steal all their good ideas. Until it comes out this June, keep your ear to the ground for their secret arena tour. Video
6. The Dead Trees
One of our favorite tourmates. We really enjoyed the new songs we heard on the road. Look for their second album, out this year. Video
7. Cass McCombs
I can’t stop listening to Cass McComb’s four albums. I hear another is in the works, and I am sure it will be great. Video
8. Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Theirs is a 2009 release, but I just got a hold of it recently. Hoping to see them live soon. Great album! Video
9. Band Of Skulls
I was blown away by this band the first time we played together. Amazing! I am so excited that we’re touring with them. This is another 2009 release, but it’s still good in 2010, 2011, 2012 … Video
10. Dead Confederate
One of Athens, Ga.’s finest rock ‘n’ roll bands. I am looking forward to their second album this summer and a new song I am already obsessed with. Video
11. Wax Fang
A force to be reckoned with. One our favorite bands to tour with, but I hate playing after them. It’s humiliating. I’m hoping for a new album from them this year, but in the meantime, check out their debut, La La Land. Video
