Instead of another boring list I thought this might be interesting. What album or albums surprised you the most this year? Maybe you liked something you hadn't expected, or were totally disappointed by something you hoped would be great.

I was really surprised by the Laurie Spiegel Expanding Universe reissue. I really didn't know much of anything about her, and I would have assumed her music to be more academic and difficult. This album was definitely a pleasant surprise for me.

Biggest negative surprise (probably shouldn't have been one): how weak the sophomore Marina and the Diamonds album was. Biggest pleasant surprise: falling completely in love with Max Richter's music.

If you like Richter, also check out Johan Johannsson.
johannjohannsson.com

I was pretty surprised by how much I liked Dr. Dog's "Be the Void". They've been around for years and years and aside from hearing a few tracks on mixes I've never been really into them. I think BTV is their seventh record and it's probably my favourite of the year. Saw them at a festival in Louisville in the summer and their vibe is great in person too.

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