This Will Destroy You - “Young Mountain” (Magic Bullet)

Working at a record store, you’re exposed to so much day-in and day-out that it’s easy to become jaded on new music, especially when what was fresh and new only a few months prior becomes the new black and yet another subgenre becomes oversaturated. For a while there I was burnt out on the whole ‘post-rock’ thing (mostly because 90% of those in the genre have an ‘also-ran’ vibe). Then something like this comes out and knocks some sense back into a sometimes lazy genre. Somewhere between favorites Explosions in the Sky and relative unknowns God is an Astronaut lie This Will Destroy You, with their influenced, yet original take on the whole instrumental thang.

Comets on Fire - “Avatar” (Sub Pop)

At first listen, you’re almost taken aback at how…well…relaxed this album sounds in comparison to their last one. Then a minute later you realize that it’s not a bad thing after all. You can tell this one’s taken some influence from the Colossal Yes side project their drummer released this year, which I think makes the album even more well-rounded and awesome. After all, the world already has enough bands in it that are more than happy to release the same album over and over again, and not only is this different, but it’s great to boot.

Boris - “Pink” (Southern Lord)

Last year’s “Akuma No Uta” hinted at another side of Boris: the side that just wanted to rock the fuck out. This time around, there aren’t just a handful of songs like that, but instead, most of the album is balls-out rock ‘n’ roll. There’s still the droney track or two (which are still great) but most of the time is spent rockin’ it the hell out.

Final Fantasy - “He Poos Clouds” (Tomlab)

I’m a walking contradiction. I think Sufjan Stevens and Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) are two of the biggiest pussies indie rock has ever produced, yet here I am digging a strings-laden concept album about Dungeons & Dragons. I can’t begin to explain why I like this, so don’t ask. It’s just such a happy album, albeit one with lyrics like “his massive genitals refuse to cooperate/no amount of therapy can hope to save his marriage,” that make you go “what the fuck?” out loud.

Edguy - “Rocket Ride” (Nuclear Blast)

Yeah, yeah, shut up. I know these guys are “cheesy” and that some folks call them “Edgay” just because they aren’t all that serious, don’t wear corpsepaint and don’t have their name written in some thorny-looking font, but I don’t care. These guys make some downright fun metal that harkens back to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal while adding power metal elements. If you’re not smiling and wanting to sing along by the time the titular track hits its chorus, then you should probably lighten up a little.

Zombi - “Surface to Air” (Relapse)

If I ever make a horror movie, I know exactly who I’m calling first to score it. Zombi have single-handedly made prog-rock cool again (that is, it could be argued, if it ever was in the first place). Goblin would be most proud.

Gossip - “Standing in the Way of Control” (Kill Rock Stars)

The Gossip finally made a great album. I sort of liked their earlier albums, but on this one it all sort of came together (note to every guitar/drums only band: while the bass isn’t necessary, it can only ADD to your sound). Beth Ditto is once again in top form as the reigning queen of rock ‘n’ roll vocals and the music is rounded out by the addition of some great bass playing and the addition of a dance/disco layer to their already-mastered blues/soul/rock ‘n’ roll abilities.

Wizardzz - “Hidden City of Taurmond” (Load)

Who knew the bass maestro from Lightning Bolt could beat the living shit out of a drum set too? Well he can, and does so with authority on tracks like “Whispers From Wallface.” If you ever played the NES on acid, (which I sadly haven’t) I’m convinced this is what it would sound like. Also check out his animation project “Barkley’s Barnyard Critters,” which is as awesome as it is absurd.

Acid Mothers Temple & the Melting Paraiso U.F.O. - “Have You Seen the Other Side of the Sky?” (Ace Fu)

AMT is hands-down the best live band I’ve seen in 2006 (so far), and their new album is a fine addition to their already-massive catalog. Trippy acid-folk ballads nestled in-between full-blown psychedelic freakouts best served with bloodshot eyes and a runny nose.