Featured Music Story

Featured Music Story

Rock ‘n’ Roll, class of 2001

Local Albums

Erin Anderson
Kid Dakota, So Pretty (Independent)
Work of Saws, Motivation and Watertower Grammar (Thick Furniture): With 44 mini-tracks on this astonishing album spanning just about every known genre from tap dance-worthy cabaret tunes to beautiful acoustic instrumentals, Work of Saws wouldn’t have needed to record again until 2011 or so, if they had just added another verse-chorus-verse to every piece. Instead, they held each song to its most compelling musical idea—sort of like cutting the heart out of a dozen watermelons and tossing the remainder—resulting in an entire album of supremely sweet and juicy little “songlets” that, by their very nature, leave you hungry for more. (Recommended for people with ADD.)
Houston, Head Like a Road Map (Independent)
Atmosphere, Lucy Ford: The Atmosphere EPs (Rhymesayers Entertainment)
Melismatics, Postmodern Rock (Hygh Tension)

Dan Cote
The Hidden Chord, Abegail Vongetti (Blood of the Young): Most of Hidden Chord’s fans seem to be other musicians. They’ve been largely ignored locally throughout their three-year existence, despite being one of the most adventurous and evolutionary rock bands around. Abegail Vongetti is a concept record based on a piece of fiction written by Hidden Chord singer/guitarist Knol Tate. It’s also a blast of hook-laden post-punk, calling on influences ranging from the Kinks to Wire.
Kid Dakota, So Pretty (Independent)
The Crush, Tonight Will Ruin Tomorrow (Blood of the Young)
Low, Things We Lost in the Fire (Kranky)
Atmosphere, Lucy Ford: The Atmosphere EPs (Rhymesayers Entertainment)
Paul D. Dickinson
Busy Signals, Pretend Hits (Sugar Free Records)
Sean Na Na, His Majesty (Frenchkiss)
Edupoetic Enterbrainment, Live (Independent)
Sonicads, 11 (Rad Cad)
Maphead, Smool (Independent)

Donny Doane
Kid Dakota, So Pretty (Independent)
Rank Strangers, Rank Strangers (Veto)
Blume, Low Glider, Bus Rider (Artyzal)
Bill Dankert and the REAL Austinaires, The Vanishing Head (Veto)
The Dames, The Dames (Angry Seed): Eschewing the hideous sameness most metal bands exhibit these days, the Dames rock a spine-throttling, swinging cadence.

Jody Fox
Stuart Davis, Stuart Davis (Post Apocalyptic Records)
Happy Apple, Please Refrain From Fronting (H.A. music)
Alva Star, Alligators in the Lobby (Parachute Adams)
Quillan Roe, ... These First Few Months (OBT)
Iffy, Biota Bondo (WEA)

Tom Hallett
Ol’ Yeller, Ol’ Yeller (Independent)
Tulip Sweet, Cry (Independent)
The Rakes, Wood and Wire (Independent)
Jonas, Vodka Fondu House (My Spleen!): A while back, I made a mix tape for my pal, New West Records VP Peter Jesperson, who lives out in L.A. these days. I filled it with what I thought was the best in local music for him to catch up on, and was thrilled to hear from him a few days later. He was so awestruck by Jonas’ dream-pop masterpiece, “Jugamuga,” from VFH, he actually had to rewind it several times in his car deck as he raced to work one morning. So why it isn’t all over local radio and why I can’t choose Sarah Khan & Co.’s killer debut as one of my favorite national releases this year is beyond me. I should be working for the record company. Wait, no, I still kinda like what’s left of my soul ...
Martin Devaney, Whatever that Is (Independent)

Brett Johnson
Align, Some Breaking News (33rd Street): This album makes me feel like I’m 16 again, going to the 7th St. Entry on Sunday afternoons to catch the all-ages punk/hardcore shows. You might consider Align post-hardcore, but they affect me in much the same way as the Descendants. Some Breaking News flat-out hits me in the soul and reminds me I’m alive.
Houston, Head Like a Roadmap (Independent)
Cold Cranking Amps, Evil Red Light (Independent)
Redoverlunar, Theo’s Revenge (Blue Worm Records)
Attention, Attention (Independent)

Tom Loftus
Low, Things We Lost in the Fire (Kranky): This year I slowed down and at last discovered the genius of Low. Things We Lost in the Fire is the first Low record to which I’ve given a real full listen, and once I started I couldn’t stop.
Volante, 45 Degrees North (Modern Radio/Guilt Ridden Pop)
Sicbay, The Firelit S’Coughs (Obtuse Mule)
Sweet J.A.P./The Red, Split 7" (Nice and Neat)
Church of Gravitron, Divorce Tape (Unread Records)

Mark Trehus
Curtiss A., Blue Music (demo): If this guy ever found a producer that he’d listen to, he could make the greatest rock ’n’ roll record of the new millennium.
Low, Things We Lost in the Fire (Kranky)
Selby Tigers, Charm City (Hopeless)
Curtiss A., At Slim’s Place (demo)
Suicide Commandos, Commit Suicide Dance Concert (Garage D’Or Reissue)

Erik M. Westra
Atmosphere, Lucy Ford: The Atmosphere EPs (Rhymesayers)
Poor Line Condition, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful (Independent): Though it’s just a single track, “Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful” might be the most beautiful and infectious four-and-a-half minutes put on disc in 2001. If the point was to leave us wanting—nay, needing—more, congratulations men, you have succeeded.
Right Quick, Right Quick EP (Independent)
Valet, The Glamour is Contagious (Independent)
The Midnight Evils, The Midnight Evils (Dart Records)

National Albums
A look at what students from rival schools have been up to ...

Erin Anderson
Rufus Wainwright, Poses (DreamWorks)
The Faint, Danse Macabre (Saddle Creek)
Jimmy Eat World, Bleed American (DreamWorks)
System of a Down, Toxicity (American): When was the last time you heard a group of metalheads weaving Eastern European folk ditties into their disjointed, spastically heavy sound? That’s what I thought. Not only have System of a Down managed to imbue commercial metal with the social consciousness it so desperately needs right now, they’ve also managed to honor their Armenian roots. Before long, every kid rockin’ out on the guitar in his or her garage will be begging mom and dad for a balalaika. Hey!
The Black Halos, The Violent Years (Sub Pop)

Dan Cote
Fugazi, The Argument (Dischord): Incredible how after 15 years Fugazi continue to improve, each album more amazing than its predecessor. The Argument may be their best album yet, and for a band that has never released a mediocre record in their career, that’s pretty impressive.
Spoon, Girls Can Tell (Merge)
Sparklehorse, It’s a Wonderful Life (Capitol)
Les Savy Fav, Go Forth (Frenchkiss)
The Strokes, Is This It (RCA)

Paul D. Dickinson
Corrosion of Conformity, Live Volume (BMG/Sanctuary)
Eve, Scorpion (Interscope): A merciless female rapper on a ninja motorcycle … What else is there?
Stephen Malkmus, Stephen Malkmus (Matador)
Jay Z, Blueprint (Def Jam)
Slipknot, Iowa (Roadrunner)

Donny Doane
Lou Rawls, Natural Man, Classic Lou (Polydor): This retrospective was culled from Rawls’ ’71-’73 period and mainly from his first three full-length releases; Natural Man, Silk and Soul and A Man of Value. With his classic cat-ate-the-canary, smooth-yet-smartass delivery, these tunes sound as fresh as they did when they were first recorded.
Slayer, God Hates Us All (American)
Jay Farrar, Sebastopol (Artemis)
Brassy, Got it Made (Wiiija)
Spanic Boys, Torture (Checkered Past)

Jody Fox
Gordon Downie, Coke Machine Glow (Zoe)
Ike Reilly, Salesmen and Racists (Universal)
Pete Yorn, Musicforthemorningafter (Columbia)
Joe Henry, Scar (Mammoth)
Chris Whitley, Rocket House (ATO)

Tom Hallett
Bob Dylan, Love and Theft (Sony/Columbia)
Jay Farrar, Sebastopol (Artemis)
Lucinda Williams, Essence (Lost Highway)
Ryan Adams, Gold (Lost Highway)
Joe Henry, Scar (Mammoth): Joe reinvents himself on nearly every album he releases. Granted, he’s been heading towards the electrified neo-jazz groove he rides so comfortably on Scar for a few albums now, but I think he really hit his personal mark on this record. From the sublime, dark (and timely) atmosphere of “Richard Pryor Addresses a Tearful Nation,” with its rich, soul-soothing Ornette Coleman-supplied riffage, to the melancholy, surrender-of-the-heart bump of “Mean Flower,” Scar is truly an artistic triumph for Henry and one helluva treat for his fans.

Peter Jesperson
Bob Dylan, Love and Theft (Sony/Columbia)
Vic Chesnutt, Left to His Own Devices (spinART)
Rufus Wainwright, Poses (DreamWorks): Unquestionably the best vocals on record all year. Rufus is a real “singer” in the classic sense (ya know, Crosby, Cooke, McCartney, Nilsson, Wilson). Sophisticated melodies beyond what almost anyone else in popular music is doing, or maybe more to the point, beyond what almost anyone else in popular music is capable of. If he keeps up this overall standard of practically inhuman quality for a few more records, he’ll be one of the greatest artists of all time.
Jack Logan, Monkey Paw (Backburner)
Mark Eitzel, The Invisible Man (Matador)

Brett Johnson
Rival Schools, United by Fate (UNI/Island): I’ve followed Walter Shreifel’s trail of bands since the ’80s (Youth of Today, Gorilla Biscuits, Quicksand, World’s Fastest Car, etc.), and, as I had expected, Rival Schools’ debut landed at the top of my favorites list. It powerfully combines aspects of emo, indie rock and post-hardcore ... it’s an incredible album.
Shiner, The Egg (DeSoto)
Tomahawk, Tomahawk (Ipecac)
“Hedwig & The Angry Inch” Soundtrack (WEA/London/Sire)
Slayer, God Hates Us All (American)

Tom Loftus
Le Tigre, Feminist Sweepstakes (Mr. Lady)
Fugazi, The Argument (Dischord): Fugazi have been around since 1987, and most bands with a career exceeding 10 years tend to put out at least one bad record. Instead, Fugazi rewrite the rules and put out yet another spectacular record, begging the question: Can they do no wrong?
Mirah, Small Sale 7” (Modern Radio)
The Microphones, The Glow Pt. 2 (K)
Ted Leo, The Tyranny of Distance (Lookout!)

Amanda Luker
Born Dead Icons, Salvation on the Knees (Partners in Crime)
Harum Scarum, Suppose We Try (Hex)
The Ex, Dizzy Spells (Touch & Go)
Watercloset, Again & Again (Rugger Bugger)
Limp Wrist, Limp Wrist (Lengua Armada): I think this all-queer, straight-edge hardcore supergroup say it best on their lyric booklet: “Sounds like a bunch of horny teenagers who grew up on a strict diet of the Fix and the Honcho magazines that they found in the bushes behind the gas station.” But seeing as how they’re fronted by Los Crudos’ Martin and feature members of Rambo, Kill the Man Who Questions and Books Lies, it’s clear Limp Wrist don’t exist on ballsy bravado alone. Leave it to these guys to push the boundaries of the notoriously macho, straight-boy, apolitical hardcore world with raucous tunes like “Limp Wrist vs. Dr. Laura,” “Bandannas and Hankie” and “I Love Hard-Core Boys/ I Love Boys, Hard-Core!”

Jim Meyer
De La Soul, AOI: Bionix (Tommy Boy)
John Mayer, Room for Squares (Aware/Columbia)
Craig David, Born to Do It (Wildstar/Atlantic)
Nor-Tec Collective, Tijuana Sessions Volume 1 (Mil/Palm Pictures)
Rosario Giuliani Quartet, Luggage (Dreyfus Jazz)

Jesse Schleusner
The Ramones, Reissues of Ramones, Road to Ruin, Leave Home and Rocket to Russia (Warner Archives/Rhino): Classic records, now available with bonus material for a new generation. Essential!
Rocket From the Crypt, Group Sounds (Vagrant)
The Black Halos, The Violent Years (Sub Pop)
Strike Anywhere, Change is a Sound (Jade Tree)
X, Los Angeles (Slash/Rhino Reissue)

Celeste Tabora
The Faint, Danse Macabre (Saddle Creek)
The Strokes, Is This It (RCA)
Björk, Vespertine (Elektra)
Pinback, Blue Screen Life (Ace Fu)
Poor Rich Ones, Happy Happy Happy (Rec 90/Five One, Inc.): Dubbed “the underground Radiohead,” Poor Rich Ones’ Mark Trombino-produced Happy Happy Happy boasts some luxurious textures, and offers a listener ear candy from the first second of the first song to the sweet, sweet end.

Mark Trehus
Charley Patton, Screamin’ & Hollerin’ The Blues (Revenant 7-CD boxed set): An amazingly lavish and lovingly-packaged tribute to one of the most important figures in American popular music history.
Bob Dylan, Love and Theft (Columbia)
The Strokes, Is This It (Import) (Rough Trade)
No-Neck Blues Band, Sticks and Stones May Break My Bones But Names Will Never Hurt Me (Revenant)
Parson Sound, Parson Sound (Swedish Subliminal Sounds)

Bill Tuomala
The White Stripes, White Blood Cells (Sympathy for the Record Industry): I was broke. Some sweet slicker grabbed my rock ’n’ roll trading cards—took the Zep, Neil Young, Sabbath and Eddie Cochran doubles and shuffled them. “Play me,” he asked. “Why?” I wondered. “I’m from Detroit,” he smiled. “Deal me,” I shot back. I gambled all night long.
Bob Dylan, Love and Theft (Sony/Columbia)
Ike reilly, Salesmen and Racists (Universal)
Kid Rock, Cocky (Atlantic)
Weezer, Weezer (Geffen)

Rob van Alstyne
My Morning Jacket, At Dawn (Darla)
Chris Lee, Plays and Sings Torch’d Songs, Charivari Hymns and Oriki Blue (Smells Like Records): The sophomore outing from NYC’s Lee is a beautiful burst of soulful rock unheard since the passing of Jeff Buckley. Plays and Sings jumps from acoustic ballads to horn-fueled pop without batting an eye, and Lee’s voice is arguably the most dynamic currently operating in independent rock.
Beulah, The Coast is Never Clear (Velocette)
For Stars, We Are All Beautiful People (Future Farmer)
The Trouble With Sweeney, Dear Life (Burnt Toast Vinyl)

Erik M. Westra
Fugazi, The Argument (Dischord): In Jem Cohen’s documentary film “Instrument,” Fugazi member Guy Picciotto explains, “I want the sound to always be moving forward. When anything starts getting static, I get uncomfortable.” The Argument is his statement in a tangible musical form; another fresh step forward in Fugazi’s already brilliant career.
Jim O’Rourke, Insignificance (Drag City)
Björk, Vespertine (Elektra)
Dismemberment Plan, Change (DeSoto)
Ted Leo, The Tyrrany of Distance (Lookout)

Best Rock ’n’ Roll Moments
Who & what rocked our world in 2001!

Erin Anderson
Oddjobs backed w/Heiruspecs @ Bryant-Lake Bowl, Aug. 17: Numerous technical difficulties made this entire show a crapshoot for Central High alums Oddjobs and Heiruspecs, who always manage to rock the most insanely groovy hip-hop and funk you’ll hear around town—or anywhere, for that matter. But watching the Oddjobs crew turn a “sorry guys, no power onstage” moment into an impromptu “Unplugged”-worthy spoken-word performance that brought the house down, proved there’s no stopping these young artists. Bring on the floods and plagues!

American Head Charge @ First Ave., Aug. 25
Sigur Ros @ Women’s Club Theater, Sept. 28
Iggy Pop @ First Ave., May 16
A Perfect Circle @ Roy Wilkins Auditorium, March 31

Dan Cote
Le Tigre @ Loring Park, Aug. 14: This is the show I’ll be telling my grandchildren about. The ability to please musically while inspiring politically is perhaps the most ambitious task a band can attempt to tackle, but from the neighborhood children dancing with the band to the posse in front of the stage screaming along to the powerful anti-police brutality anthem “Bang! Bang!,” this was more than just a rock show. It was history in the making.

Paul D. Dickinson
Tulip Sweet and her Trail of Tears @ the Turf Club, Dec.: Some creatures tend to be more dangerous in their own familiar habitat. Propelled by the fury of a full band, Ms. Tulip sang a song with a duffel bag over her head while banging it against the wall—a gesture strangely soothing to my soul. Tulip dares to express what most people are afraid to murmur even in their deepest, darkest dreams.
Scotty G. @ Gallery Shmallery, Aug.: Scotty’s band, DJ and backup singers help make his act unforgettable. An excellent show—this rapper/guitarist is lightyears ahead of the pack. Also, the new Gallery Shmallery, located in Nordeast, is extremely cool.

Donny Doane
Bob Stinson Bench and Birthday Bash, @ the Turf Club, Dec. 15
Rank Strangers, Grickle Grass, Choplogic Triple CD Release Party, @ the Turf Club, Nov. 9
Kid Dakota, 770 K’s Listener Appreciation Night @ the Turf Club, Feb.
Howlin’ Andy Hound/Flim Flam Man @ the Uptown Bar, June
(Tie) Bob Dylan Sound-alike Contest, @ the 400 Bar, June; Cover Band Contest @ First Ave./Entry, Feb.: Highlights include Arcwelder doing E.L.O. in the Entry and the Drunk Drivers over-serving the Pixies. At the 400 Bar, a notable memory was hip grandpa Martin Kneidel rendering Dylan’s “Senor” (a chilling, shelled-out Jerusalem street folk song) as a war-torn torch ballad.

Jody Fox
Ike Reilly’s house stint @ the Turf Club, Sept.
Brenda Weiler @ Women’s Club Theater: The perfect venue for Weiler’s amazing vocals.
Stuart Davis @ The Fine Line w/band

Tom Hallett
Bob Dylan @ Xcel Energy Center, Oct. 25
Bob Stinson Birthday Bash @ The Turf Club, Dec. 15
KQ Homegrown’s “Meet the Critics Night,” May 6: Meeting Mei Young, Jody, Dave and the rest of the HG crew was great, but getting myself and fellow local scribes Donny Doane, Peter Scholtes and Simon Peter Groebner together in one Disney-owned, mike-filled room spouting off about local music was so surreal that I’m still kicking myself for not taking photos. The only way it could’ve been more bizarre and entertaining would’ve been if Pi-Press-er Amy Carlson and Strib-dood Jon Bream had showed. Maybe Mei should’ve offered free mouse ear hats to all comers ...
The SPMC’s 5th Annual Grand Young Days @ The Turf Club, June 3
Interviewing Tulip Sweet @ The Wolf Vest Estate, aka “The Long Goodbye,” Nov. 1

Brett Johnson
Cold Cranking Amps @ Sursumcorda w/ Redoverlunar and Self-Evident, July 20: Cold Cranking Amps delivered an absolutely beautiful and flawless performance. It was a perfect “last hurrah” for this amazingly talented trio.
Slayer @ First Ave., Nov. 25

Tom Loftus
Le Tigre @ First Ave. and Loring Park, Aug. 13, 14
Low @ Orchestra Hall, July 13
The Moon is Up There tour with Microphones, Calvin Johnson, Get the Hell Out of the Way of the Volcano @ The Red Eye Theater, Aug. 14: The Moon is Up There tour hit Minneapolis with little-to-no advertisement, and it was not surprising that the audience never exceeded 20 people. When most artists see a small audience, they figure they’ll take the night off and give a half-assed performance. In this case, however, the audience was given a spectacular performance by some of Olympia’s most talented folk-pop artists.
Lightning Bolt, Pink and Brown, New Port and Church of Gravitron @ Captain Blacks, July 4
Tracy and the Plastics @ Bon Appetit, June 12

Celeste Tabora
Low @ Orchestra Hall, July 13
The Fog @ 7th St. Entry, July 27
Cave In @ 7th St. Entry, Jan.
Euphone @ The Weisman Art Museum, June 23
Buss @ the 400 Bar, July 19: This was quite an intimate show, but Buss’ powerful, guitar-driven songs filled up any and all empty space that night. When the band opened their incredible set, I was transported into a different space and time with their unique harmonies and metal edge.

Mark Trehus
Curtiss A., John Lennon Tribute @ First Ave. Nov.
Hypstrz @ Treehouse Records grand opening, Nov.: Talk about getting off on the right foot! The Hypstrz played first as unannounced special guests and absolutely DESTROYED the place! Curtiss A., Safety Last and the Selby Tigers were all great too, but nobody can follow Bill & Ernie when they’re on a mission. I repeat: nobody!
Safety Last w/Liquor Pigs @ Turf Club, Jan.
Ralph Stanley @ Turf Club, Oct.
Jimmy Scott @ Women’s Club Theater, Aug.

Bill Tuomala
The Mammy Nuns @ The Turf Club, any Tuesday: Monster riffs, nods of appreciation between bandmates, covers of Westerberg, Dylan, Young, Revere (!), and a jukebox-full of others. I pretend to write in my notebook. Mostly I smile and drink.
Curtiss A @ 7th St. Entry, Dec.
Chuck Klosterman (reading from “Fargo Rock City”) @ Eclipse Records, June
The Crush @ 7th St. Entry, Dec.
The Plastic Constellations @ 7th St. Entry, Jan.

Rob Van Alstyne
Jeff Tweedy @ The Guthrie Theater, March: In a riveting acoustic performance, Tweedy seamlessly recast the psych-pop of his band Wilco into a stripped-down format. Armed with only a guitar and his cigarette-stained Midwestern croak, Tweedy earned every second of the hushed awe bestowed upon him by the sold-out crowd.
Denison Witmer @ Fireball Espresso Café, Oct.
Cursive @ 7th St. Entry, Oct.
Death Cab for Cutie @ First Ave., Oct.
Richard Buckner @ The Turf Club, Oct.
(Writers Note: This list might have been considerably different had I been able to attend the numerous great shows closed to youngsters in the Twin Cities.)

Erik M. Westra
Spiritualized @ The Quest, Nov. 1
Built to Spill @ First Ave., Sept. 5
Ryan Adams @ First Ave., Dec. 5: Setting the tone for an irreverent and entertaining evening, Adams played “When the Stars Go Blue” twice, because he “didn’t really like it” the first time around.
The Strokes @ 7th St. Entry, Oct. 6
Calexico @ The 400 Bar, June 15

Artists of the Year
School isn’t a popularity contest, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t give props to some people who made class go by a little bit faster!

Erin Anderson
Local: Slug
Whether kickin’ it with Eyedea & Abilities, or with DJ Dibbs or pounding out his performance poetry, MC Slug is a force to be reckoned with. He released the nationally-acclaimed Lucy Ford EPs in 2000, then proceeded to fill the haute couture Knitting Factory in New York to the brim for a sold-out show with Atmosphere. He tours regularly and keeps up frequent local gigs ... come to think of it, have you ever seen Slug and Superman together at the same time? Me neither.
National: Jack Black and Björk
Don’t laugh, but I’m convinced that if either of these high-profile musicians/actors get themselves a dance coach, we’ve got heirs apparent to J. Lo’s ample Throne of Triple Threats. Sure, Björk sticks to High Art, (I mean, “Dancer in the Dark” was no “Wedding Planner”) while Mr. Black keeps it real in the ... um, “Spinal Tap”-meets-”Debbie Does Dallas” category, but both deserve mad props for successfully conquering the silver screen and stage with equal sprezzatura. Now, let’s work on those dance steps, okay? And one, and two, and—no, Björk, your other left foot!

Dan Cote
Local: Selby Tigers
A monument of stability in the often schizophrenic world of the Twin Cities scene, the Selbys have served as our ambassadors to the nation this year, on tour with Rocket From the Crypt, The Donnas and Bratmobile; recording and playing with other local bands; hosting “Staroake”; and providing several more memorable shows on their home turf. Their sing-a-long punk has won followers aged 15 to 50 (not an easy task). This is an easy pick to make, too, when the band members are four of the sweetest and most sincere people one could ever hope to encounter.

Paul D. Dickinson
Local: Tulip Sweet and Her Trail of Tears
Despite the fact that they’ve flown the coop to NYC, that doesn’t quite absolve Tulip Sweet from all the crimes they’ve committed on these Minnesota streets, nor does it change the fact that they recorded and manufactured their new CD right here in the Twin Cities. I just hope to see them on Letterman real soon.
National: Outkast
The story of millions compressed into the imaginations of madmen. Outkast’s collision of ruthless grooves and mutated melodies has been a salvation. These oddballs made me feel human again.

Donny Doane
Local: Rich Mattson
Damn! Where to begin? This cat does it all. Singer/songwriter, band leader, sound man extraordinaire, owner/engineer of his very own Flowerpot Studio, and just plain nice fellow. Rich not only generates excellent tunes of his own, but also helps other bands realize their dreams and potential, as a true helmsman of the local scene. Extra props for straddling the ever-widening chasm between the two tectonic plates that comprise our little big city.
National: Bob Dylan
At 60 years of age, the ultimate bard of American popular music still has what it takes. While people lament the absence of this most current generation’s voice (Kurt Cobain), they should take heart in knowing that many of the true poets are still with us. Seems that being the voice of any generation can be a cruelly exacting mantle to wear, and the odds of survival aren’t so hot. Here’s to the strength of perseverance and the resultant wisdom that is its reward. Word.

Jody Fox
Local: Stuart Davis
National: Ike Reilly

Tom Hallett
Local: Rich Mattson
I’m gonna pretend like everybody’s shit is in separate boxes, and I only have five seconds to grab just one before I’m cast out of an airplane to parachute onto a desert island. That one’s gotta be the one labeled Rich Mattson. At least when I land, I’ll know I’ve got a whole lotta good shit to listen to—from the trusty Glenrustles collection to the 20-or-so great albums Rich has recorded, produced and engineered for other local bands at his Flowerpot Studios (you guys know who you are!), to the absolutely awesome material he’s released over the past few years with Ol’ Yeller (kudos to Dale Kallman and Keely Lane, as well!)—I’m gonna be musically satisfied for quite a while here on my island. Besides, those of you whom I didn’t get to mention won’t be able to find me. Whew!
National: Bob Dylan
Now this one’s tricky—kinda like when Time had to choose between NYC Mayor Rudy G. and Osama (or is it Usama? I’m never quite clear on that one) Bin Laden for their “Person of the Year” cover. Everybody knows Bin Laden caused more trouble, made more news, and kept more newspeople’s checks comin’ in than ole Rudy did, but nobody wants to pick him because he’s an asshole. So I’ll do the same thing. I’ll put Bob Dylan up as my National Artist of the Year, not because he made the most news, but because I like him, and he’s a cool guy, and he made a really cool album. But I’d be selling out if I left it at that, because little Dylan wannabe Ryan Adams really made the most news nationally in my camp. Everybody speculated and gossiped about his musical motives, his clothes, and his love interests ... Maybe we could compromise and do a cover mock-up Conan O’ Brien-style—a “What if They Had Children?” face-mix with Ryan and Dylan, eh? Then the immortal words slurred out by Adams at his recent First Ave. gig would really ring true: “Love and Geritol!”

Brett Johnson
Local: Jeff Halland
This guy never stops. He’s one-third of the absolutely brilliant rawk band Houston. He freely distributes CDs for his multiple solo side projects around town as he completes them. And his wells of creativity seem to be ever-flowing. He’s all about his art, be it silly or be it serious—he’s constantly out there sharing his creativity with the rest of us. He’s a consistent breath of fresh air in a scene ridden with all sorts that shouldn’t be taken seriously at all.
National: Shiner
Shiner’s albums speak for themselves. Their live performances are always overwhelming. They toured the nation several times and Europe in 2001 ... not bad for a KC, Mo., band on an indie label.

Tom Loftus
Local: The Vets
Like Signal to Trust and Volante, as well as a handful of underground bands in the Twin Cities, The Vets aren’t pandering to the hot trends or compromising their music to make money. Rather, they’re treading new ground and having fun at the same time.
National: Godspeed, You Black Emperor
The splinter groups of Montreal’s Godspeed, You Black Emperor (including A Silver Mount Zion, Do Make Say Think, Set Fire to Flames) are busy creating the most beautiful and poignant music out today. While many
political bands wear their viewpoints on their leather jackets, the aforementioned convey their beliefs much more subtly, with dark, complex songs and stunning artwork.

Celeste Tabora
Local: Sean Tillman
Performing and recording as his alter egos Har Mar Superstar and Sean Na Na, Tillman is undeniably a hard worker who keeps busy making a name(s) for himself by touring and building a loyal fanbase all over the globe. He inspires laughter and provides good ol’ fashioned entertainment for every audience he plays to.
National: Bono
For all his political and charity work, this musical bigwig has kept it real and put his fame to good use by researching the causes he supports, like AIDS awareness and global hunger relief. Bono lives by his message, not some ribbon-sporting mentality. Respected by politicians, famous peers, journalists and fans alike, he unceasingly raises the bar for celebrity involvement.

Mark Trehus
Local: Atmosphere
Not my bag, but ya gotta give Slug his props.
National: Bob Dylan
He just keeps on keepin’ on ... Love and Theft may or may not be his best album, but it’s certainly his most intriguing in a long, long while!

Bill Tuomala
Local: The Crush
I tend to rely more and more on songs, not albums, to get me through my days. To hear The Crush’s “The Funeral Party” on AM radio last spring was sheer bliss. It’s brilliant and passionate, and sounds better loud —what more can you ask of your rock ’n’ roll?
National: Bob Dylan
Great rock ’n’ roll is often like a great date: it makes you laugh but keeps you guessing. Forget Garrison Keillor or Sid

Hartman—this guy is Minnesota’s top humorist. Come for the music, stay for the jokes. That knock-knock one in “Po’ Boy” slays me every time.

Rob van Alstyne
National: Wilco
When Wilco’s latest arty record (Yankee Hotel Foxtrot) was thrown back in their faces by ill-advised Reprise execs, Wilco took a stand. Rather than make changes to appease men in suits, Wilco parted ways with Reprise, posted the whole album on the Web, and went on tour. Artistic credibility lives!

Erik M. Westra
Local: Atmosphere
It seems that our Slug has been busy making a name for himself. He’s been selling out shows all across the Midwest, got invited to play the Tortoise-curated All Tomorrow’s Parties Festival, and scored a spot in Spin’s Best of 2001 with Lucy Ford: The Atmosphere EPs. When the new Atmosphere record is released (likely with major distribution) it seems you will finally get that chance to say “I knew him when … ”
National: Björk
This year the Icelandic pop princess released another masterpiece and hit the road with experimental electronic duo Matmos, a 47-piece orchestra and an Inuit women’s choir, once again proving that innovation and beauty follow her wherever she goes.

Ones to watch
Who to keep your eyes on next school year!

Erin Anderson
If you haven’t been to the 400 Bar on a Monday night, you’re missing out—it’s (usually) a laid-back acoustic showcase featuring any of several up-and-coming local artists like G. Ningroy, Martin Devany, Matt Marka and Matt Jennings, and you never have to fight the crowds. I mean, who goes out on a Monday, anyway? Just enough people to keep those Sullivans booking shows and hipping locals to what’s gonna be big this year! Also, keep an ear to the ground for a little-known band called In Pictures, whose lush, dreamy indiemo pop will be pushing them up the CMJ charts in no time, just as soon as they release their album. Mark my words.

Dan Cote
2002 should be the year that Eleni Mandell hits the big time. Her two incredible albums (including 2000’s Thrill, my favorite record of at least the last five years) have built a ravenous cult following over the past few years, but that hasn’t translated into the notoriety that her original art deserves. However, this spring will see the release of Eleni’s third album, Snakebite. She’s too talented to be ignored forever—this could be huge.

Paul D. Dickinson
I’m hoping for the re-emergence of guitar-based rock and roll. Aren’t we all tired of ex-Mousketeers? We need some really killer anthems! With the death of Joey Ramone, the world finally realized the absolute genius of the Ramones, and their raw power and strangely sophisticated sonic pop nihilism will forever be an inspiration to those who dare to tangle with the dark side of life and emerge with defiant glory. The general public is supposed to be jaded, but I believe its easier to surprise people now more than ever. So let’s rock.

Donny Doane
The only recorded material I have of The Crush is a live track on the Hard Times All Around compilation. Other than that, I’ve been impressed by a couple of live shows—they’ll be going somewhere. The roots of Blame run deep, but a rolling stone gathers no moss. Also, expect great things from Grickle Grass, Choplogic and The Dirts.

Jody Fox
Monkey Storm take Minnesota by storm and break up after appearing on “Let’s Bowl,” then regroup as Thigh Rider and wallow away in obscurity as a Weezer cover band.

Peter Jesperson
I’m not one for predictions, but I’ll wager the major labels will continue to dig the big ugly hole they’ve been digging themselves for quite some time now, while the indies gain strength. And music with actual substance will matter more to people.

Brett Johnson
Locally, I think we’ll see a lot of good things coming from the likes of Align, Houston, Redoverlunar, The Dames and Claire de Lune. Nationally, I think we’re going to see more of the “boy band” dynamic working its way deeper into various genres of heavier rock, à lá Hoobastank, Linkin Park, etc. Hopefully this will come to a harsh and abrupt end when a local band of artistic and musical genius takes over the universe, mid-2002.

Tom Loftus
Look for a slew of new records from local bands: Dillinger Four, Selby Tigers, Song of Zarathustra, Malachi Constant, The Vets, Sicbay, Sweet J.A.P., Sean Na Na and a horde of other great local bands are already on schedule to release new records this year. It’s been hard over the last year for touring and local bands to find places to play an all-ages show, but with The Fireball’s ownership change, and the opening of The Babylon, expect to see this trend turn around.

Jim Meyer
As long as there are pre-teens (and Radio Disney), there will be teen-pop. However, the young artists of yesterday are already getting restless, and finding some interesting voices within. Artists like M2M, Michelle Branch, Shakira, Lindsay Pagano and the uncontrollably creative Pink may portend a creative outpouring in melodic pop ... if the predominance of male producers will allow it.

Jesse Schleusner
Emo-pop juggernauts Saves the Day and Alkaline Trio will put out even weaker and more compromised records than they did this year, driving their Sound Scan sales figures up and their credibility down. Gezzer washed-up punk and hardcore acts will continue to tour and live off of records that changed the world 20 years ago. The Warped Tour, (more shopping mall than traveling rock festival), will continue to contribute to the over-commercialization of punk and skateboarding cultures. Havoc Fest 2002 will continue to stand for all the ideals which make punk and skateboarding great in the first place. Inspired by the attempted infiltration into youth sub-cultures by Christian activists, Petra will reform, dye their hair black and gear up for their nationwide tour with Dashboard Confessional.

Celeste Tabora
Keep your fingers crossed for a return to organic rock methods. In the last few years, many synthesizers, samples, drum machines, loops, vocoders and MIDI everythings have been abused. Perhaps a big reason that The Strokes were so revered this year is because of their simplistic and catchy rock songs that avoid nearly all use of anything artificial. “Quality vs. quantity” will conquer. You may see more Mp3 players on the public transportation commute as CDs and CD players become more of a bulky hassle than a treat to tote along, (and forget about cassette players!) Mp3 players have memory enough to store several entire albums in the player itself—less gear, same great songs.

Mark Trehus
Now, more than ever, it’s time to kick out the jams, motherfuckers! Rock ‘n’ roll returns with a vengeance, baby, spearheading the revolution! The following will finally begin to go away: electronic dance music, hair extensions, appliance stores masquerading as music stores, and corporate fascism masquerading as patriotism.

Bill Tuomala
Common folk who cherish melody rejoice as Radiohead get sent to Guantanamo Bay boot camp to train under drill Sgt. J.C. Fogerty. White academics insist that Neil Young change the name of his backing band. Kids continue to embrace metal, and save the world riff by riff.

Rob van Alstyne
With a pop-laden third album due in March and a following too large to be contained by one state anymore, this is the year that Mason Jennings reaches widespread commercial success. He’s proven he can conquer Minnesota—next step … the world!