Top Five 7"/45s of 2010

These aren't necessarily singles, but formats into themselves. Old School. A Side. B Side. Done. A little annoying to play on your record player because you have to flip the disc over ever 4 minutes or so. Anyways here are my top five favorites of 2010:

#1 Real Estate - Out of Tune

True Panther Records

One of favorite bands of the year. Both this 45 and an earlier EP were terrific. Plus I saw them open up for both Woods and Kurt Vile and both times they stole the show. Fun relaxed summertime music. I miss the summer already...

#2 Bloody Gears - Bloody Gears

Deranged Records

Punkrock and hardcore was made for 7" format. Awesomely raw Wipers-style hardcore from Boston (yeah that's right). It really does sound like an early Wipers demo, but also has an early midwest-hardcore sound to it as well (early Husker Du for sure).

#3 Trailblazer - Gut Reaction b/w Mallard

Moniker Records

"Gut Reaction" is a really catchy, simple song that somehow draws you right into its hypnotic rhythms and distortion. Both tracks are a garage-y take on electronic post punk. Very raw/haunting sounding. I hear Suicide, Joy Division and Silver Apples here.

#4 Ducktails - Hamilton Road

Old English Spelling Bee Records

This is the guitarist, Matt from Real Estate's other band. Very similar sound. Summertime. Damn it's cold out. I miss the park, friends, my tape deck and beers...

#5 Pissed Jeans - Sam Kinison Woman

Sub Pop Records

One of the best hardcore bands out there. No joke. I was super pissed (hah!) that I missed their last tour through Toronto. Bummer-time. Last year's album was amazing and this 7" continues this trend. The B side "The L Word" sounds like it should be on Black Flag's My War album. Heavy shit.