Scott's Top 10 Albums of 2009: Number 2

2. Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

Listening to this album walking through the airport will make you feel like a badass.* Living up to it's lofty title, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix is a masterfully composed album. Definitely the most "pop" album on my list, the band from France delivers 10 precise, well crafted songs. Frontman Thomas Mars' vocals provide the cohesion for most of the tracks, but the instrumentation is what makes this album special. Tight drums, innovative guitar licks, and atmospheric synths make this the album The Strokes wish they could still make.

*Seriously, try it.

Phoenix - Rome

Ben's Best Albums of 2009: Number 4

4. Phoenix, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

This French alt-rock band has been around since 2000 and has released 4 albums, including one live recording, before they finally hit it BIG this year with Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix.  They received both critical acclaim and commercial success.  This album has led to appearances on Saturday Night Live and each of the late night shows.  One of the many standouts, “1901” was also featured in a commercial for the 2010 Cadillac SRX.  A longtime favorite of indie scenesters, actor Jason Schwartzman and director Wes Anderson, Phoenix creates infectious music.  This album is comprised of 10 perfectly constructed pop songs that clock in at approximately 37 minutes of lighthearted fun.  Hopefully you have heard and/or own this album, but if not, buy it NOW!

Phoenix - Lisztomania