Modern Mystery’s Top 20 Songs of the Year

2009 was an incredible year for songs. No doubt about it. Even some of the last minute yearly additions were able to sweep the early year competitors off of their feet. In 2009 there was a surprise around every corner with the quality of songs written. I’m not sure there could have been a better ending to the decade. Check out our Top 20 Songs below!

1. Matt Pond PA- “Starting”
2. Wooden Birds- “False Alarm”
3. Grizzly Bear- “Two Weeks”
4. The Drums-“Let’s Go Surfing”
5. The Spinto Band- “Jackhammer”
6. Sloan-“Take it Upon Yourself”
7. Vampire Weekend-“Cousins”
8. Ryan Adams-“Go Ahead and Rain”
9. Julian Casablancas- “11th Dimension”
10. Yeah Yeah Yeahs-“Zero”
11. James Husband- “A Grave in the Gravel”
12. Alvin Band- “Temple Pressure”
13. Darwin Deez- “Constellations”
14. Surfer Blood- “Swim”
15. Bishop Allen- “Dimmer”
16. Jupiter One- “Flaming Arrow”
17. Phoenix- “1901”
18. Pains of Being Pure at Heart- “Young Adult Friction”
19. Japandroids- “The Boys Are Leaving Town”
20. Julian Plenti- “Games for Days”

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Alvin Band Releases ‘Mantis Preying’

Rick  Schaier is not only an amazing drummer and artist, but he is also an extremely talented singer and songwriter. Schaier who spends most of  his time playing drums in The Miniature Tigers has begun a new chapter in his book in the form of ‘Alvin Band.’ This week he released digitally, Mantis Preying that will be out in stores on September 22nd.

The record opens with the incredible track and first single, ‘Temple Pressure,’ which reflects Schaier’s amazing vocal abilities as he harmonizes with himself throughout the song. ‘Glowing Tree’ is a stellar track that blends a bit of 60’s vibe with an updated electronic sound that somehow is pulled off flawlessy.  ‘Billards,’ one of the most standout tunes on the album is reminiscent of Of Montreal era Satanic Panic in the Attic, though we must admit, Schaier manages to pull it off a little smoother.

Rick has also been taking his songs on the road recently, performing ‘Gazette Pitch’ live at Miniature Tigers show. This is one performance we can’t wait to see! Mantis Preying is sure to hit many top 10 lists this year. Alvin Band has our vote!

Check out Alvin Band’s video for ‘Temple Pressure’ HERE

Alvin Band ‘Temple Pressure’

Miniature Tigers’ Rick Schaier is more than just the man behind the drums of one of the greatest new indie bands out there. Schaier is also paving his way as Alvin Band, his solo project of avant garde proportions. Just releasing the first video for ‘Temple Pressure’ a catchy song that will have you up and dancing to say the least, Schaier really brings out his witty personality. Alvin Band’s ‘Mantis Preying’ will be out this year via Intelligent Noise Records. This will be a must have for 2009, trust us.

Watch Alvin Band’s ‘Temple Pressure’  HERE

Check out Alvin Band on MYSPACE