My Top 5 Albums of 2013

Well, it's that time of year again. Time to reflect on all the great new music that has been released and 2013 has been a great one. Narrowing it down to just a top 5 has been very difficult but I have managed it. So without further ado, let's begin.

5. Gary Clark Jr - Blak and Blu

Such a diverse album with many different styles represented and the genius of his guitar playing prominent. He has had a great year with a brilliant album, playing with Clapton at the Crossroads festival, and topping it off with 2 Grammy nominations. This guy is going to be big.

When My Train Pulls In - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOeFJF3tTSU

4. Kaz Simmons - Signs

I have been recommending this album ever since I received my copy and gave it that first listen. Many plays later and I still love it. The music is excellent, the song writing is beautiful, the singing is heavenly and the overall effect of the finished article is transcendent. Fantastic 4th album from the London based Jazz singer.

For The Love of the Big L - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V16EAGaCwYk

3. Scorpion Child - Scorpion Child

Hailing from Austin, TX, these guys have a bright future in the world of rock and their self titled debut simply did not disappoint the critics. The album has a real late 70s/early 80s sound to it that is impossible for any rock fan to dislike. Watch out for Scorpion Child in the coming years.

Polygon of Eyes - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hPGabnPz0bk

2. Tom Keifer - The Way Life Goes

Former Cinderella front man with his debut solo album and what a voice the man has. Remarkable considering the problems and surgeries he has had on his vocal cords. I have lost count of how many times I have listened to this album, it really is that good.

The Flower Song - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhGlfLsxiIM

1. Trucker Diablo - Songs of Iron

This is another one I have had on constant repeat since it was released. These guys hail from Northern Ireland and play some great melodic hard rock with a real southern swagger. They also have the distinct honour of being the band that introduced me to Bandcamp and are the first band in my collection. 2013 really was the year of the truck and that big truck will keep on rolling into 2014.

The Rebel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrXCKJmI_oI

Maybe You're The One - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-19eBmcWyBk

Well, that's it. My top 5 albums of the year. Feel free to critique my taste and share your own top 5.

Before I wrap up, I would like to give a shout out to a few bands who didn't quite make the top 5 but released phenomenal albums of their own. Props to The Temperance Movement, BlackWolf, Black Spiders, Clutch, Deep Purple and many more that made this a great music year.