No. 8

Fucked Up: The Chemistry of Common Life (Matador)

I discovered this record super late in the year, but once it hit my ears, it caught my attention and wouldn’t let go. Massive and assaulting, this Canadian group piles tons of tracks into each song, which makes for a listening experience that’s incredibly captivating and very different from your typical hardcore band. There’s depth to these songs and layers to dissect. Not to mention an obese, gravel-voiced frontman with a penchant for taking his clothes off onstage. Sadly and strangely, I haven’t seen this band live yet. But that’s first on my list of musts for 2009. Check out Fucked Up’s recent Daytrotter sessions for a few great renditions of the album’s best songs.