West Australian quintet TV Snow released their U.S. debut on December 1.  Given a title that pays homage to bass player Ben Linden, who was fatally attacked by a shark while surfing just a day after the record wrapped, Red is a collection of new material and re-recorded re-mixed versions of songs from their debut EP.  The commonality that runs throughout the material is an affinity for catchy hooks and a deep understanding of ‘90s alt rock.
Ghettoblaster recently caught up with guitarist John Mariani to find out who is topping his list of year end best.  Here’s who he selected:
MUTEMATH – Odd Soul
One of my favorite albums of 2012. Even though it came out towards the end of last year, singles such as “Allies” came out this year. I think these guys really nailed it with their off-beat melodies.
Silversun Pickups – Neck Of The Woods
Big fan of Swoon which came out in ‘09, and Neck of the Woods is a perfect continuation from that. Bit darker with more attitude. Epic riffs as usual from these guys.
Tame Impala – Lonerism
Love the psychedelic feel from this fellow Perth band. Triple J Album of the year in Australia.
Soundgarden – King Animal
A big break between records doesn’t matter at all, and especially when it comes to this band. King Animal sure does make its mark. Chris Cornell’s vocals are outstanding as always!
Smashing Pumpkins – Oceania
This album is just as good as some of their older albums. I have always been a big fan, so it was natural I would like Oceania. Billy Corgan’s vocals mixed with raunchy guitar tones really rocks!
Jack White – Blunderbuss
Stripped back garage rock! One of kind in his style. From The White Stripes to The Raconteurs (The Saboteurs in Australia), Jack White always proves to be unique and produce great songs with retro spin.
Band Of Skulls – Sweat Sour
I was put onto these guys by a family relative and their tone is huge. The drummer reminds me a bit of John Bonham, and their song “The Devil Takes Care of His Own” is a favorite. The mix of male and female vocals lightens the songs mixed in with the heavy distorted guitars.
Nada Surf – The Stars Are Indifferent To Astronomy
“Power pop” is one of my favorite genres, and these guys do great power pop. “Let Go” was a great album and this one follows it nicely. Great vocal harmonies and melodies.
ZZ Top – Futura
Billy Gibbons is one of my favorite guitars. The first five albums are really something special. I had the chance of seeing them in 2011 and they did not disappoint. This album goes back to their roots and uses some really fat dirty tones re emulate that Texas feel good blues rock they are known for.
The Domnicks – Super Real
Super Real is their second album release, and brands a no nonsense rock ‘n’ roll attitude. One part Stones and Faces inspired and one part Aussie garage guitar rock, this band of seasoned players punches well above its collective musical weight.
(For more information on TV Snow, visit http://tvsnow.net/.)