![converge live](https://cdn3.whatculture.com/images/2012/12/converge-live-600x338.jpg)
So, the world hasnt ended and its a crying shame I know but as a consolation its that time of year again. No, not Christmas though Id be hard pressed to try denying that. Its the time of year when the year that lead to that time is packaged up into lists for easy digestion. In this easily digestible form, in case you had forgotten what was good about the year, you are told what was good. To further help this, these good things are listed in a descending ranking order to let you know of the good, what was best. Now that Ive patronised you in such a manner youve probably developed a dislike for me already, what better time to force my opinion on you? Feel free to argue with me, or raise me on some kind of pedestal for my wise words. I dont mean to come off as much of a dick as this but I couldnt really think of an opening line or introductory few paragraphs, so this came out when I began typing. Its late, Im drinking
Special VAT and watching
Adventure Time whilst still grappling with the actual order of this list and putting off finalizing it with this ramble. Its time to bite the bullet though and get on with the rundown of this years musical highlights. 2012 has been a very good year for music (though every end of year list/review says that about every year) and this is represented in the collection of albums that I have compiled here. Its been a good year across the board of musical genres: metal, punk, rock, indie, rap, rnb, hip hop, pop, whatever. In selecting the entries here I tried to represent the best of the best across that board as best I could. Before I unveil the top 12 to you (its 2012 see, and 12 is all significant and shit), Id just like to direct your attention to some honourable mentions. They didnt quite make the list, but dont let that deter you in the slightest. http://youtu.be/O1OTWCd40bc Firstly,
The Weeknds
Trilogy was disqualified on account of all three albums making up that trilogy having been released as free mixtapes in 2011. However, worth checking into; especially for, part three of the trilogy,
Echoes of Silence. The honourable mentions for those that do count though go to:
Godspeed You! Black Emperor -
Allelujah! Dont Bend! Ascend!Every Time I Die - Ex LivesDevil Sold His Soul -
Empire of LightThe Maccabees - Given To The WildWillis Earl Beal -
Acousmatic SorceryMotion City Soundtrack -
GoPurity Ring - Shrines Anyway, heres
12 Things You Should Be Listening To i.e. the
Top 12 Albums of 2012. Have a read, have a listen, agree, disagree, whatever fits your purpose. Just enjoy yourself, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Heres the soundtrack to your parties.