Top 20 Albums of 2009: # 17 James Blackshaw – The Glass Bead Game

After a string of independently-released records, 12-string guitarist and composer Blackshaw released his first under the Young God label in 2009, and boy was it a step in the right direction for them.  Blackshaw’s album consists of five atmospheric, dreamy pieces that flow beautifully one after the next.  There is a sense of mystery in the complexity of Blackshaw’s pieces, which adds to the true power of the music.  There are no dull moments on this record as it stays strong from the opening guitar picking of “Cross,” to the final moments of the 19-minute epic “Arc.”  Joining Blackshaw on this album are Current 93 members Joolie Wood and multi-instrumentalist John Contreras, with Blackshaw himself also tackling the piano and harmonium duties. Overall, this album beats out most musically and should be a sign of great things to come from Blackshaw in the near future.

Top 20 Albums of The Year:

20. Fool’s Gold – Self Titled
19. Fanfarlo – Reservoir
18. Julian Casablancas – Phrazes for the Young
17. James Blackshaw – The Glass Bead Game
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Tags: 2009, Best albums of the year, James Blackshaw, Montreal, The Glass Bead Game, Top 20