You may have noticed that Carbon Copy has been very film-centric lately. It’s not an intentional thing! I just happen to be on holidays, which provides a great opportunity to watch (and write about) lots of films. But music hasn’t been getting much love lately, so I thought I’d match my top 10 films list with a top 10 albums list.

Here’s the first half:

10. Sleigh Bells – Reign of Terror

Not quite the adrenaline jolt that Treats was, but it’s still bold, full-volume pop with all the knobs turned to eleven.

Highlight: Comeback Kid

9. Cloud Nothings – Attack On Memory

An honest-to-goodness rock record – a great collection of punchy little tracks, full of raw energy and emotion.

Highlight: Stay Useless

8. Frank Ocean – channelORANGE

R&B may not be my favourite genre, but I can’t deny the quality of songwriting and the number of future classic songs on this oh-so-smooth record.

Highlight: Pyramids

7. Hot Chip – In Our Heads

Mature, heartfelt music suited to either dancing around to or sitting back and enjoying on a warm afternoon.

Highlight: Motion Sickness

6. Japandroids – Celebration Rock

A rousing call-to-arms; a full-throttle distillation of youthful, escapist energy.

Highlight: The House That Heaven Built

(Part Two can be found here)