BEST OF 2010 (albums) #13 Crystal Castles - S/T.2 (Fiction, Last Gang, Universal Motown)

With the Crystal Castle's second self-titled release the band proved that they were no passing fancy, soon to be forgotten bunch of "fucking hipsters." No, with the band's tour de force sophomore album Crystal Castles proved they are here to stay and while they are at it they are going to make some of the best dance pop/punk around, haters be damned. At times romantic and lush and at others abrasive as a scouring pad, the album provided music that was consistently challenging, engaging and addictive. Every time I listen to this record I am blown away at the level of perfection throughout, whether it is the rave infected punk of "Baptism" or the visceral thrill of the updated "Not In Love" that was still great before Robert Smith came along and made it even better. And you know what? Unlike with Beach House, I don't have to think about whether or not I am a Crystal Castles' fan. They fucking rule. Period. Full review here.

Crystal Castles - Baptism from Jichael Mackson on Vimeo.