Best of 2009: Top 5 EPs

I figured I'd start us off slowly by starting with 2009's best EPs.

Lost? Here's the EP Wikipedia Entry.

Keep in mind: If the band released an EP and THEN an album in 2009 (Passion Pit, Devendra Banhart), I didn't count it.


5. Extra Cheese - Ryan Adams



Nicknamed "The Valentine EP" because (a) it was released on Valentine's Day and (b) this was right before Adams tied the knot with Mandy Moore, so yes, there's some mushy content. But, surprisingly, it's also a LOT more intense than your average Ryan Adams. With 7 tracks, it probably qualifies as a mini-LP, and I'll be honest, Adams' announcement that he's taking an indefinite hiatus from music immediately after releasing Extra Cheese does make it a little more special. It also wins best EP cover award.

"Two" - Ryan Adams


4. Falling Elevators - The Early Hours



Eric James, the frontman of The Early Hours, makes really good music, with whatever band he forms. So, when I found out Eric James and the New Century broke up, I was at least relieved to find out he's still playing. This is the group's first release, and I hope there are many more to come.

"Good Day Radio" - The Early Hours


3. Coast to Coast - Hit the Lights



I had the pleasure of seeing Hit the Lights live this year, and they put on a really great show. Their EP, Coast to Coast is packed with fantastic songs and embodies what I love best about this band.

"Pulse" - Hit the Lights


2. Midsommar - U.S. Royalty



Another first-release for a band, and this is BIG. U.S. Royalty has the look of a stereotypical indie-folk band, but they produce some solid pop songs. Definitely give these guys a listen

"Where Are You Now" - U.S. Royalty


AND THE BEST EP OF 2009 IS...

1. Lady Luck - The Cab



The Cab is known to make really catchy pop songs, and I continue to support and love them because they're good AND because they still aren't getting the attention they deserve. The boys have been touring all year and I also got to see them in 2009 with the Maine and We the Kings. And don't get me wrong, We the Kings is a great band, but the Maine and the Cab stole the show. Let's hope 2010 has a full LP from the Cab in store for us!

"Lights" - The Cab