New Site: Drink Up Columbus

I wanted to let my readers know about a new site that my friends and I launched this week. Drink Up Columbus is a new site that deals with bars, beers, and the social scene in Columbus, Ohio. We have a lot of talented writers and people who really love this city. Find out more about the new site and links to some of the stories so far, after the jump.

A few friends of mine, James Marks and Cheryl Harrison, wanted to start a site about local craft beer, liquor, and bars in Columbus, Ohio. We recruited a group of great local writers that will help set the scene of the city we love. Other topics that we are going cover are: homebrewing, food pairing, college bar scene, and a lot of other things going on in the Columbus area.

Here are a few links to articles that we have already posted on the site.

Campus Craft Beer Crawl: Mad Mex

Hal & Al's - Oasis In The South Side Desert

New Beer's Eve: The End Of Prohibition

The Usual Suspects, Part 1

Untappd: Foursquare With A Buzz

I hope that you check out the site and let me know what you think and follow 'Drink Up Columbus' on Twitter @DrinkUpCbus.

2011 MLB Betting Predictions - April 9th

I usually wait for the first week of the MLB season to play out before I start my MLB betting line posts. I did rather well over the last few years when I have done these and I hope I can help lead some people in the right direction. My picks are against the spread and I also do over/under lines. Will the Red Sox make it two in-a-row against the Yankees? Can the Indians keep up their offense? Here are the MLB betting lines & predictions for April 9th, 2011.

Philadelphia Phillies +1 1/2 (Roy Oswalt) vs. Atlanta Braves -1 1/2 (Brandon Beachy) - Over/Under 7 1/2
Phillies - Over

After the way that the Braves rocked Cliff Lee yesterday, the Braves will be bet heavy today. The Phillies are a veteran team and will have revenge on their mind. You have to have a short memory in the MLB and they will get to Beachy early in this contest. The O/U is set at 7 1/2 and if this game goes the way I think, it will go over. The smart bet would be a parlay on the Phillies moneyline & the over.


New York Yankees +1 1/2 (Ivan Nova) vs. Boston Red Sox -1 1/2 (Clay Buchholz) - O/U 10
Red Sox - Under

The Red Sox started off bad this year, but they came out yesterday and took care of Phil Hughes early. Ivan Nova has better stuff than Hughes has right now, but you don't want the Red Sox to gain any confidence. Buchholz should handle the Yankees hitters and stretch the winning steak to two.


Kansas City Royals +1 1/2 (Bruce Chen) vs. Detroit Tigers -1 1/2 (Phil Coke) - O/U 9 1/2
Tigers - Over

Can you look at these starting pitchers and honestly think that they won't score a combined 10 runs? I'm scared at what Miguel Cabrera will do to Bruce Chen. The Tigers will win outright, cover, and this game will go over.

Tampa Bay Rays +1 1/2 (Wade Davis) vs. Chicago White Sox -1 1/2 (Philip Humber) - O/U 9
White Sox - Over

Wade Davis was rocky in his first start and the White Sox offense have looked very good. The Rays notched their first win last night, thanks to a Matt Thornton blow-save. The White Sox will bounce back and take care of business.

Chicago Cubs +1 1/2 (Matt Garza) vs. Milwaukee Brewers -1 1/2 (Chris Narveson) - O/U 8 1/2
Cubs - Under

Matt Garza's Cubs debut had flashes of greatness. He stuck out double-digit Pirates, but still had a few dumb mistakes. Chris Narveson also had a good debut, but the Cubs bats have looked in mid-season form, if only their bullpen was in the same shape.

Washington Nationals +1 1/2 (Tom Gorzelanny) vs. New York Mets -1 1/2 (Chris Capuano) - O/U 8 1/2
Mets - Under

If this game was being played in any other park with these two pitchers, the line would be 10, but Citi Field is huge. Gorzelanny vs. Capuano might get ugly, but as long as they keep the ball down, it'll go under. I might want to stay away from this bet, these teams are so inconsistent.

Oakland Athletics -1 1/2 (Gio Gonzalez) vs. Minnesota Twins +1 1/2 (Nick Blackburn) - O/U 8
A's - Under

Gio Gonzalez was the buzzworthy pitcher in fantasy baseball this year and he will have a solid year. The Twins are just trying to get healthy, so Oakland has a slight edge in this game.

Cincinnati Reds -1 1/2 (Bronson Arroyo) vs. Arizona Diamondback +1 1/2 (Daniel Hudson) - O/U 8 1/2
Diamondbacks - Over

I learned a rule in Vegas last year...never bet on Bronson Arroyo! It doesn't help that he is still dealing with mono, that's a huge red flag. I really like Daniel Hudson in this contest.

Los Angeles Dodgers -1 1/2 (Hiroki Kuroda) vs. San Diego Padres +1 1/2 (Dustin Moseley) - O/U 7
Dodgers - Under

Kuroda has had solid numbers of the last calendar year, but he doesn't get much respect. It will help him that the game is at Petco Park, the Padres will have a hard time going yard against him.

Toronto Blue Jays -1 1/2 (Brett Cecil) vs. Los Angeles Angles +1 1/2 (Scott Kazmir) - O/U 9
Blue Jays - Over

Name the last time that Scott Kazmir looked like a pitcher that should be on a contender? I'll wait...

Cleveland Indians +1 1/2 (Justin Masterson) vs. Seattle Mariners +1 1/2 (Doug Fisher) - O/U 7 1/2
Indians - Over

Masterson looked great his first time out this year and they rocked the Mariners yesterday. Seattle looks bad and Cleveland wants to pound their former skipper (Eric Wedge).

St. Louis Cardinals +1 1/2 (Jaime Garcia) vs. San Francisco Giants -1 1/2 (Matt Cain) - O/U 6 1/2
Cardinals - Under

This game should be very low-scoring, since both Garcia & Cain looked very good in their debuts. The Cardinals will miss Matt Holliday, but the Giants bullpen, mostly Brian Wilson, hasn't been dominating.

2011 Fantasy Baseball: Catchers

The catcher position looks fairly top-heavy this year in fantasy baseball. You have a young group on their way up and a few prominent catchers that look to be transitioning into a designated-hitter role. I ranked the top 20 catchers and added some sleepers and busts to help you in your draft.

My rankings are based on a standard 5x5 league. If you have any specific questions about a different league, email me bobbymcrib@gmail.com

1. Joe Mauer - Minnesota Twins - This was the easiest pick. He is the overall best player at this position and can't argue against it. He will be taken in the first-round of your draft.

2. Brian McCann - Atlanta Braves - Some people are a bit cold on McCann this year, but I have owned him the last three years in my NL-only league and he hasn't hurt me. There are some durability issues, but I think he has a great year.

3. Buster Posey - San Francisco Giants - He showed what he can do in the playoffs last year and his stock is high. You might have to take him rather early to own him, but if you're in a keeper league, he could be worth holding onto.

4. Carlos Santana - Cleveland Indians - His season was cut short due to a nasty injury at homeplate last year. He was the best prospect in the Indians farm system and excelled during his short time in the Majors. He will have a solid year and worth an every day start in your league.

5. Geovany Soto - Chicago Cubs - He has been up and down since he was promoted to the Majors. He bounced back and had a good year last season and I feel like he will improve on those numbers in 2011.

6. Victor Martinez - Detroit Tigers - ESPN has him at #2 in his rankings, but I fear that the move from Fenway Park to Comerica Park will hurt his numbers. He isn't surrounded with the same kind of talent as Boston. I would worry about taken him as the #2 catcher off the board, but feel like he is still a smart option at catcher.

7. Matt Wieters - Baltimore Orioles - Is this the year that Wieters finally puts it all together in the Majors? He was the best prospect in the minors a few seasons ago, but it hasn't translated to dominance yet. The Orioles line-up is much better and he has more protection around him. I think this is the year he becomes an All-Star candidate.

8. Miguel Montero - Arizona Diamondbacks - He missed a few months last season with a knee injury, but came back strong to finish the year. You could draft him later than some of the catchers below him in my rankings. He will give you solid power and .270-.280 batting average.

9. Mike Napoli - Texas Rangers - He won't be an everyday catcher for the Rangers, but he will find his way into the lineup. He will be moved around and play catcher, first-base, outfield, and maybe DH. It's scary to think about what kind of numbers he could have hitting in the small park in Arlington. He could have a career year without even getting 400 at-bats.

10. J.P. Arencibia - Toronto Blue Jays - He isn't a household name yet, but he put up great power numbers in the minors. The Blue Jays seem sold on him and I think he could be a steal of the draft if you get him late.

11. Kurt Suzuki - Oakland A's - He had a great first-half of the 2010 season, but dealt with an injury the second half and only his .223. He is a safety pick if you reach and go after a risky catcher. He will give you double-digit power and his batting average won't kill you.

12. Jorge Posada - New York Yankees - Is this the last year for Posada to be fantasy relevant? He can still rake at the plate, so he will get most of his time as the DH. He will still log some time behind the plate, but his defensive liability will keep that from happening much. He is s risky pick, but could be a nice value pick of other players in your league is scared off by his age.

13. Chris Iannetta - Colorado Rockies - Iannetta is a streaky player and difficult to rank. He even landed in the minors for a bit to work on his mechanics. The guy has power, but only hit .197 last season. He has the starting job in Colorado, but I wouldn't say that he has a complete stranglehold on the position. This is a risky pick, but I think he will hit 20+ homers this season.

14. Carlos Ruiz - Philadelphia Phillies - He is a very under-rated catcher that doesn't get much love from fantasy baseball players. He is kind of a one-trick pony with his batting average. The rest of his stats won't help you much, but won't hurt you either. If you draft a power hitter that struggles with batting average (Ryan Howard, Carlos Pena), you may want to pick up Ruiz to help balance out your batting average damage.

15. Nick Hundley - San Diego Padres - In only 273 plate appearances last season, he hit 8 homers and batted .249. He had a K/BB ratio of 66/25, which means that he has a decent eye at the plate. In a full season, expect 18 homers, 80 RBIs, and a better batting average than .249.

16. John Buck - Florida Marlins - Don't expect the same production out of Buck this season as last year in Toronto. He was swinging for the fences every time he was up at the plate in 2010. I'm hoping that the Marlins hitting coach will adjust a few things and make him become more of a complete hitter. He struck out 111 times in 409 plate appearances, but still amazingly hit .281. He's a risky pick, but could be a decent back-up catcher on your team.

17. Rod Barajas - Los Angeles Dodgers - He should benefit for playing a full season with one team. He joined the Dodgers mid-season from the Mets. He will give you some power, but average stats in the other categories. He won't hurt you in any of the other categories.

18. A.J. Pierzynski - Chicago White Sox - He isn't a guy that you should circle before a draft. He is a catcher that you will end up with at the end of your draft if you still need a backup catcher. He will hit 8 or 9 homers, hit .270, and drive in 50 RBIs. You know what you're getting with Pierzynski, you won't get any more or any less.

19. Miguel Olivo - Seattle Mariners - His home/away splits last season with Colorado has a gap as big as Bartolo Colon. It's a big red flag coming into the 2011 season, since Safeco Field isn't Coors Field. This is a risky pick, but he'll add a handful of steals to your team, if you choose to play him on those days.

20. Russell Martin - New York Yankees - I have owned Russell Martin in a keeper league the last three seasons. He never hurt me until last season. His numbers have declined every year that I have owned him, but I think he is worth a late-round pick. There isn't much pressure on him to produce in the Yankees line-up. He will even get you some steals, which isn't a category that you expect to help you in.

Busts
Jason Varitek - Boston Red Sox - He's a flashy name that people know and you could even bait another owner to draft him early if you wanted. He isn't going to play much of the season. He still has some pop, but I don't see him getting as many at-bats as he has in the past.

Chris Snyder - Pittsburgh Pirates - He is another player that has helped teams in the past. He moves to the Pirates and will add power to your team, but his batting average will kill you. Not worth the risk by drafting Snyder.

Yadier Molina - St. Louis Cardinals - He's another known player and is a better player in real-life than he is in fantasy. He will help your average, but there isn't any other category that you will benefit from starting Molina.

Sleepers
Jesus Montero - New York Yankees - He is worth taking a flyer at the end of the draft and holding on to him. He could pay off or turn into a trade chip. The Yankees current backstops are Jorge Posada & Russell Martin, both are injury risks and the Yankees love Montero. He is their catcher of the future and possibly a keeper for you in your league.

Brayan Pena - Kansas City Royals - You won't find many people that will draft Pena this year. He will be the starting catcher this season over Jason Kendall, but he will share time. He was serviceable in his short time up with the club last year and could turn into a solid backup.

Ryan Hanigan - Cincinnati Reds - It's not 100% that the Reds will give Ramon Hernandez the starting job out of spring training. Hanigan showed the same offensive skills that Hernandez has put up so far with the team. If you were thinking about draft Henandez as your backup catcher, I would hold off and wait for this position battle to show a winner.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia - Boston Red Sox - Salty will get his shot this season with the Red Sox. He only had 24 at-bats last season with the team, but he will be in a time-share with Varitek. He's only 25, but this is his third team and he is running out of chances. His back is against the wall and I like guys with something to prove. I think he runs with this opportunity and earns his spot on the team.

Can Indiana Pacers Make The Playoffs?

The Indiana Pacers are currently 22-28 and hold a one game lead for the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. They have a good shot landing anywhere from the 6th seed to the 11th seed in the conference. They are on a roll since firing Jim O'Brien and promoting Frank Vogel to head coach. Depending on what other teams do before the trading deadline, can the Pacers finally make the playoffs with Reggie Miller?

Since Frank Vogel took over head coaching duties, the Pacers have only one loss to the Miami Heat. They were leading much of that contest, but lost in the last minutes of the game. Vogel has done away with the "small ball" that O'Brien was trying the last few weeks he was in power and has been starting Tyler Hansbrough & Josh McRoberts at that position. He also said that he will start playing rookies Paul George & Lance Stephenson more. George has been playing a lot off the bench, but Stephenson has yet to see minutes this year. Indiana has responded and are playing with a fire and passion that was lost under O'Brien.

Larry Bird has been held under fire the last few years. He has been scrutinized about the personnel that he has acquired and seems to have changed his focus this year. He went with the best players available in the draft and didn't choose the "good character" guy over a risk. Stephenson was a huge risk, but in the 2nd round, not so much. I still think he could be a factor on this team, but he hasn't been given a shot. He could be useful in the D-League, but the Pacers haven't been apt to use that option in the past.

The Pacers have a few chips that they could try to move before the trading deadline. Mike Dunleavy, T.J. Ford, and Jeff Foster all have expiring contracts and are very capable players. Dunleavy has been starting, Foster has been coming off the bench, and Ford has been a healthy scratch. All three players can contribute to any team, but doesn't seem like the Pacers have them in their current or future plans. If they could get a serviceable power forward or defensive help for any of those guys, Bird should jump on it.

It looks like Indiana will be fighting the Knicks, Bobcats, Sixers, Bucks, and Pistons for the last three playoff spots in the East. The Bobcats and Pistons have been rumored to be sellers at the trading deadline, so that could end those teams hopes of making the playoffs. You never know what surprise team will jump up the standings after some trades. Can the Pacers make the playoffs this season? Absolutely, they have as good of a shot as any of the mid-level teams in the East. Will they make it out of the first-round? That is another story...I don't want to be positive right now.

Interview: Ken Dilger

I had a chance to speak with former Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight-end, Ken Dilger. We spoke about NFL Playoffs, what happened to the Colts this season, and who was a better high school quarterback, him or Jay Cutler. It was great to speak with him and he was in Peoria, Illinois doing some great work for a charity. See what he's up to now and find out how you can contact him.

Me: I want to ask you about the Colts. I I want to asked you about the Colts. It was tough to see them struggle with injuries all season. What could they have done differently against the Jets in the playoffs?

Ken Dilger: When you have 19 or 20 guys on injured reserve and are missing Austin Collie & Dallas Clark, it's hard. The Jets game was very conservative. They didn't throw it down the field. They were nervous to make a mistake. They were out-hustled in the 2nd half.

Me: Did you question the late timeout?

Dilger: I did, anytime you have an offense trying to run down the clock and Sanchez doesn't have experience and ability. You let the offense run the clock. Everybody should question that.

Me: When Clark comes back, do you think they can use Tamme & Clark in 2 TE sets, even though Tamme's blocking ability isn't great?

Dilger: No, I don't think you will see that. you need one pass catching tight-end and Clark is better. I think you will see Brody Eldridge used more.

Me: The production that teams are getting from their tight-end position really spiked over the last few years. Look at what the Patriots did with two rookie tight-ends this year. What are your thoughts on the evolution of the position?

Dilger: It has been changing the last 15 years or so. The tight-end position became more of a pass catching threat. Guys like Tony Gonzalez, Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, and Heath Miller have changed the position. Every team is trying to find that guy. If you have a big tight-end that can run, you have a big mismatch.

Me: Who was a better quarterback at Heritage High School, you or Jay Cutler?

Dilger: {laughs} I would say it was me.

Me: Do you think he would agree?

Dilger: No, he won a championship there.

Me: Why did you change to tight-end at Illinois?

Dilger: I was a big kid and didn't have a weight program in high school. I gained 20 lbs that first semester and it was a natural progression to the position.

Me: Who do you have this week and who is your favorite to win in the Conference championships?

Dilger: You have two great matchups. Bears & Packers are hated division rivals. They know each other so well. It will come down to turnovers, which quarterback can managed the situation and atmopshere. The slight edge to the Packets because of Rodgers. The AFC, you have two hated teams with two great defenses. The Jets played well enough to win, but you go into Pittsburgh, Polamalu & Miller didn't play last game. You have to give edge to Pittsburgh across the board. It's a great match-up.

Me: Who would win between the Steelers and Packers in the Super Bowl?

Dilger: Steelers & Packers? Pittsburgh has more weapons on offense with Mendenhall and veteran wide-receivers.

Me: Are you saying Mendenhall because he went to Illinois?

Dilger: Of course, It doesn't hurt!

Me: Do you ever wear your Super Bowl ring?

Dilger: I do! I wear it out for special events like this one.

Me: What are you up to these days?

Dilger: I live in Indianapolis. I run a mortgage company here.

Me: A lot of current and former athletes use social media to keep in touch with your fans. How do you keep in touch with the fans? Twitter or Facebook?

Dilger: I'm on Facebook 3500 fans on there, I get asked a lot of questions. My wife thinks it's stupid.

Me: Tell me about why you're in Peoria today

Dilger: I am with the Febreeze TAKE IT TO THE HOUSE campaign. A family in Peoria was one of the finalists and put a photo and video of them in their basement in all their Colts gear. She didn't win, but we have a big presentation to give $10,000 to St. Jude Hospital in her name.

Me: Thanks for taking time to talk with me today. Good luck with with everything and it sounds like a great charity.

Lebron James Is Gollum

After the Cleveland Cavaliers lost to the Los Angeles Lakers by 50+, Lebron James decided to turn to his Twitter account to vent his anger. He tweeted that Karma's a bitch. I know things didn't end well with James and his old team, but to go the "drunk tweet"-like route, was a bit uncalled for. I am now convinced that Lebron James is turning into Gollum, from "Lord Of The Rings." King James is even losing his hair...yep, I went there. What else can James do to complete his transoformation?

I guess before I go neck-deep in nerdy "Lord Of The Rings" talk, let me explain Gollum. He's was a character first introduced in "The Hobbit" as "Smeagol." He was later referred to as "Gollum," because of a throat sound he made. He has a split-personality, so when he's "Smeagol," he thinks of good things and has good intentions, but when he's "Gollum," all he wants is the ring. Does this sound familiar to anyone?

When Lebron James was "Smeagol," he was fun-loving, pretended to take pictures with his teammates before games, and was loved by all. His greed and lust for a ring has turned him into "Gollum." He wants nothing to do with his fun-loving past and all he is focused on is his lust for a ring. I am guessing that he hates short guys with big feet, or Stan Van Gundy, who could possibly get in his way of winning a championship.

As you can tell, Gollum is lacking a lot of hair. We know that Lebron James took his talents to South Beach, but he left his hairline in Cleveland. I give it three years and he will look more like the "Lord Of The Rings" character...and he may still not have a ring.

Sweetbob's Top 50 Albums of 2010 (1-25)

I used to be a music journalist before I started this blog. I worked for a ton of websites and even ran my own for a few years. I decided to dive back into the genre, since 2010 was a great year for music. I have spent the last few weeks listening to music non-stop and I have been a very tired boy. I have narrowed down the albums that were released in 2010 to a top 50 list. I had a battle with myself when picking the top album of the year. Here are the top half of my Top 50 Albums of 2010, with links to key tracks.

1. The Black Keys - BrothersKey Track - "Tighten Up"
"Brothers" is the sixth studio album by the band from Akron, Ohio, but they weren't well-known until this year. They had limited success with their previous albums, but for good reason, this is the album that is getting them major recognition. They have been nominated for a few Grammys this year, including "Best Rock Song" and "Best Alternative Music Album." They show their range with tracks like "Everlasting Light" and "Too Afraid To Love You" on the same album. The Black Keys have outdone themselves with this album with amazing musicianship and personal lyrics that made "Brothers" the best album of 2010.

2. Mumford & Sons - Sigh No MoreKey Track - "I Gave You All"
When making this list I went to my Twitter followers for a key track on "Sigh No More." I received 8 different tracks from about 30 different people, there are only 12 songs on the album. When so many people pick such a variety from the same album as their favorite, you have an album full of great music. I couldn't stop listening to "Sigh No More," when a friend recommended them back in March. Many of the lyrics and song titles on the album were inspired by the works of Shakespeare, John Steinbeck, and other authors. It sounds a bit nerdy, I know, but you will thoroughly enjoy this album.

3. The Arcade Fire - SuburbsKey Track - "We Used To Wait"
This album could have easily been #1 on my list, because I love it so much. I had this album in every spot in the top 5 in the preliminary phase of writing this post. If you compare their sound on this album with previous work, it's more "Funeral" than "Neon Bible." The Arcade Fire puts out amazing music and every record hasn't disappointed me yet. Until that time comes, they are one of the best bands out there and "Suburbs" is proof.

4. The National - High VioletKey Track - "England"
After the band released "Boxer" in 2007, I didn't think they could top it. "High Violet" surprised me and is a stronger album, I love when bands do that. With tracks "Bloodbuzz Ohio" and "Terrible Love" hitting alternative and mainstream radio, this has also been their best-selling album so far. The baritone voice of Matt Berninger is the perfect companion for the medley of instruments the band uses on "High Violet," this is a must-listen.

5. Darwin Deez - Darwin DeezKey Track - "Radar Detector"
This is my surprise on the Top 50 list. Darwin Deez is a band from Brooklyn, NY, but have yet to explode in the States. They have been touring in the UK over the past year and charted a few singles off their self-titled album there. They call their genre "genius pop," but it has also been referred to as "bedroom pop for the heartbroken." It's a fun album with up-tempo tracks like "Radar Detector," songs for the recently dumped ("Bad Day"), and songs about post-apocalyptic love ("The Bomb Song"). It's one of the best albums of the year.

6. Broken Bells - Broken BellsKey Track - "The Ghost Inside"
Danger Mouse is making a name for himself by working with out-of-the-ordinary artists. He has released albums with Cee-Lo Green as Gnarls Barkley and Sparklehorse over the past few years with great success. He now enlisted James Mercer from The Shins to collaborate on what they call "Broken Bells." I am a fan of The Shins and the albums that Danger Mouse produced in the past, so this was a no-brainer. I love the album from the moment I first listened to it.

7. Jonsi - GoKey Track - "Sinking Friendships"
My friend James over at Columbus Beer Guys had an extra ticket to go see Jonsi live a few months ago. I wasn't familiar with his solo work, only his work as the lead singer of Sigur Ros. I got the album a few days before the show and I didn't stop listening to it until it was time to leave to go to the show. I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of Sigur Ros, but respect them as a band. Jonsi's solo album "Go" is so creative and original that is stands out from the crowd. Also, if you have a chance to ever see him live, it's definitely an experience.

8. Beach House - Teen DreamKey Track - "Zebra"
It was released in January and I nearly forgot that it was even released this year. When I first listened to it, I reminded me of something that The Yeah Yeah Yeahs would put out, but better. They have spent most of the year touring all over supporting bands like Vampire Weekend and Grizzly Bear. They should be proud of this album and hopefully we'll hear more material from them in late 2011 or early 2012.

9. Kanye West - My Beautiful Dark Twisted FantasyKey Track - "Hell Of A Life"
We all experienced "Kanye West overdose" back when he interrupted Taylor Swift at the MTV Music Awards. He realized that he needed to disappear from the limelight for a bit and it might have been the best thing that he could have done. He released so much material in a short period of time and his music became stale. When this album came out, I didn't listen right away, but after so many of my friends on Twitter kept raving about it, I caved in. "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy" was refreshing to listen to and made me realize that I actually missed having something new to listen to from him. He believe he became a fan of music again and enlisted the help of other talented musicians like Justin Vernon from Bon Iver to help him. It was nice to see that he put his ego aside for a few minutes.

10. Vampire Weekend - ContraKey Track - "Horchata"
I had a hard time placing this album. I had it all over my Top 25 when trying to figure out the order. I haven't always been a fan of Vampire Weekend. I even had a heated debate about them with my friend Carlos when I was in Vegas for a friend's wedding, "Contra" changed my mind. The tracks "Holiday" and "Horchata" getting stuck in my head, it was hard to ignore them. It's one of the best albums of the year and an album can completely change one's mind.

11. Surfer Blood - Astro CoastKey Track - "Swim"
This is another album that was an early year release that nearly flew under my radar. Even though the album was released in January, it wasn't until a month ago when I first listened to "Astro Coast." It's a pure indie-rock album with catchy riffs and low-fi production.

12. LCD Soundsystem - This Is HappeningKey Track - "You Wanted A Hit"
When LCD Soundsystem releases an album, it's nearly guaranteed to land on many year-end lists. The consistent quality of their music is something to marvel. "You Wanted A Hit" is one of the best tracks off any album this year and the rest of the album is high-quality.

13. Gorillaz - Plastic BeachKey Track - "White Flag"
Damon Albarn said "I'm making this the biggest most pop record I've ever made in many ways, but with all my experience to try at least present something that has got depth." I would say that he succeeded and Gorillaz fans would agree with that statement. Each song is a different experience and the album should be enjoyed as a whole and not a la carte.

14. Warpaint - The FoolKey Track - "Bees"
Psychedelic art rock isn't something that I listen to often, but Warpaint's soothing vocals makes them a must-listen. They don't get too artsy with their arrangements and push the envelope too far. It's still mainstream enough to occupy even the casual music fan's ear. They toe the line with this album, but they go in areas that exciting and new.

15. Sufjan Stevens - The Age Of AdzKey Track - "Vesuvius"
I usually don't condone an artist to put out a song that is 25 minutes long, but Sufjan Stevens mad it work. "Impossible Soul," a track on this album, spans nearly ever genre during its 25-minute playback time. He could have released this track as an EP itself and probably would have been successful. The rest of the album is a mixture of orchestral and electronic themes. This is the first full-length album he has released in five years and hopefully we won't have to wait another five for his next effort.

16. Maximum Balloon - Maximum BalloonKey Track - "Groove Me"
Maximum Balloon, better known as Dave Sitek from TV On The Radio, gathered up a bunch of talented artists to help him on this project. He has Karen O, David Byrne, Theophilus London, Little Dragon, and many others to help out with vocals on the album. Sitek has produced albums for TV On The Radio, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Liars in the past and he is just adding to his resumé with this project. It's a fun album full of mainstream and experimental hip-hop that stretches his chops as a record producer.

17. Two Door Cinema Club - Tourist HistoryKey Track - "Something Good Can Work"
The best bands start when guys decide to start a band to get girls. I don't know if that's a true statement, but I would like to think that great things happen when people are motivated, no matter what the motivation might be. I first heard this band this summer on the local radio station here in Columbus, CD 101. The track "I Can Talk" was on a constant rotation and I noticed myself humming it all around town. It reminded me of The Fratellis meets Ra Ra Riot, two bands that I enjoy.

18. Gayngs - RelaytedKey Track - "Faded High"
I think I have a man crush on Justin Vernon. I mentioned that he helped with Kanye West's newest album and here I am talking about him again with his side-project Gayngs. The group actually has 23 musicians from bands Bon Iver, Rhymesayers, Doomtree, Megafaun, The Rosebuds, etc. The band's sound is big and will take you in different directions. You go from a slow jam ("The Gaudy Side Of Town") to a futuristic ballad ("The Last Prom On Earth") in eleven steps.

19. Crystal Castles - Crystal Castles (II)Key Track - "Baptism"
If you want to throw a "hipster dance party," the first rule is that you must have Crystal Castles on your playlist. The energy level on this album is intense. The track "Not In Love" was later remixed with The Cure's Robert Smith on vocals. If that track was included on this album, I have a feeling that it would be much higher on my list.

20. Band Of Horses - Infinite ArmsKey Track - "On My Way Back Home"
This album starts where "Cease To Begin" left off. There is a seamless transition between their last two albums. They knew what works for them and they didn't stray away from the formula. I have to give them credit for that. They didn't go the MGMT route and say "let's try something different." Band Of Horses knows what their fans want from them and they deliver.

21. Ra Ra Riot - The OrchardKey Track - "Boy"
It helps to have connections and friends within the music industry. Ra Ra Riot their friends Chris Walla (Death Cab For Cutie) & Rostam Batmanglij (Vampire Weekend) mix their album. They did a fantastic job and enhances their superb talents and makes it pop. I was a fan of their last album "The Rhumb Line," but it did lack something. "The Orchard" hits on all cylinders and leaves me awaiting new material from the band.

22. Deerhunter - Halcyon DigestKey Track - "Helicopter"
I wasn't too familiar with Deerhunter's work before this album. They flew under my radar a bit. I recognized the name and had listened to a few tracks here and there, so when I gave this album a listen, my expectations weren't too high. I was locked in from the first track "Earthquake," since it wasn't what I was expecting. The genre of "ambient punk" could be just about anything. It reminded me of an Echo and The Bunnymen song, which I enjoy. The rest of the album was a trip and it's a fun album to listen to.

23. Spoon - TransferenceKey Track - "The Mystery Zone"
The indie-rock Gods, Spoon, have done it again. I enjoyed 2007's "Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga" and was anticipating this album for a few months before it was released. There aren't as many instant radio-friendly singles that pop out as they did when I listened to their last album, but these tracks blend together. It's not a concept album, it's just the way it was mixed.

24. Ben Folds & Nick Hornby - Lonely AvenueKey Track - "Picture Window"
When an amazing author decides to collaborate with you and write lyrics for your next album, you agree. Nick Hornby, author of "High Fidelity" and "About A Boy," wrote the lyrics this album. The lyrics on each track read like a chapter of a book. It's great to see someone who is so talented with words mesh minds with a gifted musician.

25. Motion City Soundtrack - Dinosaur LifeKey Track - "Her Words Destroyed My Planet"
You usually don't see too many bands tied to the "pop punk" genre on anyone's top albums of the year list. I had to change it up and add this one to my list. I thought maybe I was just a fan and I was brainwashed to like anything they put out. I was pleased to see that this album is the only album that Alternative Press gave a top rating too all year. They had a more mature sound, but still don't take themselves too seriously with clever wordplay.

HERE IS THE REST OF THE TOP 50 ALBUMS OF 2010 (26-50)

Sweetbob's Top 50 Albums of 2010 (26-50)

I used to be a music journalist before I started this blog. I worked for a ton of websites and even ran my own for a few years. I decided to dive back into the genre, since 2010 was a great year for music. I have spent the last few weeks listening to music non-stop and I have been a very tired boy. I have narrowed down the albums that were released in 2010 to a top 50 list with a few honorable mentions listed at the bottom of this post. Here are the bottom half of my Top 50 Albums of 2010, with links to key tracks.


26. Sleigh Bells - TreatsKey Track - "Infinite Guitars"
The best way to describe this Brooklyn-based band would be "noise pop." They formed in 2008 and their debut full-length album, "Treats," barely missed our Top 25. They are a band on the rise and from what I hear from my friends, put on a crazy live show.

27. Yeasayer - Odd BloodKey Track - "I Remember"
I wasn't a big fan of Yeasayer until I hear "Odd Blood" for the first time. I have a hard time believe that they produced this album themselves. I'm glad that they translated their success opening up for MGMT in 2007 into putting out such a solid album. I almost added "Ambling Alp" as the key track on this album, but "I Remember" is currently stuck in my head, it's catchy.

28. Deadmau5 - 4x4=12Key Track - "Raise Your Weapon"
I'm glad Deadmau5 decided to focus on music instead of math, because he consistently puts out solid albums. "4x4=12" is the Canadian artist's third album. Even if it's not as good as last year's "For Lack Of A Better Name," I had to add it high on my list.

29. Local Natives - Gorilla ManorKey Track - "Airplanes"
Local Natives have been describe as "psycho folk" in album reviews, but I think the critic was just trying to think up a new genre. "Gorilla Manor" is a modern take on traditional folk music, a breath of fresh air for the genre. They spent most of the year opening up for Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros. It should be time to headline their own tour to support this great album.

30. Lil Wayne - RebirthKey Track - "Runnin'"
2010 was a year Lil' Wayne would probably like to forget. He spent most of it in prison, but before his sentence he released "Rebirth," a rap/rock hybrid that came out early this year. Even though he relies heavily on auto-tune, he comes through with an superb album.

31. Hot Chip - One Life StandKey Track - "Hand Me Down Your Love"
I have a hard time trying to describe Hot Chip to people who haven't heard them. I want to say that they are "soul dance," but that would be painting them into a corner. This is the band's 4th album and if you haven't heard of them, get on iTunes and get out your credit card.

32. Girl Talk - All DayKey Track - "Jump On Stage"
I'm probably going to get hell from my friends for not ranking this album higher. I think "All Day" is one of the most re-listenable albums of the year, but had to consider that he is rearranging great music put out by other artists. I am going to see Girl Talk live in two weeks and I'm sure it will be amazing. Anyone who can put an Ol' Dirty Bastard rap over a Radiohead track is talented.

33. Cee-Lo Green - The Lady KillerKey Track - "No One's Gonna Love You"
Everyone loves his song, "Fuck You," but you will have to take a listen to his cover of the Band of Horses song, "No One's Gonna Love You." I love his work with Danger Mouse in the group Gnarls Barkley and he looks to finally put on a solo album that is getting critical-acclaim and flying off shelves.

34. Free Energy - Stuck On NothingKey Track - "Dark Trance"
Power pop albums aren't my cup of tea, but Free Energy's "Stuck On Nothing" stood out from other albums in the genre. LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy produced the band album and he got the best out of the band. "Bang Pop" is their best known track, but there are many others on the album worth a listen.

35. John Legend & The Roots - Wake Up!Key Track - "Our Generation"
I love John Legend and he had a hand in making Kanye West's latest album great. I also love The Roots, who you may see again later on in this list. When you combine the two, you are guaranteed to have something worth listening to.

36. Kid Cudi - Man On The Moon Vol II: The Legend Of Mr. RagerKey Track - "Scott Mescudi Vs. The World"
I thought that Kid Cudi would be a one-hit wonder when "Day N Nite" started to get played on the radio. He changed my mind when I heard his debut album, his second effort is just as good. Kid Cudi is making Ohio proud, even if he has a song on the album solely dedicated to the green herb, "Marijuana."

37. Kings Of Leon - Come Around SundownKey Track - "Pyro"
I was expecting big things from Kings Of Leon after their last album, "Only By The Night," was such a smash success. The band didn't seem comfortable with the instant worldwide success, after releasing other albums that they thought were just as good. "Come Around Sundown" isn't as radio-friendly, but I'm pretty sure the band is okay with it.

38. Matt & Kim - SidewalksKey Track - "Block After Block"
Matt & Kim put on a great live show and their album, "Sidewalks," is just as entertaining as buying a ticket. They are an energetic two-piece band and if you haven't heard of them, I'm sure you have heard a track or two at some point. If they are in a town near you, check them out and buy this album.

39. Gogol Bordello - Trans-Continental HustleKey Track - "Immigraniada (We Comin' Rougher)"
Speaking of energetic live shows, Gogol Bordello might take the trophy in that contest. I saw them a few years ago at a Warped Tour in Chicago and they rocked the tired, sun-poisoned crowd. "Trans-continental Hustle" is in the same ilk as their previous efforts, but under Rick Rubin's production (or lack thereof), they have released their best album to date.

40. The Tallest Man On Earth - The Wild HuntKey Track - "Kids On The Run"
The Tallest Man On Earth (aka Kristian Matsson) is a Swedish folk musician you may not have heard a lot about. He has released other full-length albums and EPs over the last few years, but "The Wild Hunt" is his strongest. It's produced to sound like you are listening to it on low-fi vinyl. The production enhances the experience of listening to it and will remind you of early Bob Dylan.

41. Broken Social Scene - Forgiveness: Rock RecordKey Track - "All To All"
I had an ex-girlfriend who loved Broken Social Scene a few years ago and for some reason it completely turned me off on the band. I really can't explain why, but I decided to give them another shot with "Forgiveness: Rock Record." I'm glad that I reintroduced myself to the band with this album. I'm glad that I didn't let a past failed relationship keep me from listening to this album, I feel like I just had a break-through.

42. The Walkmen - LisbonKey Track - "Victory"
I have been a fan of The Walkmen and every other album in their discography would probably land in the Top 20 albums released in those years. "Lisbon" is a good album, but it didn't hit on all the buttons their past albums did. It still lands at #42, it's respectable, but go check out the rest of their discography before you listen to it and get back to me.

43. The Roots - How I Got OverKey Track - "Walk Alone"
I told you that The Roots might appear again on this list. It was a great year for the guy from Philly. They are getting mainstream popularity by being the house band on "Late Night with Jimmy Fallon" and releasing great albums. This album is full of guest-stars and smart lyrics on every track. Also, I would follow ?uestlove on Twitter if you want to know more about the band, he's entertaining.

44. Seabear - We Built A FireKey Track - "We Fell Off The Roof"
Clash magazine described Seabear as "Sufjan Stevens meets an unplugged Arcade Fire." If that doesn't spark your interest, you aren't a music fan. The indie-folk band from Iceland haven't made a huge splash here in the U.S., but another album as good as "We Built A Fire," and they could become a household name.

45. Washington - I Believe You LiarKey Track - "1997"
After releasing an EP in 2008, Washington's full-length debut was buzz-worthy. Megan Washington, the band's lead singer, has a voice and style that screams a pop success. They may have not received the popularity yet, but "I Believe You Liar" is a very good album to build a career on.

46. Cloud Control - Bliss ReleaseKey Track - "This Is What I Said"
Are you in the mood for Australian indie folk music? I don't think I have ever said that to myself, but after listening to this album, it's now plausible. I'm glad that I stumbled upon this album in late November. It has been a staple on my iTunes for the last month.

47. Rogue Wave - PermalightKey Track - "Solitary Gun"
Rogue Wave is one of the longest-tenured bands on his list and they still have the magic touch. "Solitary Gun" is one of my favorite tracks on the year. The rest of the album is good, but the album makes this list based mostly on just a few tracks. I would wish for a more consistent effort, but I"ll take it. It's still worth a few spins, just not the strongest album they have released.

48. Four Tet - There Is Love In YouKey Track - "Circling"
I will admit this from the start, Four Tet may not be for everybody, but "There Is Love In You" perked up my ears. If you like artists like Bonobo and Aphex Twin, you could be in for a treat. I wanted to add it to this list because it doesn't sound like a lot of the stuff out there and needs to be recognized. Check out a few tracks online and decide yourself.

49. Avi Buffalo - Avi BuffaloKey Track - "Jessica"
Yet, another debut album from a young band cracks my Top 50. I must be in love with band on Sub Pop Records or formerly on the label. There have been quite a few that made it on here this year. Some critics have compared them to The Shins, which is an adequate, yet lofty, comparison.

50. Big Boi - Sir Lucious Left Foot The Son Of Chico DustyKey Track - "General Patton"
Big Boi is further separating himself from Andree 3000 with this album. I love Outkast, but if he keeps making good solo music, I can survive. I only ask them he releases on album with Sleepy Brown on a track, hearing him on a Big Boi track is starting to become predictable.

Honorable Mention
Caribou - SwimKey Track - "Kaili"
Once again, this band isn't for everybody, but still should get a mention as a "close by no cigar" album to miss the list.

Girls - Broken Dreams ClubKey Track - "Heartbreaker"
This album would have made the list, but I had a hard time putting an album with only six songs on the list.

How To Dress Well - Love RemainsKey Track - "Date Of Birth"
Just too many good albums and only 50 spots on the list.

Kate Nash - My Best Friend Is YouKey Track - "I Just Love You More"
I'm going to piss off a lot of ladies by not adding this on my list. I may have just missed a golden opportunity to earn some more female readers.

Die Antwoord - $O$Key Track - "Enter The Ninja"
A weird, unique band that I had to mention. If you can watch that video without being freaked out a bit, you should probably quit the internet and see a shrink.

Jimmy Eat World - InventedKey Track - "Action Needs An Audience"
An all-time favorite band with a solid album. It's not their best, but worth a listen.

Foals - Total Life ForeverKey Track - "What Remains"
Think early Travis & Blur albums...a decent brit-pop album.