#22 on the 2012 Musical Bacon Calendar

I admit to having a fairly narrow range of what I like to listen to. But I always have outliers, bands that don’t fit into that indie rock label. Diamond Rings is one of those outliers. This is the most poppy band on the Calendar by far, and this isn’t their first appearance here.

They’re also a band I got to see perform this year, the year dubbed the Best Year In Live Music EVAR. When I saw the band back in sweaty August, I wrote:

Their entire set comprised of songs from Diamond Rings’ new album, Free Dimensional, out October 23. And even though I hadn’t heard the album yet, except for lead single “I’m Just Me,” it was clear that it’s worlds ahead of his debut album. Where that album was plinky-plonky, the new album is produced.

That’s not to say if an album has been crafted by a capable producer then it is much better than not. On the contrary: I usually brandish the “produced” label when referring to something that has too much of it. Free Dimensional is not that. But then, that’s also one of pop music’s strengths: high production value.

John O, the force behind Diamond Rings, is a unique performer. He has an amazing ability to come out on stage and just do his thing. Whether he’s by himself or with a group, it does not matter. When you download it, be sure to give this album a fair shake. Listen to it a couple times before giving up on it. You won’t be disappointed.

__________________________________________

23. History Speaks by Deep Sea Diver
24. A Different Ship by Here We Go Magic
25. Negotiations by the Helio Sequence
26. Moms by Menomena
27. The Sound of the Life of the Mind by Ben Folds Five
28. Shields by Grizzly Bear
29. Every Child A Daughter, Every Moon A Sun by The Wooden Sky
30. Fragrant World by Yeasayer
31. Reign of Terror by Sleigh Bells

What is the Bacon Calendar?

2011 Musical Bacon Calendar
2010 Musical Bacon Calendar
2009 Musical Bacon Calendar