#6 Album of 2005

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah – Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
[self released; released 10/11/05]

What a great story these guys are. Last year Arcade Fire was the underdog story of the year in music, this year it goes to Clap Your Hands Say Yeah. CYHSY recorded and released this album without any help from a record label, but with help from the internet this album became a huge success. It’s so refreshing to find an album this good from a band that doesn’t care about press clippings or promotions. What is great is that this album is not just a cookie cutter release with the sole intention of trying to hit it big and maybe hook up with a label. CYHSY released something of their own and let listeners actually decide what they think. That is what indie music is all about and what all music should aspire to be like. The music is so catchy and quite original, although I’m sure the vocals will turn a lot of people off. But who cares, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah had the you know what to lay their music out there and say “Like it or not, this is what we are. Take it or leave it.” This album has given indie music a huge shot in the arm, and hopefully it will inspire musicians everywhere.

Top 5 in '05 begins tomorrow...