Saying goodbye to 2011 with a list was downright therapeutic, so why not welcome 2012 with one?
While the iTunes playlist was tempting as the means to provide backing music for TVD Chicago’s New Years Eve bash, it just would not have been proper. Instead, we looked to our personal record crates, and rang in the New Year as only vinyl records could.
While there was plenty of music to go around, a few records just seemed to keep ending up on the turntable. So we figured why not share the top 5 records that helped us ring in 2012.
Fitz and the Tantrums – Pickin’ Up The Pieces
A 2010 masterpiece, Fitz and the Tantrums lit up 2011 with their tour and album promotions as well as amazing singles taking over the nation. Amazing soul and funk sounds helped us rock out all night. Tracks like “L.O.V.” and “Rich Girls” might have been played more than once.
Melanie – Gather Me
Melanie is a TVD Chicago favorite, and it only seemed fitting that she be blasted as loud as the speakers would allow. Leading up to midnight, while the appetizers were served and the drinks were mixed, she was the perfect backing music. As fitting, “Ring the Living Bell” was cheered for when it came on.
The Black Keys – Brothers
This blues-rock album is a must own for all rock and rollers or just plain out vinyl enthusiasts and was the starting record to the party. From the beginning of “Everlasting Light” straight through well-known singles like “Howling for You” this was the dance record of the night. Drinks held high and dancing to each track was a good way to get the pre-12:00 AM going.
The Kinks – Greatest Hits
From the stroke of midnight till early in the morning, I have to apologize to the neighbors for our rocking habits. Though they’ll have to admit, “All Day and All of the Night” and “You Really Got Me” was the perfect way to ring in 12:00 AM and keep the partying going.
Julie London – Swing Me an Old Song
Julie London’s smoky and sexy baritone/alto voice was perfect after midnight as the champagne began to take effect. Soft and melodic tracks like “Cuddle up a Little Closer” were perfect for sitting and relaxing with that special someone.
Overall, it was one of the best New Years that we at TVD Chicago have been a part of. Good friends and good music was an easy way to welcome the new year, and we look forward to all the new (and old) vinyl out there to be discovered in 2012.
We’d love to hear what you were spinning on New Years Eve this time around? Leave your playlist below and share the tunes.
