Best Electronic Album

Readers Poll Results 2004

BY None NonePublished Jan 1, 2006

1. Manitoba Up In Flames (Domino)
Kudos to Manitoba for finally taking away some of the unbearable sterility that usually accompanies electronic music. I'm not really into electronic, but it is nothing but a credit to Manitoba's skill that I'm now putting a little more consideration towards any music that comes from a computer. Bill Cameron, Toronto ON

The best electronic album this year was the most organic. Dan Snaith took the ‘60s and filtered it through his IDMish sensibilities to give us the best psychedelic album since Mercury Rev's Yerself is Steam. Brent Wilson, Prince George BC

Nothing is really better than this. With more density yet more spirit than the last release, I just kept playing this CD over and over again. It's everything an electronic album should be. Luc Nicole-Labrie, Quebec QC

Beautiful electronic music from a brilliant Canadian. Joel Loughead, Toronto ON

Puts Canadian musicians on the world music map. Each new spin renders new textures and rewards for the listener. Can't wait for the follow-up. Bill Hountalas, Whitby ON

Warm and fuzzy rainbows. Stacey Ho, London ON

2. Kid Koala Some of My Best Friends Are DJs (Ninja Tune)
The Kid is just a perfect mix of turntablism, humour, cuteness and Dan the Automator protégéism. And his comic is just incredible. Michal Bluma, Montreal QC

Everything the kid touches turns to gold. The most underappreciated, brilliant musician in Canada. Mark Alexandrino, Edmonton AB

Up in Flames and Rounds were nice, like you'd tell someone their blouse was nice. Neil Butler, St. John's NF

3. Four Tet Rounds (Domino)
Another solid release by Mr. Hebden. If only more music had this much substance. Jordan Cave, Ottawa ON

For an electronic album, it sometimes felt more organic than dirt. Excellent melodies and chill beats, perfect to wind down that late Saturday night. Jeff Purmalis, Toronto ON

This is an absolutely beautiful continuation of the album Pause (which is one of my most beloved records). Such crystalline textures, yet full of weight and movement and resonance at the same instant. Jenanne Ferguson, St. Albert AB

4. Basement Jaxx Kish Kash (XL)
This album gets me going. A great way to start the day. It definitely gets me in the mood for some sunshine. Alyssa Gaukel, Chilliwack BC

Anyone who said dance is dead obviously hasn't heard Kish Kash. Basement Jaxx were so good, they were even able to make an 'N Sync member other than Justin Timberlake sound talented. Matthew Pollesel, Ottawa ON

Everyone thought that dance music had left the club. But electronic geniuses Felix Buxton and Simon Ratcliffe have poured a dazzling cocktail of pure DJ-driven, multi-vocalist adventure. The guest roster includes Dizzee Rascal, Lisa Kekuala and even 'N Sync's JC Chasez sounds horribly funky! (Ecstasy not included.) Wayne Yuzik, Saskatoon SK

5. Plastikman Closer (Paper Bag)
If you haven't listened to this, be prepared. Lock yourself in your room, lie down, and be scared. An inner journey. Trevor MacMillan, Ottawa ON

Moving and soulful. Who knew electonics could be so tender? Duncan Armstrong, Toronto ON

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