We’ve been asking artists for their Top 10 Albums of 2023 and here’s a list from Brian Case of Chicago trio FACS, who released their fantastic fifth album, Still Life in Decay, back in April. His list includes kindred spirits EXEK, fellow Chicago group Alta Vista, UK group Adulkt Life (ft members of Huggy Bear and Male Bonding), the Telemarketers soundtrack by his onetime 90 Day Men bandmate Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe, his son’s band, Lifeguard, and more. Read his list and commentary below.
FACS just wrapped up their 2023 touring schedule with a visit to The Netherlands’ Le Guess Who? festival and a couple Midwest dates with Dianogah. Speaking of 90 Day Men, Numero Group is releasing a comprehensive box set of the band’s recordings in January.
BRIAN CASE of FACS – TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2023
EXEX – The Map and the Territory
The best band going makes one of their best albums.
Alta Vista – Alta Vista
Chicago band that makes ambient / free music based on a found book of country tunes.
Damon Locks & Rob Mazurek – New Future City Radio
Tomorrow is listening.
Lifeguard – Dressed In Trenches
Love how this band has grown and evolved, constantly pushing themselves and throwing away whatever feels comfortable. Yes I am biased.
Coffin Prick – Laughing
Truly weird music from a true weirdo.
Marc Miller & Se Jong Cho – Matisse Bath
Process and refinement from two different perspectives.
April Magazine – Wesley’s Convertible Tape For The South
Stuck between stations jangle.
Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe – Telemarketers OST
One of my favorite things I saw this year, scored by one of my favorite people.
Justin Walter – Destroyer
Love how Justin thinks about melody and arrangement, this ones a bit darker which I prefer.
Adulkt Life – There Is No Desire
Directed energy. Chris Rowely is the best voice in punk.
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