As part of our year-end wrapup of new bands, the staff has put together their top moments of 2012 and are sharing them with you, enjoy!

5. Mutt- Cory Branan

I have always thought of Cory as my favorite storyteller who just happens to play a mean guitar. Often times doing things with a guitar with talent and speed that I didn’t know was possible. He gained a spot on my list of people to never miss live. He has put out his share of albums, but It wasn’t until Mutt that I feel he truly put all of himself on one record. “Survivor Blues” is “classic” Cory, an amazing story that is heart felt and in some way you can relate to it. It’s as if the story is about your best friends. “Jericho” and “Freefall” are also tracks that are cant miss on there. The real gem for me is ” The Corner” it just never gets old, and always puts a smile on my face. This album caps off my top 5 list nicely and is a great addition to the many other great albums put out this year. I can’t wait to see what else Cory has left in him since he never ceases to surprise me.

4. Old Believers – Cory Chisel and the Wandering Sons

I fell in love with this band after seeing them live, but I never had song or album of theirs that I listened to regularly. That was until Old Believers was released. Besides Cory’s entrancing voice. every part of this album screams nostalgia and the South. Something about each song makes you want to sway a bit. I have yet been able to listen to “Old Love” and keep myself from humming and bopping along. However ” Never Meant to Love You” is the song that gives me chills and is honest to a fault. “Times Won’t Change” is easily the most politically driven song, which I don’t always gravitate towards, but some how Cory has the ability to state many facts and some opinions without preaching. This album made me happy that good music was still being made.

3. Night Visions – Imagine Dragons

This Las Vegas-based band came out guns blazing with their debut album. Their song, “It’s Time,” has been heard in commercials, tv shows, and movie previews even before they had released the album in August. Once I got my hands on this album, I had it on repeat. With catchy songs like “Radioactive,” it was only a matter of time until it started getting radio play, so I wasn’t surprised when I turned on the car radio the other day and it was on. Other tracks such as “Demons” and “Underdog” help round out this album. I expect big things to come from this band.

2. The Lumineers – The Lumineers

To have both a debut album and a Grammy nod in the same year is an amazing accomplishment and the The Lumineers have done just that. They have also become a household name. Their hit song “Ho Hey” has introduced many listeners to the band, but the overall album is what is going to keep them listening. Stand out songs, “Flowers In Your Hair” and my personal favorite “Slow It Down”, are beautiful poems set to a backdrop of music by some very talented musicians. Each track offers the listener a glimpse into this hauntingly romantic world. The only negative about this album is that I am left anxiously awaiting what else is to come from this band.

1. Handwritten – The Gaslight Anthem

It should come as no surprise that this album made it to my top spot as I’ve raved about The Gaslight Anthem a number of times this year already. As a whole, the album is a knockout and is the perfect album to introduce new listeners to the band. It has all the components needed to make it a well-rounded album. I still can’t stop listening to the title track, with lyrics like “I’m in love with the way you’re in love with the night” sung so soulfully. It’s almost impossible to hear Brian Fallon’s voice and not have it melt your heart. Make no mistake though, this is still a punk rock album deep down. Take your cue from the guys and turn it up and flip to track 7, “Howl,” and for just over two minutes rock out to a classic punk song. Having recently released a video for their second single “Here Comes My Man,” which is gaining popularity, now is the time to check out this album if you haven’t already. I will be enjoying this album for years to come.