Before I forget: The songs I listened to most in 2011. You may note a theme.

Land of Talk, “It’s Okay” (2008)
Rediscovered on shuffle, quickly deployed as my go-to “late-night stroll to think about the future and stuff” soundtrack.

Superchunk, “Digging For Something” (2010)
Purchased the day I moved to D.C., listened to intently on the train. Was especially drawn to the backup vocal on the chorus; turns out it’s one of my heroes. 

Jenny Owen Youngs, “Secrets” (2009)
Remember this one from an old J.O.Y. demo; happened to hear the tricked-out album version at a bar this fall. “Don’t try to make me sleep without you”: Who would dare?

Hospitality, “Eighth Avenue” (2012)
Clinging to this until their album comes out and everyone discovers how rad they are. It’s like watching your kid leave for college.

Yeti Lane, “Lonesome George” (2009)
Made me cry once. I was alone. 

The Ting Tings, “That’s Not My Name” (2008)
Heard in a coffee shop that doesn’t exist anymore. Tried to pull a “What is this?” ice-breaker on the cute barista; no dice.

A Tribe Called Quest, “Scenario” (1991)
Spent a lot of time with Busta’s verse. Oh my gosh … Oh my gosh.

The Tallest Man on Earth, “I Won’t Be Found” (2008)
Played this for Casey when he visited this summer. His response: “Are you jealous of that growl?” Yes.

Robyn, “Call Your Girlfriend” (2010)
Yeah, I know, me and everyone with a heart. This cover is worth revisiting, though. 

Passion Pit, “To Kingdom Come” (2009)
Apparently I walk at this song’s exact BPM. When the drums kick in, my posture straightens a bit and I feel like winking at the next person I see.