This was really a no-brainer for me, as anyone who has been reading this blog since its inception in July will know that I have developed a huge love of Wintersleep over the course of 2007.

To be honest, I had pretty much shamefully ignored their first two releases, but the moment I gave 2007’s Welcome to the Night sky a listen that was all she wrote (read the review here). Achieving a great balance between infectious pop melodies and more adventurous and sprawling numbers, this latest release is a diverse and rewarding listen that never gets old. Of course, if constantly blaring stellar tunes like “Weighty Ghost” (previously featured here) and “Archaeologists” from my stereo wasn’t enough, then seeing Wintersleep live twice definitely sealed the deal.

All gushing aside, these guys are just a tight band that exude confidence without being cocky. Each time I saw them in concert it amplified my reverence for the recorded material, as their stage presence is charming and likable, but they’re not afraid to forgo the niceties and just cut loose on tunes that merit some extended sonic exploration—a great band to see live that I’ll be checking out every time they make a stop in Toronto.

Sure, I know people who found the radio push for “Weighty Ghost” annoying (a wise friend of mine initially told me that he thought this song could be trouble) and other artists have been given higher accolades this year, but this is the band that I’ve listened to (and seen live) most and they’ve also been the biggest draw when it comes to my traffic stats, so when it comes to this blog Wintersleep is tops.

There you have it, catchy songwriting that knows when to sprawl and when to stay tight combined with an excellent live presence have earned this Halifax band the as-yet coveted honour of being my top band of 2007. Here’s hoping the momentum keeps up in 2008, as I’ll be listening.

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Take a listen to a track from Welcome to the Night Sky below (right-click, “Save Link As” to download):

Wintersleep - Archaeologists

Also, catch them live with the Russian Futurists on Jan. 31 at the Phoenix. In the meantime you can warm up for the gig by perusing my photos from their 2007 Toronto engagements below!

The Mod Club 16/11/07:

The Horseshoe 16/10/07:

While you’re at it, might as well check out my previously posted live reviews of both Wintersleep’s show at the Horseshoe and their gig at the Mod Club.