We spend the majority of our time celebrating the music in DC, and we are so glad there were things worth celebrating. Now, Shervin sent this over. And it is wonderful. And he actually shot most of these bands in 2007 whether for them or for us. I am especially proud of the fact we did interview/listening parties with most of the bands on here (follow the links throughout to enjoy the music), but I will also link to a few standouts of my own below, that maybe he overlooked. So, check back in next week for a next part. By me. With photos. Its been a good DC year, and we should all be proud. -Svetlana

Shervin's list

10. Bellman Barker - Anise & Anisette
Personality counts for a lot and Bellman Barker have it. 'Anise & Anisette' mixes theatrical vocals with the kind of harmony-laden
choruses that trap in your memory. Released in May of 07, 'A&A' contributes songs with stories worth following.
Standout Track: 'Molly Maroon.'
listen to the whole record here: http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/interviews/byt-interview-and-listening-party-bellman-barker/

9. Statehood - Lies and Rhetoric
Statehood is a relatively new addition to DC music. Former Dismemberment Plan/ex-Maritime bassist Eric Axelson and former
Dismemberment Plan drummer Joe Eadley have crafted a blistering, eleven track debut with in-your-face guitar riffs and confrontational vocals. The result is a promising taste of things to come.
Standout Track – 'Giants.'
read our interview with the band here: http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/interviews/statehood-a-byt-interview/

8. Greenland - Call Message
Greenland's earnest, and sometimes uncomfortable lyrics have helped them reach the top of my Ipod's '25 most played.' Each song on their debut full length, 'Call Message' tells a story that relies on the songs before and after it. The CD truly is a completed work – which seems to be rare in these times of downloaded tracks.
Standout Track: 'Salome,' a mysterious, haunting ode to a lover lost.
listen to the whole record here:http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/featured/greenland-listening-party/

7. Carol Bui - Everyone Wore White
'Everyone Wore White' is by far the most surprising release of 2007. The combination of Bui's masterful guitar playing and the lush layers of ghostly sounds create an environment the listener can step into. There is a vulnerability echoing in Carol's voice that creates a compelling work.
Standout Track: 'Quan Am.'
listen to the whole record here: http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/breaking-hearts-with-carol-bui/

6. Pash - The Best Gun
Pash plays rock music. The kind of rock music that most of us wish Rilo Kiley still played. That being said, 'The Best Gun' jumps from up-tempo guitar driven songs to moody, melodic portraits of a confused girl. This record proves to be a fantastic introduction to a breed of rock unfortunately ignored by the mainstream. Good rock.
StandOut Track: 'Kill The Rich Boys.'
check out our Pash listening party here: http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/audio-preview-pash-carol-bui/

5. These United States EP
Although These United States did not release a proper full length, they did record a series of demos that were given away at their shows. Since this is my list, I can make up the rules! Tracks like 'The Business' inject a much-needed shot of soul into some of the soulless indie rock of the past year. Everything within the song is necessary, meaningful and makes for an interesting listen. Each member adds an individual flavor and distinction.
Standout Track: 'First Sight.' Full length comes out in March 08.
why have we never done a These United State feature? They did play about 80 shows we covered this year.-ed

4. Jukebox The Ghost - Self Titled EP
Anyone who has seen Jukebox The Ghost live will tell you they are a force of nature. The relatively new threesome has carved an impressive amount of support in a relatively short period of time, combining heaps of energy, heart and charisma into their youthful optimistic tunes while never crossing that ubiquitous line of cheesy. If you know whats good for you, you will listen to Jukebox The Ghost.
Standout Track: 'Hold it in'
read our interview/listen to the whole record here: http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/getting-a-little-bit-excited-with-jukebox-the-ghost/

3. Antelope - Reflector
Reflector had to grow on me. But once it did, I was swimming in the deep end of a sonic pool known as Antelope. From the first to the last song Antelope feeds your ears, whether you are hungry or not.
Standout Track: 'Wandering Ghost.'

2. Aloha - Light Works EP
The 'Light Works' EP is a dreamy escape into Aloha's signature sound. There is something reminiscent yet modern about the songs on this short and to-the-point EP. Everything, from the spot on production to the rhythm of the words, paints a picture similar to the one which graces the cover. At times confessional, at times distant, there is a sense of darkness that begs you to listen on a long night time drive.
Standout Track: 'Broken Light.'

1. Georgie James -Places
I know, I know.. you are saying to yourself, 'of course he is going to give them the number one spot.. wahh wahh,' but listen, objectively speaking, 'Places' is my favorite record of 2007. It has everything you could want: Power pop anthems, catchy singalongs, handclaps, male/female harmonies, political statements, personal statements, love songs, and even an ode to those weeks that seem to never end. 'Places' not only pleases the ears, it makes you think about a simpler time when it just took good songs to be heard.
Standout Track 'Hard Feelings', and 'Cake Parade.'
check out record review here: http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/record-review-georgie-james-places/
exclusive behind the video scenes footage here:http://www.brightestyoungthings.com/music/dc-video-of-the-week-georgie-james/
and more.

Svetlana's Addendum to come Monday.
bookends.

Previously in I Heart DC:

• 5/24: DC NEWS YOU CAN (MAYBE) USE...
• 5/23: DC News You Can (Maybe) Use
• 5/23: BYT Patio and Outdoor Dining Guide - Spring/Summer 2012
• 5/22: DC NEWS YOU CAN (MAYBE) USE...
• 5/21: DC News You Can (Maybe) Use
• 5/21: PHOTOS: Artomatic 2012 Opening
• 5/18: DC NEWS YOU CAN (MAYBE) USE...
• 5/17: DC News You Can (Maybe) Use
• 5/16: D.C. NEWS YOU CAN (MAYBE) USE...
• 5/16: Photos: Dance In The Circle @ Dupont Circle