Of the 2010 albums I have heard thus far, I think Odd Blood by Yeasayer probably stands out as my favorite. Or at least the one that most interests me.

If I had to explain it one sentence I’d say “It sounds like Animal Collective if they wrote really catchy pop songs.” What I mean by that is Yeasayer seems to have the same interest in experimenting with sound itself, but they seem to be much more concerned with writing catchy pop songs to go along with those sonic experiments.

To give you an idea of just how catchy I’m talking about, some of the songs actually remind me of Michael Jackson in some strange way. Although I guess it’s more accurate to say it just reminds me of 80s pop in general. And I’m not usually someone who is usually turned on by the whole 80s retro thing. I think the thing is, with this album it doesn’t sound “80s retro” because there’s a freshness to it that sounds very 2010.

To some that will mean they are a “sellout” or whatever. You can’t write a catchy song without pissing off some people. Personally I like to be able to hum a tune every once in awhile. If you want to get a quick idea of what I’m talking about, check out “ONE.” The bit that comes in at about 4:30 into the song is very Michael Jacksonesque, ain’t it?

“Rome” is another pop gem. It sounds like it’s custom made to be the theme song to a quirky movie involving lots of drug use and some absurd plot. Maybe something directed by Greg Araki (by the way, Smiley Face is one of the greatest “stoner” movies ever.)

Along with these very catchy pop moments, the album has it’s share of experimental moments, most obviously the very first track “Little Children.” But there are also bits within very catchy songs like “Love Me Girl” (which actually has some elements that remind me of The Backstreet Boys) that are very strange.

This album is perfect for people who love both psychedelic experimental music and dancy pop music. I’m not sure how many people fall into both of these groups, but I do – so I love Odd Blood.