Godspeed You! Black Emperor - Allelujah! Don't Bend! Ascend (2012)

The surprise release from this legendary post-rock band didn't disappoint in the slightest, and I have to say that it more than lives up to the band's reputation. It has a particularly dark, minimalistic atmosphere (especially on the two shorter drone tracks) that is interspersed with moments of sheer beauty. We Drift Like Worried Fire is probably my favorite track on the album because it exemplifies this amazing dynamic so skillfully. It's a great accomplishment for the band and certainly one of this year's must-listens.

9/10