Year in Rock 2012 Nominee: The Stanfields

THE STANFIELDS

Death & Taxes

From: Death & Taxes

Released: September 18

Given a couple years of relentless touring, it was a safe bet that The Stanfields would exhibit improved chops on their sophomore album. On Death & Taxes, they have chops in spades; everything is tighter, louder and more muscular. It's a raw album, and one that has dark energy flowing through it. There's nothing like the happy-go-lucky (and, occasionally, hilarious) moments on their debut, but that's not a bad thing. No one wants to be known as a novelty band, and The Stanfields have proven that when it comes to their craft they should be taken seriously. Added bonus: the interactive video for the title track (found at pleaseclickagree.com) is very cool and very frightening.

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