"The Dust of Retreat" - Margot and the Nuclear So and So's
Pop music with so much more than catchy lyrics, Margot's debut offering is addicting.

"The Crane Wife - The Decemberists
The way Colin Meloy tells a story with his lyrics is unmatched in music.

"Eyes Open" - Snow Patrol
An incredible sophomore album, "Eyes Open" is packed with possibly successful singles.

"Shine On" - Jet
May not have found the "it" radio song again, but this is a better album.

"Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not" - Arctic Monkeys
Not the greatest band to ever come out of England, but they're energetic and entertaining nonetheless.

"Broom" - Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin
They write better songs than band names, and "Broom" has a handful of marvels.

"Costello Music" - The Fratellis
"Costello Music" offers some of the most fun and energetic songs the year.

"With Love And Squalor" - We Are Scientists
An exhilarating band with a lot to say.

"Like Vines" - The Hush Sound
Probably the most all-over-the-place album on the list... and that's a compliment.

"Songs We Sing" - Matt Costa
An upbeat, smile-enducing album from a talented singer and musician.