Coldplay - Viva La Vida
I almost didn’t list this record first because it’s probably at the top of everyone’s list. But in all honesty, it’s the only record that I can listen to without  skipping a track or two. I’ve been a fan of [producer] Brian Eno for a while; most of my favorite bands have worked with him at one point or another, and I think that their best works are the ones that Eno produced. This one is no exception. I don’t own a more listenable album or recall an album more enjoyable all the way through, over and over again. Immensely entertaining. (Also check out the Prospekt’s March EP!)

The Weepies - Hideaway
Sometimes the right music comes along at just the right time; in a different moment I could have easily dismissed this as another heart-on-sleeve, folk-rock-lite duo singing weepy (sorry) little tunes. But something pulled me in - the timbre of the voices, the creative harmonies, the understated rhythm section, the songwriting. All that, and the sweetness - in the best sense of the word. I haven’t enjoyed discovering a recording like this in a long time.

Ben Shive - The Ill-Tempered Klavier
I can usually find something about my friends’ records to enjoy. But friend or not, this is a great record. Ben is a tremendous musician, and his debut record gives us a peek into the symphonies that are undeniably always playing in his head. Definitely worth the price of admission.

Radiohead - In Rainbows
Technically, they gave this away last year. Certainly you’ve heard about it. But you know what? Forget the PR. Forget the hype about “sticking it to the labels” and giving music away. It’s still all about the music, people. This record did well because it’s a GREAT RECORD. Believe me, if the music sucks, you won’t even be able to give it away.

The Killers - Day & Age
I’ve been following these guys since “Hot Fuss” and for the most part enjoy most everything they do. This record is a little more pop/electronic sounding, and I wasn’t sure what I’d think about it. They proved me wrong. It’s a great record, and definitely worth a listen. Or twelve.

Once (Motion Picture Soundtrack)
Winsome love story with magnetic soundtrack draws you in and takes you for a ride. Life rarely has storybook endings and neither does “Once.” The story and music draw you in and pull you under in an enchanting tale of pain and passion strained.

The Raconteurs - Consolers Of The LonelyThe Raconteurs deliver an cohesive, polished but not overproduced, joyous experience. This time around the band has clearly gelled. (And let’s be honest. Jack White is a true rock star).  The band is clearly having a good time and, fortunately for us, we’re invited to the party.

Ray LaMontagne - Gossip In The Grain
If you are already a fan, you won’t be disappointed.  If you like acoustic, folk rock, soulful riffs and deep lyrics that comfort, seduce and soothe, you should check this out.  LaMontagne remains one of the few talented musicians still out there genuinely devoted to his craft; he’s not about attracting fame and attention or staging publicity stunts to garner hits. Beautifully soulful.

Kings Of Leon - Only By The Night
This record had mixed reviews… But I think it’s great. It’s a bit different than what you might expect based on their previous records, but it’s a great effort nonetheless.