I’ve always wanted to “officially” track a best of the year music list, and figured here would be the most appropriate place to do it.

1. Sad Man Happy Man — Mike Doughty

I had huge expectations going in after an interview said this would sound like Skittish & Rockity Roll, and Doughty delivered in spades. My sister calls it “Soul Coughing Unplugged” which is a decent description. Just Doughty doing what he does best and knocking it out of the park.

2. Dark Night of The Soul — Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse

The Wilco-esque tale of an album that nearly wasn’t might give this bonus points, but regardless it’s a masterpiece. Still a little odd when I get caught singing the song with my own name in it though…

3. Far — Regina Spektor

I’ve always kinda liked Regina, but now I love her. Heck of a live performance too.

4. Monsters of Folk — Monsters of Folk

Supergroups are tough. Always the best intentions, but hard to pull off. This one is greater than the sum of its parts. I especially loved the unexpected electronic feel to the lead track, defying expectations from the start and inviting a closer listen.

5. Up From Below — Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

A fun, whimsical, magical mystery ride. Much respect for an album that name-drops a Beatles song while really deserving it as a descriptor.