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Take the Poll: Best CDs of the Year (So Far)

by Bob Boilen
THE POLLS CLOSED ON JULY 7TH..
RESULTS ARE HERE

We have hit the halfway point in 2008. What are you loving so far? Below is a list of 50 albums to get you thinking. Choose five of these, or submit a write-in for whatever isn't on this list, but in the end choose only five total CDs. If we get a groundswell for something not on the list, we'll will add it.
You can also put the poll on your site blog or facebook page by clicking the share button at the bottom of the list.

To write in your choice, put a comment on the blog. The voting now ends midnight on the 6th of July.
On July 7th we will take a look at the results and play some of the music we haven't covered that did well in the poll.

Bob Boilen

10:49 AM ET | 06-20-2008 | permalink

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No Jason Collett? "Here's to Being Here" is FANTASTIC, and gets my overall vote for best of 2008 so far.

And also, no Viva la Vida? Also a fantastic effort from Coldplay (refreshingly so).

Sent by Matt Gallivan | 11:52 AM ET | 06-20-2008

#5 for me would be Sun Kil Moon's April.

Sent by Mark | 12:03 PM ET | 06-20-2008

That Firewater album is fantastic, really worth looking for.

Sent by Chris Devers | 12:14 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Really? Those are the choices? My Top 5:

1. Richard Swift - R/S As Onasis I & II
2. Lee Ranaldo - Maelstrom from Drift
3. Gown - For the Maples
4. Times New Viking - Rip It Off
5. Various - The Garden of Forking Paths


We didn't want to make a list of hundreds, so it was a starting point.
Times New Viking was on the list...we will add your vote and keep track of write-ins

thanks
Bob Boilen

Sent by Justin Spicer | 12:17 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Gustav Bertha's TRUE NORTH is one that should be on here. It's brilliant cabaret-style storytelling in the Tom Waits vein.

Sent by Jason Tippitt | 12:38 PM ET | 06-20-2008

They Sang as They Slew - The Resistance

Sent by Joshua Altmanshofer | 12:44 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Voted for Bon Iver, Dodos, and Vampire Weekend. A fourth would definitely be Jason Collett, Here's To Being Here.

Sent by Sam | 12:54 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I'm loving Jason Mraz's new cd "We Sing We Dance We Steal Things".

Sent by Amy | 12:56 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Besides Bon Iver and the Dodos, I would Los Campesinos! "hold on now, youngster" and The Coold Kids "Bake Sale"

Sent by jlf | 1:14 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Besides Bon Iver, the Dodos and the Magnetic Fields, I would propose Los Campesinos! "Hold on Now Youngster" and The Cool Kids "Bake Sale"

Sent by jlf | 1:16 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Sigur Ros!

Sent by Peter C. | 1:21 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Missed a couple to choose from:
MGMT - Oracular Spectacular
Coldplay's Viva La Vida
Also, Girl Talk's album that was released yesterday is a blast...
But I would've waited to run this poll until after the new Sigur Ros album came out, though.

Sent by David | 1:24 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Jakob Dylan's new Seeing Things album is amazing. Absolutely Perfect.

Sent by RM | 1:25 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Sera Cahoone's "Only as the day is long" is one that I'm enjoying quite a bit and is sadly missing from the list..

Sent by julia | 1:26 PM ET | 06-20-2008

You also missed:

1. Sons and Daughters: Gilt Complex
2. MGMT: Oracular Spectacular
3. The Heys: Young Bored & Broke

Although the third of this list is by a little-known British band whose CD fell into my hands. Definitely worth the listen.

Sent by miriam | 1:27 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Here are my 5 in no particular order:

1. 'Til the Wheels Fall Off - Hot Water Music
2. Float - Flogging Molly
3. Attack & Release - The Black Keys
4. Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace - The Offspring
5. Eleventh Hour - Del the Funkee Homosapien

Sent by Greg Hollingsworth | 1:28 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Here are my 5 in no particular order:

1. 'Til the Wheels Fall Off - Hot Water Music
2. Float - Flogging Molly
3. Attack & Release - The Black Keys
4. Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace - The Offspring
5. Eleventh Hour - Del the Funkee Homosapien

Sent by Greg Hollingsworth | 1:28 PM ET | 06-20-2008

#5 for me is Headlights, "Some Racing, Some Stopping".

Sent by Gerald | 1:40 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Youth Novels by Lykke Li and the Santogold record should be on the list.

Sent by John | 1:41 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Coldplay-Viva La Vida
Aimee Mann-@#%&*! Smilers

Sent by Roy | 1:54 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I need to add two write ins:

Oracular Spectacular by MGMT
Saturday=Youth by M83

Sent by ~~Matt | 1:56 PM ET | 06-20-2008

The Weepies-Hideaway
Santogold-Santogold

Sent by Roy | 2:00 PM ET | 06-20-2008

man, i'm getting old - the only bands i know on there are from the 90's and 80's - and the only cd i've listened to is "lust lust lust"

Sent by OlderMuiscGeek | 2:01 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I'd like to write in:
"Apple Tree" by Katie Herzig
"At War With Walls And Mazes" by Son Lux

Sent by c.s. | 2:08 PM ET | 06-20-2008

"Feel Good Ghosts" by Cloud Cult should definately make an appearance. Fantastic album.

Sent by JN | 2:22 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I only voted for evil urges by my morning jacket. IMO it is better by far than anything else I've heard this year.

Although some long time MMJ fans are having a tough time coming to grips with it. It is the first album in a decade that I felt instantly familiar with. It's like I've been listening to it forever.

Sent by Steve _In_NC | 2:52 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I second (or third or fourth) Oracular Spectacular by MGMT

Sent by aaron c | 2:52 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Chalk up another for MGMT

Sent by PF | 2:54 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I'm really loving No Age - Nouns right now. I didn't see it on the list.

Also really digging Atlas Sound - Let the Blind Lead Those Who Can See but Cannot Feel.

Sent by bryan c | 3:12 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Toronto's Born Ruffians have quietly released my fave of the year so far "Red, Yellow and Blue." Highly recommended.
I was also very pleasantly surprised by the Black Keys and Danger Mouse on "Attack & Release," really surprised that wasn't included in the poll.

Sent by Shane L. | 3:14 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Frightened Rabbit THE MIDNIGHT ORGAN FIGHT
for my fifth vote

Sent by JED KIMBALL | 3:27 PM ET | 06-20-2008

My top choice is Bon Iver, but I'd like to see Frightened Rabbit's The Midnight Organ Fight on this list.

Sent by Pax Arcana | 3:45 PM ET | 06-20-2008

None of my Top Five So Far are on your list:

1. Raconteurs, Consolers of the Lonely
2. The Whigs, Mission Control
3. Sloan, Parallel Play
4. Old 97s, Blame It on Gravity
5. Nine Inch Nails, The Slip

http://www.cruzich.com/dd.html


the Raconteurs is under T for The... it is the first time using this kind of poll. I like it, but we have some stuff to get used to. I thought Nine Inch Nails was on this list...double check me.

sorry to confuse you.

bob

Sent by Christian Ruzich | 3:50 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Whoa - Bon Iver neck-and-neck with Vampire Weekend.

Apparently I like all the same things everyone else thinks are great.

I feel like some of those albums came out last year. Most of VW, Bon Iver, Juno...
I predict Fleet Foxes gaining momentum soon, but they're already doing very well. Yay!

Sent by Stacia | 4:12 PM ET | 06-20-2008

WEEZER Rules

Sent by stephen! | 4:15 PM ET | 06-20-2008

What about Islands' The Arm? That album made my year.

Sent by Devon | 4:20 PM ET | 06-20-2008

For my fifth, throw in another vote for Frightened Rabbit's Midnight Organ Fight!

Sent by Stephanie | 4:22 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Tilly and the Wall's hot-off-the-press "o" is pretty strong. I haven't felt this year's crop of CD's is very good so far, however.

Sent by Tim | 4:28 PM ET | 06-20-2008

My #1 is Stephen Malkmus And The Jicks' "Real Emotional Trash", I can't believe it didn't make the list!. It narrowly beats Black Mountain's newest for me.

Sent by Aaron Bombard | 4:52 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Goldfrapp - Seventh Tree


...hands down.

Sent by Rebekka Hammer | 5:42 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Nortec Collective- Tijuana Sound Machine
Los Campesinos!- Hold On Now, Youngster
Les Amazones De Guin??e- Wamato
James McMurtry- Just Us Kids
Juno Soundtrack

Sent by Yogi | 6:00 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Wow, that Bon Iver number doesn't surprise me. What would surprise me is if there is a single top 10 list at the end of the year that doesn't include it in the top 5. I would say that list maker probably didn't hear it.

Sent by Matt | 6:30 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Write ins:
M83
Santogold
Girl Talk

but mostly, Lykke Li

Sent by Sara | 7:04 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Do love the Bon Iver album--- but seem to be missing two favorites

Bonnie Prince Billy "Lie Down in the Light "
Sun Kil Moon "April"

Sent by Karen | 7:10 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Would have voted for:
Frightened Rabbit - Midnight Organ Fight

Sent by Casey | 7:23 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I would say Mason Jennings - In The Ever deserves a vote.

Sent by BB | 7:38 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Here's an idea for an add:
Alopecia - Why?

Sent by Not So Buffalo Bill | 8:57 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Cut Copy - In Ghost Colours
Malkmus & The Jicks - Real Emotional Trash
Silver Jews - Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea (don't have to have heard it already to know it's great)

Sent by haley | 9:18 PM ET | 06-20-2008

I'm really enjoying Teddy Thompson's A Piece of What You Need. It just came out this Tuesday.

I'm also loving Sarah Slean's The Baroness.

Sent by Julie | 9:28 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Dawn Landes Fireproof is criminally overlooked and at the top of my midyear list.

Sent by Gerald Moss | 9:59 PM ET | 06-20-2008

The Fleet Foxes album might be a little too new to score as highly as it might otherwise but it's, without a doubt, one of the most complete albums I've listened to this year. Craftsmanship!

Sent by Chris B | 10:12 PM ET | 06-20-2008

Sloan: Parallel Play just came out it is really good.

Sent by Mason Saunders | 1:10 AM ET | 06-21-2008

The best so far is not even on the list... Chicago's "Stone Of Sisyphus" beats everything released this year (and most years)!

Sent by CS | 2:40 AM ET | 06-21-2008

Submitted above:

1) Gnarls Barkley
2) R.E.M.
3) Juno Soundtrack

Write In:

4) Basia Bulat - Oh My Darling
5) Duffy - Rockferry

Sent by Aaron CN Burkhalter | 3:11 AM ET | 06-21-2008

2 that I would add:
Santogold - this album is really good and interesting
Rupa and the April Fishes - although I know the origin of this album really isn't this year, still it deserves a little love/shout out!
Thanks

Sent by michael | 4:36 AM ET | 06-21-2008

These are in no particular order.

The Raconteurs - Consolers Of The Lonely
Duffy - Rockferry
Bob Mould - District Line
Adele - 19
Vampire Weekend
R.E.M. - Accelerate

Sent by Jalyn Henton | 7:02 AM ET | 06-21-2008

I submitted four of my five (Elbow, Firewater, Lightspeed Champion, and My Morning Jacket), and I can see three that likely are not going to make the cut. I like it that you can see how other people are voting.

Here is my fifth, which was not on the list: The Explorer's Club - Freedom Wind.

Sent by Pablo | 8:17 AM ET | 06-21-2008

I voted for three, Bon Iver, The Dodos, and MMJ. Would add Wye Oak and Port O'Brien, although I sense that once I have more time with Justin Townes Earl (just got it yesterday) that would be up there too.

Sent by Kim | 8:17 AM ET | 06-21-2008

no age-nouns
the headlights-some racing, some stopping
r.e.m.-accelerate
stephen malkmus-real emotional trash
atlas sound-let the blind lead those who can see but cannot feel


Sent by jason | 10:16 AM ET | 06-21-2008

I'm in agreement with Shane. I'm all about the new Born Ruffians album, Red Yellow and Blue. I can't really compare it to anything else. It's just zippy indie pop that will make you love life and music. And how can you go wrong with a band that names a song Kurt Vonnegut and quotes Cat's Cradle in the song?

Sent by J.P. | 10:18 AM ET | 06-21-2008

Has to be:

Punch Brothers, Punch

Hands down, in my opinion. Such an amazing mix of acoustic music, bluegrass, and Classical.

Sent by Jeremy | 11:03 AM ET | 06-21-2008

In addition to the 3 I voted for (Bon Iver, Fleet Foxes, and Shearwater) I would write in Sera Cahoone and Bonnie Prince Billy. Vampire Weekend is my #6 pick.

Sent by EP | 11:46 AM ET | 06-21-2008

Not sure why Aimee Mann's Smilers isn't on this list - of all the new albums I think this is one I'm most likely to still be listening to a year from now. I also voted for My Morning Jacket, She & Him, and Death Cab for Cutie.

Sent by Steve Clancy | 1:11 PM ET | 06-21-2008

a summery snapshot:

devotchka, "a mad and faithful telling"
death cab for cutie, "narrow stairs"
nada surf, "lucky"

and write-ins:
the helio sequence, "keep your eyes ahead"
the weepies, "hideaway"

Sent by jehan | 2:37 PM ET | 06-21-2008

I was thrilled to find Tokyo Police Club's Elephant Shell on the list! That's quite possibly my personal number one.

Sent by Emma | 5:51 PM ET | 06-21-2008

Incl. the three I voted for, I'll add to the list:

Momofuku - Elvis Costello
Parallel Play - Sloan

Sent by Michael Hernandez | 7:11 PM ET | 06-21-2008

Elvis Costello - Momofuku

Album of the Year (so far)!!

Sent by Sam Clay | 8:16 PM ET | 06-21-2008

I'd add two others:

1. Drive-By Truckers - "Brighter Than Creation's Dark" and
2. Cut Copy - "In Ghost Colours"

Sent by Bobby | 8:37 PM ET | 06-21-2008

Also Momofuku - Elvis Costello
And Kiss Kiss Kill Kill - HorrorPops

Sent by dave | 8:49 PM ET | 06-21-2008

A write-in for Elvis Costello's Momofuku-- fantastic album!

Sent by Jean | 9:29 PM ET | 06-21-2008

Besides the 4 from the list , I'm lovin' Momofuku by Elvis Costello

Sent by John Foyle | 7:50 AM ET | 06-22-2008

Momofuku - Elvis Costello

Sent by Richard | 8:37 AM ET | 06-22-2008

Elvis Costello- Momofuku

Elvis' most solid pop album in decades!!

Sent by David Witherington | 11:12 AM ET | 06-22-2008

What about Steven Malkmus & the Jicks' "Real Emotional Trash"??? This is far and away the best CD I've heard in 5 years.

Sent by Phil | 11:24 AM ET | 06-22-2008

Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks - "Real Emotional Trash" needed to be on the list.

Momofuku

Sent by Momofuku | 12:10 PM ET | 06-22-2008

I voted for the R.E.M., Flight of the Conchords, Portishead, and She & Him albums. As a write-in, I really like the new Sons & Daughters album, This Gift, particularly the title track and "Gilt Complex."

Sent by Josh | 12:29 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Dresden Dolls "No, Virginia"

Nine Inch Nails "The Slip"

Sent by Damien | 12:37 PM ET | 06-22-2008

in no order:
1.Vampire Weekend
2.Dengue Fever
3.The Magnetic Fields
4.Man Man
5.MGMT

Sent by Lindsay | 1:11 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Momofuku by Elvis, the Imposters & Friends

Sent by Jack | 3:37 PM ET | 06-22-2008

i know it's kind of lame, but i havn't really been blown away by any albums yet this year. The main one on the list i would say would be vampire weekend's album.

But i think its good to point out The Morning Benders - Talking through tin cans

and port o'brien's - all we could do was sing
Eps,

Sent by Francisco Stoll | 4:00 PM ET | 06-22-2008

I'm putting in my vote for the new Silver Jews album, "Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea." These guys have been putting out great albums for years, but I think they've really topped themselves with this one and they deserve to be recognized for that.

Sent by Johnpatrick | 4:23 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Jim White, Transnormal Skiperoo
Teddy Thompson, A Piece of What You Need
and a host of jazz, avant-garde improv, and new music recordings that don't fit the established parameters

Sent by DR | 4:28 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Not to make your job any easier but Erykah Badu's NEW AMERYKAH Volume One and THE ROOTS Rising certainly are among the best of 2008...

Sent by Mario | 4:45 PM ET | 06-22-2008

"Feel Good Ghosts" by Cloud Cult

Sent by Mark | 4:53 PM ET | 06-22-2008

I'm writing in Cloud Cult's "Feel Good Ghosts."

Sent by JH | 5:49 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Elvis Costello - Momofuku
Duffy - Rockferry

Sent by dave | 6:42 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Elvis Costello - Momofuku

One of his best for years.

Sent by Nick Ratcliffe | 6:43 PM ET | 06-22-2008

1) Elvis Costello -- "Momofuku"

2) Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band -- "Puckey Puckey" (Recorded in the early 70s but unreleased until now)

3)Eef Barzelay -- "Lose Big"

Waiting to hear Randy Newman's latest,
Tom

Sent by Tom | 6:49 PM ET | 06-22-2008

#5 sun kil moon - april

Sent by sherp | 8:16 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Another write-in for Elvis Costello and a second one for Phantom Planet's "Raise The Dead"

Sent by Vito Calzone | 9:46 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Ahead of my two choices on the list,
1.Elvis Costello & the Imposters Momofuko
2.Teddy Thompson A Piece of What You Need
3.Aimee Mann Smilers

Sent by Marg | 10:05 PM ET | 06-22-2008

I voted for three and would write cast my other two votes for "Real Emotional Trash" and "Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea."

Sent by k | 10:22 PM ET | 06-22-2008

Tokyo Police Club, "Elephant Shell"
The Foxglove Hunt, "Stop Heartbeat"
Children of Bodom, "Blooddrunk"
Death Cab for Cutie, "Narrow Stairs"
Your Vegas, "A Tale and Two Cities"

Sent by Jim | 12:06 AM ET | 06-23-2008

Bon Iver is deservedly taking the cake! Right up there with Vampire Weekend... clear evidence that NPR's sxsw showcase was the most marvelously curated musical event of 2008. Bravo.

Sent by Alex | 2:56 AM ET | 06-23-2008

Two of my favorites so far this year:

"Shotgun Singer" by Kris Delmhorst
"Of Milkmaids and Architects" by Martha Tilston

Sent by Robert | 3:00 AM ET | 06-23-2008

I went for Bon Iver, Portishead and the Hold Steady.
Write-ins are the Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead and Malkmus & The Jicks - Real Emotional Trash

Sent by Catfish | 3:13 AM ET | 06-23-2008

great comment thread. i just bought elvis costello, dodo, and jason collett just from reading this.

two records i like and might have voted for are Kooks - Konk and Mike Doughty - Golden Delicious

But since they weren't on the list, I went for Bon Iver, Denque Fever, Vampire Weekend, MGMT, and MMJ

Sent by fred wilson | 6:21 AM ET | 06-23-2008

Tokyo Police Club's Elephant Shell. Easily my favorite album of the year so far. Really. It's that good. New Portishead was pretty good too.

Sent by nap | 8:26 AM ET | 06-23-2008

I would have to add Drive By Truckers and, not sure if this is allowed, the Legacy edition of Pacific Ocean Blue, to me this is brand new music and sounds fantastic.

Sent by Chris | 8:40 AM ET | 06-23-2008

elvis costello: momofuku
vampire weekend
mgmt: oracular spectacular
lightspeed champion: falling off the lavender bridge

Sent by steffen Straub | 8:44 AM ET | 06-23-2008

I'd like my fifth vote to be Kaki King's Dreaming of Revenge. Thanks!

Sent by k d j | 9:00 AM ET | 06-23-2008

Make mine a fifth vote for Midnight Organ Fight. If I had to pick an album of the millennium so far, that would be it.
Back to album of the year so far. Here's a second write-in for Basia Bulat, and an umpteenth for Elvis Costello.

Sent by Andrew Watson | 9:37 AM ET | 06-23-2008


How can you not list Autechre's Quaristice?

And Noisia's Fabric Love 40 is some of the best electronic music you'll hear this year.

Both of these are miles better than Trent Reznor's recent offerings.

~rl

Sent by RL | 10:24 AM ET | 06-23-2008

Elvis Costello - Momofuku

Sent by Barack | 10:38 AM ET | 06-23-2008

"Hymns for a Dark Horse" by the Bowerbirds is possibly one of the best albums of all time.

Wish I could have voted for it....

Sent by Peter | 11:04 AM ET | 06-23-2008

Man Man, Rabbit Habits ...awesome.

Sent by Drew | 11:27 AM ET | 06-23-2008

The Hard Way - James Hunter
Just a Little Lovin - Shelby Lynne
Roll With You - Eli "Paperboy" Reed
Momufuku - Elvis Costello & the Imposters

Sent by Rick | 11:40 AM ET | 06-23-2008

"Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends" by Coldplay is the hands-down best so far

Sent by Matt | 11:52 AM ET | 06-23-2008

I've got to add:
The Tallest Man on Earth - Shallow Grave
Girl Talk - Feed the Animals

Sent by addie | 12:09 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Aimee Mann, @#%&*! Smilers should be on the list...she's my #1 pick!

Sent by Julianna | 12:20 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Another vote for Elvis Cotello's Momofuku. Can't believe there's Lil Wayne in there and no Elvis! A second would be Aimee Mann's new one, it's quite good.

Sent by Cat | 12:21 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Mason Jennings - In the Ever
Mike Doughty - Golden Delicious
Eric Hutchinson - Sounds Like This
Sean Hayes - Flowering Spade, or the new single "No No Guantanamo"

Sent by David de la Pena | 12:55 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Cut Copy - In Ghost Colours
M83 - Saturdays = Youth
Midnight Juggernauts - Dystopia
Nine Inch Nails - The Slip
Booka Shade - The Sun and the Neon Light

Sent by jenz | 2:21 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Nada Surf - Lucky
Destroyer - Trouble In Dreams
Retribution Gospel Choir - S/T
Fleet Foxes - S/T
The Gutter Twins - Saturnalia

Sent by Andy | 2:53 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Elvis Costello and the Imposters - Momofuku!!

Sent by Ron | 3:28 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Write-in
Jamie Lidell Jim

Sent by Jerry | 3:37 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Elvis Costello's Momofuku, the most consistent album in years from one of our finest living songwriters.

Sent by Bill | 3:41 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Sun Kil Moon's April really needs to be added

Sent by Joey | 3:56 PM ET | 06-23-2008

#1 Atlas Sound "Let The Blind Lead Those Who Can See But Not Feel"

Also, The War On Drugs "Wagonwheel Blues"

Sent by Michael | 4:09 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Voted __________________
1.Bon Iver - For Emma
2.My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

Write ins
3.The Gutter Twins - Saturnalia
4.Isobel Campbell And Mark Lanegan - Sunday At Devil Dirt ( amazing laid back album!!!)
5.Murder by Death - Red of Tooth and Claw

Sent by dre | 4:20 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Gotta write-in Joan of Arc's "Boo Human".

Sent by Carroll | 4:24 PM ET | 06-23-2008

mgmt's "oracular spectacular" and does it offend you, yeah?'s "you have no idea what you're getting yourself into" are my two hands down best of the year.

Sent by Steve | 4:35 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Felice Brothers self titled

Sent by Phil | 4:46 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Aimee Mann's and Elvis Costello's new albums are conspicuous in their absence.
Both fantastic returns to form

Sent by Dick Wingate | 5:11 PM ET | 06-23-2008

1. The Roots- Rising Down
2. Mason Jennings- In the Ever
3. Atmosphere- When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold
4. Black Keys- Attack & Release
5. Immortal Technique- The 3rd World.

I've been an avid listener to this show for about a year now, and I find it funny how little hip hop gets "considered". I love most of the bands that get play, but feel the lack of emerging mc's that are actually putting out some great stuff, both content and beat -wise. Immortal is definitely one of those rappers.
And the fact that the Atmosphere album isn't even on the list is a little disturbing. I mean, Slug isn't exactly "underground" anymore, and him and Ant made an INCREDIBLE record that I feel stirred up some controversy among long time listeners.
Anyway, I'm excited for what the next six months will bring...

Sent by Tucker | 5:44 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Frightened Rabbit- The Midnight Organ Fight

Sent by Jake | 5:52 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Elvis Costello - Momofuku
Paul Weller - 22 dreams
1977 is alive and kicking!!

Sent by Col Green | 6:02 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Why isn't Bill Frisell's "History Mystery" on the list!

Sent by IC | 6:14 PM ET | 06-23-2008

I know they fly well under the mainstream radar, but Antietam has been the only band to kick my butt and keep it kicked in 2008. Their new double album "Opus Mixtum" is complete guitar geek heaven, thanks to frontwoman Tara Key, and the uber-tight rhythm section keeps it moving. The REM record was pretty good, but mostly because it was sort of a return to form (welcome back, Mike Mills). "Blame It On Gravity" by Old 97s deserves to be there too.

Sent by Frazer | 6:36 PM ET | 06-23-2008

1. Hayes Carll - Trouble in Mind
2. Born Ruffians - Red Yellow & Blue
3. The Kills - Midnight Boom
4. Craft Economy - All on C EP

Sent by Bill | 7:15 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Old 97s, Blame It on Gravity
Duffy - Rockferry
James Hunter - The Hard Way
The Weepies-Hideaway

Sent by Lisa | 7:23 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Wanted to write in The Helio Sequence - "Keep Your Eyes Ahead"

Sent by ChrisP | 7:50 PM ET | 06-23-2008

Please don't forget the wonderful collection that is "Real Emotional Trash" from Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks

Sent by Chacho | 8:15 PM ET | 06-23-2008

My favorite for the yeah is Bitter:Sweet - Drama and Santogold

Sent by Giichi | 8:44 PM ET | 06-23-2008

sigur r??s, sigur r??s, sigur r??s

leaves a buzzing harmony in my soul

Sent by Rebecca Reser | 9:55 PM ET | 06-23-2008

No. 1 for me is No Kids' Come Into My House.

Sent by Eliza | 10:03 PM ET | 06-23-2008

I am not the only one to notice Jason Mraz' new one, "We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things". No crazy band name, but a really catchy and listenable disc. Nice nod to styles of previous decades while maintaining a LOT of originality.

Sent by Mike | 10:38 PM ET | 06-23-2008

The Dandy Warhols

...Earth to the Dandy Warhols

Sent by Kevin | 11:12 PM ET | 06-23-2008

I would have if I had the choice also put

the presets - apocolypso
goldfrapp - seveth tree

Sent by carla | 12:42 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Best CD of 2008 nominee: JOE JACKSON "RAIN". The veteran, eclectic artist writes and produces a classic album that demonstrates an elemental, minimalist sound presented in a track sequence that demands multiple listening of raised songwriting craftsmanship.

Sent by R.F. Ventus | 1:31 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Ok, I know my five, but I wish we could rank them, because Sigur Ros would totally be number 1! I would have liked to see the new Island's album up there. I can't believe so many other people are huge fans of Vampire Weekend, I love them, but don't think they deserve best album of the year. I fear they may be destined to be a fad...

Sent by Jeff C. | 1:46 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Wow, I thought that this year has so far been lackluster in music, but coming out with my personal top 5 has been tough with so many choices.

Although among the choices, I would've liked to see
1) Cut Copy - In Ghost Colours
2) Say Hi - The Wishes and the Glitch
3) Thao Nguyen with the Get Down Stay Down - We Brave Bee Stings And All

Sent by Barry | 2:26 AM ET | 06-24-2008

I'm going to have to voice support for the new release by The Black Angels, "Directions to See a Ghost". It continues the dense psychedelia that they so brilliantly offered in their 2006 debut "Passover", and is a bit more radio-friendly and accessible than its more intense predecessor.

Sent by michael | 7:15 AM ET | 06-24-2008

The Drift - Memory Drawings
Robert Forster - The Evangelist
Drive-By Truckers - Brighter Than Creation's Dark
Mr. Bear - These Machines
Colour Haze - All

Sent by Kevin B. | 7:39 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Here's one that should be on the list: The Old 97's Blame it on Gravity. They're calling it their "definitive statement" and I agree. Why aren't these guys bigger?

Sent by John Gibson | 7:48 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Cloud Cult, definitely.

Sent by Andrew Smith | 7:51 AM ET | 06-24-2008

my top so far are in no particular order -

krista detor - cover their eyes
joe ely & joel guzman - live cactus
mike farris - salvation in lights
janiva magness - what love will do
the ahn trio - lullaby for my favorite lunatic

Sent by bob gottlieb | 8:13 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Write-ins

1. Momofuku - Elvis Costello
2. Neptune - The Duke Spirit

Sent by Jeff P | 8:30 AM ET | 06-24-2008

my favorite album so far isn't even released on CD yet. it's Girl Talk's Feed the Animals

Sent by Jennson | 8:37 AM ET | 06-24-2008

#5 For me is Cloud Cult - Feel Good Ghosts (Tea-Partying Through Torndadoes).

Thanks!

Sent by Carmi | 9:11 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Write Ins

Asa (self-titled album)
She's a nigerian artist whose CD right now is hard to come by and expensive because it would be an export. But she is definitely worth a listen.

Sent by Tiff | 9:30 AM ET | 06-24-2008

arms
cut copy
fleet foxes

Sent by BL | 9:37 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Fleet Foxes people! In the second half of '08 you'll be looking back saying it was the best of the first half.

Also - please add Thao with the Get Down Stay Down - We Brave Bee Stings And All.


Thao came to NPR and played some songs at my desk. I'll edit the video and get it online in a few weeks.

all the best
Bob Boilen

Sent by seant | 9:48 AM ET | 06-24-2008

You have to put on Ghostland Observatory, Robotic Majestique!!!

Otherwise great list!

Sent by D-Rock | 10:02 AM ET | 06-24-2008

#5. Why? just bowls me over.
Honorable Mention:
Kaki King
Lykkye Li
Erykah Badu
Flobots

Sent by Maxene Mulford | 10:20 AM ET | 06-24-2008

the band is Why? the album is Alopecia. Should be on the list, in my opinion.

Sent by studmuffin | 10:23 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Kayo Dot: Blue Lambency Downward

...Enough said...

Sent by Peter | 10:40 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Santogold
BLK JKS
The Cool Kids
The Duke Spirit

Sent by Dwayne | 10:48 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Here's four more in addition to We Versus The Shark...
Nouns By No Age
The Melody by The Mae Shi
Crystal Castles by Crystal Castles
HEALTH//DISCO by Health

All awesome.

Sent by b o b r e i c h | 10:54 AM ET | 06-24-2008

without doubt...

The Drive-By Truckers: Brighter Than Creations Dark

Sent by straycat | 11:00 AM ET | 06-24-2008

In no particular order:
Evangelista - Hello, Voyager
Fessenden - v1.1
Samamidon - All is Well
Dan Friel - Ghost Town
Autistic Daughters - Uneasy Flowers

Sent by Emile Milgrim | 11:01 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Elf Power - In A Cave
M83 - Saturdays = Youth
El Guincho - Alegranza!
Yellow Swans - At All Ends
John Maus - Love Is Real

Sent by rob | 11:01 AM ET | 06-24-2008

I am deeply hurt every time I don't see Apes & Androids' Blood Moon on these lists. Apes & Androids could very well be the greatest band to be a band.

Sent by Lester | 11:09 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Tilly and the Wall - O
M83 - Saturdays=Youth

Sent by Alexandra | 11:11 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Really, where is Erykah Badu's "New Amerykah..."?

And Lil Wayne's "Tha Carter III" makes the list? That album doesn't hold a candle to his previous year's mixtapes!

Sent by Jon | 11:17 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Write In: Feel Good Ghosts" by Cloud Cult

Sent by John Pfister | 11:19 AM ET | 06-24-2008

I thought the Black Keys were NPR darlings, "Attack and Release"???
Also, Old 97's "Blame it on Gravity" and I Love Math "Getting to the Point is Beside It"

Sent by Marty | 11:20 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Vampire Weekend gets 600+ votes? Really? Man, I seriously fear for NPR's demographic. No longer interested in this list.

Don't throw the baby out with the Vampire water. Tell me what you love. are none of them on the list?
bob

Sent by D.Q. Slotkins | 11:28 AM ET | 06-24-2008

M83....M83...where is M83's Saturdays = Youth...flipping brilliant

Sent by Honey Bear | 11:32 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Obviously punks don't listen to NPR:
1) Teenage Bottlerocket - Warning Device
2) Copyrights - Learn the Hard Way

Sent by Steve C | 11:35 AM ET | 06-24-2008

YOURE MISSING TWO GREATS OF 2008
Erykah Badu - NEW AMERYKAH
and
The Roots - RISING DOWN
music should inspire. These are reminiscent of the '70 protest/social commentary music.

Sent by charlie | 11:48 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Girl Talk - Feed the Animals
Crystal Castles - self titled

I can't believe I haven't seen Crystal Castles on the list or comments!!

Sent by Ben | 11:51 AM ET | 06-24-2008

How could you pigeonhold the rap/hip hop category to one album? Lil Wayne?? Are you kidding? I guess all things ARENT considered...
just because he moves units, doesnt make it good.

Sent by sarah | 11:55 AM ET | 06-24-2008

Hercules & Love Affair NEEDS to be up here as well!

Sent by Lester | 12:00 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Bonnie "Prince" Billy
The Dodos

Sent by Prince | 12:07 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Eef Barzelay's "Lose Big" CD is excellent and should be considered one of the best this year.

Sent by David | 12:19 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Old 97's -- Blame it on Gravity
Tift Merritt -- Another Country (brilliant!)
Marah -- Angels of Destruction
Drive-By Truckers -- Brighter Than Creation's Dark

Sent by PD | 12:20 PM ET | 06-24-2008


Frightened Rabbit,The Midnight Organ Fight

Sent by trevor | 12:22 PM ET | 06-24-2008

CD > Pershing
Band > Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin

Definitely belongs on this list

Sent by Emmarie | 12:33 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Al Green's new album "Lay It Down" produced by Quest Love of the Roots is my favorite album of the year. Al Green's vocals continue to shine over brilliant songwriting and beautiful analog production circa 1971! "Lay it Down" is the soundtrack to Summer 2008!

Sent by Steve Faulkner | 1:01 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Constantines "Kensington Heights"

Sent by Jane | 1:03 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Portishead - Third
Santogold - Self-titled
Hercules & Love Affair - Self-titled
Vampire Weekend - Self-titled
Benga - Diary of An Afro Warrior

Sent by enrique | 1:11 PM ET | 06-24-2008

After a great 2007, this year's new music has been a real let down. Not really interested in anyone on the list. Was looking forward to Destroyer, but felt it was very uneven. Checked out Vampire Weekend because of the hype--and found out it was just that. However I did get lucky. Not out yet in the States, but The Fall's Imperial Wax Solvent is definitely worth looking for.

Sent by Ed | 2:24 PM ET | 06-24-2008

My first choice is "Punch" by Punch Brothers.

Sent by Mar | 2:37 PM ET | 06-24-2008

My write-ins:

Momofuku - Elvis Costello
A Tale & Two Cities - Your Vegas
Songs From The Sparkle Lounge - Def Leppard
Float - Flogging Molly

So that leaves one to vote for on the list - it's going to be She & Him

Sent by tsarina | 3:03 PM ET | 06-24-2008

I voted for four, and here's my fifth vote:

Daedelus - "Love to Make Music To"

Sent by Arika | 3:29 PM ET | 06-24-2008

I voted Bon Iver, R.E.M., Shearwater and The Mountain Goats.

WRITE-IN: Where's BONNIE PRINCE BILLY?

Sent by Matt | 3:49 PM ET | 06-24-2008

def. frightened rabbit!

Sent by sean | 3:56 PM ET | 06-24-2008

My fourth and fifth votes go to:

Evangelicals, "The Evening Descends"
Born Ruffians, "Red, Yellow & Blue"

And to be honest, I think the Sun Gian EP by Fleet Foxes should be included too, it's too good to be left out.

Sent by Sam L. | 4:08 PM ET | 06-24-2008

I've really liked alot of albums this year, but there are few I think are perfect.
MGMT and Vampire Weekend are good but get overplayed pretty quickly. Fleet Foxes is awesome in doses but gets kind of monotonous after a while. Dodos album is good, I just liked their last one better. Mason Jennings and MMJ both have great new albums but they both have a song or two thats kind of offsetting and makes the album feel less serious than previous ones. All the afore mentioned are in my list of favorites and are all great, but I'd have to say the only album this year that I could see myself listening to start to finish for years to come is For Emma Forever Ago. Oh yeah, and Steven Malkmus.Digging the Mountain Goats too, actually

Sent by matt b | 4:53 PM ET | 06-24-2008

I would add "Devotion" by Beach House.

Sent by Alex | 5:27 PM ET | 06-24-2008

The Weepies "Hideaway"
Tift Merritt "Another Country"

Sent by Andie Reid | 5:41 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Yes, Stephen Malkmus + Jicks should be in the running

Sent by jacethecrowl | 5:56 PM ET | 06-24-2008

In addition to those, "Another Country" by Tift Merritt is great!

Sent by JP | 6:14 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Write in for "Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea" by the Silver Jews and M83's "Saturdays = Youth." Both are incredible albums that have been on repeat since I purchased them.

Sent by David W. | 6:46 PM ET | 06-24-2008

The Weepies - "Hideaway"
Tift Merritt - "Another Country"

Sent by Andie Reid | 6:58 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Tift Merritt, Another Country

Sent by Phillip Reid | 6:58 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Just a couple of others for consideration:

The Tallest Man on Earth - "Shallow Grave"
Why? - "Alopecia"

Sent by Zach | 7:18 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Brighter Than Creation's Dark: Drive-By Truckers. No contest.

Sent by Matthew Cain | 7:19 PM ET | 06-24-2008

My two favorites are Dan Wilson's Free Life (which is technically late 2007, but has been totally overlooked) and Tift Merritt's outstanding Another Country.

Sent by The Madirishman | 7:53 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Please add Tift Merritt's "Another Country," another standout disc from one of the great new artists of this decade.

Often pigeonholed as an alt. country artist, Ms. Merritt proves on this disc that she can tackle the twang, singer-songwriter fare, and even 70s-era laid-back California rock.

Sent by Mitch Kokai | 7:57 PM ET | 06-24-2008

We here all love Tift Merritt's new album "Another Country" and her work on "Tambourine" in 2004

Sent by Jack Thomas | 8:05 PM ET | 06-24-2008

My top five of 2008 so far:

1. Vic Ruggiero, "Something in my Blindspot" (contains the best song of the year so far, too: "A Lovely Beginning" w/Lisa Muller of Black Cat Zoot.)
2. The Slackers, "Self Medication"
3. Hayes Carll, "Trouble in Mind" (yay, someone else likes him!)
4. Felice Brothers, "The Felice Brothers" (yay, them too!)
5. Brian Jonestown Massacre, "My Bloody Underground" (this feels like cheating because the songs were available on-line last year, but it's listed as a 2008 release so here it is.)

Sent by Alison | 8:06 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Tift Merritt - "No Country" - gets my vote for CD of 2008. Great music from a beautiful lady.

Sent by Paul B. | 9:10 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Can't complain about any on the list--but I would add @#%&*! Smilers by Aimee Mann and Another Country by Tift Merritt.
Glad to see Momofuku added to the list. Like the Ting Tings and Vampire Weekend. Hard to choose 5, but there you go!

Sent by Ben Trawick | 9:11 PM ET | 06-24-2008

You have that horse manure Dodos album as an option but not Real Emotional Trash by Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks? Whoever created this poll should be reassigned.

Sent by Matt | 9:14 PM ET | 06-24-2008

write ins:

jamie lidell - jim
steven malkmus - real emotional trash

Sent by phil | 9:14 PM ET | 06-24-2008

thats a solid list but i dont think there is too much competition for the bon iver, she&him, the black keys or vampire weekend

my honorable mentions not on your list:

born ruffians
throw me the statue

shoot i would have put phantom planet's new one over some of this year's garbage

there is way too much here that sucked that dumb kids grabbed onto just cuz they think its hip. too many turds in the proverbial toilet water that is the music industry thus far this year.

Sent by nick w | 9:23 PM ET | 06-24-2008

I picked three on the list, plus

Tift Merritt - Another Country
Fred Eaglesmith - Tinderbox

Sent by Bill D | 9:50 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Blue Highway, "Through the Window of a Train"

Sent by Claude A | 9:52 PM ET | 06-24-2008

I don't see Punch Brothers on there which is a disappointment to me. I really think that that album is the best one of the year. Why isn't it up there?


Sent by Broc Seaman | 9:58 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Midnight Boom, The Kills

Sent by Val | 11:31 PM ET | 06-24-2008

Another Country by Tift Merritt. Best new music of the year, by far.

Sent by Michael Fairfax | 11:35 PM ET | 06-24-2008

bonnie "prince" billy - lie down in the light

the breeders - mountain battles

matmos - supreme balloon

jeremy jay - a place where we can go

the oh sees - the masters bedroom is worth spending a night in

Sent by troy | 12:34 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Just voted for four. My write-in: The Republic Tigers, "Keep Color."

Also wish I'd thought of Weepies, Flogging.

Deserving of all caps: RATATAT - LP3

Sent by Dylan Fitzgerald | 12:43 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Friends in the USA, why are you miss the amazing awesome Tift Merritt - Another Country from the list??? This is one fine album, not a dud note. Think again friends.

Sent by clive keough | 2:03 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Saturday= Youth by m83 was an album I was quite happy with. And I was honestly quite surprised at the lack of attention paid to the new Old 97's record thus far. Personally I think it is fantastic and might be their best album since Satellite Rides.

Sent by Jason Gutierrez | 2:24 AM ET | 06-25-2008

My write-in #5:

Jeff Finlin - Ballad Of A Plain Man

Sent by Matt Hocker | 3:54 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Is this poll hack-proof? I can't believe Vampire Weekend is winning by that much.

Sent by Brian R | 3:58 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Another Country by Tift Merritt...
you guys really need to treat yourselves to this one!!!

Sent by Tim | 4:11 AM ET | 06-25-2008

I second the votes to add Los Campesinos and James McMurtry to the list.

Sent by Maureen | 7:28 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt - Another Country

Sent by Forrest Smith | 8:24 AM ET | 06-25-2008

2 more votes for the "Best So Far":
Billy Bragg, "Mr Love & Justice"
Tift Merritt, "Another Country"

Sent by John | 8:29 AM ET | 06-25-2008

1. Adam Green - Sixes and Sevens
2. She & Him - Volume I
3. Thao Nguyen - We Brave Bee Stings and All
4. Cat Power - Jukebox
5. Vampire Weekend - Vampire Weekend

Sent by Lane Diko | 8:53 AM ET | 06-25-2008

My 5th pick is the Breeders' "Mountain Battles." I think Portishead's "Third" is far and away the best album so far this year.

Sent by Edski | 9:31 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Santogold!

Sent by brandon | 9:41 AM ET | 06-25-2008

1.Bon Iver
2.Sigur Ros
3.Coldplay
4.Jason Mraz -honestly,great arrangements
5.Andrew Rodriguez- The Mutual EP

as for Runner up I'd say Jamie Lidell

Sent by Ryan M | 10:16 AM ET | 06-25-2008

The Presidents of the United States of America - These are the Good Times People

Sent by Steve | 10:21 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Islands-Arm's Way

Sent by Megan | 10:38 AM ET | 06-25-2008

The Kills Midnight Boom

Sent by Brad in Ohio | 10:41 AM ET | 06-25-2008

"Another Country" by Tift Merritt. Best album of the year!

Sent by Nick B | 10:41 AM ET | 06-25-2008

6. Duffy
5. Devotchka
4. Santogold
3. Hercules and Love Affair
2. Helio Sequence
1. Vampire Weekend

Sent by texpat | 10:41 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Kathleen Edwards - Waiting for Flowers
Tift Merritt - Another Country
Two great female singer/songwriters, I can't believe they're not on here.

Sent by Joe | 10:43 AM ET | 06-25-2008

What about "Another Country" by Tift Merritt? This is her first album in a couple of years and it ROCKS!

Sent by Kevin | 10:45 AM ET | 06-25-2008

I liked "Feel Good Ghosts" by Cloud Cult.

Sent by Bryan | 10:45 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Hardly know anything on this list but here are the best albums of 2008 IMHO at this point:

3. James Mcmurtry - Just Us Kids - hard to beleive he could top Childish Things

2. Kathleen Edwards - where else can you get hockey players in a song

1. Tift Merritt - Another Country - a beautiful and retrospective album that doesn't have a weak song!

Sent by Dale Hosack | 10:46 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt's "Another Country"
Jackson Browne's "Solo Acoustic, Vol 2"

(Honestly, I don't think I've listened to one of the albums on your list.)

Sent by Thad | 10:46 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt-Another Country
Josh Ritter-The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter
both deserve votes.

Sent by Christian | 10:48 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt - Another Country!
think local dudes

Sent by Michael Heaney | 10:49 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Yeasayer, "All Hours Cymbals"

Sent by Matt | 10:57 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt's CD "Another Country" truly deserves recognition. An amazingly beautiful and terrific release.

Sent by Mark S. | 11:02 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt's "Another Country" deserves to be on this list. Yes I did get an email requesting that I mention it here, and I really tried not to but it is the best album I purchased in 2008. I don't think it's as good as "Tambourine" but it is good.

Sent by Joe Fusco | 11:06 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt -- Another Country

Sent by Ted | 11:11 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Another Country - Tift Merritt

Sent by Nick Swett | 11:12 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Best so far:

Matthew Ryan, MR Vs. The Silver State
Tift Merritt, Another Country
Kathleen Edwards, Asking for Flowers
Hayes Carll, Trouble in Mind

Sent by Jim K. | 11:26 AM ET | 06-25-2008

I agree with Mark. S. I've listened to "Another Country" a thousand times already, and it gets better every time...

Sent by JHulme | 11:26 AM ET | 06-25-2008

I can't believe Tift Merrit's "Another Country" isn't on the top of EVERYONE'S list - it's incredible!

Sent by ken | 11:35 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt and "Another Country"
R E M and "Accelerate"
Coldplay and "Viva La Vida"

Sent by Don Crow | 11:37 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Wow... this is a great post. I came off the 2007 high and haven't really found much that has grabbed my attention this year. I'm definately going to look up a lot of these bands. So far, the Weezer record has been my favorite. It's a very good, very reflective record. River is offering a lot of nostalgia, which seems to fit the mood I'm in these days. I was horribly disappointed in the Aimee Mann record (sorry fans...) It's more of the same and not so interesting. I actually skipped her show last week, which I'll regret later. The Hold Steady sounds great. That first track you played really reminded me of early Uncle Tupelo. Possibly the mention of working in the mill til you die... : )
I also have to admit, I'm completely hung up on the Weepies. Totally out of left field and so unlike anything I listen to. I chanced upon them about 3 months before "Hideaway". To sum it up, a iTunes reviewer said "I listen to this on the subway to try to convince myself that I still have faith in humanity." (poorly paraphrased, but rings true). Your post on iConcertCal got me to download the program, and now thru that discovery, I'm completely jazzed about this year's Austin City Limits Music Festival! (http://www.aclfestival.com/default.aspx) Last year's was awesome, and this year's looks even better. Come on down, we'll drink some Shiner Bock and sing along.

Sent by Mark C. | 11:43 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt-Another Country

Teddy Thompson-A Piece of What You Need

Kathleen Edwards-Asking for Flowers

Sent by Carolyn | 11:43 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt's Another Country

If you haven't heard of her, you must. All of her albums are beautiful

Sent by Jessica Yingling | 11:52 AM ET | 06-25-2008

Nobody votes against the entire list? How one sided and safe and bland can the comments be?

Sent by Tom Hendricks | 12:03 PM ET | 06-25-2008

tift merritt, another country is tops!

Sent by Jon | 12:13 PM ET | 06-25-2008

TIFT MERRITT: ANOTHER COUNTRY

Other than her delivery, great looks and crystline yet bluesey voice: Tift doesn't just tell a Story, SHE IS A PICTURE PAINTER...you can visualize situations, people, times in space and place from your own past or lifes walk within her verse..like Hemmingway.

'Broken' almost hurts to listen to it, a secondary party recognizing the change so often neglected...

She is a very gifted talent with a great support band...they fit and without doubt one of the few professional bands that actually sound great on afterhour shows as letterman.

TIFT MERRITT: ANOTHER COUNTRY...

Sent by Joe | 12:14 PM ET | 06-25-2008

You forgot about Joe Jackson's new album -- Rain.

Sent by stewart | 12:23 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt - Another Country
Counting Crows - Saturday Nights & Sunday Mornings

Sent by Milos | 12:24 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Lenny Kravitz - Its Time for a Love Revolution

Sent by Kert Chamberlain | 12:39 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Yes, How about that sweet Carolina girl, Tift Merritt's "Another Country" CD.

Sent by Stan Vann | 12:47 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Another Country - Tift Merritt

Sent by Richard | 12:48 PM ET | 06-25-2008

#5 for me would be Tift Merritt's "Another Country"

Sent by Ned Lavengood | 12:52 PM ET | 06-25-2008

1) Man Man - Rabbit Habbits
2) No Age - Nouns
3) The Mountain Goats - Heretic Pride
4) Dodos - Visiter
5) Flowers Forever - Flowers Forever

Sent by Maxwell | 1:05 PM ET | 06-25-2008

The three that you had listed already were Firewater, Flight of the Conchords, and DeVotchKa. However, my other two faves (so far!) were Ours' "Mercy..." [few have heard of it, but it's charting pretty well on the indies] and Justin Townes Earle's "The Good Life".

Tokyo Police Club is definitely number 6, though.

Sent by Megan | 1:06 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I would also have to vote for:

-Justin Townes Earle- "The Good Life" (Bloodshot)
-Langhorne Slim- "S/T" (Kemado)
-Jim White- "Transnormal Skiperoo" (Luaka Bop)
-Slim Cessna's Auto Club-"Cipher" (Alternative Tentacles)

But Firewater reigns supreme! It refuses to grow stale to my ears- every spin is fresh as a daisy.

Sent by Pete | 1:21 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Why No Tift Merritt's- Another Country ?Not just one song ALL OF THEM!! Please give her 2 Boxes and check them both!!
Kathleen Edwards - Asking For Flowers
Sweet name dropping hockey song and a talent worthy of another checked Box
James McMurtry's-Just Us Kids
Duffy - Rockferry
Well, I'm out of votes, but other unlisted artists are also "box worthy", please expand the list to include those artists I and others have mentioned. Thanks for listening.

Sent by Peter Denby | 1:51 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I join the chorus for Tift Merritt's "Another Country" as Best Album of the Year.

Sent by Bill Broom | 1:54 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Another Country by Tift Merritt. Lovely.

Sent by Jen | 2:01 PM ET | 06-25-2008

1. "ExitingARM" - Subtle

judging from everyone else's comments, this was left off cuz it's quasi-hip-hop in an all indie rock quiz. the only other album I liked on the list was Mars Volta. Sigur Ros's new album starts off great but tapers off halfway through into boring retreads.

Sent by Nebuchadnezzar | 2:16 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt Another Country

Sent by yeager | 2:40 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Blank Dogs - On Two Sides.

Sent by Lines Open | 2:41 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Bought the newest CD by Tift Merritt "Another Country" and also caught her show at the Troubador in LA. Awesome CD, loved every song on the CD. If you have a chance at all, catch one of her live performances and in the mean time pick-up the CD.

Sent by Wayne Bromiley | 2:51 PM ET | 06-25-2008

write in: gutter twins, saturnalia

Sent by pamela | 2:56 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Got to say that Tift Merritt's Another Country is fabulous. David Letterman obviously agrees, since she'll be on his show for the second time tonight!

Sent by Jeffery West | 3:01 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Dosh's Wolves and Wishes, and The Plastic Constellations We Appreciate You. I was also surprised Stephen Malkmus wasn't on there.

Sent by Danny Randa | 3:01 PM ET | 06-25-2008

HERCULES AND LOVE AFFAIR

Sent by Ana Iro | 3:12 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt- Another Country.

Sent by Eric Demonia | 3:16 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Was anyone else totally disappointed by My Morning Jacket's new Album as I was? I'm surprised it got so many votes...

Sent by Jim V | 3:18 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I write in Tift Merritt's Another Country.
You gotta go to one of her shows!

Sent by Robert | 3:23 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Emmylou Harris, "All I Intended to Be"

Sent by Kate | 3:43 PM ET | 06-25-2008

My favorites of the year definitely include The Hush Sound's "Goodbye Blues" (#1 or 2), and probably This Is Ivy League's self-titled debut.

Sent by Allie | 3:46 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I am frankly, VERY surprised not to see "ANOTHER COUNTRY" by singer/songwriter TIFT MERRITT on this list. Please consider placing her there-she deserves it. Thank You!

Sent by Sandra Bacigalupo | 3:48 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Here's a song you should consider: "Leave Me Love" by Josephine Collective ... irresistible! Just came out on iTunes and Amazon.com from Warner Bros. I think it's their first album ("We Are The Air"), but it's impressive.

Sent by Rob Slemmons | 3:50 PM ET | 06-25-2008

The best album this year - Revelation by Journey

Sent by Eddie | 3:58 PM ET | 06-25-2008

No Age- "Nouns"
M83- "Saturdays=Youth"
Cut Copy- "In Ghost Colours"

Sent by Kahaluu | 4:02 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds "Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!!"
Alberta Cross "The Thief and The Heartbreaker"
Dengue Fever "Seeing Hands"
The Black Keys "Attack and Release"
Dead Confederate "Dead Confederate"

Sent by Newt Lynn | 4:03 PM ET | 06-25-2008

The Lady Tigra and her "Please Mr. BoomBox" is probably my favorite so far this year.

Sent by Kaden | 4:03 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Whisper War by The Cab!

Sent by Sara! | 4:17 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Write in: Goodbye Blues by The Hush Sound

Sent by Allison | 4:17 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Mindless Self Indugence

"IF"

Sent by Angel L | 4:18 PM ET | 06-25-2008

James McMurtry's "Just Us Kids". Nothing else really comes close except for Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' "Dig Lazarus Dig".

Sent by Eric Lackey | 4:19 PM ET | 06-25-2008

"IF" - Mindless Self Indulgence

Sent by stephanie | 4:25 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I vote for:
The Bog Bodies and Other Stories: Music for Guitar
by
Gerry O'Beirne

Sent by Jane Shipley | 4:32 PM ET | 06-25-2008

For what it's worth. Just returned from Europe where Fleet Foxes self titled just dropped to universal acclaim. As a "New Entry" in the UK Album Charts it's #11. Bon Iver's also huge over there. They both are good examples of a new direction in indie music and deserve the attention they are getting.

Sent by Greg | 4:42 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Pretty. Odd. by PATD definitely. They got so much crap for it being different, but I love it. It's an album of great growth and creativity.

Sent by Amy | 4:45 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Los Campesinos! - Hold On Now, Youngster
British Sea Power - Do you Like Rock Music?

---
http://www.thereforeithink.com/

Sent by Steven S. Fang | 4:45 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Bon Iver, no question. A Lo-Fi gem.

Sent by Nick | 4:50 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Best album so far: Punch Brothers.

Sent by Chris | 4:52 PM ET | 06-25-2008

This is an unbelievable new album:

HOWL by Empires

Sent by Rick | 4:56 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt - Another Country, Another fine album from a great artist,she really as something a bit special.If you get the chance see her live a real treat.

Sent by JEFFREY EVANS | 5:03 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Consolers Of The Lonely-The Raconteurs

Sent by Elisha J | 5:04 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Seeing Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes in action over a week's time in March at Nashville's Exit/In was absolutely stunning!

Sent by mattygroves | 5:05 PM ET | 06-25-2008

why isn't the new cd
another country
from tift merritt on the voting list
cause thats the one i would vote for

Sent by Astrid Oskam | 5:06 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Stephen Malkmus and The Jicks - Real Emotional Trash

Sent by Ryan | 5:07 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Bob,

I was just listening to you on All Things Considered, and was really happy that you gave a word out to Fleet Foxes. It seemed that you and Melissa Block were at a loss to find a suitable comparison for the sound. One artist that I haven't heard mentioned in referencing their sound is Milton Nascimento's work with Lo Borges "Clube da Esquina". It may seem bizarre to compare works that are almost 40 years apart, but listen to them together. The arrangements are similar in feeling, and also the use of the vocals as an instrument in the "orchestra" are marvelously similar. Even the pacing and flow of the record evoke one another.

very nice...thanks for this i would have never made that connection....

bob

I get the Crosby Stills and Nash comparison on a song or two, but I feel the influence of that Nascimento record on every track. I'm sorry that I can't conjure "Up With People" when... scratch that, I'm glad I can't conjure "Up With People".

What a joy this record is.

Sent by Peter | 6:16 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Band of Horses "Cease To Begin"

Sent by David | 6:20 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Hayes Carll's new album is really good, and Crystal Antler's new EP is good fun. I've also been playing The Raveonette's very loudly.

Sent by simon | 6:22 PM ET | 06-25-2008

After the Ranconteurs, my write-ins are:
The Black Crowes - Warpaint
Kathleen Edwards - Asking For Flowers
Gary Louris - Vagabonds
Tift Merritt - Another Country

Sent by Shug | 6:28 PM ET | 06-25-2008

The Helio Sequence - Keep Your Eyes Ahead is 2nd only to The Dodos latest. "Keep Your Eyes Ahead," I think, is the most underrated album so far this year. Cut Copy is pretty great too. Write in: Los Campesinos! -Hold On Now, Youngster...

Bon Iver is prob the album thats killed me the most. It just kills me.

VW and Hot Chip have been fun favorites. And the new Death Cab really grew on me, except for the long single. Reminds most of the Photo Album, def some winners there.

But seriously trust me on The Helio Sequence.

Sent by Stangoni | 6:29 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Girl Talk "Feed The Animals"

Sent by Rob | 6:29 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I think that Paul Weller's new album, "22 Dreams" is a glaring oversight from this list. It's his best work in years.

Sent by Stephen Hu | 6:32 PM ET | 06-25-2008

You don't list David Gilmour's "On an Island"?

Sent by Buster Epperson | 6:38 PM ET | 06-25-2008

this is one hosed up way to do a poll. you people too damn busy to count votes? Can your techies not program a simple counter?

Sent by Upset | 6:42 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Tift Merritt - Another Country -

Sent by Paul Busta | 6:48 PM ET | 06-25-2008

Jakob Dylan - Seeing Things

Sent by Melly | 6:49 PM ET | 06-25-2008

I know you have had alot of people tell you what record you guys missed out on, and I didn't think you would of missed this one, but my favorite album so far this year is Why?'s Alopecia, an amazing mix of hip-hop and folk and it's a great listen

Sent by Goody | 6:51 PM ET | 06-25-2008