2. Why? - Alopecia

Alternative rock, hip hop group from non other than Cincinnati, although now located in Oakland, California. Sounds like Pavement and stream of consciousness rap in a blender. Favorites are Fatalist Palministry, By Torpoedo Or Crohn's, The Hollows, and Brook & Waxing. Get it here.

3. My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

One of my favorite bands ever, just seems so effortless in any new direction they decide to go on. This album has a little bit of everything, Prince, soul ballads, southern rock, just get it. No link due to request, you'll find it.

4. Fleet Foxes - S/T

Mythical mountain music. Reverb drenched ballads from one of the great up and coming bands of this young century. No Link due to request, you can find it though.

5. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

What can I say that hasn't already been said about this one. here

6. Wise Blood - S/T

A great folk, alternative, inventive album from a close friend. I swear i can't go a day without listening to one song off this album. Spirituality plays a big part in the song writing process. It is not a qualification however to enjoy a damn good album. Favorites are Well I Had A Revelation And..., The Ballad Of Ichabod Vincent And His Lady, Lost At Sea, and Untitled. Here.

7. She & Him - Volume One

A colaboration between M. Ward (a ridiculous solo artist btw) and Zooey Deschanel (from Elf fame). A great look back at 50's and 60's female love balads done excellently with Wards inventive production and guitar. Every song is equally great. Here

9. Atmosphere - When Life Hands You Lemons...

I had never heard of this hip hop group until the past year, i was truly missing out. I got the pleasure to see them live at Scribble jam here in Cincinnati. Hell of a show by the way. This album is a great look back at a life filled with joy and much pain. The beats on the album are incredible. Each song is a different story or tale, giving you a piece of good advice on each track. A really fucking good hip hop album is what I am trying to say. here.

10. Stephen Malkmus - Real Emotional Trash

I'm not sure if Malkmus will ever get his credit when it comes to his solo projects. I actually enjoy his neurotic solo stuff more than his Pavement catalogue. Understandably some don't like his new "Jam" style, but to me not only is he one of the best lyricists but also a hell of a guitarist whom never gives you a basic solo. Give the man some cred here.

11. Momo - Buscador

I didn't even know about this band at all, and from what I gathered not many in the bands native Brazil did either. I was stupified when i downloaded this album the production quality, the song quality, and a whole album feel is just plain amazing. Reminds me of Pink Floyd and Sigur Ros with the power of the music and the crashing of the drums. These are epic songs. Hear here.

12. M83 - Saturdays = Youth

A great nostalgia album from a very inventive and talented artist. This album takes on the 80's complete with loud synths, and those famous voice effects. Note: if you listen to this album you will find yourself thinking about the 80's for the rest of the day. For a blast from the past click here. Favorites are Kim & Jessie, Skin Of The Night, and Colours.