1. Ink Stains – Regina Spektor – There is a future Spektor, and it isn't that far way, where all her gypsy affectations are completely absorbed and her songs stand alone. Such as this devastating look at anti-Semitism which seems to rattle the doors of hatred even as it jumps right in. Grade: A+
2. Holden – Leigh Marble – Bakers rhymes with fakers rhymes with haters – Grade: B
3. Van Vogue – Azealia Banks – Too many quirks and whoops but, again, great rhymes and raps – Grade: B+
4. Best In Me – Scissor Sister – Excellent disco mover. They should write for Gossip, because it is precisely what Beth isn't getting – Grade: A-
5. Disco 2000 – Nick Cave – Nick absolutely rocks this Pulp classic, a wonderfully different take – Grade: A
6. In My Room – best Coast – No not the Beach Boys but I have to come clean, I really didn't get this band till now. The problem is their melodies are too ethereal for my tastes, too wispy. But there is an undertow of harm and it makes them more than the parts – Grade: B+
7. Heaven – Rebecca Ferguson – Another X Factor doesn't have the emotional wherewithal of Corinne Bailey Rae. But she may have a better voice – Grade: B
8. Are You Here – Corinne Bailey Rae – This is the real deal, it sinks so low, so sweet, so sad – Grade: A
9. California Sun – The Ramones – Joey-Brian linked – Grade: A
10. How – Regina Spektor – She is still getting here yet here she is – Grade: A+