1. Wasted Days – Cloud Nothings -I would give Steve Albini more credit for his production, if they hadn't expanded sounded so good in concert. A very powerful, somewhat flawed album.
2. Born To Die – Lana Del Rey – We had a word for this when I was growing up: sustained vision. Perhaps this can be manufactured and perhaps she is the real deal. What would the difference be?
3. Voyageur – Kathleen Edwards – The highs are very high, the lows not that, and the production does more good than harmed.
4. Resolution – Lamb Of God – If the complaint is that the songs don't stick, that depends upon what part you want them sticking to. For sure, the voice blows your ears out and sticks to your temple.
5. Identity – James Fortune And FIYA – When they go middlebrow, they blow. When they get on their knees to the beat, they'll make you believe.
6. Clear Heart Full Eyes – Craig Finn – I am still feeling my way round this one but it sure seems to me as if it may very well be major.