Howe’s duet with Neko Case on ‘Without A Word’ is the star of the show though, boasting a gorgeous melody that owes a lot to Gelb’s Tuscon roots.

R&B concept album about binmen turned superheroes. Yup.

Not much has changed in the futureheads world as, post their major-label career, they bounce-back with independently released third album.

Surprisingly radio-friendly System Of A Down spin-off.

Emo kids kick up a riot on surprisingly edgy third outing.

Bluefinger is probably the sprightliest solo collection of songs Frank Black has recorded to date.

Easy listening princess goes indie-goth.

Kweli's collaborative work has set the bar so high that his solo efforts routinely fail to meet these exalted expectations.

Triumphant sophomore offering from butch Vig-produced punk-pop outfit.

Think The Cramps crossed with the B52s, with a fair dose of Smog and Cat Power thrown in, and you’ll be in the Sons & Daughters picture

It’s a bold, ambitious statement from a techno producer keen to expand his range watch this space.

Classy Copenhagen act unveil penchant for pop.

Couples is by no means a terrible record, I just preferred The Long Blondes when they were young, free and single.

It’s just too ‘nice’.

Shine remains a terribly average r'n'b album that occasionally flickers with possibility, but never burns brightly enough to matter.

The Wu-Tang Clan are undoubtedly in decline, but given the musical peaks they have scaled in the past, there remains plenty of sublime scenery to observe on the way down.

Hotly tipped Canadian electro duo Crystal Castles deliver the goods on their debut album.

Inoffensively bland offering from US indie pop outfit.

Pop go the classics with Sufjan Stevens.

Electro Pop maestros return after three-year hiatus.

Welcome return to form from nineties stalwarts, not much has changed with this tenth studio album but if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Howling good fun from Lupine superstar.

Thrillingly experimental hip-hop.

Mournful folkie not quite as desolate as usual.

A thin line between revelation and revivalism, Adams and the Cardinals make an album worthy of high praises.

A surprising afro-beat, trance-pop return from Penate.

Jazz maestro takes a turn towards the electro.

It’s as warm and forgiving and generously tender a collection of songs as you’ll hear all year.