Instead of trying to rank my list by merit — which is always impossible for me — I sequence them as if it's a mix tape, on vinyl; Album of the Year 2014.

Side One

Tycho - "Awake"
The album we listened to most at home as part of the instrumental soundtrack to our weekends.

Beck - "Blue Moon"
Going from lovable loser to well-regarded, reliable old granddad of the alt-nation generation, quality.

Jeremy Messersmith - "It's Only Dancing"
A highlight of Rock The Garden and proud to see him fly the local flag on Letterman.

St. Vincent - "Birth In Reverse"
Wonderful album and my fave Theft of the Dial ever, she was smart, funny and stunningly poised.

Young Fathers - "Low"
Won the Mercury Music Prize in UK , never know where they are going to go within a song, intriguing.

Side Two

Jack White - "Temporary Ground"
The one guy I wanted to see live, especially as he was playing from his whole catalog while still sounding new here.

Nikki Lane - "Right Time"
The song I found myself singing in my head more than any other, a fiery talent with a terrific voice. A fave studio session.

Robert Plant "Turn It Up"
Fave 'Album of the Week' of the year, because as a long time Zep fan this is how I would want them to sound now.

Royal Blood "Figure It Out"
Neat twist on the power duo, bass and drums packed with hooj riffs, tight, loud as hell and sharp witted in the studio.

The Strypes "Blue Collar Jane"
Classic pub rock a la Dr. Feelgood done with punk panache by really young guys with a big future or a big chance of crashing and burning!