Top Ten of 2005

1. Beck - Guero: Beck returns to the collaborative genius of the Dust Brothers. The album contains a collage of electronica that sounds more like a video game soundtrack than pop music. Perler's pick: "Girl"

2. Neil Diamond - 12 Songs: Much like Johnny Cash, Rick Rubin has given the "Jewish Elvis" a dose of indie rock street cred. And rightly so, as this album contains some of his finest music. This is Neil stripped down, not watered down. Perler's Pick: "Delirious Love" f/ Brian Wilson.

3. Kaiser Chiefs - Employment: British darlings craft an adrenaline-packed blend of melodic pop and New Wave synth. Album is complete with board game concept - the CD itself is the spinner. Perler's Pick: "Oh My God"

4. Foo Fighters - In Your Honor: Grunge holdovers give us a double dose of rock. Often drawing comparisons to Zeppelin's Physical Graffiti, In Your Honor boasts a side of grunge-pop and a side of acoustic ballads. Perler's Pick: "End Over End"

5. Raveonettes - Pretty in Black: Swedish duo take listeners on a trip back to 60's era pop on their third effort. Songs with charming melodies against atmospheric backdrops, and even a guest vocal by Ronnie Spector. Perler's Pick: "Uncertain Times"

6. White Stripes - Get Behind Me Satan: Motor City duo elaborate on the experimentation that defined their last record, Elephant. This time around, their nitty gritty rock sound is complemented by marimba, tambourines, and bells. Perler's Pick: "The Denial Twist"

7. The Blue Van - The Art of Rolling: Long live lo-fi garage rock. Give it a listen and you would think 60's grit never left. Perler's Pick: "I Remember the Days"

8. Six Feet Under - Soundtrack: Everyone was heartbroken with how the show ended. So what better way to mourn than with this collection of great indie rock songs on the stereo? Perler's Pick: "Breathe Me"

9. Crimea - Tragedy Rocks: These tunes are just inescapably addictive. Perler's Pick: "Lottery Winners on Acid"

10. Dane Cook - Retaliation: Yes, you can put comedy albums on top ten lists. Dane graduates from the auspices of the BK Lounge and further confronts his demons. Consisting of 2 shows on a double disc, we get Dane in all his eccentric glory. Perler's Pick: "One Night Stand/DJ Diddles"