ALBUMS / EPs

1. Naturally – SHARON JONES & THE DAP-KINGS (Daptone)

2. MARTHA WAINWRIGHT (Zoe Records)

3. Grab That Gun – THE ORGAN (Mint Records)

4. NY Muscle – HELL (International DeeJay Gigolo Records)

5. Let Us Never Speak Of It Again – OUT HUD (Kranky)

Indies at their best: The Daps and Brooklyn’s queen of soul keep it organic; Martha makes a better record than her brother; Sapphic, lo-fi Canadian foursome bow at Blondie’s alter; the internationally devilish DJ flexes his skills and the ever cool Hud collective channel early ’80s Danceteria-era No Wave.

Most honorable mention: The Emancipation of Mimi – MARIAH CAREY (Island) Don’t be a hater.

SINGLES

“Don’t Phunk with My Heart” – THE BLACK EYED PEAS (A&M)

“Nu-Nu” – FANNYPACK (Tommy Boy)

“For the Nasty” – Q-TIP featuring BUSTA RHYMES (Universal)

“Theand That Feeds’ – NINE INCH NAILS (Nothing)

“The Paddle” – DJ TOUCHE (unreleased)

The Peas absolutely pee with an ol Lisa Lisa riff just ripe for summer; Jailbait FP dig in the crates and revamp an ol house party classic; Q & Busta take us back to the block; Trent and co. don’t bite; The Wiseguys’ Keating lights yo ass on fire.

(Peace Bisquit is Bill Coleman)