8. The Rolling Stones, A Bigger Bang


In which four reprehensible plutocrats remember that they're also, um, in a rock band and should play like one. Their best since Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps), if not Monster.


7. The Mountain Goats, The Sunset Tree


Imagine all the shit that's most revolting about autobiographical songs cycles. Now write and record them with surprising instrumental embellishments, narrative clarity, and a cold ruthless eye. David Copperfield meets Dazed & Confused, and it's a wonder that John Darnielle seems like such a nice person.