Jessie Ware: Wildest Moments

I'm not sure that this British artist has really caught on in the USA yet, you all can correct me if I've just missed her, but she's had a great deal of success in the UK, and I wouldn't be surprised if she becomes popular here as 2013 unfolds. This song is off her 2012 debut album, Devotion.

Yo La Tengo: Before We Run

This group shouldn't need any intro. A captivating song from the upcoming album, Fade.

Dirty Projectors: Swing Lo Magellan

Here's another tremendous 2012 album. This was sort of a stripped down record for this band, and the change up in style was brilliant.

Alabama Shakes: Boys & Girls

I mentioned this group earlier this year and their debut album has yet to lose its vitality after numerous listens. Brittany Howard’s voice is one of the most interesting in the business right now.

Sharon Van Etten: Tramp

While I simply cannot come up with numbered "best of" lists, this album may very well be my favorite of 2012. Yep, that's the best I can do.

Frank Ocean: Channel Orange

I've mentioned Frank Ocean on the blog before, and I don't think there will be a best of 2012 list out there that doesn't have his Channel Orange near the top. The album is thoughtful, well-layered hip hop, with equal dashes of R&B, Soul.

Merry Christmas!