TOP ALBUMS OF 2010 PART TWO

We saw a great number of amazing albums during the first quarter of this year. Here are our top album picks for 2010 (so far)...

American Ghetto by Portugal. The Man
Hailing from (gasp!) Wasilla, Alaska, this prodigious rock group is far from anything Palin-esque. Made up of the former members of Anatomy of a Ghost, Portugal the Man's 6th studio album is so eclectic, it runs the range between electro, indie-rock, psychedelia, and more. Unexpectedly catchy and upbeat, there is definitely nothing ghetto about this album.
The Filter Picks: "The Dead Dog", "All My People", "The Pushers Party", "When The War Ends"

High Violet by The National
Though its official release date is not until May 11th, this album is just so good that I had to include it here. The fifth studio album by the Brooklyn-based band is quite addictive. Matt Beringer's hypnotic, deep baritone, combined with their trademark post-punk sound, this album will take you on a "journey" you want to keep smoking again and again. 
The Filter Picks: "Bloobuzz Ohio", "Terrible Love", "Sorrow", "Runaway"

Odd Blood by Yeasayer
Indie-rock festival fave, Yeasayer, released a very intriguing album early this year. The follow-up to their widely successful debut album is pretty solid, IMO. Staying true to their experimental roots, the band broadened their musical range by embracing a more pop-electro feel.
The Filter Picks: "Love Me Girl", "Ambling Alp", "Madder Red", "ONE"

Die Young by Blair
I would describe this album by a twenty-something singer songwriter from New Orleans, Louisiana, as one of the most memorable of the year. Die Young is filled with infectious, pop, folky tracks, blended with her appealing vulnerability. Blair's sound spans her musical influence and reminds one of Cat Power, Neil Young, and Kate Bush. This is the definitive indie-pop album of 2010. 
The Filter Picks: "Hearts", "Kamikaze", "Paris, France", "Candy In the Kitchen"

Teen Dream by Beach House
The third album from the Baltimore-based dream pop duo is appropriately titled. Brimming with what I would call soothing, daydreaming music, this album is a cohesive and distinct voice from Victoria Legrand and Alex Scally.
The Filter Picks: "Norway", "Zebra", "Lover of Mine", "Walk In the Park"

by Paula Purpera