10. Metronomy - The English Riviera [Amazon] [iTunes] [Insound]

With their first two albums, Pip Paine (Pay the £5000 You Owe) and Nights Out, U.K. four piece Metronomy established their niche with a somewhat-awkward-yet-completely-awesome blend of electronic synths, smooth basslines and subtle guitar riffs. With their third studio album, The English Riviera, Metronomy has shown that they know exactly what works for them and have gone a step forward by fully embracing it and perfecting it. The allure of this album comes with its undeniably awkward charm, with every song coming across as a little bit 'off,' and it is exactly that which makes this album so different and appealing when compared to everything else we've seen this year. From the charming presentation of "Everything Goes My Way," with its subtle whistles and the calming vocals of guest artist Roxanne Clifford, to the amazingly groovy bassline on "The Bay," to the catchy synth work throughout "The Look," it all just works beautifully to Joseph Mount's vision. And it is Mount himself who adds the largest dose of charisma to the project, with his lyrical style and vocal work working synonymously with the instrumentation that backs him up. The English Riviera shows Mount's, and the entire band's, ability to stand out above the rest. With a unique and visionary musical style and unquestionable talent, Metronomy have crafted an album that is one of the most charming and interesting packages released this year. —Adrian