1. "Albatross" - Big Wreck
The Canadian/Boston band comes back after a decade on hiatus with a purely excellent dynamic rock album with killer riffs and hooks and an Ian Thornley who doesn't hold back and as a result can be deemed the best rock singer today. Notable songs: Head Together, Wolves, Glass Room, Million Days, Albatross, Time.
2. "Clockwork Angels" - Rush
This epic of a steampunk world concept album is the loudest album I've ever heard. The lyrics throughout take you on a personal journey leaving you breathless at the end. Notable songs: Caravan, Clockwork Angels, The Wreckers, The Garden.
3. "Away From The World" - Dave Matthews Band
Some think it's too mellow. I think it's truly a great DMB album with enough variety of harder riffs, acoustic jingles, and production to come at you from all angles. Notable songs: Belly Full, Broken Things, Sweet.
4. "Squackett" - Chris Squire & Steve Hackett
Yes bassist and former Genesis guitarist get together to write a pile of proggy-poppish Brit rock songs which I enjoyed every one of them, especially the continual dual-vocals throughout. Hackett's guitar playing is extraordinary. Squire's song writing I've always enjoyed, not to mention his bass playing. I look forward to another album from these two. Notable songs: A Life Within A Day, Tall Ships, Divided Self, Aliens, Perfect Love Song
