Top 10 Alternative Albums Of 2013

Definitive proof that this was a great year for music. For best results grab a decent pair of headphones and crank up the volume. None of that tinny phone speaker rubbish...

1. Bass Drum of Death, "Bass Drum of Death"

Via stereogum.com

If you've played GTAV you'll have heard the killer track "Crawling After You". The album does not disappoint, providing a heavy dose of lo-fi garage rock to batter your eardrums - in a good way of course.

Top Track: "I Wanna Be Forgotten". A great opener that sets the tone for the whole LP.

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2. Sleigh Bells, "Bitter Rivals"

Via stereogum.com

These guys never fail to amaze. Alexis Krauss' alluring vocals are the sweet icing on top of a noisy brain mashing cupcake that leaves you begging for more after the first bite. Enough said.

Top Track: "Sugarcane". It resonates the sound of "Comeback Kid" but takes it to a new level. And it kicks ass.

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3. CSS, "Planta"

Via thelineofbestfit.com

The fourth LP from CSS is full of quirky electronic beats and brimming with identity. The band have well evolved since their "Cansei de Ser Sexy" days without distancing themselves from their roots. And they're stronger than ever.

Top Track: "Teenage Tiger Cat". Digitally modified vocals and tiger roars throughout. The lyrics don't make sense either but that doesn't matter - you'll be too busy dancing.

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4. Wavves, "Afraid Of Heights"

Via rollingstone.com

There are loads of ways to describe Wavves latest LP: fuzz, surf, psychedelic and stoner rock to name a few. No matter how it's perceived, it should be enjoyed at face value for every single track it offers. Highly addictive.

Top Track: "Dog". The melody hooks and the lyrics are submissive. Some would even say it's "top dog".

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5. CHVRCHES, "The Bones Of What You Believe"

Via hangout.altsounds.com

The internet buzz created by "The Mother We Share" and "Lies" enabled the Glaswegian trio to blast their way into an album release this year. Enchanting electro-pop at its finest.

Top Track: "Strong Hand". Layered and melodic, it has a captivating depth to it.

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6. James Blake, "Overgrown"

Via billboard.com

It's been a good year for James Blake. He bagged himself the Mercury Music prize back in October, beating off the likes of the Arctic Monkeys and David Bowie. And it was well deserved. "Overgrown" is hauntingly beautiful.

Top Track: "Take A Fall For Me". Structurally magnificent with slick production. Plus it features RZA. Bam.

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7. Yeah Yeah Yeahs, "Mosquito"

Via pastemagazine.com

April saw the release of Karen O and co's fourth gem. As if the fusion of rock and electronic sounds wasn't enough, "Sacrilege" featured a gospel choir. Praise be to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs!

Top Track: "Mosquito". It will make you want to gyrate uncontrollably - try not to break anything valuable in the process.

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8. London Grammar, "If You Wait"

Via thelineofbestfit.com

The long awaited LP from London Grammar hit the shelves this year. Hannah Reid's vocal ability strikes similarities with Florence Welch, against delicately structured music - at times evocative of The XX.

Top Track: "Nightcall". Yes it's a cover version of the Kavinsky track from the movie "Drive", but it's hands down one of the best covers this year.

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9. Burial, "Rival Dealer"

Via lamusicblog.com

OK so it's not technically an album, but since '07s "Untrue" William Bevan has presented a series of EPs featuring lengthier and more atmospheric tracks. You can put any Burial tune on whilst travelling and everything around you becomes somewhat eerie. Maybe not a good idea for the faint hearted.

Top Track: "Come Down To Us". Really, put it on when walking somewhere.

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10. MIA, "Matangi"

Via rap-up.com

Unconventional song structures, heavy bass, and the occasional dash of chaos. But as with every effort from MIA, this LP is a grower. Indifferent after the first listen? Play it again. And again. And maybe again. Now you like it right?

Top Track: "Come Walk With Me". One of the tamer tracks, although make sure the bass is set to high at the very least.

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