Atmosphere

“When Life Gives you Lemons”

Rhymesayer Records

Rapper Slug and DJ Ant really bring on the heat in “When Life Gives You Lemons.” The beats are incredibly original, as Atmosphere incorporated a live band in addition to the samples.

The electronic thumping sample in “Should’ve Known” and the storytelling verses throughout make this a groundbreaking album that makes a statement about the evolution of hip-hop to come.

Nas

“Untitled”

Def Jam Records

Regarded as one of the best rappers alive, Nas released his album this year amid controversy, mostly over his protests about the Fox News Network.

Whatever your political opinions, you cannot deny that Nas still has the newest and most intriguing hip-hop sounds to date. “Sly Fox,” “Hero” and “Black President” (in which he actually samples a speech by Barack Obama) are standout tracks on the album that solidify its place as one of the best of 2008.

Kanye West

“808s and Heartbreak”

Roc-A-Fella Records

I decided that I liked this album after a few listens. West, despite his arrogance, continually puts out innovative, intriguing and diverse albums. “808s” is more mature and musically different than any of his previous work. His experimentation with electronic sounds and tribal drums makes this one of the best albums of the year.

T.I.

“Papertrail”

Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records

I was stunned that I liked T.I.’s new album, considering the cheesiness of most commercial rappers these days. But “Papertrail” is a surprisingly quality record, incorporating some pretty neat beats and samples and hosting a slew of famous guest appearances.

“Swagger Like Us,” which uses a contagious sample of M.I.A., is a good example (with guest verses by Kanye West, Lil’ Wayne and the illustrious Jay Z) and the single “Whatever You Like” is now a staple of the club and bar scenes.

Santogold

“Santogold”

Downtown Records

Santogold reminds me of a combination of ‘80s hip-hop, dub music and electronic all in one. Her high voice and interesting vocal patterns create a dynamic sound that complements the infectious beats and synth-like guitars. The single “L.E.S. Artistes” reminds me of Blondie and warrants a purchase of the album in itself.

MGMT

“Oracular Spectacular”

Sony Records

MGMT’s new album has some irregular and intriguing sounds that set them apart from other indie bands in 2008.

The vocals are funky, the music is heavily synth and keyboard oriented and each track has a unique and innovative sound. The best tracks are “Time to Pretend,” “Weekend Wars” and, of course, by far the best dance single of the year, “Electric Feel.”

Cold War Kids

“Loyalty to Loyalty”

Downtown Records

This is a pretty solid album from one of the best indie bands around right now. It’s bluesy and raw, and frontman Nathan Willett’s haunting voice highlights the music, especially in the slower “Every Man I Fall For.”

Girl Talk

“Feed the Animals”

Illegal Art

“Feed the Animals,” released exclusively as an MP3 album, exhibits this DJ’s extraordinary mash-up skills. You won’t believe the way he smoothly incorporates a diverse range of samples — everything from Metallica to Twisted Sister to Three Six Mafia to Lil’ Wayne — into incredible dance-party songs.

Conor Oberst

“Conor Oberst”

Merge Records

The new solo album from Conor Oberst is much different than his work with Bright Eyes, but it truly showcases his prolific songwriting abilities. Oberst recorded the album with the Mystic Valley Band in Mexico, which explains some of the more optimistic songs as well as the overall folk-country sound.

The Killers

“Day & Age”

Island Records

The Killers retain their signature synth-heavy, ‘80s throwback sound in “Day and Age.” Vocals have improved and the songs are livelier. “Day and Age” is very ‘80s, but it works

—Tyler Branson is an English and history senior.