So here's my list:
- Damian Jurado – Maraqopa
- First Aid Kit – The Lion's Roar
- Grizzly Bear – Shields
- Lemolo – The Kaleidoscope
- Sharon Van Etten – Tramp
- Japandroid – Celebration Rock
- Deep Sea Diver – History Speaks
- Tanlines – Mixed Emotions
- Shearwater – Animal Joy
- Cat Power – Sun
Honorable Mentions:
- David Byrne & St. Vincent – Love This Giant
- Grimes – Visions
- Animal Collective – Centipede Hz
- How to destroy angels_ – An omen EP_ (Partially omitted for being an EP)
I'm already looking forward to 2013 in which I predict a Josh Ritter. Just a hunch.
Update: And I almost forgot. I nominate "Come Back Little Star" from Patterson Hood's "Heat Lightning Rumbles in the Distance" as my song of the year.