N.E.E.T./Interscope/XL

The backlash against M.I.A.'s high jinks — that graphic "Born Free" video and her beef with The New York Times — distracted everyone from the fact that her biggest provocations in 2010 were sonic. Maya's art-punk noise and electro beats made for the most abrasive protest music in recent memory.

• Rob Sheffield's Original Review
• Gallery: M.I.A.'s Best Looks