The 50 Best Albums of 2008

15

The Black Keys ATTACK & RELEASE Nonesuch

The Keys always sounded like more than two guys, but now they sound like a real band. The garage-R&B ambience here is so thick, you can practically touch the grime coating on "All You Ever Wanted" and "Strange Times." You don't count the parts inside; you just dig the sum.

16

Randy Newman HARPS AND ANGELS Nonesuch

Newman's sidesplitting "A Few Words in Defense of Our Country" offers continuing proof that the man who wrote "Political Science" is still fully armed with hilarious rage. The simple comforts in "Feels Like Home" also confirm that he hasn't lost his touch with smaller, private victories.

• View List: The 50 Best Albums of 2008