Nas, “N.I.*.*.E.R. (The Slave and the Master)”
Over an orchestral hook, Nas launches a narrative tour de force that skewers institutional racism.
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Randy Newman, “A Few Words. . .”
An instant classic set to Dixieland piano, this state-of-the-union ballad calls out Caesar, Hitler, Stalin — and, of course, Dubya.
[Review]

Conor Oberst, “Moab”
With delicate vocals and defiant acoustic strums, Oberst delivers a moving runaway anthem about the healing power of the road.
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Scars on Broadway, “Cute Machines”
System of a Down’s guitarist and drummer rage through a bullet-rock epic full of hypnotic refrains and hairpin turns.
[Review]

Rose Hill Drive, “Sneak Out”
After-dark antics find a soundtrack with this shredding cut, which takes off like a getaway car from its wrecking-ball opening riff.
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[Photo: Getty]