In case you were wondering the criteria for our best of 2008, it’s the result of the accumulated average of our writers and contributors picks. So while some records were universally lauded, if they were easily classifiable or polarizing, they seemed to fare worse than those that could be appreciated by a wide variety of people. Thus coming in at #11, the Foals Antidotes.

We also have to give them a nod for having a definitive Brooklyn-psych vibe, with production by TV on the Radio’s David Sitek and guest spots by the horn section from Antibalas on five tracks and Celebration’s Katrina Ford on another. Extra nod for ditching Sitek’s original mix, leaving their first buzz-building singles off the record and creating music that is not easily defined. Proving they are willing to take risks, and it’s paid off.

Sub Pop

1. Antidotes
2. Celebration Signs To 4AD
3. Security
4. Chicago’s Metro Announces Rock & Rebuild Benefit
5. Yeah Yeah Yeahs Break Eggs & Take Names On Third LP It’s Blitz!