It's been a short year, but here is my best of 2004 (up until now):

1. Air - Talkie Walkie

These two fine gents have gotten back on the horse after a few mishaps (Barrico, 10,000 MHz Legend). Many of the critics claim that this is their best record since Moon Safari, but I would say it's their best ever.

Air's sound is not radically different and they didn't add some amazing new producer for the new record. In fact, they produced it themselves after working with the producer of Beck's Midnight Vultures on 10,000 MHz Legend. The bottom line is that Talkie Walkie is just a completely solid outting. The record is cohesive, which is important to me, but still manages to have a number of songs that can stand well on their own. My favorites thus far are "Cherry Blossom Girl," "Run," and "Alpha Beta Gamma."

If you've heard Air, you probably know whether or not you like them. If you're a fan, run out and get this record. If not, there is not much here that might sway you.