In no particular order, here are my top ten albums from 2004:

Tom Waits - Real Gone
Tears For Fears - Everybody Loves a Happy Ending
50 Foot Wave - s/t
Patti Smith - Trampin'
Interpol - Antics
Bjork - Medulla
Stina Nordenstam - The World is Saved
PJ Harvey - Uh Huh Her
Sonic Youth - Sonic Nurse
Luna - Rendezvous

I would have added Diamanda Galas to this list for Defixiones/Will and Testament but it wouldn't be fair because no one can do what she does. Her artistry, conviction and energy is amazing. 'Mournful', 'haunting', 'frightening' are all words that could be applied here but so is 'unforgettable', which is really the point. There are horrors and injustices in the world that should not be forgotten. As difficult as she is to listen to she gives me something to think about for the rest of my life.