Top 10 Best Albums of 2011

In 2011, music fans were treated to an array of exceptional albums that left a lasting impression on the industry. Whether you were a fan of established acts or emerging artists, the year had something for everyone.

Rock fans were thrilled by the Foo Fighters' "Wasting Light," a hard-hitting album that showed off the band's ability to evolve and experiment with their sound. Indie darlings Bon Iver also made a splash with their self-titled album, which showcased Justin Vernon's haunting vocals and introspective songwriting.

Hip-hop enthusiasts were wowed by Jay-Z and Kanye West's collaborative effort, "Watch the Throne," which brought together two of the biggest names in the game for a record that was both grandiose and introspective. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar's "Section.80" marked the beginning of a career that would go on to redefine the genre.

But it wasn't just established artists who dominated the scene in 2011. British singer Adele's "21" was a massive commercial success, thanks in part to her powerhouse vocals and heart-wrenching lyrics. And electronic music fans were treated to "SBTRKT," the debut album from the London-based producer that blended elements of dubstep, house, and soul into a genre-defying masterpiece.

Looking back on the best albums of 2011 is a reminder of the power of music to transcend time and place. These records continue to resonate with audiences years later, and serve as a testament to the creativity and passion of the artists who crafted them.

The Top Ten

1 Dream With Me - Jackie Evancho

This, plus her PBS Great Performances "Dream With Me - In Concert" hosted by David Foster, is just amazing. And PBS likes her. She'll be recording her third Great Performances concert in a few weeks.

Along with her PBS Great Performances "Dream With Me - In Concert" album and video, the best.

Astonishing performance by a remarkable young star. This is a keeper.

2 21 - Adele

Lady Gaga and Britney Spears above Adele? What! Adele has the most moving album of 2011! Her voice is so strong and angelic at the same time. I love her! She's so great! She deserves everything she has achieved and more!

Adele is the only artist nowadays that only needs her voice. Lady Gaga can sing, but without the costumes and makeup, no one would've paid any attention to her!

This album is amazing! I remember listening to it in the car when I was little.

3 Femme Fatale - Britney Spears

Sounds like Blackout and Circus have a kid. Some tracks are kind of annoying, but the whole album is on point and nothing's out of line. Also, the dubstep break in Hold It Against Me sounds amazing.

4 Born This Way - Lady Gaga

This album is simply the best from each album. Every song is a hit, so thank Lady Gaga for her work. I hope she will still please us with her new and unusual albums!

5 Wasting Light - Foo Fighters

A stroke of genius brought to the world by Dave Grohl and Co. The screams of "White Limo," the calming beauty of "These Days," and the thunderous drums in "Bridge Burning" are only part of this masterpiece. If you feel rock 'n' roll has been killed by mainstream music, this album shines a (Wasting) Light of hope on the genre. I'm sure it will one day return to popular radio.

6 Evanescence - Evanescence

I was so glad that I was on my way to work when their first single What You Want came on. I was like, they are back! I was blown away by the quality of this album. 10 out of 10, Ev!

7 Helplessness Blues - Fleet Foxes

From the quiet and thoughtful "Blue Spotted Tail" to the cheerful and loud "Battery Kinzie," Helplessness Blues has some of the best indie folk/rock songs of all time. Fleet Foxes singer Robin Pecknold's Decemberists-like voice is clear and beautiful. Think folk music is weird? Evidently, you haven't heard Fleet Foxes.

Yeah, let's get this to number one right now. And Bon Iver, Bon Iver to number two. That's the mission, everybody.

8 Stronger - Kelly Clarkson

9 Ravedeath, 1972 - Tim Hecker

10 Endgame - Rise Against

Rise Against is an important band today. Besides a little help from The Offspring, they are the sole preservers of punk rock. Plus, they have a huge effect on world issues.