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This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.

This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.

Arts & Entertainment

Top 5 Back-to-School Albums

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There was some really good music released over the summer and it's always nice to return to school with some "indie cred" so here are the Top 5 Albums to bring back to school with you:

5. The Stage Names - Okkervil River
The next hot band on the indie stage.

4. Marry Me - St. Vincent
After departing from the mega collective Polyphonic Spree, Annie Clark blazes her own glorious trail on her debut album.

3. Kala - M.I.A.
With a clash of world beat, hip hop, and punk sounds, M.I.A.'s politically-charged lyrics, once again, cut straight to the heart.

2. Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga - Spoon
Spoon's new album sees them expertly ranging from Motown to indie pop without missing a beat. Their sixth album proves that they're only getting better.

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1. The Reminder - Feist
Although released in May, The Reminder takes time (maybe a summer) to appreciate. Featuring an array of sounds and an absolutely unforgettable voice, The Reminder could end up being the album of the year and, you heard it here first: "1234" is the song of the summer.

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