Depeche Mode -- Violator

  This is in my mind the ultimate Depeche Mode album ... it just has that feeling of the culmination of what they've been doing all those years and here's the plateau!

The Youngbloods -- The Bes Of ...

  Ok ok there are some cheesy flaky hippie bullsh*t moments on this album, but you know what, there are some real great tunes too.  I wouldn't file this under heavily recommended, but if your a 60's freak and passed them up because of Get Together, give it another try ...

The Undead -- Dawn Of The ...

  The band from the guy who was too punk for the Misfits ... they booted (he .. he) him out after some lewd behavior that caused the loss of a toe.  Anyway ... Bobby Steele went on to form his own Troggs inspired horror punk band, this album serves as a comprehensive of those early recordings, some are good, some are bad, but all of it is worth your while. 

Indochine -- 3

  These guys are basically the french Cure and honestly I used to love this sh*t years ago, but lately I have a hard time sitting through one song.  This album brings me back to a nostalgic happier time, chillin' in night clubs, dancing with beautiful girls and being surrounded by interesting people ... you know the days before adulthood and responsibility ...  

Nick Cave & The Bad Seed -- The Good Son

  What happens when The Birthday Party meets Frank Sinatra and Tom Waits in a dark alley ... The Good Son.  Theoretically that sounds like it would be awesome, but actually isn't ...

Modest Mouse -- We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank

  Man ... I always found the singers voice annoying, but I thought since Johnny Marr plays guitar on this album maybe it won't be so bad ... I was wrong ... it's worse!

John Lee Hooker -- Mad Man Blues

  Within the throws of an existentially fueled depression it's hard not to try and find something that would make you feel better, worse or merely understood.  There is nothing like a legendary bluesman to coerce your mind out of the pit of despaired loneliness.  John Lee has the ability to appeal to our timeless raw emotions, he is a man in touch with pure feeling, whether it's good, bad or ugly, add in his striking voice and killer guitar playing -- you've got something irreplaceable!