18. White Rose Movement - Kick
Definitely one of the most promising of the new wave art rock bands out of England, White Rose Movement succeed because of their ferocity. They simply attack the songs on their debut. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the tracks (especially the singles) are all so strangely catchy. Girls In The Back should have been an anthem this year.

Album Track: Pig Heil Jam - If you've heard the demo version of this song, you really need to hear the finished product. A ferocious burst of guitar, snarls and falsetto, it's a lethal combination and one that should set your heart pulsing.

17. Pet Shop Boys - Fundamental
The second elder duo on the countdown, the Pet Shop Boys had a bit of a resurgence this year with this album. Marred by horrible single choices, Fundamental remains a treasure trove of relatively unnoticed material. Spilt evenly between high energy dance tracks and slow brooders, both styles are more successful than Pet Shop Boys have managed for some time.

Album Track: The Sodom And Gomorrah Show - Highlighted by a spiraling string section at the beginning, this track pumps so much energy, so many things, into its 5:20 minutes that it practically bursts.