I have 2 to mention:
Ed Harcourt-"Strangers"- I know this was released in the UK in 2004.But the 
release date here was Feb. 2005 which was when I got it.It is a 
stuner.Recorded in Sweden with some great help, it stands to be his best and 
most assured work.
Martha Wainwright-"BMFA"- This is only an ep[full album soon] and it is 
going to attract attention for it's profanity.But I have fallen under it's 
spell.I truly believe she makes those words musical.The title cut has a 
power about it that grabs you.A real grower. I heard about it in the year 
end Mojo.Nora Jones picked it as her favorite of last year.I am not a fan of 
hers, but what she said intrigued me.That and it's provocative title. Trust 
me on this one. It is worth a listen.Can't wait for the full album.
  I have been listening to a lot of the Swedish rock that Parasol is 
offering.Stand out stuff from The Bear Quartet and Thirdimension ,just to 
name two.I am impressed.
  So much still to come this year.

    Gene

>From: "*Bill Holmes*" <bholmes_fm@msn.com>
>Reply-To: audities@smoe.org
>To: <audities@smoe.org>
>Subject: First Quarter in the books, so...
>Date: Sat, 2 Apr 2005 10:23:40 -0500
>
>..what's the best album of 2005 so far?
>
>Off the top of my not-enough-coffee-in-it-yet head, I might have to say
>Dwight Twilley's 47 MOONS but I reserve the right to amend that statement
>after I wake up.
>
>In the immortal words of Handsome Dick Manitoba, I say.. AND YOU?
>
>b