new topic: favorite CDs and songs so far this year

We don't need to read personal attacks. But enough about that.

How about some recommendations for recent CDs?
What CDs have really impressed you guys so far this year?

For me, it's Babylon and Kozi.

Babylon: San
I already commented on this a few posts down, so I'll just say again that it's been a long time since I've heard a new band that impressed me this much.
Favorite songs: �[��, Gush

Kozi: Katharsis
This was troublesome to get because even in Japan it's mail-order only. But it was worth the trouble and the $7.00 S+H fee. Kozi's a great songwriter and his arrangements are charming and interesting with a sophisticated feeling, reminiscent of his work with Malice Mizer. His voice is more "adequate" than "wonderful", but it's good enough... Kozi, a talented writer and arranger who understands his vocal limitations, is easily able to work with his strengths and weakness for a result that's pleasing and unique to him. The only problem with this CD -- and this is hardly a problem -- is that it's SO Kozi-like that after a few songs I feel brainwashed into wanting to put on a jester costume and do marionette dances in a nearby park. ^^;
Favorite songs: Incoherents, Life goes on ~with melancholy~, Innermost...

I've also really liked Lareine's songs this year, although since I take it for granted that their new music will be something I'll like, there's no "OMG WOW!" reaction.
Favorites: Ao no Soukutsu, Nemurenu Koi wa Shinju (live-only single)