Right then, the top 10 albums of 2012 chosen by the State team. As ever, it’s been a fascinating process – especially comparing the list with our mid-year poll. Seven of our final selection where there in July, with three records making their way to the top table. Thanks to all those who contributed, we’ll do it all again in six months or so.

10. Hot Chip – In Our Heads‘

The rare case of a band getting better and better.

9. Chromatics – Kill For Love

Americans prove that they can do synth pop as well as anyone.

8. Bruce Springsteen – Wrecking Ball

Millionaire rock star goes up against the establishment and nails it.

7. Jack White – Blunderbuss

The hardest working man in show business goes it alone.

6. Django Django – Django Django

January release stays the course.

5. Tame Impala (pictured) – Lonerism

How to make a fucked up pop record.

4. Grimes – Visions

Our mid-year winner hangs on in there.

4. Frank Ocean – Channel Orange

Odd Future’s real talent steps into the limelight.

2. The XX – CoExist

What difficult second album?

1. alt-J – An Awesome Wave

Everybody loves them. They’re not wrong.