Six years ago Gotye [left] was a new voice on the scene. So new that we're only now discovering his newness. His amazing "The only way" is the sparkling riff in this week's show. And 6 years later, we're also now fully appreciating The Swell Season's debut CD.

Another great CD of 2006 was [right] Muse's "Black holes & revelations"--a CD that continues to be under-appreciated in the states, but is a virtuosic display of creativity that hasn't been equalled since. Except perhaps for Red Hot Chili Peppers' "Stadium arcadium," which continues to impress. And 2006 releases by The Who, The Flaming Lips, Imogen Heap, Outkast, Booka Shade, and Cat Stevens.

All the tracks are here.