1. Outrageous Cherry, Out There in the Dark (Del-Fi)
2. Old 97’s, Fight Songs (Elektra)
3. Imperial Teen, What Is Not to Love (Slash)
4. Marine Research, Sounds From the Gulf Stream (K)
5. Fountains of Wayne, Utopia Parkway (Atlantic)
6. Guided by Voices, Do the Collapse (TVT)
7. Promise Ring, Very Emergency (Jade Tree)
8. Wilco, Summerteeth (Reprise)
9. No-Talents, Want Some More! (Estrus)
10. Muffs, Alert Today Alive Tomorrow (Honest Don’s)
Top Five Pop-Punk Albums
1. Groovie Ghoulies, Fun in the Dark (Lookout!)
The Ghoulies formula perfected. Exhilarating, catchy, and not one weak track.
2. Screeching Weasel, Emo (Panic Button)
Ben drops the typical pop of post-Riverdales Weasel, and releases a near-concept album full of introspective lyrics and endearingly scruffy tunes.
3. Connie Dungs, Earthbound for the Holiday (Mutant Pop)
At times verging on pretentious, at others genius. But really, just a great, great record.
4. Dirt Bike Annie, Hit the Rock! (Mutant Pop)
The first CD from one of pop-punk’s most promising acts. Dirt Bike Annie create pop hit after pop hit, rarely, if ever, faltering. Get in on the ground floor.
5. Servo, Everything’s Difficult (Crackle)
Servo produce distinctive, sharp music. A breath of fresh air from England.