I'm surprised this thread doesn't exist yet, but I always love seeing what people on here liked this year in music. Since I'm starting the thread I'm doing 2 categories: Category 1 is best album(s) that came out in 2012 and Category 2 is best music that you discovered in 2012 for the first time.
Best Album Released in 2012
Port of Morrow - The Shins
The Shins remind me of dating my wife and therefore hold a special place in my heart. This album is very Shins-y and I love it. I love James Mercer's lyrics and the way he sings, lots of heart behind it.
Honorable Mention for Released in 2012
The Sound of the Life and Mind - Ben Folds Five
I love Ben Folds and hearing him back with his old bandmates was a musical treat. The music has matured alot with Ben doing the solo thing, but this reunion feels natural for them. Great album.
Best New Music (To Me) in 2012
Saturdays = Youth - M83
I'm both sad that I've never heard M83 before this year and elated that I finally found them. This is a great album to get introduced to them with to. Very airy, great background music. Love love love.