15. Chevelle - "Wonder What's Next" (Epic)

Mainstream modern rock has seen its fair share of KoRn rip off bands and Incubus wannabes. Some fledgling rock bands even have the audacity to imitate Tool - but when Chevelle rolled in with 'Wonder What's Next', they not only defied previous stereotypes and sounds, but they created an atmospheric sound which is simply grand. Their first single 'The Red' is easily the most powerful modern rock track of the year and it's merely a preview to the grinding eeriness that is present throughout the album. While modern rock does little to revolutionize music, it can give us some loud and truly moving work as showcased here. Chevelle will most definitely leave us wondering what's next.
14. Chamberlain - "Five Year Diary" (Ignition)

Reserved for those who've mastered the methods of soulful heartland rock 'n roll, this musical form of art transcends boundaries of genres and musical styles; Chamberlain managed to capture the imagery of the lonely imagination. With the 1996 release of their much praised LP, 'Fate's Got a Driver', they not only captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide, but provided incredible groundwork for a truly defining music career. 'Five Year Diary' is an incredible 28-track, double-disc compilation of some of their finest work. While they may have made their exit, 'Five-Year Diary' proves that their music will be remembered and cherished long after they took the stage for the last time.

- Read Sound the Sirens Chamberlain interview feature
13. Spoon - "Kill the Moonlight" (Merge)

This quirky but beautiful musical endeavor is one among many of Spoon's eccentric catalogue. With plenty of instrumental led vocal crooning and vibrant sounds, 'Kill the Moonlight' is as fantastic as it is creative. From the catchiness of "Stay Don't Go" to the electronic induced beats of "Paper Tiger", 'Kill the Moonlight' is a pleasant and unexpected jaunt into the musical world of Spoon. You have to like the vocal rhythm and electric pulse that vibrates from the opening track 'Small Stakes' - it's just surreal and distinctive
12. Nappy Roots - "Watermelon, Chicken and Gritz" (Atlantic)

While other hip hop artists garnered much of the attention in 2002, Nappy Roots' southern fried, laid back approach was perhaps the most interesting and introspective. This sextet of rhymes showcased more than just a penchant for melody (the smooth, catchy and up beat 'Aw Naw') but they managed to truly inject their personality into the record. Their Sunday country feel best displayed in 'Po Folks', this roots/rap record is one I'm not afraid to blast out my car on any given day. Is it still cool to call things 'dope'?
11. Queens of the Stone Age - "Songs for the Deaf" (Interscope)

Rock has never been so intuitive. QOTSA take a much more complicated road to rock royalty and have succeeded with an enthusiastic, complex and heavy record. From psychedelic guitar work to assertive vocals and strong drumming (provided by one Mr. Grohl on this record), QOTSA mix dreamy rock with sheer lunacy and power on this outing. With the first single "No One Knows" holding the fort, it's with other tracks like the fast, punchy "A Song for the Dead" and wavy "The Sky is Fallin" that distinctly separates this album from other rock efforts.