Back to The Best Albums of 2011

23. Death Cab for Cutie, 'Codes and Keys'

Amazon

In the future, this will be known as Death Cab’s “happy” record, as Ben Gibbard’s post-release split from Zooey Deschanel portends some serious sad-sackdom to come. But the indie “it” couple’s then-verdant love gives songs like ‘Stay Young, Go Dancing’ a lush delight that we, as tourists, can still enjoy. -- J.O.