We decided to do something a little different this year for our 'Best of' roundup. Instead of a master list compiled of submissions from our contributors and writers, we wanted to give our writers a chance to pick their own Top 5 list of the best of the year in music. Over the next three weeks we will be unveiling our writers' picks for the best of 2004.

Every day we will be posting a new Top 5 list from one of our writers, selected at random. At the conclusion we will reveal the master list. We also want to let you take part and will be accepting nominations for a readers' choice list.

Brad Podray's Top 5 of 2004.

1. Skinny Puppy - The Greater Wrong of the Right: If there's anything I love more than phenomenally orchestrated electronic music, it's the comeback of a group that makes phenomentally orchestrated electronic music that I thought made their last album years ago. Skinny Puppy's comeback is straight-out fantastic, as they keep their old sentiment with the polish of modern day sound. (samples / buy cd)

2. Psychaesthetic - Infinity's End: A veritable tour de force of electronically-inspired rock. This debut CD features everything from ambient dance rhythms to smack-you-in-the-face metal...and I'm in the band. (samples / buy cd | review)

3. Fantomas - Delirium Cordia: Have you ever wondered what sounds go through your head during serious invasive surgery? Well I haven't...but I can't imagine it's too far from this conceptual masterpiece. (samples / buy cd)

4. Moments in Grace - Moonlight Survived: I received this album for review for this website. This is clearly the best pop-rock band out there. So good, in fact, that I don't believe the majority of the populace will be able to handle them. (samples / buy cd | review)

5. Burgess Shale - It's Never Enough, Is It?: An incredibly peculiar album to say the least. The first track "No Duh" is unlike anything I've ever heard before. The effects swirl around the listener like a restrained tempest. They make the list on basis of sheer originality. (samples / buy cd)

Check back tomorrow when another member of the antiMusic staff checks in with their top 5 list.

Wait! Be sure to submit your nominations for the Readers' Choice list.