The Top Local Recordings of 2008

3. Margot & the Nuclear So and So’s, “Animal”

This messy album challenges listeners to hang on for all 12 songs.

It’s not a shock that major label Epic Records issued a more accessible collection (titled “Not Animal”) in conjunction with “Animal.” But most of the music on “Not Animal” reflects past triumphs for singer-songwriter Richard Edwards and his band mates.

“Animal” represents progress and it’s heard in the whispery echoes of “I Am a Lightning Rod” and in the infectious rhythms of “As Tall as Cliffs.”

Visit www.margotandthenuclearsoandsos.com.