The last year has been tarnished by record company lawsuits and the deaths of several legendary musicians. Amidst the musician/actress dating and the download-divide, a slew of quality releases hit the airwaves.

The year saw the further evolution of Swedish rock, rebirth of Southern blues, an emergence of new-wave revivalists and the affirmation of 2001’s “Return To Rock.”

With so many albums released annually, it is virtually impossible to experience every record. However, there’s no need to listen to every one when I’m giving you my favorite 10 for 2003.

Here is this year’s list:

1. The White Stripes — “Elephant.” The fourth release from Detroit lo-fi specialists combines raw adrenaline and typical garage-rock swagger. This is Jack and Meg’s most intelligent, self-assured and enjoyable album. Without swaying far from the path of recent success, the duo expanded its repertoire and pop sense. Best Song: “Girl, You Have No Faith In Medicine.”

2. The Rosebuds — “Make Out.” Elements of contemporary new wave and early ‘90s power pop can be found engulfed in this Beatles-esque recording. Best Song: “Back To Boston.”

3. The Strokes — “Room On Fire.” Embracing the exact formula of their debut masterpiece, the sophomore release is just as appealing. Best Song: “The Way It Is.”

4. The Mars Volta — “De-loused In The Comatorium.” With two members of At The Drive-In, this musical acid trip proves to be the most experimental endeavor formed from Drive-In’s ashes. Best Song: “Roulette Dares.”

5. Motion City Soundtrack — “I Am The Movie.” The Moog-based power-pop quintet is possibly the glossiest artist on Epitaph Records. Best Song: “Shiver.”

6. The Oranges Band — “All Around.” Part of the revamped Lookout! Records, three weaving guitars and crooning vocals provide the album’s groundwork. Best Song: “OK Apartment.”

7. Mando Daio — “Bring ‘Em In.” Swedish garage rockers expand the harmonic sounds of the 1970s and their Mod predecessors. Best Song: “Sweet Ride.”

8. Ted Leo & The Pharmacists — “Hearts Of Oak.” With the most expressive voice in contemporary music, Ted Leo barrels through genuine pub rock. Best Song: “I’m A Ghost.”

9. Longwave — “Strangest Things.” Haunting harmonies and strange guitar effects create the band’s lush and monumental sound. Best Song: “Tidal Wave.”

10. Steve Burns — “Songs For Dust Mites.” Debut from the former “Blues Clues” host. Co-writer and producer Steven Drozd, of The Flaming Lips, makes his influence known. Best Song: “Troposphere.”