Massachusetts still rules, and this year the indie rock world at large finally has to admit it. If there’s any band playing around right now that’s making this obvious, it’s Speedy Ortiz. Their smart and snarky 2013 LP Major Arcana is one of the best rock records of the year, matching huge riffs and heavy drumming with singer Sadie Dupuis’s intricate, intelligent lyricism. And with their higher profile, Speedy have been able to champion other Massachusetts bands like Krill, Pile, and Sneeze, a testament to the sort of community-oriented attitude that’s made them a much-loved band in their home state for the past couple of years. – Liz

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BUY: Major Arcana is available via Carpark.