By Karen Greenberg 

When we talk about downloading music these days, we often say we’re listening to new singles as opposed to albums. For the most part, with the world of iTunes and songs for $1.29, listeners aren’t really paying much attention to albums as a whole. Fans choose their favorite artists one song at a time, without giving their latest album a complete listen from beginning to end. Sadly, a lot of great songs that don’t become smash singles fall through the cracks, and albums become less of a complete work than just a collection of individual songs. Of those that have debuted in the past six months, a few have blown our socks off, from the first track to the last. Here are the best, most anticipated, and most successful albums of 2012 so far.

“Some Nights” – Fun.

This album, mostly known for the number one single “We Are Young,” is everything indie pop should be. Catchy choruses, relevant lyrics, and a unique sound, the band channels its former self (aka The Format) in style. Best of the album: “Some Nights,” “Carry On,” and “Why Am I the One.”

“Looking 4 Myself (Deluxe Edition)” – Usher

Over the past few years, it seems that Usher has reinvented himself as the king of dance club hits. The combination of R&B, Electronic Dance, and Pop on this album make him unbeatable, and with some retro flavor to mix it up even further, the 18 track edition of the album is the one to hear. Best of the album: “Scream,” “Climax,” and “Twisted,” ft. Pharell.

“Up All Night (Deluxe Edition)” – One Direction

At this point, you’d pretty much have to be living under a rock not to know about this album, or at least its first smash hit single, “What Makes Your Beautiful.” The boys from across the pond have revitalized boy-band pop with ridiculously infectious hooks and smooth vocals that make every girl’s heart beat a little faster. Best of the album: “One Thing,” “More Than This,” “Up All Night,” and “Moments.”

“California 37″ – Train

Going strong since their debut in 1998, Train proves once again that they have some serious staying power. Their newest album provides a new crop of catchy, easy tunes that are perfect for summer. Creative and memorable, California 37 keeps it fresh with fun melodies and the vocal delivery we’ve come to know and love. Best of the album: “50 Ways to Say Goodbye,” “Drive By,” and “Mermaid.”

“Believe” – Justin Bieber

Possibly the most anticipated album of the year, Believe debuted at number one this month amidst a massive amount of hype. Bieber’s sophomore effort definitely lives up to the word on the street, with a slightly more mature version of the star’s signature style. Collaboration with Drake, Ludacris, and Nicki Minaj contribute to the album’s slight R&B feel. Best of the album: “As Long as You Love Me,” “Believe,” and “Beauty and a Beat.”

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