It's that time of year again.

The time when music nerds around the globe (us included) sit down and create our Top Albums of 2012 lists! 

BPM lovers - we're on to you. This is the second year in a row a strong female singer who writes songs from her heart has come in at #1 of the year. We don't blame you - P!nk's mix of rock & pop, anger & love, sincerity & playfulness gets us every time too.

For fans of Kelly Clarkson, Christina Aguilera and Rita Ora. 

Australia, this is your first The Voice winner!

When we heard Missy was releasing a new album this year, we at BPM HQ were as happy as the music loving public seemed to be, & she did not disappoint. 12 songs of pure heartfelt pop were delivered, all of which worked together to create one complete album that everyone instantly fell in love with.

For fans of Sara Bareilles, Kate Miller-Heidke and Clare Bowditch. 

When you are the owner of a voice like Birdy, it doesn't matter that you're only 15 & releasing an album of covers. This self titled album was released, the lead single being a cover of Bon Iver's 'Skinny Love' & Birdy was at the top of the charts. I expect people to be already asking "Bon I-who?"

For fans of Emeli Sande, Florence + The Machine and Lana Del Rey.

Give it up for Aussie hip hop! Coming in at #5 this year is everyone's favourite Adelaidians - or Radeladians as we like to call them. Delivering a complete hip hop album like only they can, & having special guests like Sia drop by makes this album one of the best to come out of Australia this year. Clearly you guys thought so too.

For fans of Bliss N Eso, Funkoars and The Herd. 

Was this the most anticipated album of the year? Possibly. Did you guys love it? YES YOU DID. This UK folk band know what you want to hear, & they're not afraid to play it for you. With lead single 'I Will Wait' Marcus Mumford & the other Mumford (giggle) set the tone for what was their second outing in to the world. Folk done at it's best.

For fans of Of Monsters And Men, Bon Iver and The Lumineers. 

It's been a big year for Lana Del Rey. She started the year with the release of her 2nd album. A world tour was quickly booked & sold out almost instantly - Australia especially. A disastrous live performance on America's Saturday Night Live cause the immediate cancellation of the world tour, only to see Lana come back out bolder & more confident than ever. Born To Die almost sounds vintage - but it still sounds great.

For fans of Lady Gaga, Azaelia Banks and Ellie Goulding. 

US band Matchbox Twenty hit back this year with their 5th studio album - & you guys loved it! Rob Thomas & co delivered everything we've come to expect from this Arena ready rock band - radio friendly rock hits, arena ready sing-alongs & well, Rob Thomas.

For fans of Train, Goo Goo Dolls and Counting Crows.

After the break out smash that was The Temper Trap's debut album, they came back this year with a more mature offering that still has all the elements we grew to love from this Aussie band.

For fans of Miike Snow, Two Door Cinema Club and Passion Pit. 

Haven't we come a long way since the best soy latte that you've ever had? A band that was once thought to be a one hit wonder has come back with another album of rock hits ready for radio that you guys just love!

For fans of The Script, Matchbox Twenty and Five For Fighting.