The coming year is set to be a huge one for music. 2009 saw the birth of new superstars in Taylor Swift and Lady GaGa, the reemergence of forgotten heroes in the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and a collective of animals from Brooklyn claim their title as the most innovative band this side of Radiohead. And although 2010 is still nascent, we may already have an instant classic on the horizon. Vampire Weekend’s “Contra” is poised to be the Merriweather Post Pavilion of this year; the early standard bearer by which all other oh-ten records are judged. Here are ten that we think will live up to the challenge:

Yeasayer – “Odd Blood”
As soon as we first heard the infectiously weird lead single “Ambling Alp”, we knew that the Brooklyn-based (where else?) proto-popsters would not only meet expectations with their sophomore album, but they’d obliterate them. This one is an early contender for album of the year. (Feb. 9)

Hot Chip – “One Life Stand”
For their fourth album, the UK electropop outfit will be playing with early disco and house influences, and if the title track is any indication, dance floors around the world should most certainly brace themselves. (Feb. 9)

Beach House – “Teen Dream”
What better way to escape the doldrums of winter than with the sweeping melodies of Baltimore dream pop duo Alex Scally and Victoria Legend. Their third album promises more of the gorgeous, weaving lullabies that have become their hallmark. Listen to early stand out track “Walk In The Park” if you don’t believe us. (Jan. 26)

Arcade Fire – TBA
Very little is known about the infamously private band’s third album, except that it’s due in late May with a lead single expected sometime early this year. Oh, we also know that it’s most likely going to be incredible. Call it a hunch. (May)

MGMT – “Congratulations”
After releasing one of the most heralded debuts of the decade with “Oracular Spectacular,” hipsters everywhere are holding their breath for MGMT’s highly anticipated follow-up. Can lightning strike twice? We for one, can’t wait to find out. (Spring)

LCD Soundsystem – TBA
Their 2007 magnum opus “Sound of Silver” helped to re-define dance music, so needless to say, the follow-up is being anticipated with baited breath. Rumours are swirling that James Murphy and Co. are putting the finishing touches on an album that is sure to be the after-hours soundtrack of 2010. (March)

Panda Bear – TBA
When founding Animal Collective member Noah Lennox–a.k.a. Panda Bear–released “Person Pitch” in 2007, the universally-acclaimed masterpiece announced him to the world as a unique artist with a singular vision. Then he reunited with his bandmates to release “Merriweather Post Pavilion,” by far 2009’s most celebrated album (see above). He may have set the bar high for this year’s upcoming solo album, but if anyone can live up to the hype it’s this guy. (TBA)

Joanna Newsom – TBA
Though nothing has been directly confirmed through her label, the whimsical harp-playing songstress-turned-fashionista (photo at left) has dropped hints that she will indeed be releasing the follow up to her highly acclaimed album “Ys” this year. Gentlemen, please feel free to swoon now. (TBA)

Drake – “Thank Me Later”
The pressure on Canadian actor-turned-rapper Aubrey Graham couldn’t be higher in 2010. Having already aligned himself with hip-hop heavyweights like Lil Wayne, Kanye West and Jay-Z, and with a string of hit singles under his belt, the long-awaited release of his debut album has him poised to be this year’s breakout star, and perhaps Canada’s biggest. export. ever. (March)

Katy Perry – TBA
Oh sure we love thoughtful, inventive music that pushes boundaries, but sometimes nothing cures a bad day like a straight up pop song loaded with hooks. That’s why Katy Perry’s second studio album might be just what the doctor ordered in 2010. (TBA)

Do you agree or disagree with our choices? Post your comments in the box below!

- Daniel Barna