Grammys 2013: Nomination snubs and surprises

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Alternative to what?Frank Ocean wracks them upRave on, LiechtensteinDon't 'Believe' in BieberLionel Richie doesn't make the cutNo beez in the trapHip-hop has a Grammys beef

Given out since 1991, the alternative music album award may have outlasted its usefulness. In what way are acoustic-leaning singer-songwriters Fiona Apple and Gotye competing with the sleekly futuristic M83? Throw in Bjork and Tom Waits -- two fiercely idiosyncratic veterans allergic to genre -- and you've got a grouping too broad to make sense.

Alternative to what?

( Jay L. Clendenin, Brian van der Brug and Genaro Molina / Los Angeles Times )

Given out since 1991, the alternative music album award may have outlasted its usefulness. In what way are acoustic-leaning singer-songwriters Fiona Apple and Gotye competing with the sleekly futuristic M83? Throw in Bjork and Tom Waits -- two fiercely idiosyncratic veterans allergic to genre -- and you've got a grouping too broad to make sense.

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