The Best Albums Of 2023 (So Far)
If you haven’t found your album of the year yet maybe it’s on this list.
In no particular order (though they are conveniently listed alphabetically), we present 20 of our cherished albums from 2023. While some may already be on your radar, we suspect a few may have slipped through the cracks. However, each and every one of these gems is unquestionably deserving of your attention. Explore the cream of the crop in the musical landscape of 2023, featuring Alice Phoebe Lou's introspective 'Shelter' and Yaeji's groundbreaking debut 'With A Hammer.' This collection traverses genres, delivering captivating stories that push boundaries and showcase the sheer artistic brilliance of today's music scene. This year has proven to be an exceptional one for music, as artists from diverse backgrounds and genres have delivered standout albums that have enthralled global audiences. From soul-searching folk to audacious experimental hip-hop, the best albums of 2023 (thus far) offer a rich tapestry of sonic experiences and thought-provoking narratives.
Alice Phoebe Lou - Shelter
Alice Phoebe Lou's album 'Shelter' invites listeners into a journey of vulnerability and self-discovery with introspective and heartfelt songs. From the hauntingly beautiful single 'Lately' to the soothing title track 'Shelter,' Alice's unmistakable vocals and honest songwriting create moments of poise and introspection. With themes of love, self-care, and staying true to oneself, this album showcases Alice's growth as an independent artist, gaining critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. 'Shelter' celebrates her intuitive approach to music and encourages listeners to embrace their emotions, offering a safe space for self-reflection and assurance.
Asher White - New Excellent Woman
Whether it's through repurposing everyday sounds and objects (see “Modern Guilt”) or impassioned lyrics (“New Excellent World”) , White’s innovation is constant. These songs have personality in a way that both combines and bends the traditions of many different genres, leaving you in a constant state of anticipation and curiosity. This album, which she has described as “about traipsing around densely historical places in the northeast”, is the perfect soundtrack for a walk around town and bringing life to the people, places, and feelings encountered in everyday life.
bar italia - Tracey Denim
London band bar italia's Matador debut 'Tracey Denim' arrives with a buzz of anticipation, aided by their affiliation with Dean Blunt and his WORLD MUSIC label. Comprised of Nina Cristante, Jezmi Tarik, and Sam Fenton, the band has garnered a devoted following and the attention of influential artists. Drawing comparisons to bands like The Cure and My Bloody Valentine, bar italia's music channels the spirit of past decades while maintaining a unique nonchalant attitude. 'Tracey Denim' offers fifteen tracks that blend grunge, twee, post-rock, and more, showcasing the band's diverse vocal styles and individual character.
Billy Woods & Kenny Segal - Maps
"Maps" is a testament to Billy Woods and Kenny Segal's artistic growth and collaborative brilliance. It showcases woods' evolution as a lyricist and storyteller, seamlessly blending personal history with global themes. With Segal's innovative production, the album pushes the boundaries of hip-hop and creates a distinct sonic landscape that perfectly complements woods' lyrical mastery.
Caroline Polachek - Desire, I Want To Turn Into You
“She’s a tiger! Caroline Polachek!” quote source unknown. After a four-year excursion filled to the brim with multiple singles and collaborative work, NYC born Caroline Polachek gifts fans with a diverse second studio album: Desire, I Want To Turn Into You.With multiple themes from violence and sexuality to femininity and religion, one main inspiration shines throughout not only all tracks: escapism. Thematically, Polachek constructs an argument about longing for connection with nature despite all of us being trapped in a capitalistic, selfish, uncaring society.
Caroline Rose - The Art of Forgetting
The Art of Forgetting is a bold and adventurous album that sees Caroline Rose pushing the boundaries of their abilities as a songwriter as well as exploring new sonic territory. It's a testament to Rose as a song writer and their ability to write touching lyrics that pierce the soul. On this album Rose’s song writing is at their strongest, with production never sounding so good. Rose’s willingness to take risks and try new things is what makes Rose such a compelling artist, and The Art of Forgetting is a testament to their talent, creativity, and fearlessness. Overall, "The Art of Forgetting" is a triumph for Caroline Rose.
Feeble little horse - Girl with Fish
‘Girl with Fish’ is a powerful labour of love; self-produced and self-recorded, the arrangement occupied the band's time for the past two years. Guitar and vocal takes were swapped and altered countless times over the course of recording but what emerges from the depths of this perfectionism is a startlingly unique display of emotional resonance. Elements of bedroom production are embraced and combined with intimate lyrics to create an earnest implosion of personal expression. Tracks like 'Steamroller' deftly combine imagery of sexual experiences and bakery whilst 'Pocket' graphically describes the difficulty moving on from a partner who has passed away.
Geese - 3D Country
Within the captivating realm of Geese’ latest album, a kaleidoscopic journey unfolds, guided by the irresistibly catchy vocals of lead singer Cameron Winter. With soulful interludes, hints of Radiohead's influence, and moments that challenge our perceptions, one can't help but wonder if this might just be the most intriguing indie rock offering in recent memory. Winter's vocals envelop the listener, beckoning them into a world where raw emotion meets infectious melodies.
HMLTD - The Worm
HMLTD, the British art punk band, have only gone and released a rock opera about a worm taking over England. I mean, why not? The album, called The Worm, is like a musical Frankenstein's monster, stitching together multiple genres and featuring a gospel choir and a 16-piece string section. Lead vocalist Henry Spychalski's lyrics paint a picture of England being overrun by worms in a biblical manner, so brace yourself for some creepy-crawly choir hymns. But don't let the concept fool you, the album is full of emotion and sincerity, with the ballad-like track "Days" giving you all the feels. And let's not forget the track "Saddest Worm Ever", which perfectly mirrors the current state of politics. The closing track, "Lay Me Down", will have you raising your hands and swaying to the beat like you're at some sort of unholy gospel revival. In short The Worm is an epic, wormy adventure that deserves all the praise and analysis it can get.
Indigo De Souza - All Of This Will End
Indigo De Souza's third album All of This Will End is a captivating and introspective journey that delves into the multifaceted nature of the human experience. With her Southern roots and exposure to various genres of music, De Souza's style is imbued with a captivating emotive flavor that is evident throughout the album. The album's title might seem bleak, but De Souza's quiet intensity and introspective honesty infuse it with an optimism that acknowledges the darkness while seeking solace in its depths. In a recent interview with us, De Souza shared that her album is not about everything being good, but rather accepting that everything is brutal and finding solace in that.
JPEGMAFIA & Danny Brown - SCARING THE HOES
SCARING THE HOES is a celebration of experimental and underground hip-hop by two of the genre’s lead pioneers. Every track features some level of chaos, and the chemistry of the duo makes the record flourish, with each artist adding their unique sounds and elements to create a wonderfully exciting listen. Throughout its runtime, there is no element left to chance. Each lyric, production choice, and vocal performance is carefully crafted to create one of, if not the best album releases of the year. Over the years of their careers, the duo has perfected their craft of the unnerving, the in-your-face, and the weird. The combination of the two artists highlights each of their strengths in a flawed yet flawless way. This 36-minute album slaps you in the face and leaves you wanting more.
Kara Jackson - Why Does the Earth Give Us People to Love?
Kara Jackson, a rising star hailing from Chicago, is a multi-talented musician and former National Youth Poet Laureate. Her inaugural album, "Why Does the Earth Give Us People to Love?" is a breathtaking exploration of the intersection between love and suffering. Throughout the album, Jackson lays bare her vulnerabilities and tells captivating stories with her lyrics, showcasing her exceptional guitar skills and vocal range. Featuring lush arrangements and cameos from NNAMDÏ, KAINA, Sen Morimoto, and a choir, the album is a contemplation of the cost of love. Jackson expresses her dissatisfaction with transactional relationships that demand giving up parts of oneself in the pursuit of love. She mourns the death of not only lives but also relationships that failed to make it to the finish line, or possibly left her spirit broken.
Mandy, Indiana - I’ve Seen a Way
This noise insulated, Anglo-Parisian glitchy dance punk band are exactly what you need on your current playlists and gig visit horizons. If you’re already obsessed with discovering something particularly out there and pushing your musical boundaries, this one’s definitely for you. I’ve Seen a Way is Mandy, Indiana’s first fully fledged album, preceding …EP, released 2021 this is their full debut. To allow some background, Mandy, Indiana are 3/4 English and 1/4 French. Angelic and fierce lead vocalist, Valentine Caulfield truly pushes the limits through i’ve seen a way. Crossing the lines between lucrative French Indie and dance pop elements, to harsh and belting noise art rock and post punk motifs.
McKinley Dixon - Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!?
McKinley Dixon's new album 'Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!?' is a captivating exploration of longing, escape, and the complexities of the Black American experience. With its vibrant storytelling and fusion of hip-hop and jazz influences, the album immerses listeners in cinematic scenes that reflect McKinley's introspection and Toni Morrison's literary legacy. Collaborations with notable artists such as Hanif Abdurraqib and Anjimile add depth and diversity to the project. From the powerful singles 'Sun, I Rise' and 'Tyler, Forever' to the introspective 'Dedicated to Tar Feather,' McKinley weaves dynamic and profound lyrics that resonate with themes of trauma, grief, and self-discovery. 'Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!?' showcases McKinley Dixon's generosity as an artist, inviting audiences into his world of longing and introspection.
Oh Immanuela - Cease
Experience the captivating melodies and lyrical intimacy of Oh Imanuela's sophomore album, "Cease." Emerging from the bustling streets of London, Imanuela invites listeners into a world of comforting soundscapes and heartfelt folk music. With a deeper voice and a touch of whimsical playfulness, she presents a collection of soulful songs that feel like emotional lullabies. From tender reminders of love and hurt to soothing moments of respite, "Cease" offers a curated escape from the mundane realities of life. Prepare to be enchanted by Oh Imanuela's serene and evocative musical journey.
Squid – O Monolith
Transcendental, ethereal, diatonic, and purely a high flown example of how the current post-punk scene is still incredibly relevant since the conception of its revival around 5 years ago. The band have cemented their reputation and identity through this spectacular follow-up album, solidifying their status as pioneers in the genre. For a band that thrives on mystery and organized bedlam, it would be hard to argue that they have not successfully achieved their artistic vision.
The Lemon Twigs - Everything Harmony
Starting with softly picked acoustic guitar and echoing vocals, The Lemon Twigs' fourth album conjures images of 70s summer nostalgia. ‘Everything Harmony’ marks Brian and Michael D’Addario’s first collaboration with Brooklyn indie label Captured Tracks and their highly anticipated album plunges listeners into a world of sonorous harmonies. Throughout the glittering release, guitars multiply and form complex harmonies. A diverse range of vintage sounds occupy the complex sonic environment and drums wash over tracks or slip into the background, swallowed by theatrical instrumentation. With their acting days firmly behind them, the brother’s latest release deftly combines melodic sentiment with earnest lyricism.
Wednesday - Rat Saw God
Wednesday's latest album Rat Saw God is a stunning representation of the enigmatic essence of the American South - an indescribable quality that draws you in and refuses to let go. Like the feeling of thick, humid air that clings to your skin on a summer day, it's an experience that's both subtle and overpowering. The band's lyrics are infused with a sense of poetic precision and attention to detail, whether they're reflecting on a nosebleed at a New Year's Eve bash or commenting on the current state of America. Wednesday embodies the spirit of a group of people who gather in a church parking lot to drink before heading to a high school football game, and their music is just as captivating. Rat Saw God offers a journey to a place that's both holy and profane, sentimental and ironic, and quintessentially Southern.
Yaeji – With A Hammer
Yaeji, the visionary NYC-via-Seoul artist, unleashes her highly anticipated debut album 'With A Hammer' on XL Recordings. Across 13 transformative tracks, Yaeji explores shapeshifting sonics, fusing her dance music roots with Korean indie rock, electronica, and pop from the '90s and early 2000s. With 'With A Hammer' Yaeji confronts a lifetime of societal and self-imposed repression, wielding metaphorical Hammer Lee to dismantle rigid rules and barriers, paving the way for her fullest truth to be heard. Collaborating with close friends and seamlessly switching between English and Korean, Yaeji invites listeners into her world of sincerity and musical renegade spirit.
