The Top 50 Albums Of 2023
The moment is here. Unveiling our favourite records from 2023.
As December unfolds, and customary year-end lists proliferate, we've opted not to wait any longer.
Curating this list is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work at Still Listening Magazine. Despite the challenge of sifting through a plethora of music each year, selecting fifty standout albums remains a labour of love. Our enthusiasm stems from the joy of championing emerging talents, particularly those defining the vanguard and pushing the boundaries of music.
This year, we bestowed another perfect 100/100 score. If you've been following us, the identity of our top pick probably won't be a mystery.
Our list unveils meticulously chosen highlights, ranging from the fiftieth noteworthy release to the pinnacle - the unequivocal best album of the year, in our humble opinion. So without further ado, here are our Top 50 Albums of 2023.
50) Bishopskin - Babble
Bishopskin's debut Babble takes listeners on an eccentric avant-folk journey, revolting against modernity with themes of spirituality and a mythologised England. Emerging from London's music scene, the band weaves tales of innocence, nature, religious experiences, and patriotism through meticulously arranged tracks. The album's rich musical landscape draws from the '70s folk revival, featuring luxurious strings, piano, woodwind, and choral arrangements.
49) Shirley Hurt - Shirley Hurt
The album's thematic depth draws from Katz's familial roots, shaped by her mother's multifaceted artistic endeavors and her father's eclectic vinyl collection. While certain tracks, such as 'Problem Child,' may invite autobiographical interpretation, Katz's lyricism often transcends conscious personal narratives, manifesting spontaneously during mundane tasks. Shirley Hurt's vocals fluidly traverse lyrical ley lines, intricately mapping the contours of Katz's extensively lived experiences.
stillness, softness… is a meticulously crafted collage of experiments, each song representing a memory room seamlessly pieced together. The album's continuous flow of 13 vignettes, recorded between London and Yokohama, Japan, captures the DIY spirit, with whispered vocals born out of late-night recording sessions. The album's title, though seemingly serene, is a misdirection; "stillness, softness…" challenges the listener to embrace discomfort for personal growth. It peels back layers of hidden and revealed truths, mirroring the surrealist artists Omori admires.
47) Slow Pulp - Yard
Yard sees Slow Pulp embracing nuance, impressions, and contradictions, crafting an album that encapsulates the elusive tension of indescribable feelings. The band's shared history and chemistry, nurtured over the years, infuse each track with a sense of playful collaboration. From their lo-fi beginnings to the refined sounds of Yard, Slow Pulp's journey is a testament to the strength of their enduring friendships and the artistic synergy that arises from growing up together.
46) Kipper Gillespie - Dull Days
Dull Days sheds light on Gillespie's studious years, supported by government funding, capturing a melancholic reflection on a time that, though not long ago, feels like a distant era amidst the challenges of work and life. The record serves as a nostalgic journey, painting vivid pictures of a specific period in Gillespie's life through sardonic yet joyful and worldly lyrics, all set against the backdrop of his distinctive KG instrumentation. The result is an album that invites listeners to resonate with the essence of those seemingly endless 'dull days'.
45) CASISDEAD - Famous Last Words
The elusive and mysterious CASISDEAD offers up his hotly-anticipated debut studio album, Famous Last Words. Cas creates a dystopian world, where apathy can be bought as a drug, weaving his stunningly visual narrative style into 80s synthwave beats. This was easily one of the most interesting rap releases of 2023. Cas’s unique style and subject matter is completely compelling and we hope these are not really his Famous Last Words…
44) Kira Linn & Linntett - Illusion
Baritone saxophonist Kira Linn and her six-piece Linntett have created something special with Illusion. There's the passion and playfulness of jazz at its core but to call it a jazz album might be a disservice. The music constantly challenges any certainty of genre definition, switching from a devotional neo-soul to a bass-driven electronic, all without ever feeling contrived. Linn uses this aesthetic confidence to express her own voice, speaking out to empower others, and demonstrating that she is an exciting artistic voice, certainly one to watch.
43) LA Priest - Fase Luna
Fase Luna takes root in the artist's experience marooned by the beach in Puerto Morelos, Mexico, where inspiration flowed from the mystical power of the sea. This marks a significant departure from his previous work, as he ditches synthesisers entirely in favour of a more organic, guitar-centric sound. The nine tracks on Fase Luna reveal a stripped-down yet rich musical landscape, drawing comparisons to the work of Haruomi Hosono and The Blue Nile's later works. The album is steeped in mythical narratives and tales of life beneath the ocean, with each song seamlessly blending into the next.
42) 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.
41) sign crushes motorist - Hurting
If the title doesn’t give it away this album is probably one of the most heart-wrenching from 2023. Despite crafting this album during a challenging mental health period, McCay's resilience shines through the ten tracks, offering an authentic and introspective journey. The artist's sincere message of hope for those facing similar struggles is reflected in in the emotive lyrics and dreamy lofi production.
40) McKinley Dixon - Beloved! Paradise! Jazz!?
McKinley Dixon's 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.
39) 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. Crossing the lines between lucrative French Indie and dance pop elements, to harsh and belting noise art rock and post punk motifs.
38) Ulrika Spacek - Compact Trauma
Compact Trauma Ulrika Spacek's third album, is a haunting exploration born from adversity. Initially conceived in the throes of stress and a shift from their familiar studio to an unfamiliar professional setting due to gentrification, the album's creation was marred by tensions and logistical challenges. As the world hit pause, the unfinished work gained a second life. The band, separated by both external events and internal fractures, found the songs, addressing existential crises and self-doubt, resonating with broader themes. Compact Trauma stands as Ulrika Spacek's best work, a testament to the light that can enter through wounds and the resilience found in returning to what is known.
37) Earl Sweatshirt - Voir Dire
Voir Dire reveals Earl Sweatshirt in a nuanced partnership with The Alchemist, offering a departure from his usual experimental style. Clocking in at 26 minutes with 11 concise tracks, it's a more accessible glimpse into Earl's narratives. The Alchemist's beats, notably on 'Vin Skully,' bring out Earl's catchier side, offering a departure from the density of Some Rap Songs. Tracks like 'Heat Check' and 'Macala' showcase Earl's storytelling against soulful backdrops. Voir Dire stands as a mature, professional, and lyrically dense venture, a gateway into Earl's introspective world.
36) Nourished By Time - Erotic Probiotic 2
An album of 808 beats, RNB flows and 80s synth sounds, Nourished By Time's debut proves as a innovative collection of songs that flex his musicianship and impressive grasp on pop sensibilities of the past. With his baritone voice and D.I.Y approach to production, you will find it hard to come by another album that fuses its influences so smoothly that it becomes its own sound.
35) Jaimie Branch - Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die (World War))
Jaimie Branch’s Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die (World War)) unfolds as a psychedelic kaleidoscopic jazz odyssey, its vibrant colours muted by the poignant absence left by Branch's passing. Branch's vocals, characterised by their roughshod and vehement delivery, take center stage, eschewing traditional jazz norms for shouts, howls, and even country crooning. The album stands as a precious document of Branch's artistry, offering a glimpse into unexplored creative directions. It not only signifies the end of an era but joyfully reinforces the idea that the pursuit of a better world through music is a beautiful and worthwhile endeavour, echoing Branch's unwavering commitment to the fight until the very end.
34) 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.
33) Grian Chatten - Chaos For The Fly
In Chaos For The Fly Fontaines D.C.'s Grian Chatten showcases maturity and artistic evolution. His Irish roots and empirical songwriting shine, painting vivid narratives with his distinctive Dublin accent. The album navigates a macabre narrative with refined post-punk elements, notably different from Chatten's earlier work. Produced by Dan Carey, the album's luminous detailing, dynamic shifts, and fusion of Irish folk and modern electronic glitches make it a modern classic.
32) PJ Harvey - I Inside the Old Year Dying
PJ Harvey's I Inside The Old Year Dying feels like a spiritual successor to Slint's Spiderland, revealing a departure from her recent folk and blues influences. Stemming from her acclaimed poem Orlam, the album unfolds a surrealistic folktale set in a Dorset landscape. It delves into dark fables with influences ranging from Kate Bush to Patti Smith. Elvis emerges as a ghostly figure, adding a haunting touch to the album. The dichotomy of old and new defines its intimate yet elusive nature, inviting listeners into Harvey's exploration of her hometown and childhood through an imagined protagonist.
31) L'Rain - I Killed Your Dog
L’Rain's I Killed Your Dog is a wild ride through the tangled web of love, deftly manoeuvring between experimental audacity and heartfelt sincerity. From the stark emotional trenches of ‘Our Funeral’ to the electric frenzy of ‘Pet Rock’ and the stark minimalism of the title track, Cheek guides us through the heartache playbook. I Killed Your Dog is a tender sojourn through love's labyrinth, where L’Rain's tenderness amplifies its emotional echoes. A musical coup, the album ensnares with its sonic experimentation and emotional profundity.
30) Rozi Plain - Prize
Rozi Plain's Prize, exudes a cool indifference that becomes irresistibly hypnotic. Relocating to London for her fifth studio album, Plain delivers taut kinetic melodies, showcased in the laid-back opener ‘Agreeing For Two’. Her detached execution, evident in tracks like ‘Complicated’ adds to the album's charm. ‘Help’ stands out with woozy instrumentation, while ‘Painted The Room’ offers a curious blend of electro-pop and folk. The album builds on Plain's previous work, introducing beautifully nuanced textures and a slightly darker tone than usual.
29) Fever Ray - Radical Romantics
In Fever Ray's Radical Romantics, Karin Dreijer dives headlong into the messy, complicated realm of love. As a maverick in the pop scene, Dreijer skillfully navigates emotional landscapes, teetering on the edge between strength and vulnerability, anxiety and security. Drawing inspiration from Mancini to biblical verses, Radical Romantics invites listeners into a labyrinth of love's complexities, urging self-reflection on its multifaceted dimensions.
28) Susanne Sundfør - blómi
In blómi, Susanne Sundfør unleashes her chamber folk wizardry with a fierce intensity that sets the album ablaze. This record is a relentless showcase of Sundfør's musical sorcery, pushing the boundaries of chamber folk into uncharted territories. Her virtuosity is a sonic tempest, tearing through the conventional with a raw, unapologetic energy. The delicate dance between Sundfør's commanding vocals and the intricate orchestral arrangements creates an immersive experience, drawing the audience into a visceral world where each note is a sonic dagger and every lyric is a rebellious manifesto.
27) Sofia Kourtesis - Madres
Sofia Kourtesis' latest album Madres unfolds as a powerful testament to resilience, love, and the indomitable spirit of hope. Dedicated to both her mother and the renowned neurosurgeon Peter Vajkoczy, the album weaves a remarkable narrative of tenacity and miracles. Amidst Kourtesis' meteoric rise in the electronic music scene, she faced the heart-wrenching challenge of her mother's battle with cancer. Refusing to surrender to despair, Kourtesis sought the expertise of Vajkoczy, a decision that became a lifeline. The album not only mirrors the struggles of those turbulent years but radiates with joy, warmth, and the belief in the miraculous power of profound love.
26) Noname - Sundial
Noname's third album Sundial is a powerful reflection of her engagement with Black critical thought and theory, encapsulated in a meticulously crafted 30-minute experience. Living in multiple truths, Noname delivers a gospel that doesn't shy away from throwing punches. Tracks like ‘Hold me down’ and ‘namesake’ explore the complexity of Black success and its impact, questioning the sincerity of high-profile figures in the community. Noname's refusal to pander to white audiences sets her apart, offering a side of the Black experience often overlooked in mainstream conversations.
25) Snõõper - Super Snõõper
In a brisk 23 minutes, Snõõper delivers a delightful dose of garage punk fun. With Super Snõõper their inaugural studio album released on Third Man Records, the band successfully captures the dynamic energy of their live performances, making it a standout in the punk scene. The album expertly highlights Snõõper's distinctive qualities, including their breakneck speed and precision.
24) 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.
23) yeule - softscars
softscars signals a transformative exploration of softer textures and disembodied arrangements. The album represents a departure for yeule as they delve into the anatomy of long-held emotional wounds, producing their most vulnerable work to date. The project, co-produced by collaborator Kin Leonn, Mura Masa, and Chris Greatti, interweaves cathartic punk riffs and ethereal electronics with yeule's shape-shifting vocals, capturing the imperfect process of healing. This album solidifies yeule as a multifaceted artist straddling music and visual art.
22) muva of Earth - align with Nature's Intelligence
The debut album, align with Nature's Intelligence, from muva of Earth revives the majesty of spiritual harp soundscapes, those from the likes of Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane, expressing them with an immense modern soul rooted in afro-futurism, a recipe that culminates in an inescapably divine release. Woven with mantras and hypnotic percussion, this album serves as a celestial panacea that is certain to resonate with many.
21) 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.
20) underscores - Wallsocket
underscores' album Wallsocket brings the vibrant energy of Tender Punk to life, offering a remarkably catchy experience with glossy production and playful synths. The album immerses listeners in the conceptual world of Wallsocket, Michigan – an imaginary town rich in history and stories narrated through first-person perspectives. The album's narrative diversity shines as each track unfolds as a vignette, exploring unique tales from Wallsocket residents, spanning coming-of-age stories to reflections on illness and stalking.The singalong-worthy vocals add an extra layer of enjoyment to this lively and fun album.
19) Armand Hammer - We Buy Diabetic Test Strips
Armand Hammer, the New York rap dynamic duo, storms back into the scene, unleashing their latest onslaught We Buy Diabetic Test Strips. Fresh from recent solo endeavors, the duo attacks this new material with ferocity. In this latest offering, both members exude a renewed vigour, showcasing even crisper, more nimble flows. Armand Hammer makes a triumphant return with an album that features frequent beat switch-ups and their signature detuned, woozy synths. This release showcases event-level rap at its zenith, solidifying their position in Hip Hop.
18) Maria BC - Spike Field
Maria BC's second full-length album Spike Field is a contemplative exploration of temporal focus and the conflicted desire to both confront and honour our past. Inspired by the concept of spike fields, strange granite thorns designed to warn of nuclear waste disposal sites, the album delves into failures of communication, within oneself and with others. Moving beyond the grief and anxiety explored in their debut album Hyaline Maria BC embraces a broader sonic approach, incorporating diverse elements from their past.
17) 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.
16) Julie Bryne - The Greater Wings
Julie Byrne's The Greater Wings marked a return after a six-year hiatus. The album, produced by Eric Littmann and Alex Somers, was written across various seasons and locations, resulting in a rich tapestry of universally resonant songs. Anchored by the enchanting "Summer Glass," the album explores themes of intimacy, memorial, and personal alliance, capturing raw, gorgeous, and wild moments. Byrne's introspective lyrics, coupled with atmospheric instrumentation, create a transcendent sound that reflects her commitment to a shared future and the depth of her chosen family.
15) Tkay Maidza - Sweet Justice
Tkay Maidza's Sweet Justice is a defiant departure from melancholy, where the artist, emerges with a rejuvenated spirit. Collaborating with the likes of Flume and Kaytranada, Maidza infuses the album with infectious beats and self-aware lyrics. The album, born from a period of personal turmoil, transforms into a bold breakup record, not just with others but with the old versions of herself. The rapper navigates through this journey with the finesse of a superhero, finding strength in a new circle of friends and a commitment to radical self-love. The album's theme of female rage underscores its beautiful narrative of transcendence, capturing the complexities of emotion. Tkay Maidza delivers her own brand of justice – liberated, victorious, and masterfully navigating the contradictions of life.
14) Willie J. Healey - Bunny
On his sophomore album Bunny, Willie J Healey undergoes a notable transformation, embracing a distinctive 70s soul influence with remarkable success. The standout single, 'Little Sister' skillfully fuses elements of Philly soul, rock, and R&B, drawing inspiration from the timeless sounds of Sly and The Family Stone. This stylistic departure, enriched by Willie's evident affection for the era, signifies a commendable evolution from his previous work, particularly the well-received Twin Heavy album of 2020. The seamless integration into the 70s groove showcases Healey's adaptability and artistic finesse.
13) 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, De Souza's style is imbued with a captivating emotive flavour 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.
12) The Lemon Twigs - Everything Harmony
The Lemon Twigs' fourth album Everything Harmony delivers a nostalgic journey reminiscent of 70s summer vibes. The D’Addario brothers' collaboration with Captured Tracks showcases their highly anticipated plunge into sonorous harmonies. Guitars multiply and form intricate harmonies throughout the glittering release, with a diverse range of vintage sounds and theatrical instrumentation. Combining elements of Zeppelin, The LAs, Teenage Fanclub, and The Beatles, the album harnesses unknown nostalgia with tightly formed power pop. Immaculate production sharpens songs to a razors’ edge.
11) Squid - O Monolith
Squid's O Monolith immediately stands out in a scene where many bands splinter or pursue solo projects, offering a familiar yet matured tonality. The album, a compelling journey of synth and brass climaxes, skillfully blends exceptional musical talents within the band. From Kubrick-inspired atmospheres to musical violence, it pushes the boundaries of noise-inspired punk and math rock. The music ranges from ambient synth to acrimonious guitar lines with throat-bursting vocals, delivering shock and awe.
10) Spellling - Spellling & The Mystery School
SPELLLING's SPELLLING & the Mystery School offers a captivating journey through reimagined tracks by the visionary experimental pop artist from the Bay Area. With studio recordings featuring her touring band, the album injects new life into SPELLLING's extravagant orchestrations, marking a significant evolution in her spellbinding career. This release showcases SPELLLING at her most grandiose, a culmination that harmoniously complements Tia's vocals and has been eagerly awaited.
9) ANOHNI and the Johnsons - My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross
Anohni makes a triumphant return after nearly fifteen years with 'My Back Was A Bridge For You To Cross,' offering a soulful and exemplary musical journey. The album seamlessly fuses blue-eyed soul, indie, and art pop genres, presenting an immersive experience guided by Anohni's dynamic vocals. Thematic elements, such as environmental issues and poignant reflections on injustice and inequality, are skillfully woven into tracks like 'There Wasn't Enough' and 'It Must Change,' paying homage to the iconic Marsha P. Johnson.
8) 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.
7) 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.
6) Caroline Polachek - Desire, I Want To Turn Into You
Caroline Polachek's 'Desire, I Want To Turn Into You' stands out as the preeminent art pop album of the year. The album's strength lies in its grandiose pop choruses, noteworthy collaborations, and nuanced exploration of darker thematic elements, collectively establishing it as a shining gem. For those fortunate enough to witness Polachek's live show this year, the experience likely mirrored our own, where her imaginative talent left an indelible impression. This record serves as a commendable realisation of Polachek's long-awaited potential, marking a significant milestone in her evolving artistic journey.
5) Geese - 3D Country
Geese's sophomore album 3D Country surpasses early comparisons to The Strokes, defying labels and delivering an audacious experience. Lead singer Cameron Winter's infectious vocals guide a mesmerising journey, blending soulful interludes, Radiohead influences, and challenging moments. The album skillfully repurposes classic rock and indie elements. Tracks like "Undoer" and "Gravity Blues" showcase explosive dynamics, while the gospel-infused title track and the haunting "St. Elmo" provide extra layers of depth. 3D Country not only challenges indie rock boundaries but also establishes Geese as a distinctive force in the genre.
4) 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.
3) 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.
2) Sufjan Stevens - Javelin
Sufjan Stevens, known for his intricate musical tapestries and nuanced lyrics, takes a back-to-basics approach in "Javelin." Recorded in his home studio, the album is a concise yet epic exploration, spanning 42 minutes with ten laser-focused tracks. Despite limited instrumentation, the album achieves an intimate yet massive sound, blending sweeping choral backing vocals and industrial rhythms. Each song is a journey with unexpected twists, showcasing Stevens' control and creativity. Lyrically, he balances whimsy with profound reflections on the human condition. Javelin condenses Stevens' eclectic catalog into a near-flawless, impressive work, showcasing his idiosyncratic blend of folk revivalist baroque pop.
1) 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.