2018 has been an amazing year in music. Unfortunately, it's swiftly coming to a close. I thought I would make this list of my Top 50 Projects of 2018 (so far) to ensure that none of these incredible projects slip under your radar. Obviously, this list is opinion-based. Music taste is subjective. You may not like every album on this list. In fact, you probably won't. But for one reason or another, I thought these albums were noteworthy and worth sharing. Hopefully this list introduces you to something that will resonate with you.
46. Vundabar - Smell Smoke - Coming from the Boston-based band Vundabar, Smell Smoke is one of the most enjoyable indie rock albums of the year. It's filled with lively instrumentation, imaginative lyricism, and fun story-telling. If that sounds enticing to you, give it a listen!
45. Wild Pink - Yolk in the Fur - Yolk in the Fur is a superb installment in the Wild Pink catalogue. The album feels simple, but its exceedingly dense. Sonically, it draws influences from artists like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. The instrumentation feels warm and inviting. The lyrics are potent. This is yet another remarkable indie rock album to add to your music backlog.
44. Troye Sivan - Bloom - This album perfectly captures the essence of pop music- memorable hooks, bright instrumentation, and crisp production. Yet it does this without sacrificing meaning and substance. This is definitely a highlight for 2018 pop music.
43. Robyn - Honey - I don't even have a lot to say about this album. Yes, the lyrics are sincere and heartfelt. Yes, the production is phenomenal. But honestly, the album's biggest selling point is just how fun it is. There's no album in 2018 that provokes me to dance more than Honey does. It's just so dang fun.
42. Ashley Monroe - Sparrow - Sparrow is one of the most beautifully constructed country albums of the year. It builds a gorgeous aesthetic, and matches that aesthetic with poignant lyricism. While 2018 has been a relatively underwhelming year for country music, Sparrow really stands out among the crowd.
41. Avantdale Bowling Club - Avantdale Bowling Club - This is an introspective album crafted by Tom Scott, a young and promising rapper from New Zealand. Undeniably, Scott has a knack for lyricism and story-telling. In this album, those lyrics and stories are delightfully layered over his jazz-fused instrumentation and production. The result? An astonishingly intricate and personal project from a truly talented young artist.
40. Shame - Songs of Praise - This debut indie punk rock record from Shame is gritty, angsty, and enthralling. Sonically, it strikes the perfect balance between familiarity and originality. But Songs of Praise draws its biggest strength from the group's lyrical prowess. If you're a fan of punk rock, this is something you need to hear.
39. Kanye West - Ye - If you'd like to, you can read my review of this album here. Ye is not Kanye's most innovative and exciting record, but it's indisputably his most intimate and personal. With this latest album, Kanye really wears his heart on his sleeve. Never before have we seen Kanye West so transparent and vulnerable. Listen to this album if you want to peer into the depths of Kanye West's mind.
38. Kamasi Washington - Heaven & Earth - It's a rather lengthy album, but Heaven & Earth is worth every second of your time. This record is a copious collection of bold and venturesome jazz arrangements composed by one of the most talented composers of this generation. The ideas presented on this record are wonderfully perplexing. This is a must-listen for all jazz fans.
37. Miya Folick - Premonitions - This is undoubtedly one of my favorite pop records of 2018. Folick's striking melodies, stunning vocal range, and adroit lyricism all amalgamate to produce a remarkably impressive and cohesive project. If you're a fan of pop music, don't let this album go unnoticed.
36. Hop Along - Bark Your Head Off, Dog - Bark Your Head Off, Dog is a keen and impassioned indie pop rock record from Hop Along, featuring some of the group's lightest and most embellished instrumentation to date. But don't be fooled; while this album is easy on the ears, it's also heavy on the heart. Definitely check it out.
35. Denzel Curry - TA13OO - TA13OO is one of the most compelling rap albums of the year for a handful of reasons. It is the most versatile project we've ever seen from Curry. It actually begins with songs that are uncharacteristically bright and melodious. But as the album progress, it gets darker and darker- tacking all kinds of different sociopolitical issues. This album really surprised me.
34. Lupe Fiasco - Drogas Wave - Objectively speaking, I know this album is really long and it occasionally bites off more than it can chew. But there's something about it that I just love. It's still highly conceptual, meaningful, and dense- and it contains some of my favorite songs from Lupe's entire discography. Any fan of hip hop should give this album a shot. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
33. BROCKHAMPTON - Iridescence - This album is one of the most diverse and multifaceted records from BROCKHAMPTON's discography. It proves that they are still at the top of their game. Whether it's an abrasive and hard-hitting banger, or a melodious and euphonious ballad- every song they create is masterfully crafted and produced. Iridescence is sincere, relevant, and fun.
32. Travis Scott - Astroworld - Travis Scott is the most interesting artist in the trap movement right now, and Astroworld is his most mature and inventive project yet. It's extremely versatile and polished. If dazzling production, song-structure, and melody in trap music is something that appeals to you, this album is right up your alley.
31. Anderson .Paak - Oxnard - While I personally don't find Oxnard to be as enjoyable as its predecessor Malibu, it's hard to undermine how eminently versatile Anderson .Paak has proven himself to be. With Oxnard, we find .Paak successfully pushing new boundaries It's certainly a refreshing installment in his discography. I was fairly underwhelmed by the album lyrically, but .Paak's incredibly distinct and fun sound was fair compensation.
30. Sure Sure - Sure Sure - You can read my abbreviated review of this album here. Overall, it's just a really bright, fun, and tasteful indie art pop record. After a couple listens, you'll find yourself singing and dancing along to nearly every track. I actually got a chance to meet and talk with Sure Sure, and they're an extremely fun and down-to-earth group of guys. If you're a fan of honest, infectious, and light-hearted pop music, this is definitely something for you to check out!
29. Tunng - Songs You Make at Night - I actually didn't hear about this album until months after its release, but I'm really happy I found it. Songs You Make At Night is a album that uniquely and sensationally integrates folk music with electronic music. Lyrically and conceptually, this album was already impressive. When you take into account it's dazzling composition and production, Songs You Make at Night is next-level.
28. Spiritualized - And Nothing Hurt - This album is gorgeous. The luxuriant instrumentation and poignant lyricism all come together perfectly, creating an atmosphere that is wistful and nostalgic. I had never heard of Spiritualized before And Nothing Hurt, but I'm really glad I found them.
27. Novo Amor - Birthplace - Ali John Meredith-Lacey certainly wears his influences on his sleeve with this release. Musically, the record feels like it could have been curated in its entirety by Justin Vernon. But Birthplace is still an incontestably gorgeous record, and Lacey is obviously a very talented writer and multi-instrumentalist. This album contains some of the most beautiful melodies and orchestrations to come out of 2018. While Lacey still has a lot of room to grow in terms of novelty, this record is a big leap forward.
26. John Hopkins - Singularity - This is one of the best electronic albums of 2018. "Heavy" is one of the first words that comes to mind when I think of Singularity. The production is just so lush and rich. It just feels so grand and magnificent. Listening to this album is an experience.
25. Twenty One Pilots - Trench - You can take a look at my extensive review of this album here. While I wasn't expecting to think much of the new Twenty One Pilots record, I was very pleasantly surprised. This is most certainly their most mature, consistent, and conceptual release to date. If you're a fan of Twenty One Pilots, you will love this album. If you haven't been a fan in the past, this album might push you to change your mind. Give it a listen.
24. Tracyanne & Danny - Tracyanne & Danny - This is an emotional and sincere collection of traditional pop songs that evoke a true sense of heartache and longing. It's a record that's impactful and hardly forgettable. I would recommend this record to just about anybody.
23. Blood Orange - Negro Swan - This album is an exquisite alternative R&B album from British singer/songwriter Dev Hynes. Aesthetically, this record is entrancing and consistent. The instrumentation is absolutely gorgeous. But what's even more beautiful is the message behind it all: You don't need to be ashamed of who you are; be comfortable in your own skin.
22. Mac Miller - Swimming - This is just one of the warmest albums of 2018. I'm not sure how else to put it. Miller employed a lot of funk and blues into the production of this record, and it certainly played to his strengths. The album is very introspective. It's all about overcoming obstacles and picking yourself back up when you're down. Taking into account his recent and tragic death, there are moments on this album that seem eerily foreboding. But he still leaves the listener with a message of hope. Swimming is hauntingly beautiful.
21. Kali Uchis - Isolation - Kali Uchis's full-length debut is in no way underwhelming or disappointing. Rather, she soars above expectations. She has amazing stylistic and melodic sensibilities that create an ingenious aesthetic. This is one of the strongest contemporary R&B releases of 2018 by far.
20. Buddy - Harlan & Alondra - This is by far one of the most diverse hip hop records of 2018. Stylistically, it derives influence from a myriad of different genres - gospel, soul, funk, and old school hip hop to name a few. Buddy's delivery and flow are silky smooth throughout, and his hooks are criminally catchy. This record is just so fun and consistent. With Harlan and Alondra, Buddy has shown remarkable potential.
19. Iglooghost EPs - Both Steel Mogu and Clear Tamei are phenomenal new EPs from Iglooghost- one of the most creative and adept electronic producers in the game. There's a pretty stark contrast in the mood of both EPs. Steel Mogu feels dark and heavy while Clear Tamei feels bright and dainty. But both EPs perfectly showcase the tremendous complexity of Malliagh's spastic, wonky glitch hop. His mind-bending production and sound design is well-suited for the Brainfeeder label.
18. Aphex Twin - Collapse EP - Richard D. James has returned with one of the weirdest and funkiest IDM releases of the year. Although it's only a five-track EP, this project is inimitable and other-worldly. For anyone who's taken an interest in James's dense and intricate music in the past, Collapse EP is another astounding installment in the Aphex Twin discography.
17. Beach House - 7 - This new release from Beach House is one of the most immersive and venturesome indie rock albums of the year. Despite all of its dark, heavy melancholy, it feels dreamier than ever. The duo's production has never felt so striking and bold. When I listen to this album, I feel like I'm being submerged into new dimensions. 7 is truly a masterpiece.
16. Against All Logic - 2012-2017 - This record is an outstanding deep house record, and one of the best electronic albums of the year. Nicolas Jaar is a master of his craft. The samples and drum patterns he uses are so complementary. The grooves on 2012-2017 are superb. If you're a fan of house music, do not let this fly under your radar.
15. Let's Eat Grandma - I'm All Ears - This is one of the most exciting pop albums of 2018. Garnering inspiration from artists like SOPHIE (who's actually a credited producer on the album), I'm All Ears is a perfect display of the duo's jaw-dropping ability. Rarely is this level of talent found in artists this young. Sonically and lyrically, Let's Eat Grandma are more than competent- they're masterful.
14. Pusha T - DAYTONA - This record might only be 21 minutes long, but as I stated in my review, it's jam-packed with excitement. Pusha T always finds a perfect balance between sounding vicious and charismatic. This record feels like his attempt to take the throne- and honestly, it's a pretty good attempt. The production is hard-hitting; the lyricism is fun, clever, and braggadocious. Pusha T really gets into the spirit of hip hop with DAYTONA, and the result is more than satisfying.
13. Parquet Courts - Wide Awake! - It's rare to find a record that is just as fun as it is substantive, but Parquet Courts have perfected that formula with Wide Awake! While this record is deep, thoughtful, and impassioned, it also just makes me want to dance. This is by far one of the best punk records of 2018.
12. Kero Kero Bonito - Time 'n' Place - Kero Kero Bonito's newest indie pop record is more experimental than anything they've ever released, but it doesn't completely abandon their old, familiar sound. It expertly fuses electropop with noise rock. I never really thought of those genres as complementary, but Time 'n' Place has proven that they can be. This album enters uncharted territory. But that doesn't detract from it's enjoyability; it enhances it.
11. Typhoon - Offerings - This is honestly one of the saddest albums of the year. You can read my review of it here. Conceptually, it's heavy, emotional, and thought-provoking. It's a record that tugs at all of your heart strings. While the instrumentation is fantastic, I find that the album's greatest strength is Morton's poetic lyricism. Although the story being told is dismal and heartbreaking, Offerings still ends on a beautiful, hopeful, and confident note. I'd recommend this album to anyone looking for some meditative listening.
10. Kacey Musgraves - Golden Hour - Kacey Musgraves's silvery vocals might be what initially draw you into this album, but there's even more to admire below the surface. Musgraves has mastered the art of songwriting. The lyrics on this album are potent and ever-relatable. The melodies are all extremely catchy and memorable. Golden Hour plays like a Greatest Hits CD; every single track is top-tier. This album will go down as a treasured jewel in the world of pop country music.
9. Hookworms - Microshift - Microshift is psychedelic indie pop/noise rock record that shows Hookworms at their finest. It sounds cleaner and more mature than anything they've formerly released. The production has a strong electronic influence that pushes them into new artistic directions (all of which suit them incredibly well). Thematically, the album focuses on things like grief, loss, and depression- but it does so through a lens of hope.
8. MGMT - Little Dark Age - This is hands down my favorite record from MGMT's catalogue. I've always thought it was enjoyable, but its amazing how much this album grew on me. As I said in my review, it's contemporaneously creative, experimental, and accessible. Musically, it's fun and pop-centric. Lyrically, it's delightfully unconventional. There are moments on this record that are dark and contemplative, and there are other moments on the record that are simply hilarious. It's incredibly diverse, yet aesthetically consistent. I completely adore Little Dark Age.
7. Noname - Room 25 - With Room 25, Noname once again capitalizes on her ever-distinct and captivating sound: alternative hip hop fused with elements of jazz, neo-soul, and spoken word poetry. Her lyrics are elaborate, purposeful, and powerful. Her themes are engaging. The album has a clear and strong sense of direction, and remains consistent throughout. Room 25 delivers on all fronts.
6. Daughters - You Won't Get What You Want - This album is terrifying, and that's the appeal of it. I've never heard anything quite like it. When I listen to this record, I feel like I just turned off the last light in my basement and I'm sprinting up the stairs as fast as I can in case there's some sort of demonic creature following me - only it takes 48 minutes to get to the top of the stairs. I'm not even the biggest fan of noise rock, but this album really impressed me.
5. SOPHIE - OIL OF EVERY PEARLE'S UN-INSIDES - This album is just nuts. The sound design is metaphysical. I can't fathom how SOPHIE created all of the sounds we hear on this record, but I'm extremely impressed. This release feels monumental- not only for her career, but for electronic music as a whole. SOPHIE is unquestionably a driving force in the evolution of electronic pop music.
4. KIDS SEE GHOSTS - KIDS SEE GHOSTS - This album brings the listener on an enthralling, psychedelic sonic journey. It explores sounds I've never heard in hip hop music. Kid Cudi and Kanye West have teamed up to create one of the most imaginative hip hop records ever. Although it's short in length, every song on KIDS SEE GHOSTS is completely mesmerizing.
3. Pinegrove - Skylight - Putting aside the messy context in which this album was released, Skylight is by far one of the most beautiful and breathtaking records of 2018. It just feels so honest. Hall's inconceivably potent lyricism coupled with the band's proficiency as instrumentalists results in a record that feels nearly perfect. Pinegrove does an exceptional job at creating mood. They have a knack for constructing gorgeous melodies and harmonies, and their use of dynamics is unparalleled. My only complaint about this record is that it's too short.
2. Saba - CARE FOR ME - My review for this album can be found here. In short, this jazz-infused alternative hip hop album covers just about all the bases. Saba's technical ability is truly special. His style is refreshing. His lyricism is captivating. His stories are told very lucidly and eloquently. This is my favorite hip hop project of 2018. "PROM / KING" is one of the best story-telling rap songs in recent years. Saba is such a promising young talent. I'm excited to see how his career progresses.
1. Low - Double Negative - This album is absolutely dumbfounding. It's gorgeous in the most peculiar way. It's abundantly textured and deeply visceral. Double Negative was co-produced by B.J. Burton- the same man who helped Justin Vernon create the illustrious 22, A Million. Burton continues his streak of success with the release of this record. This is an album that attempts to aurally manifest the feeling of fear and desperation- and does so successfully. It's highly experimental and tastefully distorted; I've never heard anything quite like it. Double Negative is exceptionally audacious and ambitious, but Low does not disappoint. They have given us a record that's flawless and timeless- an especially difficult feat for a band that's been around for 25 years. If you have not yet listened to this album, you're missing out on something truly momentous.
Before we jump in, I wanted to give a few honorable mentions. These albums didn't make the Top 50, but they were so close I had to include them -
Adrianne Lenker - Abyss-kiss - This indie folk record is simultaneously beautiful and haunting. Adrianne's melodic sensibilities and penetrative lyricism are inimitable. This project is certainly one of the most gripping folk records of the year.
Various Artists - Brainfeeder X - Honestly, this might be one of my favorite releases of this year, but it felt unfair to put it on the list. Brainfeeder X is a two-hour long compilation album that celebrates the 10th anniversary of Brainfeeder, a record label created by Flying Lotus. The first half of the album is filled with popular songs released from the label in the past decade; it serves as a "Greatest Hits" of sorts. But the second half of the album is filled with new, unreleased music from the label's artists. It gives you a taste of where the label is headed next. All of the music on this record is mind-bending. I'm constantly impressed with the brilliance and creativity of Brainfeeder's artists. This release is a tremendous feat for Brainfeeder, and for electronic music as a whole.
Melody's Echo Chamber - Bon Voyage - This is an album about healing and restoration. It sets a confident and hopeful tone, then proceeds to send you on an audacious sonic journey. If you're a fan of psychedelic rock and dream pop, this will certainly be a worthwhile album for you to explore.
Death Cab for Cutie - Thank You For Today - While this album did receive a lot of mixed critical reception, I found it to be really congenial to my soft spot for alt-rock. It's not the most innovative release in Death Cab's discography, but there's something about it that really ropes me in. It's often melancholic, nostalgic, and wistful. As always, Ben Gibbard presents everything in such a vivid and imaginative way. "Your Hurricane" is one of my favorite alt-rock songs of 2018. While this album is definitely one of the weaker records in Death Cab's discography, it's still winsome and gripping.
Various Artists - Black Panther The Album - I did a full-length review for this album earlier in the year that you can read here if you'd like. Black Panther The Album is a movie soundtrack curated by Kendrick Lamar that does an excellent job at capturing the excitement of the movie without drifting too far from its themes. The featured artists are all extremely talented and the album is just plain fun. As I stated in my review, this album is "a significant celebration of black excellence," and it's well-suited for a movie like Black Panther.
DJ Koze - Knock Knock - This album is one of the most enjoyable electronic albums of the year. The sounds are unique and fun. The production is squeaky clean. However, it's biggest strength might its rhythmic cohesion. The album flows extremely well from track to track.
Now without further adieu...
Honorable Mentions
The Beths - Future Me Hates Me - Future Me Hates Me is the debut studio album from The Beths, an indie rock band based out of New Zealand. This record brings a lot of energy, along with some infectious hooks and melodies. If fun and catchy indie rock is your thing, give this album a shot!Adrianne Lenker - Abyss-kiss - This indie folk record is simultaneously beautiful and haunting. Adrianne's melodic sensibilities and penetrative lyricism are inimitable. This project is certainly one of the most gripping folk records of the year.
Various Artists - Brainfeeder X - Honestly, this might be one of my favorite releases of this year, but it felt unfair to put it on the list. Brainfeeder X is a two-hour long compilation album that celebrates the 10th anniversary of Brainfeeder, a record label created by Flying Lotus. The first half of the album is filled with popular songs released from the label in the past decade; it serves as a "Greatest Hits" of sorts. But the second half of the album is filled with new, unreleased music from the label's artists. It gives you a taste of where the label is headed next. All of the music on this record is mind-bending. I'm constantly impressed with the brilliance and creativity of Brainfeeder's artists. This release is a tremendous feat for Brainfeeder, and for electronic music as a whole.
Melody's Echo Chamber - Bon Voyage - This is an album about healing and restoration. It sets a confident and hopeful tone, then proceeds to send you on an audacious sonic journey. If you're a fan of psychedelic rock and dream pop, this will certainly be a worthwhile album for you to explore.
Death Cab for Cutie - Thank You For Today - While this album did receive a lot of mixed critical reception, I found it to be really congenial to my soft spot for alt-rock. It's not the most innovative release in Death Cab's discography, but there's something about it that really ropes me in. It's often melancholic, nostalgic, and wistful. As always, Ben Gibbard presents everything in such a vivid and imaginative way. "Your Hurricane" is one of my favorite alt-rock songs of 2018. While this album is definitely one of the weaker records in Death Cab's discography, it's still winsome and gripping.
Various Artists - Black Panther The Album - I did a full-length review for this album earlier in the year that you can read here if you'd like. Black Panther The Album is a movie soundtrack curated by Kendrick Lamar that does an excellent job at capturing the excitement of the movie without drifting too far from its themes. The featured artists are all extremely talented and the album is just plain fun. As I stated in my review, this album is "a significant celebration of black excellence," and it's well-suited for a movie like Black Panther.
DJ Koze - Knock Knock - This album is one of the most enjoyable electronic albums of the year. The sounds are unique and fun. The production is squeaky clean. However, it's biggest strength might its rhythmic cohesion. The album flows extremely well from track to track.
Now without further adieu...
Top 50 List
50. Half Waif - Lavender - Half Waif is a solo project created by Pinegrove's own Nandi Rose Plunkett. Lavender is easily her most monumental release. While the authentic and clearly-expressed lyrics are what initially draw you in, you soon realize that they are aptly complemented by Plunkett's densest production and instrumentation to date.
49. J Cole - KOD - You might remember that I wrote a review for this album in an earlier blog post. If you want to, you can check that out here. This album aims to explore the unsettling nature of addiction, and features some of J Cole's best hooks and flows to date. If you're a fan of substantive hip hop, check this out!
48. Phosphorescent - C'est La Vie - This new indie record from singer/songwriter Matthew Houck is warm, smooth, and sincere- showcasing some of the best production and songwriting in his career. C'est La Vie is certainly a noteworthy return for Phosphorescent.
47. Vince Staples - FM! - Although short in length, FM! is an insanely fun and inventive album. The production is dynamic and vivacious. Vince's vibrant and spirited vocals are unsurprisingly captivating. Granted, Vince Staples could probably release a Sesame Street soundtrack and I'd still love it. But this album is definitely worth a listen for any and all hip hop fans.
48. Phosphorescent - C'est La Vie - This new indie record from singer/songwriter Matthew Houck is warm, smooth, and sincere- showcasing some of the best production and songwriting in his career. C'est La Vie is certainly a noteworthy return for Phosphorescent.
47. Vince Staples - FM! - Although short in length, FM! is an insanely fun and inventive album. The production is dynamic and vivacious. Vince's vibrant and spirited vocals are unsurprisingly captivating. Granted, Vince Staples could probably release a Sesame Street soundtrack and I'd still love it. But this album is definitely worth a listen for any and all hip hop fans.
46. Vundabar - Smell Smoke - Coming from the Boston-based band Vundabar, Smell Smoke is one of the most enjoyable indie rock albums of the year. It's filled with lively instrumentation, imaginative lyricism, and fun story-telling. If that sounds enticing to you, give it a listen!
45. Wild Pink - Yolk in the Fur - Yolk in the Fur is a superb installment in the Wild Pink catalogue. The album feels simple, but its exceedingly dense. Sonically, it draws influences from artists like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. The instrumentation feels warm and inviting. The lyrics are potent. This is yet another remarkable indie rock album to add to your music backlog.
44. Troye Sivan - Bloom - This album perfectly captures the essence of pop music- memorable hooks, bright instrumentation, and crisp production. Yet it does this without sacrificing meaning and substance. This is definitely a highlight for 2018 pop music.
43. Robyn - Honey - I don't even have a lot to say about this album. Yes, the lyrics are sincere and heartfelt. Yes, the production is phenomenal. But honestly, the album's biggest selling point is just how fun it is. There's no album in 2018 that provokes me to dance more than Honey does. It's just so dang fun.
42. Ashley Monroe - Sparrow - Sparrow is one of the most beautifully constructed country albums of the year. It builds a gorgeous aesthetic, and matches that aesthetic with poignant lyricism. While 2018 has been a relatively underwhelming year for country music, Sparrow really stands out among the crowd.
41. Avantdale Bowling Club - Avantdale Bowling Club - This is an introspective album crafted by Tom Scott, a young and promising rapper from New Zealand. Undeniably, Scott has a knack for lyricism and story-telling. In this album, those lyrics and stories are delightfully layered over his jazz-fused instrumentation and production. The result? An astonishingly intricate and personal project from a truly talented young artist.
40. Shame - Songs of Praise - This debut indie punk rock record from Shame is gritty, angsty, and enthralling. Sonically, it strikes the perfect balance between familiarity and originality. But Songs of Praise draws its biggest strength from the group's lyrical prowess. If you're a fan of punk rock, this is something you need to hear.
39. Kanye West - Ye - If you'd like to, you can read my review of this album here. Ye is not Kanye's most innovative and exciting record, but it's indisputably his most intimate and personal. With this latest album, Kanye really wears his heart on his sleeve. Never before have we seen Kanye West so transparent and vulnerable. Listen to this album if you want to peer into the depths of Kanye West's mind.
38. Kamasi Washington - Heaven & Earth - It's a rather lengthy album, but Heaven & Earth is worth every second of your time. This record is a copious collection of bold and venturesome jazz arrangements composed by one of the most talented composers of this generation. The ideas presented on this record are wonderfully perplexing. This is a must-listen for all jazz fans.
37. Miya Folick - Premonitions - This is undoubtedly one of my favorite pop records of 2018. Folick's striking melodies, stunning vocal range, and adroit lyricism all amalgamate to produce a remarkably impressive and cohesive project. If you're a fan of pop music, don't let this album go unnoticed.
36. Hop Along - Bark Your Head Off, Dog - Bark Your Head Off, Dog is a keen and impassioned indie pop rock record from Hop Along, featuring some of the group's lightest and most embellished instrumentation to date. But don't be fooled; while this album is easy on the ears, it's also heavy on the heart. Definitely check it out.
35. Denzel Curry - TA13OO - TA13OO is one of the most compelling rap albums of the year for a handful of reasons. It is the most versatile project we've ever seen from Curry. It actually begins with songs that are uncharacteristically bright and melodious. But as the album progress, it gets darker and darker- tacking all kinds of different sociopolitical issues. This album really surprised me.
34. Lupe Fiasco - Drogas Wave - Objectively speaking, I know this album is really long and it occasionally bites off more than it can chew. But there's something about it that I just love. It's still highly conceptual, meaningful, and dense- and it contains some of my favorite songs from Lupe's entire discography. Any fan of hip hop should give this album a shot. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
33. BROCKHAMPTON - Iridescence - This album is one of the most diverse and multifaceted records from BROCKHAMPTON's discography. It proves that they are still at the top of their game. Whether it's an abrasive and hard-hitting banger, or a melodious and euphonious ballad- every song they create is masterfully crafted and produced. Iridescence is sincere, relevant, and fun.
32. Travis Scott - Astroworld - Travis Scott is the most interesting artist in the trap movement right now, and Astroworld is his most mature and inventive project yet. It's extremely versatile and polished. If dazzling production, song-structure, and melody in trap music is something that appeals to you, this album is right up your alley.
31. Anderson .Paak - Oxnard - While I personally don't find Oxnard to be as enjoyable as its predecessor Malibu, it's hard to undermine how eminently versatile Anderson .Paak has proven himself to be. With Oxnard, we find .Paak successfully pushing new boundaries It's certainly a refreshing installment in his discography. I was fairly underwhelmed by the album lyrically, but .Paak's incredibly distinct and fun sound was fair compensation.
30. Sure Sure - Sure Sure - You can read my abbreviated review of this album here. Overall, it's just a really bright, fun, and tasteful indie art pop record. After a couple listens, you'll find yourself singing and dancing along to nearly every track. I actually got a chance to meet and talk with Sure Sure, and they're an extremely fun and down-to-earth group of guys. If you're a fan of honest, infectious, and light-hearted pop music, this is definitely something for you to check out!
29. Tunng - Songs You Make at Night - I actually didn't hear about this album until months after its release, but I'm really happy I found it. Songs You Make At Night is a album that uniquely and sensationally integrates folk music with electronic music. Lyrically and conceptually, this album was already impressive. When you take into account it's dazzling composition and production, Songs You Make at Night is next-level.
28. Spiritualized - And Nothing Hurt - This album is gorgeous. The luxuriant instrumentation and poignant lyricism all come together perfectly, creating an atmosphere that is wistful and nostalgic. I had never heard of Spiritualized before And Nothing Hurt, but I'm really glad I found them.
27. Novo Amor - Birthplace - Ali John Meredith-Lacey certainly wears his influences on his sleeve with this release. Musically, the record feels like it could have been curated in its entirety by Justin Vernon. But Birthplace is still an incontestably gorgeous record, and Lacey is obviously a very talented writer and multi-instrumentalist. This album contains some of the most beautiful melodies and orchestrations to come out of 2018. While Lacey still has a lot of room to grow in terms of novelty, this record is a big leap forward.
26. John Hopkins - Singularity - This is one of the best electronic albums of 2018. "Heavy" is one of the first words that comes to mind when I think of Singularity. The production is just so lush and rich. It just feels so grand and magnificent. Listening to this album is an experience.
25. Twenty One Pilots - Trench - You can take a look at my extensive review of this album here. While I wasn't expecting to think much of the new Twenty One Pilots record, I was very pleasantly surprised. This is most certainly their most mature, consistent, and conceptual release to date. If you're a fan of Twenty One Pilots, you will love this album. If you haven't been a fan in the past, this album might push you to change your mind. Give it a listen.
24. Tracyanne & Danny - Tracyanne & Danny - This is an emotional and sincere collection of traditional pop songs that evoke a true sense of heartache and longing. It's a record that's impactful and hardly forgettable. I would recommend this record to just about anybody.
23. Blood Orange - Negro Swan - This album is an exquisite alternative R&B album from British singer/songwriter Dev Hynes. Aesthetically, this record is entrancing and consistent. The instrumentation is absolutely gorgeous. But what's even more beautiful is the message behind it all: You don't need to be ashamed of who you are; be comfortable in your own skin.
22. Mac Miller - Swimming - This is just one of the warmest albums of 2018. I'm not sure how else to put it. Miller employed a lot of funk and blues into the production of this record, and it certainly played to his strengths. The album is very introspective. It's all about overcoming obstacles and picking yourself back up when you're down. Taking into account his recent and tragic death, there are moments on this album that seem eerily foreboding. But he still leaves the listener with a message of hope. Swimming is hauntingly beautiful.
21. Kali Uchis - Isolation - Kali Uchis's full-length debut is in no way underwhelming or disappointing. Rather, she soars above expectations. She has amazing stylistic and melodic sensibilities that create an ingenious aesthetic. This is one of the strongest contemporary R&B releases of 2018 by far.
20. Buddy - Harlan & Alondra - This is by far one of the most diverse hip hop records of 2018. Stylistically, it derives influence from a myriad of different genres - gospel, soul, funk, and old school hip hop to name a few. Buddy's delivery and flow are silky smooth throughout, and his hooks are criminally catchy. This record is just so fun and consistent. With Harlan and Alondra, Buddy has shown remarkable potential.
19. Iglooghost EPs - Both Steel Mogu and Clear Tamei are phenomenal new EPs from Iglooghost- one of the most creative and adept electronic producers in the game. There's a pretty stark contrast in the mood of both EPs. Steel Mogu feels dark and heavy while Clear Tamei feels bright and dainty. But both EPs perfectly showcase the tremendous complexity of Malliagh's spastic, wonky glitch hop. His mind-bending production and sound design is well-suited for the Brainfeeder label.
18. Aphex Twin - Collapse EP - Richard D. James has returned with one of the weirdest and funkiest IDM releases of the year. Although it's only a five-track EP, this project is inimitable and other-worldly. For anyone who's taken an interest in James's dense and intricate music in the past, Collapse EP is another astounding installment in the Aphex Twin discography.
17. Beach House - 7 - This new release from Beach House is one of the most immersive and venturesome indie rock albums of the year. Despite all of its dark, heavy melancholy, it feels dreamier than ever. The duo's production has never felt so striking and bold. When I listen to this album, I feel like I'm being submerged into new dimensions. 7 is truly a masterpiece.
16. Against All Logic - 2012-2017 - This record is an outstanding deep house record, and one of the best electronic albums of the year. Nicolas Jaar is a master of his craft. The samples and drum patterns he uses are so complementary. The grooves on 2012-2017 are superb. If you're a fan of house music, do not let this fly under your radar.
15. Let's Eat Grandma - I'm All Ears - This is one of the most exciting pop albums of 2018. Garnering inspiration from artists like SOPHIE (who's actually a credited producer on the album), I'm All Ears is a perfect display of the duo's jaw-dropping ability. Rarely is this level of talent found in artists this young. Sonically and lyrically, Let's Eat Grandma are more than competent- they're masterful.
14. Pusha T - DAYTONA - This record might only be 21 minutes long, but as I stated in my review, it's jam-packed with excitement. Pusha T always finds a perfect balance between sounding vicious and charismatic. This record feels like his attempt to take the throne- and honestly, it's a pretty good attempt. The production is hard-hitting; the lyricism is fun, clever, and braggadocious. Pusha T really gets into the spirit of hip hop with DAYTONA, and the result is more than satisfying.
13. Parquet Courts - Wide Awake! - It's rare to find a record that is just as fun as it is substantive, but Parquet Courts have perfected that formula with Wide Awake! While this record is deep, thoughtful, and impassioned, it also just makes me want to dance. This is by far one of the best punk records of 2018.
12. Kero Kero Bonito - Time 'n' Place - Kero Kero Bonito's newest indie pop record is more experimental than anything they've ever released, but it doesn't completely abandon their old, familiar sound. It expertly fuses electropop with noise rock. I never really thought of those genres as complementary, but Time 'n' Place has proven that they can be. This album enters uncharted territory. But that doesn't detract from it's enjoyability; it enhances it.
11. Typhoon - Offerings - This is honestly one of the saddest albums of the year. You can read my review of it here. Conceptually, it's heavy, emotional, and thought-provoking. It's a record that tugs at all of your heart strings. While the instrumentation is fantastic, I find that the album's greatest strength is Morton's poetic lyricism. Although the story being told is dismal and heartbreaking, Offerings still ends on a beautiful, hopeful, and confident note. I'd recommend this album to anyone looking for some meditative listening.
10. Kacey Musgraves - Golden Hour - Kacey Musgraves's silvery vocals might be what initially draw you into this album, but there's even more to admire below the surface. Musgraves has mastered the art of songwriting. The lyrics on this album are potent and ever-relatable. The melodies are all extremely catchy and memorable. Golden Hour plays like a Greatest Hits CD; every single track is top-tier. This album will go down as a treasured jewel in the world of pop country music.
9. Hookworms - Microshift - Microshift is psychedelic indie pop/noise rock record that shows Hookworms at their finest. It sounds cleaner and more mature than anything they've formerly released. The production has a strong electronic influence that pushes them into new artistic directions (all of which suit them incredibly well). Thematically, the album focuses on things like grief, loss, and depression- but it does so through a lens of hope.
8. MGMT - Little Dark Age - This is hands down my favorite record from MGMT's catalogue. I've always thought it was enjoyable, but its amazing how much this album grew on me. As I said in my review, it's contemporaneously creative, experimental, and accessible. Musically, it's fun and pop-centric. Lyrically, it's delightfully unconventional. There are moments on this record that are dark and contemplative, and there are other moments on the record that are simply hilarious. It's incredibly diverse, yet aesthetically consistent. I completely adore Little Dark Age.
7. Noname - Room 25 - With Room 25, Noname once again capitalizes on her ever-distinct and captivating sound: alternative hip hop fused with elements of jazz, neo-soul, and spoken word poetry. Her lyrics are elaborate, purposeful, and powerful. Her themes are engaging. The album has a clear and strong sense of direction, and remains consistent throughout. Room 25 delivers on all fronts.
6. Daughters - You Won't Get What You Want - This album is terrifying, and that's the appeal of it. I've never heard anything quite like it. When I listen to this record, I feel like I just turned off the last light in my basement and I'm sprinting up the stairs as fast as I can in case there's some sort of demonic creature following me - only it takes 48 minutes to get to the top of the stairs. I'm not even the biggest fan of noise rock, but this album really impressed me.
5. SOPHIE - OIL OF EVERY PEARLE'S UN-INSIDES - This album is just nuts. The sound design is metaphysical. I can't fathom how SOPHIE created all of the sounds we hear on this record, but I'm extremely impressed. This release feels monumental- not only for her career, but for electronic music as a whole. SOPHIE is unquestionably a driving force in the evolution of electronic pop music.
4. KIDS SEE GHOSTS - KIDS SEE GHOSTS - This album brings the listener on an enthralling, psychedelic sonic journey. It explores sounds I've never heard in hip hop music. Kid Cudi and Kanye West have teamed up to create one of the most imaginative hip hop records ever. Although it's short in length, every song on KIDS SEE GHOSTS is completely mesmerizing.
3. Pinegrove - Skylight - Putting aside the messy context in which this album was released, Skylight is by far one of the most beautiful and breathtaking records of 2018. It just feels so honest. Hall's inconceivably potent lyricism coupled with the band's proficiency as instrumentalists results in a record that feels nearly perfect. Pinegrove does an exceptional job at creating mood. They have a knack for constructing gorgeous melodies and harmonies, and their use of dynamics is unparalleled. My only complaint about this record is that it's too short.
2. Saba - CARE FOR ME - My review for this album can be found here. In short, this jazz-infused alternative hip hop album covers just about all the bases. Saba's technical ability is truly special. His style is refreshing. His lyricism is captivating. His stories are told very lucidly and eloquently. This is my favorite hip hop project of 2018. "PROM / KING" is one of the best story-telling rap songs in recent years. Saba is such a promising young talent. I'm excited to see how his career progresses.
1. Low - Double Negative - This album is absolutely dumbfounding. It's gorgeous in the most peculiar way. It's abundantly textured and deeply visceral. Double Negative was co-produced by B.J. Burton- the same man who helped Justin Vernon create the illustrious 22, A Million. Burton continues his streak of success with the release of this record. This is an album that attempts to aurally manifest the feeling of fear and desperation- and does so successfully. It's highly experimental and tastefully distorted; I've never heard anything quite like it. Double Negative is exceptionally audacious and ambitious, but Low does not disappoint. They have given us a record that's flawless and timeless- an especially difficult feat for a band that's been around for 25 years. If you have not yet listened to this album, you're missing out on something truly momentous.
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