My Favorite Albums of December 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during December.

My Previous monthly lists from 2017: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November

You can find my favorite EPs of 2017 list here and my favorite albums of 2017 list here *I had to cut albums off for these lists in mid-December, so any albums on this month’s list that came out after December 15th are eligible for my 2018 lists.*

Best:

Belle and Sebastian - How To Solve Our Human Problem (Part 1) EP Genre: Indie Pop

Proof: We Were Beautiful, The Girl Doesn’t Get It

Blessed - Howlin EP Genre: R&B

Proof: Howlin, Fire It Up

BROCKHAMPTON - SATURATION III Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: BOOGIE, BLEACH

Charli XCX - Pop 2 [Mixtape] Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Out Of My Head (Feat. Tove Lo & ALMA), Track 10

Francis and the Lights - Just For Us Genre: Synth-Pop / Indie Pop

Proof: Just For Us (Feat. Justin Vernon), Tear It Up

Giraffage - Too Real (Remixes) EP Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: Maybes (RAC Remix) Feat. Japanese Breakfast, Slowly (Hiko Momoji Remix) Feat. Matosic

INNA - Nirvana Genre: Pop / Dance

Proof: Gimmie Gimmie, Hands Up

Miguel - War & Leisure Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: Pineapple Skies, Told You So

N.E.R.D - NO_ONE EVER REALLY DIES Genre: Hip Hop / Pop / R&B

Proof: Don’t Do It! (Feat. Kendrick Lamar), Kites (Feat. Kendrick Lamar & M.I.A.)

Pell - girasoul EP Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: throwback (Feat. Saba), golden (Feat. VÉRITÉ)

Qveen Herby - EP2 Genre: Hip Hop / R&B

Proof: Wifey, Holiday

Roy Woods - Say Less Genre: Hip Hop / R&B

Proof: Little Bit of Lovin, Something New

San Holo - The Trip EP Genre: Electronic / Instrumental

Proof: trip, b song

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month.

Blessed - See Through All The Colours EP Genre: R&B Released August 2017

Proof: See Through All The Colours, My Yute

Brent Faiyaz - Sonder Son Genre: R&B / Neo-Soul Released October 2017

Proof: Talk 2 U, Needed

Noah Slee - Otherland Genre: alt-R&B / Soul Released August 2017

Proof: Radar, Lips (Feat. Melodownz)

Others:

Bassnector - Reflective, Pt. 2 EP, Big Sean & Metro Boomin’ - Double or Nothing, Bishop Nehru - Emperor’s Nehru Groove [Mixtape], Chance The Rapper & Jeremih - Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama Re-Wrapped [Mixtape], DJ Mustard & RJmrLA - The Ghetto, G-Eazy - The Beautiful & Damned, Gorgon City - Grooves On The Vinyl EP, HUNCHO JACK (Travis Scott & Quavo) - HUNCHO JACK, Jack Huncho, Iman Omari - Ihy, Jeezy - Pressure, Jesse Boykins III - Bartholomew, K. Michelle - KIMBERLY: The People I Used To Know, Kidz In The Hall - Free Nights & Weekends [Mixtape], NGHTMRE - NGHTMRE Pt. II EP, Slim Thug - The World Is Yours, Statik Selektah - 8, Twelve’Len - SWIM EP, Wisin - Victory

Not Feeling:

Eminem - Revival, Quality Control - Control The Streets - Vol. 1

My Favorite Albums of 2017

Here is my list of my personal top albums of 2017

You can find my separate list for top EPs of 2017 here.

My monthly lists of top albums of 2017 are listed below: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

My list last year for my top albums of 2016 can be found here.

* indicates someone I saw live in 2017

Honorable Mention:

Arcade Fire - Everything Now Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative

With great success comes also the task of following it up. In 2017 Arcade Fire became swallowed up a bit by their own machine; which is unfortunate because despite its flaws Everything Now is still a joyous and entertaining record. Probably, most definitely, the worst record of their catalog, the common dialog is this album was a misstep by the Grammy winning band. Attempting to strip the baggage though, Everything Now is a interesting and expressive experimentation in Indie Rock that should still be appreciated. Perhaps some restraint and more of an eye on quality control could have helped. Past Arcade Fire albums find strength in their shear mass, however this album would have benefited from being more slimmed down, especially in the middle section that tends to wander a bit too aimlessly. This is the most flawed we have seen the band, yet they still have something worthwhile to bring to the table.

Proof: Creature Comfort, Electric Blue, Bonus: Everything Now (Todo Ya) [Remix por Bomba Estéreo]

Cold War Kids - L.A. DEVINE Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative

With their sixth album, Cold War Kids continue to perfect their energetic and bold Indie Rock sound. L.A. DEVINE isn’t my favorite work from the band but it continually shows they have a knack to not disappoint. It does come off a bit formulaic after the first handful of songs, but they know what they are good at and they stick to it. As I stated though the first five songs really put this album on this list as it’s as strong and impacting of a 20 minutes as on almost any other album out in 2017.

Proof: Love Is Mystical, So Tied Up (Feat. Bishop Briggs)

Cut Copy - Haiku From Zero Genre: Synth-Pop

For their fifth studio album, the Australian Synth-Pop makers Cut Copy produced possibly their most straight forward product. The result is a light hearted, warm collection of songs that are enjoyable and easy to approach. The result also is critiques of a lack of experimentation and innovation the fans of the band attribute to Cut Copy. My personal feeling is at times CC’s experimentation can tip over into overindulgence in the past, so I welcome the stripped down jams.

Proof: Standing In the Middle of the Field, Airborne

Giraffage* - Too Real Genre: Electronic

American-Taiwanese DJ Giraffage drops off some sexy and spaced out R&B infused electronic music on his vibed out debut album. Too Real has moments that remind me of ODESZA, KAYTRANADA or Mura Masa; sometimes within the same song. Giraffage’s smooth production creates quite the seductive galaxy, so climb in that spaceship.

Proof: Maybes (Feat. Japanese Breakfast), Slowly (Feat. Matosic)

The Killers* - Wonderful Wonderful Genre: Alternative / Rock

Hot Fuss, the Killers’ debut album was a very important album for me in high school. The band then proceeded to it up with a stellar three album swing with Sam’s Town and Day & Age (Yes, that Day & Age, that album bangs and I don’t care who says otherwise). Even the B-Side and remix Compilation album that proceeded, Sawdust, was enjoyable. Unfortunately, from there was a lackluster period for me as a Killers fan. Brandon Flower’s first solo album Flamingo was disappointing and their fourth album 2012’s Battle Born just came off stale and lethargic to me. 2014 though, saw a welcomed return to form with Brandon Flower’s sneaky good second solo album The Desired Effect. Wonderful Wonderful continues that rejuvenation with some passionate and focused arena rock. Here the band still sounds very familiar but doesn’t come off as aged as on Battle Born. They also seem to have more of a purpose here, not just making a new album for the sake of making one, they have recaptured that sense of joy and wonder.

Proof: The Man, Run For Cover

Klyne - Klyne Genre: alt-R&B / Electronic

Dutch duo Klyne make some super seductive bedroom ready electronic pop music. On this self titled debut they really show off their master of making synth-heavy production have some ginuwine sentiment and passion. Klyne is a subtle and sexy project any R&B fan should check out.

Proof: Paralyzed, Sure Thing

Logic - Everybody Genre: Hip Hop

One of the most technically skilled rappers making music today returns with his third studio album. It is very apparent the lyrical talent on Logic during a listen, however Everybody falls into the same traps of Logic’s past albums. Logic tends to get swallowed up by his own album concepts, with interlude and spoken word interruptions that tend to drag on too long. It’s unfortunate because to others it can take away from the great production and lyrical gymnastics going on. The process has also taken a toll on Logic himself as he has hinted the next album could be his last album despite being only 27. Hopefully, an extended break is all that will be needed because despite my album construction gripes, Logic is still one of the most gifted rappers today.

Proof: America (Feat. Black Thought, Chuck D, Big Lenbo & NO I.D.), 1-800-273-8255 (Feat. Alessia Cara & Khalid)

Oliver - Full Circle Genre: Electronic / Dance

LA DJ duo, finally offer a full length album with this cinematic debut. Full Circle is a modern day disco with space aged, synth-based tracks that call back to the 70’s and 80’s but still feel rooted in 2017. The whole album has a glossy aura that engulfs the listener, shooting them into hyper drive through a technological landscape.

Proof: Chemicals (Feat. MNDR), Wherever We Are (Feat. Elohim)

Phantoms - Phantoms Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop

I first heard of Phantoms when I saw them open for Beat Connection in 2015. I had no idea who these two suited dudes were, but I was pleasantly surprised by both their stage presence and charisma as well as the music. I retroactively found their EP and discovered it wasn’t a fluke, they made good music. Despite that I still was pleasantly surprised by this pulsating debut from the duo. Phantom’s aren’t doing anything to reinvent any wheels here; they are just making damn good house music to get the fuck down too. The growth from their already decent EP to this album is a bit staggering, I can’t wait to see what they make next.

Proof: Something To Talk About (Feat. Grace Mitchell), Just A Feeling (Feat. VÉRITÉ)

Portugal. The Man - Woodstock Genre: Alternative / Indie Rock

Releasing albums at quite the rapid pace, after their seventh album, 2013’s Evil Friends, Portugal. The Man took more of their time crafting something that would be a new experience for their fans. The result is this whirlwind of an album incorporating and outright acknowledging outside influences more openly then in past efforts. Woodstock has roots of the late 60’s era in its general makeup, but there also are intense elements of hip hop, soul music, and electronic music interweaving in the complex relationships here. It makes this album really a unique experience. “Feel It Still” became the band’s biggest hit of their career and for good reason. Even though you are probably a bit fatigued of it, it still is an excellent track to revisit in the context of the album or on it’s own.

Proof: Easy Tiger, Live In The Moment

Sampha* - Process Genre: alt-R&B

For years the raspy, and emotive voice of Sampha has been bouncing round and teasing us with thoughts of a whole album from him. Tracks featuring him on albums by SBTRKT, Drake, Kanye West, Solange and Jessie Ware have been some of the stand out tracks for each of those albums respectively. We were teased more with his great but short EP’s Duel and Too Much both in 2013. Luckily, the wait for the London singer’s debut was well worth it. Process is a gorgeous, soulful record of love found and lost. Sampha’s lyrics are very piercing and relateable but heightened by his expressive and powerful vocals.

Proof: Blood On Me, Timmy’s Prayer

Stalgia - NOMAD Genre: Electronic / alt-R&B

One of my favorite random music finds on the year was Stalgia’s sultry, electronic R&B. NOMAD has hints of BANKS, Lorde, London Grammar and FKA twigs, with a slight more of an electronic lean. That’s not to say the electronic production is dominate. It is for the most part delicate with pockets of assertiveness, but subdued enough to allow the tender vocals room to shine as well. I don’t know much about the duo, but they have my full attention whatever they produce next.

Proof: Electric, Talk to My Skin

Sylvan Essos - What Now Genre: Indie Pop / Electronic

With their sophomore album, the North Carolina duo continue their pursuit of pushing the boundaries of Indie Pop with their unique amalgamation of Folk, Pop and Electronic music. What Now is like LCD Soundsystem and Fiest had a musical baby, with soft, soothing vocals over jabbing and intersecting synths.

Proof: Die Young, Radio

Tyler, The Creator - Flower Boy Genre: Hip Hop

2015’s Cherry Bomb was an album I appreciated but in the end wanted to like it more than I actually did. It was a notable and admired progression by me from his early low-fi sound. There was more experimentation and branching out to try new things for the rapper. But in the end it was still a bit conflicted. Flower Boy is the young artists really putting it all together in a cohesive and powerful package. For his fourth album Tyler drifts into unexpected and often odd directions, but there is more of a purpose of these tangents. Everything has a planned outcome that is impacting and worthwhile.Tyler is also letting his walls down more, showing us his more human and genuine self. In his own words: “I rock, I roll, I bloom, I grow…”

Proof: Where The Flower Blooms (Feat. Frank Ocean), 911 / Mr. Lonely (Feat. Frank Ocean & Steve Lacey)

The List:

Last One Out: Mura Masa - Mura Masa Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop

Mura Masa has quite a unique ear. This collection of eccentric and genreless tracks is an indication of just how diverse and unorthodox the German producer’s ear for sounds is. The wide range of influences leads to a fascinating interweaving of styles Mura is able to mold into his own personal sculptural music. No artist is too obscure, or too well known for Mura’s vibrant sonic landscapes to dance around in. As music genres continue to push the boundaries it will be innovative artists like Mura Masa at the forefront.

Proof: Love$ick (Feat. A$AP Rocky), 1 Night (Feat. Charli XCX), What If I Go? (Feat. Bonzai), Firefly (Feat. NAO)

My Favorite EPs of 2017

Here is my list of my personal top EPs of 2017

You can find my separate list for top Album of 2017 here.

My monthly lists of top albums of 2017 are listed below: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

My list last year for my top EPs of 2016 can be found here.

* indicates someone I saw live in 2017

The Best:

Amber Mark - 3:33am Genre: Neo-Soul / alt-R&B

3:33am is a brilliant introduction to the world by the 23 year old singer. This light EP is full of vivid and soulful expressions of emotion. The music is as eclectic as Amber’s personal background, that reminds me of a modern Sade. I don’t expect Amber Mark to remain in as much obscurity for long so I suggest getting familiar.

Proof: Lose My Cool, S P A C E, Monsoon (Feat. Mia Mark)

Anna Wise* - The Feminine: Act II Genre: alt-R&B / Pop

Frequent Kendrick Lamar collaborator Anna Wise returns with her second EP. On this EP Anna expands her avant-garde R&B sound in unexpected but always impacting and rewarding directions. I dare you not to dance to that ominous bassline on “Stacking That Paper”.

Proof: Some Mistakes, Stacking That Paper, Balance in All

Big Wild - Invincible Genre: Electronic / Dance

ODESZA signee Big Wild impresses with this energetic blast of an EP. The Massachusetts born producer has been popping up here and there with great remixes and one-off singles, but it was last year’s “Aftergold” with Tove Styrke where I realized Big Wild meant business. Invincible takes some unorthodox approaches to electronic music (like the drama that begins the EP on “When I Get There” leading to a anticipated face melting beat drop only to slyful slip into a mid tempo head bobbing groove) that come off quite inventive.

Proof: When I Get There, Empty Room (Feat. Yuna), Invincible (Feat. iDA HAWK) Bonus: Aftergold (Feat. Tove Styrke)

Bishop Briggs - EP Genre: R&B / Soul / Pop

When the opening track of this thunderous EP, “River” begins you are almost pulled into a false sense of security with the somber tone of the opening verse; then the chorus comes in like the Kool-Aid man breaking down a wall and smacks you in the ear drum. Bishop Briggs soulful and sturdy voice is quite the spectacle to enjoy. She also is very effective in not over indulging, sparingly using its power leading to such gut punch, impacting moments on this EP when she lets the fuck loose. I see big things in the future for Bishop.

Proof: River, The Way I Do, The Fire

Jacob Banks* - The Boy Who Cried Freedom Genre: R&B / Soul / Blues

The voice of the London singer, Jacob Banks, it’s a sound to truly behold. Such raw emotion and power, backed by a potent R&B, blues, gospel and electronic fused sound. The Boy Who Cried Freedom is my personal introduction to Jacob Banks, but I will make sure to not sleep anymore on the singer. Make sure you also check out the emotionally gripping separate single “Unknown” in the proof section below. But be warned of all the feels.

Proof: Chainsmoking, Mercy, Unholy War, Bonus: Unknown (To You)

Lyves - Like Water Genre: alt-R&B / Pop

The subtle dark lit emotional music from Lyves is a captivating and beautiful ride. The somber slow burning tunes on Like Water aren’t in a hurry to get to their destination. Using the compelling and raw voice of Francesca as the flickering guiding light, the slower pace is just right.

Proof: Darkest Hour, No Love, Free, Bonus: Cover Me

MØ* - When I Was Young Genre: Synth-Pop

After a handful of blissful one off singles over the last two years, the frequent Diplo collaboration finally drops another project in this vibrant and youthful EP. The energetic Danish singer doesn’t disappoint with this offering as we await her sophomore album.

Proof: When I Was Young, Linking With You, Bb, Bonus: Nights With You

Rational - Vessels Genre: Pop / R&B

Early in the year we get the second EP from Rationale as another sampling of the brilliant debut album that will drop later in 2017. With only one song that appears on his self titled album, Vessels was a great indicator of what is to come, without giving too much away. Check out the top ten of my albums list for more.

Proof: Vessels, Reciprocate, Tethered

R.LUM.R. - Afterimage Genre: R&B

Empowering and bold R&B is how I would describe R.LUM.R.’s debut EP. With his intoxicating vocals and thunderous production, the Florida born singer makes quite the forceful entrance. He reminds me a lot of the brilliant Gallant debut album from a year ago.

Proof: Love Less, Bleed Into The Water, Frustrated

Serena Ryder - Electric Love Genre: Alternative / R&B / Soul

Canadian singer Serena Ryder returns with this energetic and dynamic project. Ryder’s raspy evocative voice can possess some real power she is not afraid to show off over her electronic/rock backdrops.

Proof: Revival, Electric Love, Utopia

TCVVX - TCVVX Genre: alt-R&B / Electronic

Dark and ominous but also gorgeous and delicate, Brooklyn singer TCVVX (don’t ask me how to pronounce that) makes his debut with this powerful alt-R&B record. The cavernous, warped production bring the listener right into the singer’s emotional and lustful world. Very emotive of early The Weeknd or JMSN (which happens to be MY SHIT) turn the lights down get lost in the passionate vibes.

Proof: Into Sleep, Tonight, Days, Bonus: Stuck

Umii* - This Time Genre: R&B / Neo-Soul

Possibly my favorite EP of the year (shhhh don’t tell the others), is from my own home town in this sexy and vibrant duo. Comprised of the sultry singer Reva DeVito and the smooth producer B. Bravo, together they have created some contemporary neo-soul that is incredibly infectious and an affirming listen throughout. The flowing vibes are both soothing, but also groovy enough to get your ass moving.

Proof: Dangerous, Make Your Move, Feelin It

Snoop Dogg & Boyz II Men - Santa Claus Goes Straight To The Ghetto 2017.

I bet you didn’t know you needed this in your life 😂

Shouts: Pitchfork

My Favorite Albums of November 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during November.

My Previous monthly lists: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October

You can find my favorite albums midway through 2017 list here

Best:

Aly & AJ - Ten Years EP Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Take Me, I Know

Aquilo - ii (Side A) EP Genre: Indie Pop

Proof: I Could Fight A Wall, Ghost

Ardyn - Bloom EP Genre: Synth-Pop / Indie Pop

Proof: Bloom, Together

blackbear - cyber sex Genre: Hip Hop / R&B

Proof: anxiety (Feat. FRND), down 4 u (Feat. T-Pain)

Bülow - Damaged Vol. 1 EP Genre: Pop

Proof: Not A Love Song, Lines

Cella - Prologue EP Genre: Electronic / Trance

Proof: Onyx, Absence

Empire of the Sun - On Our Way Home EP Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronic

Proof: On Our Way Home, Way To Go

Kllo - Backwater Genre: alt-R&B / Electronic

Proof: Virtue, Not Like Them

Loreen - Ride Genre: alt-R&B / Soul

Proof: ‘71 Charger, Dreams

Petit Biscuit - Presence Genre: Electronic / Chill Wave

Proof: Beam, Wake Up (Feat. Bipolar Sunshine & Cautious Clay)

Sam Feldt - Sunrise to Sunset Genre: Electronic / House / Pop

Proof: Fade Away (w/ Lush & Simon Feat. INNA), Lost on Me (w/ Hibell Feat. Richard Judge) / Wishing Well (Feat. Olivia Sebastianelli), Alive (The Edge) Feat ROOKIES

Sam Smith - The Thrill Of It All Genre: R&B / Pop / Soul

Proof: Too Good at Goodbyes, Nothing Left for You

Sleigh Bells - Kid Kruschev Genre: Alternative / Rock / Noise Pop

Proof: Rainmaker, And Saints

Stalgia - NOMAD Genre: Electronic / alt-R&B

Proof: Electric, Talk to My Skin

Talib Kweli - Radio Silence Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Traveling Light (Feat. Anderson .Paak), The One I Love (Feat. BJ The Chicago Kid)

Tennis - We Can Die Happy EP Genre: Indie Pop

Proof: No Exit, Diamond Rings

Tove Lo - BLUE LIPS (lady wood phase II) Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: disco tits, cycles

T-Pain - Oblivion Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: No Rush, Textin’ My Ex (Feat. Tiffany Evans)

Various Artists - Major Lazer Presents: Give Me Future [Soundtrack] Genre: Electronic / Dance / World

Proof: Valentino Kahn - Gold (Feat. Sean Paul), Diplo - Get It Right (Feat. MØ)

Xavier Omär - Pink Lighting EP Genre: R&B / Neo-Soul

Proof: Stuck, The Title

yaeji - EP2 Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop

Proof: raingurl, passionfruit (Drake Cover)

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month.

Ajo -  Déjá Boo EP Genre: alt-R&B Released October 2017

Proof: Talking In His Sleep, Flameout Ethics

OverDoz - 2008 Genre: Hip Hop Released October 2017

Proof: Last Kiss, Backstage (Feat. Miguel)

yaeji - yaeji - EP Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop Released March 2017

Proof: Feel It Out, Guap

Others:

Angel Olsen - Phases , Björk - Utopia, Cam’Ron - The Program [Mixtape], Charlotte Gainsbourg - Rest, Cyhi The Prynce - No Dope On Sundays, D.R.A.M. - #1EpicHoliday EP, Jadakiss & Fabolous - Friday On Elm Street [Mixtape], jesse rutherford - &, Joji - In Tongues EP, Jidenna - Boomerang EP, Kamiyah - Before I Wake [Mixtape], Keak da Sneak - Withdrawl, Kaskade - Kaskade Christmas, Kygo - Kids in Love, Jayden Smith - SYRE, Maroon 5 - Red Pill Blues, Mavis Staples - If All I Was Was Black, Med, Blu & Madlib - The Turn Up EP, Mick Jenkins - or more; the anxious [Mixtape], NxWorries - Yes Lawd! Remixes, Quiet Luke - Your Happy Place EP, Sampa the Great - Birds and the BEE9, State of Sound - High on You EP, Taliwhoah - New Wave Order, Vol 1 - EP, Tame Impala - Currents, B-Sides & Remixes EP, Virtual Self (Porter Robinson) - Virtual Self EP, WALK THE MOON - What If Nothing, Wiz Khalifa - Laugh Now, Fly Later

My Favorite Albums of October 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during October.

My Previous monthly lists: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September

You can find my favorite albums midway through 2017 list here

Best:

Bea Miller - chapter three: yellow EP Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Repercussions, S.L.U.T.

The Beaches - Late Show Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative

Proof: Back of My Heart, Walk Like That

Beck - Colors Genre: Pop / Indie Rock

Proof: Dreams, Up All Night

Big K.R.I.T. - 4eva Is a Mighty Long Time Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Keep the devil Off, Miss Georgia Fornia (Feat. Joi)

Bootsy Collins - World Wide Funk Genre: Funk / Soul

Proof: Hot Saucer (Feat. Musiq Soulchild & Big Daddy Kane), Worth My While (Feat. Kali Uchis)

CunninLynguists - Rose Azura Njano Genre: Indie Hip Hop

Proof: Violet (The Upper Room), Oh Honey (Feat. Farah Elle)

dvsn - Morning After Genre: R&B

Proof: Think About Me, Morning After

Gabrielle Aplin - Avalon EP Genre: Pop

Proof: Say Nothing, Stay

Giraffage - Too Real Genre: Electronic / Chill Wave

Proof: Maybes (Feat. Japanese Breakfast), Slowly (Feat. Matosic)

H.E.R. - H.E.R. Genre: R&B

Proof: Let Me In, Changes

Jessie Ware - Glasshouse Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Midnight, Alone

Kelela - Take Me Apart Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: LMK, Truth Or Dare

LÉON - Surround Me EP Genre: Pop

Proof: No Goodbyes, Surround Me

Mabel - Ivy To Roses [Mixtape] Genre: R&B

Proof: Begging, Finders Keepers (Feat. Kojo Funds)

Majid Jordan - The Space Between Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: Body Talk, The Space Between

Marc E. Bassy - Gossip Columns Genre: Synth-Pop / R&B

Proof: Til I Get Found, You & Me (Feat. G-Eazy)

MØ - When I Was Young Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: When I Was Young, Linking With You

Rachel Platten- Waves Genre: Pop

Proof: Shivers, Loose Ends

Rationale - Rationale Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Fast Lane, Into The Blue

TOKiMONSTA - Lune Rouge Genre: Electronic / alt-R&B

Proof: We Love (Feat. MNDR), Don’t Call Me (Feat. Yuna)

Ty Dolla $ign - Beach House 3 Genre: Hip Hop / R&B

Proof: Love U Better (Feat. Lil Wayne & The-Dream), Side Effects

Wolf Parade - Cry Cry Cry Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative 

Proof: Incantation, Baby Blue

112 - Q Mike Slim Daron Genre: R&B

Proof: Without You, Simple & Plain

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month.

Bea Miller - chapter one: blue EP / chapter two: red EP Genre: Synth-Pop Released February 2017 / June 2017

Proof: Song Like You, Burning Bridges / Buy Me Diamonds, Warmer

Others:

AJ Tracey - Secure The Bag! EP, Blu & Exile - In The Beginning: Before the Heavens, Brasstracks - For Those Who Know Part 1 EP, Bully - Losing, Cults - Offering, Julien Baker - Turn Out The Lights, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith - The Kid, Keysha Cole - 11:11 Reset, KRANE - Fallout, The LOX - #4NoReason EP, Movements - Feel Something, P!nk - Beautiful Trauma, St. Vincent - MASSEDUCATION, Sam Feldt - Sunrise, Skepta - Vicious EP, Snoh Aalegra - Feels, Snoop Dogg - Make America Crip Again EP, Tiësto - Clublife, Vol. 5 - China, Weezer - Pacific Daydream, Wu-Tang Clan - The Saga Continues, Yelawolf - Trial By Fire,  Zenizen - Australia EP

Not Feeling:

Keenon Rush - Citizen Keen EP, Zaytoven - Where Would The Game Be Without Me 2 [Mixtape] 

My Favorite Albums of September 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during September.

My Previous monthly lists: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August

You can find my favorite albums midway through 2017 list here

Best:

Anna of the North - Lovers Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Someone, Fire

Charlotte Cardin - Main Girl EP Genre: Pop

Proof: Main Girl, Dirty Dirty

The Cool Kids - Special Edition Grandmaster Deluxe Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Get Out the Bowl, T.D.A. (Feat. A-Trak, Reese LAFLARE & Larry June)

Cut Copy - Haiku From Zero Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronic

Proof: Standing In the Middle of the Field, Airborne

Daughter - Music From Before the Storm Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative

Proof: Burn It Down, Hope

Galantis - The Aviary Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: Tell Me You Love Me (w/ Throttle), Call Me Home

Hercules & Love Affair - Omnion Genre: Electronic / House

Proof: Controller (Feat. Faris Badwan), My Curse and Cure (Feat. Gustaph) 

Hundred Waters - Communicating Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronica

Proof: Particle, Better

Ibeyi - Ash Genre: alt-R&B / Soul

Proof: Deathless (Feat. Kamasi Washington), When Will I Learn (Feat. Chilly Gonzales)

Illenium - Awake Genre: Electronic / Trance / Dance

Proof: Crawl Outta Love (Feat. Annika Wells), Sound of Walking Away (w/ Kerli)

Jhené Aiko - Trip Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: OLLA (Only Lovers Left Alive) Feat. TWENTY88, Sing to Me (Feat. Namiko Love)

Kaskade - Redux EP 002 Genre: Electronic / House / Dance

Proof: Nobody Like You, Gone (Feat. Late Night Alumni)

The Killers - Wonderful Wonderful Genre: Alternative / Rock

Proof: The Man, Run For Cover

Kygo - Stargazing EP Genre: Electronic / House

Proof: Stargazing (Feat. Justin Jesso), It Ain’t Me (w/ Selena Gomez)

LCD Soundsystem - american dream Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: oh baby, how do you sleep?

Leikeli47 - Wash & Set Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Bags, Money

Lights - Skin&Earth Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Savage, New Fears

Nothing But Thieves - Broken Machine Genre: Alternative / Rock

Proof: Amsterdam, Get Better

ODESZA - A Moment Apart Genre: Electronic / Chillwave

Proof: Higher Ground (Feat. Naomi Wild), La Ciudad

PARTYNEXTDOOR - Seven Days EP Genre: R&B

Proof: Never Played Me, Damage (w/ Halsey)

R3hab - Trouble Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop

Proof: Trouble (Feat. VÉRITÉ), Killing Time (w/ Felix Cartal)

R I T U A L - No Escape Out of Time Genre: alt-R&B / Electronica

Proof: Real Feels (Feat. Denzel Curry), Wouldn’t Be Love

Rostam - Half-Light Genre: Indie Pop / alt-Pop

Proof: Never Going To Catch Me, Hold You (Feat. Angel Deradoorian)

snny - Learning to Swim EP Genre: Indie Pop / alt-R&B

Proof: S, LTS

Tangina Stone - Elevate Genre: R&B / Soul

Proof: Anxious, By The Sea

TENDER - Modern Addiction Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronic

Proof: Nadir, Sickness

TOMI - Used To EP Genre: Indie Rock / Pop

Proof: Carry You, Alien

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month.

Berdmajik - Spells Genre: Indie Pop / Electronica Released May 2017

Proof: Circles, Without You

Luna Aura - Luna Aura EP Genre: Synth-Pop Released August 2017

Proof: Stronger, Madhouse

MODERNS - MODERNS EP (2) Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronic Released April 2017

Proof: Jarre, Order

Reo Cragun - Growing Pains [Mixtape] Genre: Hip Hop / R&B Released August 2017

Proof: On My Way, Frustrated

Saro - In Loving Memory EP Genre: alt-R&B / Indie Pop Released December 2016

Proof: Test, Flora

Others:

Alvvays - Antisocialites, Angus & Julia Stone - Snow, Bicep - Bicep, Corbin - Mourn, Danny Watts - Black Boy Meets World, Demi Lovato - Tell Me You Love Me, DJ Kay Slay - The Big Brother, Echosmith - Inside a Dream EP, Foo Fighters - Concrete and Gold, Fergie - Double Dutchess, Four Tet - New Energy, Hoodie Allen - The Hype, Huntar - Your Favorite Worst Mistake, The Jet Age of Tomorrow -  God’s Poop or Clouds? [Mixtape], Jack Johnson - All the Light Above It Too, Joseph - Stay Awake EP, Kari Faux - Primary EP, Kamasi Washington - Harmony of Difference EP, Klein - Tommy EP, Knox Fortune - Paradise, Lecrae - All Things Work Together, L’Rain - L’Rain, Lunice - CCCLX, Macklemore - GEMINI, Masta Killa - Loyalty Is Royalty, MAYDAY! - Search Party, Miley Cyrus - Younger Now, Mount Kimbie - Love What Survives, Musiq Soulchild - Feel the Real, The Neighbourhood - Hard EP, Nosaj Thing - Parallels, Opio & Homeboy Sandman - Wounded Healer EP, Phoebe Bridgers - Stranger in the Alps, QUIÑ - DREAMGIRL EP, Rapsody - Laila’s Wisdom, Robin Schultz - Uncovered, Sammie - Coming of Age, The Script - Freedom Child, SoMo - My Life III, Starrah & Diplo - Starrah X Diplo EP, Superfruit - Future Friends, Syd - Always Never Home EP, Tamar Braxton - Bluebird of Happiness, Tank - Savage, Tennyson - Uh Oh! EP, TORRES - Three Futures, Tori Amos - Native Invader, Torri Wolf - Flow Riiot, Tricky - Ununiform, Wolf Alice - Visions of a Life, Wyclef Jean - Carnival III: The Fall and Rise of a Refugee, Zola Jesus - Okovi

Not Feeling:

G Herbo - Humble Beast, Young Nudy - Nudy Land

My Favorite Albums of August 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during August.

My Previous monthly lists: January, February, March, April, May, June, July

You can find my favorite albums midway through 2017 list here

Best:

Alice Glass - Alice Glass EP Genre: Rock / Electronic

Proof: Without Love, Forgiveness

Avicii - AVĪCI (01) EP Genre: Electronic / Pop / Dance

Proof: Lonely Together (Feat. Rita Ora), Without You (Feat. Sandro Cavazza)

BOSCO - b. EP Genre: R&B / Neo-Soul

Proof: Adrenaline, Cruel

Brand New - Science Fiction Genre: Indie-Rock / Alternative

Proof: Can’t Get It Out, Same Logic / Teeth

BROCKHAMPTON - SATURATION II Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: GUMMY, SWEET

Daniel Caesar - Freudian Genre: R&B / Soul

Proof: Get You (Feat. Kali Uchis), We Find Love / Blessed

The Districts - Popular Manipulations Genre: Indie Rock

Proof: If Before I Wake, Salt

Elijah Blake - Audiology Genre: R&B

Proof: Stingy, Technicolor

Lil Debbie - OG In My System Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Summer,  All We Need Is Love (Feat. Stacy Barthe)

Loreen - Nude EP Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Body, Ocean Away

Oliver - Full Circle Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: Chemicals (Feat. MNDR), Wherever We Are (Feat. Elohim)

PVRIS - All We Know of Heaven, All We Need of Hell Genre: Alternative / Rock

Proof: Heaven, Walk Alone

R.LUM.R - Afterimage EP Genre: alt-R&B / Soul

Proof: Bleed Into The Water, Frustrated

Samantha Urbani - Policies of Power EP Genre: alt-R&B / Dance

Proof: 1 2 3 4, Time Time Time

The War On Drugs - A Deeper Understanding Genre: Indie Rock / Alternative

Proof: Up All Night, Holding On

ZHU - stardustexhalemarrakechdreams EP Genre: Electronic

Proof: Stardust (Intro), Exhale

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month

cupcakKe - Queen Elizabitch Genre: Hip Hop Released March 2017

Proof: 33rd, Barcodes

letherette - EP 3 / EP 2 / EP 1 Genre: Electronic / Instrumental Released February 2017 / March 2017 / March 2017

Proof: Langsette, Sweeter / Bruse, No Point / Eye to Eye, In July Focus

San Fermin - Belong Genre: Indie Pop / Synth-Pop Released April 2017

Proof: Bride, No Promises

Trapo - She EP / Shade Trees Genre: Hip Hop Released March 2016 / November 2016

Proof: Never Run, Chicago / Stop Me, Speed

Others:

Action Bronson - 7000, Arthur - Challenger EP, A$AP Ferg - Still Strivin [Mixtape], A$AP Mob - Cozy Tapes, Vol. 2: Too Cozy, A$AP Twelvyy - 12, Bebe Rexha - All Your Fault: Pt. 2 EP, Bibi Bourelly - Boy EP, Big Gigantic - Brighetr Future Remixed, Brian McKnight - Genesis, Buddy - Magnolia EP, Chase & Status - Tribe, Damar Jackson - Unfaithful, Dave East - Paranoia: A True Story, Fashawn - Manna, Fifth Harmony - Fifth Harmony, GRiZ - Good Will Continue (Remixes), Grizzly Bear - Painted Ruins, inc. no world - Living EP, Jamila Woods - HEAVN, Kesha - Rainbow, Khalil - Prove It All, KONA - UNCANNY EP, KSHMR - Materia EP, Reo Cragun - Growing Pains [Mixtape], Rezz - Mass Manipulation, Sean Price - Imperius Rex, SonReal - One Long Dream, Slushii - Out of Light,  Taylor Bennett - Throw Aways: Unmixed [Mixtape], Timeflies - Too Much EP, Theo Martins & Thelonious Martin - TM EP, TroyBoi - Left Is Right

My Favorite Albums of 2017 (So Far)

Here is my list of my favorite albums half-way through 2017.

You can find my 2016 year end album list here and my 2016 EPs list here

I also have been doing monthly top albums lists: January, February, March, April, May

Honorable Mention:

Big Wild - Invincible EP Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: When I Get There, Empty Room (Feat. Yuna)

Cold War Kids - LA DIVINE Genre: Alternative / Indie Rock

Proof: Love Is Mystical, So Tied Up (Los Feliz Blvd) Feat. Bishop Briggs

Hundred Waters - Currency EP Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronica

Proof: Jewel in My Hands, Particle

Kahlid - American Teen Genre: Pop / R&B

Proof: American Teen, Another Sad Love Song

Lyves - Like Water EP Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Darkest Hour, No Love

Overcoats - Young Genre: Indie / Synth-Pop

Proof: Leave The Light On, Nighttime Hunger

RØMANS - Automatic EP Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Happy Love, Automatic

Sampha - Process Genre: alt-R&B / Soul

Proof: Blood On Me, Timmy’s Prayer

Seramic - I Got You EP Genre: Indie Pop / Funk

Proof: I Got You, Some Mistakes

Spoon - Hot Thoughts Genre: Alternative / Indie Rock

Proof: Hot Thoughts, I Ain’t The One

SOHN - Rennen Genre: Electronic / Pop

Proof: Hard Liquor, Conrad

Sufjan Stevens, Nico Muhly, Bryce Dessner & James McAlister - Planetarium Genre: Indie Pop / Electronica

Proof: Jupiter, Saturn

Tinie Tempah - Youth Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Texts From Your Ex (Feat. Tinashe), Girls Like (Feat. Zara Larsson)

Vancouver Sleep Clinic - Revival Genre: Alternative / Indie Pop

Proof: Whispers, Killing Me To Love You

The List:

16.) Bishop Briggs - EP Genre: R&B / Soul / Pop

Proof: River, The Way I Do, Dead Man’s Arms, The Fire

15.) A R I Z O N A - Gallery Genre: Synth-Pop / Electronic

Proof: Annie, Feed The Beast, Cross My Mind, Electronic Touch

14.) Bleachers - Gone Now Genre: Pop

Proof: Hate That You Know Me, Don’t Take The Money, Everybody Lost Somebody, I Miss Those Days

13.) Serena Ryder - Electric Love EP Genre: Indie Rock / Blues

Proof: Got Your Number, Revival, Electric Love, Utopia

12.) Tei Shi - Crawl Space Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Keep Running, Creep, How Far, Say You Do

11.) Fenech-Soler - Zilla / The Covers EP Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Kaleidoscope, On Top, Night Time TV, Touch / Show Me Love (Robin S Cover), Control (Janet Jackson Cover)

10.) Rationale - Vessel EP Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Prodigal Son, Vessels, Reciprocate, Tethered

9.) Phoenix - Ti Amo Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: J-Boy, Fior di Latte, Goodbye Soleil, Fleur de Lys

8.) TCVVX - TCVVX EP Genre: alt-R&B / Electronic

Proof: Into Sleep, Tonight, Crash Course, Days

7.) Joey Bada$$ - ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$ Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: FOR MY PEOPLE, TEMPTATION, LAND OF THE FREE, AMERIKKKAN IDOL

6.) Erik Hassle - Innocence Lost Genre: alt-R&B / Pop

Proof: No Words, If Your Man Only Knew, All of You All Over Me, Missing You

5.) SZA - CTRL Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: Drew Berrymore, Prom, Broken Clocks, Anything

4.) Gorillaz - Humanz Genre: Pop / R&B / Hip Hop

Proof: Momentz (Feat. De La Soul), Andromeda (Feat. D.R.A.M.), Let Me Out (Feat. Mavis Staples & Pusha T), The Apprentice (Feat. Rag’n’Bone Man, Zebra Katz & RAY BLK)

3.) Lorde - Melodrama Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Sober, Homemade Dynamite, Writer In the Dark, Perfect Places

2.) The xx - I See You Genre: Indie Pop

Proof: Dangerous, Say Something Loving, Lips, On Hold

1.) Kendrick Lamar - DAMN. Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: DNA., FEEL., LOYALTY. (Feat. Rihanna), HUMBLE., LOVE. (Feat. Zacari), XXX. (Feat. U2)

Others:

Super Dope to Dope:

A.CHAL - ON GAZ [Mixtape], Alexandra Savior - Belladonna of Sadness, Allan Rayman - Roadhouse 01, Allen Kingdom - Lines, Allie X - Collxtion II, Althea - Cold Thoughts EP, Amber Coffman - City of No Reply, Amber Mark - 3:33am EP, Amir Obé - None of the Clocks Work EP, Amp Live - Atmosphere EP, ANE - Bitan EP, ANOHNI - Paradise EP, Anna Wise - The Feminine: Act II, EP, Autumn in June - Magenta, Aquilo - Silhouette, Axwell /\ Ingrosso - More Than You Know EP, Bebe Rexha - All Your Fault: Pt. 1 EP, Bell Biv DeVoe - Three Strips, Betty Who - The Valley, Big Boi - BOOMIVERSE, Blackbear - digital drugloard, Bloom - [SIN]SES EP, B.o.B. - Ether, Brockhampton - Saturation, Brother Ali - All the Beauty in This Whole Life, Buddy - Ocean & Montana EP, Bush - Black and White Rainbows, Cashmere Cat - 9, Charli XCX - Number 1 Angel [Mixtape], Chloe x Halle - The Two Of Us [Mixtape], Cloud Nothings - Life Without Sound, Collie Budz - Good Life, D. Begun - Nosimoto (Nas x Madlib Mash Up), Dan Auerbach - Waiting on a Song, David Banner - The God Box, David Bowie - No Plan EP, Daye Jack - No Data, Deorro - Good Evening, Depeche Mode - Spirit, Destructo - Renegade EP, DJ Quik & Problem - Rosecrans, DJ Skarface - Shadow The Jewels (DJ Shadow x Run The Jewels Mash Up), Dorrough - Ride Wit Me, Drake - More Life, Dua Lipa - Dua Lipa, Dumfounded - Foreign EP, ELHAE - AURA II, Ella Mai - Ready EP, Elsa & Emilie - Kill Your Darlings, Father John Misty - Pure Comedy, Fazerdaze - Morningside, Feist - Pleasure, Fifty Shades Darker (Motion Picture Soundtrack), Fleet Foxes - Crack-Up, Freddie Gibbs - You Only Live 2wice, Future - HNDRXX, Future Islands - The Far Field, FKJ - French Kiwi Juice, The Flaming Lips - Oczy Mlody, Flume - Skin Companion II EP, Flume - Skin: The Remixes, Gabe ‘Nandez - Disconnected EP, Gabriel Garzón-Montano - Jardín, girlpool - Powerplant, Goapele - Dreamseeker, Goldfrapp - Silver Eye, GoldLink - At What Cost, The Gold Setting - Volume and Tone EP, graves - Hilo EP, Grouplove - Little Mess EP, GTA - Good Times Ahead: The Remixes EP, Half Waif - form/a EP, Halsey - hopeless fountain kingdom, Harry Styles - Harry Styles, Heat - Overnight, Her - Tape #2 EP, H.E.R. - Vol. 2, Incubus - 8, Jack & Jack - Gone EP, Jacques Greene - Feel Infinite, Jacob Banks - The Boy Who Cried Freedom EP, Jamiroquai - Automation, James Fauntleroy - Dojo EP, James Fauntleroy - Warmest Winter II EP, James Hersey - Pages EP, Japandroids - Near To The Wild Heart Of Life, Jasmine Thompson - Wonderland EP, Jessie Reyez - Kiddo EP, Jimi Tents - I Can’t Go Home, JMSN - Whatever Makes U Happy, Julie Byrne - Not Even Happiness, K.Flay - Everywhere Is Somewhere, Kehlani - SweetSexySavage, K.I.D. - Poster Child EP, Kingdom - Tears In The Club, The Knocks - TESTIFY EP, Klyne - Waterflow (Remixes) EP, Krewella - New World Pt. 1 EP, Kweku Collins - grey EP, LÉON - For You EP, Lewis The Child - Love Is Alive EP, Lido & Santell - Passion Project II EP, LINKIN PARK - One More Light, Little Dragon - Season High, Logic - Everybody, London Grammar - Truth Is A Beautiful Thing, Lupe Fiasco - DROGAS Light, Maggie Rogers - Now That The Light Is Fading EP, Major Lazer - Know No Better EP, Mali Music - The Transition of Mali, mansionz - Mansionz, Mary J. Blige - Strength of a Woman, Matisyahu - The Undercurrent, Matt Martins - The Drum Chord Theory, Migos - C U L T U R E, Mila J - Dopamine, Minus The Bear - Voids, MisterWives - Connect The Dots, MUNA - About U, Murs - Captain California, NAO - For All We Know - The Remixes - EP, Nappy Roots - Another 40 Akerz, Nelly Furtado - The Ride, The New Pornographers - Whiteout Conditions, Nick Murphy - Missing Link EP, Niia - I, no suits - Virgin EP, nobigdyl - Canopy, NJOMZA - sad for you, October London - Color Blind: Hate & Happiness EP, Oddisee - The Iceburg, Organized Noize - Organized Noize EP, PARTYNEXTDOOR - COLOURS 2 EP, Passion Pit - Tremendous Sea Of Love, Phantoms - Phantoms, Problem - Chaciville, Promnite - Snake Charmer EP, Perfume Genius - No Shape, Portugal. The Man - Woodstock, Qveen Herby - EP 1, Raekwon - The Wild,  Real Estate - In Mind, Rejjie Snow - The Moon & You, Ride - Weather Diaries, Rose Elinor Dougall - Stellular, Ronald Bruner Jr. - Triumph, Roy Woods - Nocturnal, Run The Jewels - Run The Jewels 3, Saga & Thelonious Martin - Molotov [Mixtape], Sadat X - The Sum Of A Man, Sango - De Mim. Pra Você, Saudin - Before I Met You EP, Sevdaliza - ISON, Shakira - El Derado, Shamir - Hope, Sinead Harnett - Chapter One EP, Sir The Baptist - Saint Or Sinner, Slowdive - Slowdive, Smino - blkswn, Snakehips & MØ - Don’t Leave (Remixes) EP, Snoop Dogg - Neva Left, Sigrid - Don’t Kill My Vibe EP, SiR - Her Too EP, Shy Girls - Salt, The Social Misfits - The Misadventures of Fern & Marty, SoMo - The Answers, Sonder - Into EP, Steve Lacey - Steve Lacy’s Demo EP, Stormzy - Gang Signs & Prayer, Surfer Blood - Snowdonia, Swet Shop Boys - Sufi La EP, Syd - Fin, T-Pain & Lil Wayne - T-Wayne [Mixtape], Taylor Bennett - Restoration of An American Idol [Mixtape], Tennyson x Mr. Carmack - Tuesday Wednesday Thursday EP, Thelonious Martin - A Dozen For Dilla [Mixtape], THEY. - Nü Religion: Hyena, Thievery Corporation - The Temple of I & I, Thundercat - Drunk, TOPS - Sugar at the Gate, Trey Songz - Tremaine: The Album, Trombone Shorty - Parking Lot Symphony, Tuxedo - Fux with the Tux EP, Tuxedo - Tuxedo II, Two Another - EP Two, Vic Mensa - The Manuscript EP, Wavves - You’re Welcome, Wiley - Godfather, WHY? - Moh Lhean, Wyclef Jean - J’ouvert EP, Yellow Claw - Los Amsterdam, Zara Larsson - So Good, 24hrs. - Not Open Late EP, 24hrs. - Sunset Blvd. EP

Dope Enough to Meh:

Anik Khan - Kites EP, Aye Nako - Silver Haze, Bassnectar - Reflective, Pt. 1 EP, Big Sean - I Decided, Blank Body - Isolator EP, Bonobo - Migration, Bryson Tiller - True to Self, The Chainsomkers - Memories…Do Not Open, Charlie Wilson - In It To Win It, deadmau5 - stuff i used to do, Devin The Dude - Acoustic Levitation, Dirty Projectors - Dirty Projectors, The Drums - Abysmal Thoughts, Ed Sheeran - ÷, Eric Bellinger - Cannabliss EP, Eric Bellinger - Eric B for President: Term 2 EP, EMI - Planet, Faith Evans & The Notorious B.I.G. - The King & I, Fat Joe & Remy Ma - Plata O Plomo, Felix Snow & Wintertime - No Winter Without Snow EP, FOREVER ANTi PoP - Finessin the Rhythm EP, Frances - Things I Never Said, G-Eazy & Carnage - Step Brothers EP, The Goo Goo Dolls - You Should Be Happy EP, IAMSU! - Boss Up [Mixtape], IAMSU! - Boss Up 2 [Mixtape], J Hus - Common Sense, Jeremih - Cinco De MihYo EP, J.I.D. - The Never Story, Jidenna - The Chief, John Mayer - The Search For Everything, John Mayer - The Search For Everything: Wave One EP, John Mayer - The Search For Everything: Wave Two EP, Kid Ink - 7 Series EP, LaToya Luckett - Back 2 Life, Lord RAJA - Amadeus EP, Mac DeMarco - This Old Dog, Machine Gun Kelly - bloom, Mike WiLL Made-It - Ransom 2, MIKExANGEL - NOTHiN 2 SOMETHiN, Mr. Torphat - Trust Me EP, Nav - Nav, Nef The Pharaoh - The Chang Project, Nine Inch Nails - Not The Actual Event EP, Norah Jones - Day Break, Palm - Shadow Expert EP, Paramore - After Laughter, P.O.S. - Chill, dummy, Rag’n’Bone Man - Human, Rayven Lenae - Midnight Moonlight EP, Roger Waters - Is This the Life We Really Want?, Richard Russell - Everything Is Recorded EP, Rick Ross - Rather You Then Me, Ryan Adams - Prisoner, Slow Dancer - In A Mood, The Shins - Heatworms, Talib Kweli & Styles P - The Seven, T.I. - Us Or Else: Letter To The System, Various Artists - Def Jam Presents: Direct Deposit, Vol. 2, Various Artists - HOWSLA, Wale - SHINE, WATERS - Something More, WebsterX - Daymares, Wrekonize - Into the Further, Yaeji -Yaeji EP, 24hrs - Night Shift EP

Not Feeling:

COIN - How Will You Know If You Never Try, Future - FUTURE, Kool A.D. - Sky Ladder, Two-9 - FRVR, Young M.A. - Herstory EP

My Favorite Albums of April 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during April.

My Previous lists: January, February, March

Best:

Bishop Briggs - EP Genre: R&B / Soul / Pop

Proof: River, The Way I Do

Blackbear - digital druglord Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: i miss the old u, chateau

Cashmere Cat - 9 Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop

Proof: Wild Love (Feat. The Weeknd & Francis & the Lights), Quit (Feat. Ariana Grande)

Cold War Kids - LA DIVINE Genre: Alternative / Indie Rock

Proof: Love Is Mystical, So Tied Up (Feat. Bishop Briggs)

DJ Quick & Problem - Rosecrans Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: A New Nite / Rosecrans Groove, Funny How N****s Gon Change Things (Feat. MC Eiht & Suga Free)

Gorillaz - Humanz Genre: Pop / R&B / Hip Hop

Proof: Andromeda (Feat. D.R.A.M.), Let Me Out (Feat. Mavis Staples & Pusha T)

Her - Tape #2 EP Genre: Alternative / R&B

Proof: Blossom Roses, Swim (Feat. Zefire)

Jacob Banks - The Boy Who Cried Freedom EP Genre: R&B / Soul / Blues

Proof: Chainsmoking, Unholy War

JMSN - Whatever Makes U Happy Genre: R&B / Soul

Proof: Drinkin’, Where Do U Go 

Joey Bada$$ - ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$ Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: TEMPTATION, LAND OF THE FREE

Kendrick Lamar - DAMN. Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: DNA., LOVE. (Feat. Zacari)

October London - Color Blind: Hate & Happiness EP Genre: R&B / Soul

Proof: Dramatic, Somebody’s Getting My Love

Overcoats - Young Genre: Indie / Synth-Pop

Proof: Leave The Light On, Nighttime Hunger

Sevdaliza - ISON Genre: Synth-Pop / R&B / Electronica

Proof: Marilyn Monroe, Hero

Tinie Tempah - Youth Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Texts From Your Ex (Feat. Tinashe), Girls Like (Feat. Zara Larsson)

Vancouver Sleep Clinic - Revival Genre: Alternative / Indie

Proof: Whispers, Killing Me To Love You

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month

Code Green - 7 Day Trip Genre: Hip Hop / R&B Released November 2016

Proof: Too Silly, Luv and Vibe

Passion Pit - Tremendous Sea Of Love Genre: Synth-Pop Released March 2017

Proof: Hey K, The Undertow

Penthouse Penthouse & Bobby Saint - Uploaded EP Genre: R&B / Soul / Electronic Released June 2016

Proof: 69 Camaro, Saved / Forever

October London - Color Blind: Love EP Genre: R&B / Soul Released October 2016

Proof: Shoulder To Lean On, Slow Dance

The-Dream - Genesis Genre: alt-R&B Released on TIDAL January 2016/Everywhere Else March 2017

Proof: Virtuous (Feat. Wiz Khalifa), Level

Others:

Alexandra Savior - Belladonna of Sadness, Allen Kingdom - Lines, Althea - Cold Thoughts EP, Amp Live - Atmosphere EP, Amir Obé - None of the Clocks Work EP, ANE - Bitan EP, Anik Khan - Kites EP, Aye Nako - Silver Haze, The Chainsomkers - Memories…Do Not Open, ELHAE - AURA II, Eric Bellinger - Cannabliss EP, Father John Misty - Pure Comedy, Feist - Pleasure, Flume - Skin: The Remixes, Future Islands - The Far Field, The Gold Setting - Volume and Tone EP, IAMSU! - Boss Up 2 [Mixtape], Incubus - 8, Jessie Reyez - Kiddo EP, John Mayer - The Search For Everything, K.Flay - Everywhere Is Somewhere, Kweku Collins - grey EP, Little Dragon - Season High, Mary J. Blige - Strength of a Woman, Mila J - Dopamine, Nappy Roots - Another 40 Akerz, Nef The Pharaoh - The Chang Project, The New Pornographers - Whiteout Conditions, NJOMZA - sad for you, Saudin - Before I Met You EP, Shamir - Hope, Talib Kweli & Styles P - The Seven, Trombone Shorty - Parking Lot Symphony, Wale - SHINE

Not Feeling:

COIN - How Will You Know If You Never Try, Young M.A. - Herstory EP

My Favorite Albums of March 2017

My monthly lists of new albums I was feeling, and some other discoveries made during March.

My Previous lists: January, February

Best:

Charli XCX - Number One Angel [Mixtape] Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: 3AM (Pull Up) Feat. MØ, Babygirl (Feat. Uffie)

Chloe x Halle - The Two Of Us [Mixtape] Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: too much sauce (1:24), partna (7:25)

Daye Jack - No Data Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Finish Line, Casino

Drake - More Life Genre: Hip Hop / R&B

Proof: Passionfruit, Madiba Riddim

Goldfrapp - Silver Eye Genre: Electronica

Proof: Anymore, Ocean

GoldLink - At What Cost Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Meditation (Feat. Jazmine Sullivan & KAYTRANADA), Pray Everyday (Survivor’s Guilt)

Khalid - American Teen Genre: Pop / R&B

Proof: American Teen, Another Sad Love Song

Louis The Child - Love Is Alive EP Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop

Proof: Fire (Feat. Evalyn), Love Is Alive (Feat. Elohim)

Phantoms - Phantoms Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: Someone To Talk About (Feat. Grace Mitchell), Just a Feeling (Feat.  VÉRITÉ)

Promnite - Snake Charmer EP Genre: Electronic / Hop Hop

Proof: Ride Around (Feat. Adam Vida), Call Me (Feat. Mark Johns)

Sango - De Mim, Pra Você Genre: Latin / Electronic / R&B

Proof: A Chamada (Ritmo Muleke), Engenho da Rainha (Feat. Carlos & Complexo)

Smino - blkswn Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Glass Flows (Feat. Ravyn Lenae), Anita (Feat. Jean Deaux)

Spoon - Hot Thoughts Genre: Alternative / Indie

Proof: Hot Thoughts, I Ain’t The One

Tei Shi - Crawl Space Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Creep, How Far

Trey Songz - Tremaine The Album Genre: R&B

Proof: #1Fan, What Are We Here For

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered (or just finally got around to listening to) this month

Cash Cash - Blood, Sweat & 3 Years Genre: Electronic / Dance Released June 2016

Proof: How To Love (Feat. Sofia Reyez), Broken Drum (Feat Fitz of Fitz & The Tantrums)

Marian Hill - ACT ONE Genre: Electronic / Synth-Pop Released June 2016

Proof: Down, Sad Song

Mike Taylor - Feel Good EP Genre: Pop Released October 2016

Proof: Electric Church, Colours

Rationale - Vessels EP Genre: R&B / Pop Released February 2017

Proof: Prodigal Son, Reciprocate

Tunde Olaniran - Transgressor Genre: Hip Hop Released August 2015

Proof: Namesake, 24KT

Others:

Betty Who - The Valley, Blank Body - Isolator EP, Bush - Black and White Rainbows, deadmau5 - stuff i used to do, Deorro - Good Evening, Depeche Mode - Spirit, Destructo - Renegade EP, Devin The Dude - Acoustic Levitation, Ed Shreeran - ÷, Eric Bellinger - Eric B for President: Term 2 EP, FKJ - French Kiwi Juice, Frances - Things I Never Said, Freddie Gibbs - You Only Live 2wice, G-Eazy & Carnage - Step Brothers EP, Jacques Greene - Feel Infinite, Jamiroquai - Automation, J.I.D. - The Never Story, K.I.D. - Poster Child EP, mansionz - Mansionz, Minus The Bear - Voids, LÉON - For You EP, Mike WiLL Made-It - Ransom 2, Murs - Captain California, Nelly Furtado - The Ride, Rayven Lenae - Midnight Moonlight EP, Real Estate - In Mind, Rick Ross - Rather You Then Me, Ronald Bruner Jr. - Triumph, Raekwon - The Wild, The Shins - Heatworms, Snakehips & MØ - Don’t Leave (Remixes) EP, SoMo - The Answers, Tuxedo - Tuxedo II, Various Artists - Def Jam Presents: Direct Deposit, Vol. 2, WebsterX - Daymares, WHY? - Moh Lhean, Yaeji -Yaeji EP, Yellow Claw - Los Amsterdam, Zara Larsson - So Good, 24hrs. - Not Open Late EP

Not Feeling:

Kool A.D. - Sky Ladder

My Favorite Albums of February 2017

I am now writing a new monthly post where I will list my favorite albums of the previous month. You can view my list from January here.

Best: 

Allan Rayman - Roadhouse 01 Genre: Alternative / alt-R&B

Proof: Repeat (Feat. Jessie Reyez), 13

Anna Wise - The Feminine: Act II EP Genre: R&B

Proof: Stacking That Paper, Balance In All

Big Wild - Invincible EP Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: When I Get There, Empty Room (Feat. Yuna)

Fenech-Soler - Zilla Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: Kaleidoscope, Night Time TV

The Knocks - Testify EP Genre: Electronic / Dance

Proof: Heat (Feat. Sam Nelson Harris), Trouble (Feat. Absofacto)

Maggie Rogers - Now That the Light Is Fading EP Genre: Pop

Proof: Alaska, On + Off

MUNA - About U Genre: Synth-Pop

Proof: I Know A Place, Promise

Oddisee - The Iceburg Genre: Indie Hip-Hop

Proof: Things, Rights & Wrongs (Feat. Oliver St. Louis)

Sampha - Process Genre: alt-R&B / Soul

Proof: Blood On Me, Timmy’s Prayer

Syd - Fin Genre: R&B

Proof: Know, Body

THEY. - Nü Religion: Hyena Genre: alt-R&B / Hip Hop / Alternative

Proof: Bad Habits, Back It Up

Wyclef Jean - J’ouvert EP Proof: Hip Hop / Caribbean

Proof: I Swear (Feat. Young Thug), Little Things (Feat. T-Baby & Allyson Casado)

Bonus:

Previous albums I discovered this month

Rose Elinor Dougall - Stellular Genre: Pop January 2017

Proof: Stellular, All At Once

Sonder - Into EP Genre: alt-R&B / Soul January 2017

Proof: Feel, Searchin

Others:

Bebe Rexha - All Your Fault: Pt. 1 EP, Big Sean - I Decided, Charlie Wilson - In It To Win It, Dirty Projectors - Dirty Projectors, Ella Mai - Ready EP, Fat Joe & Remy Ma - Plata O Plomo, Flume - Skin Companion II EP, Future - HNDRXX, Half Waif - form/a EP, James Fauntleroy - Dojo EP, Jidenna - The Chief, John Mayer - The Search For Everything: Wave Two EP, Kingdom - Tears In The Club, Lupe Fiasco - DROGAS Light, NAO - For All We Know - The Remixes - EP, nobigdyl - Canop, Nav - Nav, Rag’n’Bone Man - Human, Ryan Adams - Prisoner, Saga & Thelonious Martin - Molotov [Mixtape], SiR - Her Too EP, Steve Lacey - Steve Lacy’s Demo EP, Stormzy - Gang Signs & Prayer, Surfer Blood - Snowdonia, Taylor Bennett - Restoration of An American Idol [Mixtape], Tennyson x Mr. Carmack - Tuesday Wednesday Thursday EP, Thelonious Martin - A Dozen For Dilla [Mixtape], Thievery Corporation - The Temple of I & I, Thundercat - Drunk

Wasn’t Feeling:

Future - FUTURE, Two-9 - FRVR

My Favorite Albums of January 2017

I am beginning a new monthly post where I will list my favorite albums of the previous month. You can view my end of the year 2016 Albums list here and 2016 EP’s list here

The Best:

Aquilo - Silhouettes Genre: Alternative / Indie

Proof: Sorry, Complicated

Bloom - [SIN]SES EP Genre: alt-R&B / Electronic

Proof: XCHXO!, Raindrops

Erik Hassle - Innocence Lost Genre: alt-R&B / Pop

Proof: No Words, Missing You

Japandroids - Near To The Wild Heart Of Life Genre: Alternative / Post-Punk

Proof: I’m Sorry (For Not Finding You Sooner), No Known Drink Or Drug

Lyves - Like Water EP Genre: R&B / Pop

Proof: Darkest Hour, No Love

Migos - Culture Genre: Hip-Hop

Proof: T-Shirt, Bad & Boujee (Feat. Lil Uzi Vert)

Shy Girls - Salt Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: Trivial Motion, Why I Love

SOHN - Rennen Genre: Electronic / Pop

Proof: Hard Liquor, Conrad

Tuxedo (Mayer Hawthorne & Jake One) - Fux with the Tux EP Genre: Funk / Soul / R&B

Proof: Fux with the Tux (Feat. Snoop Dogg), Special

The xx - I See You Genre: Indie Pop

Proof: Lips, On Hold

Bonus:

Late December Albums

Some months will have a bonus section with albums I randomly find throughout the year I missed, for January though I will post a couple albums that came out in late December, after I already made my year end list.

Run The Jewels (Killer Mike & El-P) - Run The Jewels 3 Genre: Hip Hop

Proof: Talk To Me, Thursday In The Danger Room (Feat. Kamasi Washington)

TCVVX- TCVVX EP Genre: alt-R&B

Proof: Tonight, Days

Other Albums to Check Out:

Bell Biv DeVoe - Three Strips, Bonobo - Migration, Cloud Nothings - Life Without Sound, David Bowie - No Plan EP, DJ Skarface - Shadow The Jewels (DJ Shadow x Run The Jewels Mash Up), Felix Snow & Wintertime - No Winter Without Snow EP, The Flaming Lips - Oczy Mlody, FOREVER ANTi PoP - Finessin the Rhythm EP, Gabe ‘Nandez - Disconnected EP, Gabriel Garzón-Montano - Jardín, GTA - Good Times Ahead: The Remixes EP, John Mayer - The Search For… EP, Julie Byrne - Not Even Happiness, Kehlani - SweetSexySavage, Lido & Santell - Passion Project II EP, James Fauntleroy - Warmest Winter II EP, Matt Martins - The Drum Chord Theory, Mr. Torphat - Trust Me EP, Nine Inch Nails - Not The Actual Event EP, P.O.S. - Chill, dummy, Problem - Chaciville, Roy Woods - Nocturnal, The Social Misfits - The Misadventures of Fern & Marty, T.I. - Us Or Else: Letter To The System, Wiley - Godfather, 24hrs. - Sunset Blvd. EP