My Favorite Albums of 2018

Just like always, these are my favorite albums of 2018, not the best albums of 2018. There will be some overlap obviously and I believe my list is often better than many mainstream publications because they trash, haha. Also what a terrible year for albums. I mean these are still good albums but many of these couldn’t stand shoulder to shoulder with top albums of years past. Anyways the list.

50. EVERYTHING IS LOVE by The Carters

Honestly I wish there was less Jay-Z and more Beyonce. And by less Jay-Z I mean no Jay-Z. I just want another Beyonce record after that last one basically turned me, a hater, into a fan. Plus I prefer her rap flow too. Yeah I said it.

49. Golden Hour by Kasey Musgraves

I hate country. And yet I found this album rather charming. I don’t think the song writing is especially strong (strange when that is country’s biggest strength), but Kasey Musgraves voice is pretty great and the sound is a nice mix of modern pop and folksy country that it’s quite winning. How this album is toping year end list is kinda ridiculous but it’s way better than it has any right to be.

48. Head Over Heals by Chromeo

Let’s get over the fact some people find the lyrics on Chromeo albums rather problematic. They kinda are but who kinda cares, this is shitty pop. We ain’t here to be woke. And shit is damn infectious that I just don’t care. Also The Dream is crazy good on this.

47. Layers of Us by Mimicking Birds

There is always an indie band that I discover in the process of making my list. Mimicking Birds is this years entry. Like Young The Giant and Local Natives before them, they make really solid indie rock music that might not win awards but win me over.

46. Expectations by Hayley Kiyoko

Great year for pop, not so great year for everything else. Another great pop record that is also rather unexpected. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.

45. Blue Madonna by Borns

Maybe the biggest surprise of the year is that Borns released an album this year and it was kinda fire and nobody cared. Such a shame, it really deserves some more spins, it’s way better than you would ever expect.

44. Songs of Praise by Shame

Is rock really dead? Someone forgot to tell Shame, who come in guns blazing.

43. Lamp Lit Prose by Dirty Projectors

Another album missing from year end list that is just a shame, because it’s great. Only discovered Dirty Projectors last year and I’m all in.

42. Thank You For Today by Death Cab For Cutie

The best Death Cab album in years. And I mean years. They have been having trouble really finding their sound in the last few years but it’s nice to see them finally beginning to settle down and discovering what works now. I can finally say that I’m looking forward to new Death Cab again.

41. Chris by Christine and the Queens

2018 really is the year of the woman. Dominating my list for the most, this is year another stellar entry. Late scratch into my list but definitely deserves it’s place. Excellent.

40. Black Panther The Album by Various Artist

Music soundtracks can be hit or miss. This is definitely hit. While the tracks that they feature in the movie maybe a little eclectic, the album itself is much more cohesive, all tied together by Kendrick who shows up a handful of times. It’s pretty dope. Best album of the year though? Grammy’s are smoking something.

39. Vessel by Frankie Cosmos

This album is so light, it is damn near floating away. Most songs clock in around 2 minutes, and everything just breezes bye. And yet don’t sleep on this, it’s fucking great.

38. Isolation by Kali Uchis

If anyone burst out of 2018 with the most swag, it gotta be Kali Uchis, who on this record really is full of the utmost confidence. It’s brash and it bangs and she got some interesting vocal range and taste, as this album is kinda everywhere. In a good way.

37. Francis Trouble by Albert Hammond Jr.

Franicis Trouble is what new Strokes albums should sound like. Which figures because well, Albert Hammond Jr. If only they were this mix of modern and old school. Oh well.

36. Hormone Lemonade by Cavern of Anti-Matter

Comparable to Todd Terje’s excellent It’s Album Time, Hormone Lemonade is just a great electronic album full of energy that the lack of vocals is not a lack, it doesn’t need it. It got enough energy on it’s own. Feels like a great drive around the block.

35. Clean by Soccer Mommy

The heart of this lo-fi album is big and beautiful. It just bowls you over. It’s small and delicate and yet I found it just amazing.

34. In A Poem Unlimited by U.S. Girls

Not gonna lie, I have no idea how to classify this album. It’s so full of an array of different sounds, and every track is a surprise. It’s also stupid good. I guess the best thing I can say is that this is why “alternative” was invented, because I’m clueless about it besides the fact I like it a lot.

33. Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino by Arctic Monkeys

How the fuck did the Arctic Monkeys make a damn lounge album about a space resort and it’s incredible? It’s almost like they wanted to lose all the fans they gained from their past album. Which is a shame, because they should stick around. This is incredible stuff. The songwriting is immaculate and somehow, despite itself, it just works.

32. Caer by Twin Shadow

Did no expect to have this album even on this list, but man it’s just good music man. And dude got pipes and the music is a groove and loved it.

31. Kids See Ghost by Kids See Ghost

Imagine how fire this album could have be if Kanye just stayed in the studio rather than the booth? Would have been the best Kudi record we would have gotten in years. Instead, it’s still the best Kudi has sounded in a long time, it’s just a shame Kanye tries to sabotage it. Never the less, it’s still so great. I miss this Kudders. Just next time Kanye, shut up bruh.

30. God’s Favorite Customer by Father John Misty

Always constistent. And always consistently good. No complaints here.

29. Daytona by Pusha T

People need to chill. This is a really good rap album and maybe the best thing to come out of that Kanye stretch of production, but it’s only 7 tracks and not all bang. But dude, when it bangs, my goodness gracious.

28. Swimming by Mac Miller

Poor Mac Miller. RIP my dude. He was really beginning to find a fascinating sound and bringing some really interesting concepts and sounds to the rap game. This jazzy chill laid back album features excellent production and Mac Miller is right there to elevate. Such a shame, would have been fascinating to see where he would have gone and grown as an artist. Damn tragedy.

27. FM! by Vince Staples

I’m not gonna lie, I’ve liked each successive Vince Staples albums less and less. I think it’s great he’s growing as an artist, but I guess I’m still stuck behind. Never the less, they are all still top notch, and this one, which just whips by, is a banger for sure.

26. Negro Swan by Blood Orange

Dev Hynes is dope. And the emotion he is able to convey through that voice and the funky and retro production is just great. Every album really digs into you deep and this is no exception. Keep it up.

25. Scorpion by Drake

This is a weak album by Drake standards. Dude, for the last time, kill your darlings. We don’t need an album this long and full of this much filler. Because if you cut that shit out, this album, much like Views and More Life, is really really really really good. Also Scorpion is a dumb album title.

24. I’m All Ears by Let’s Eat Grandma

Sludge pop. I guess. Their words not mine. Hell these girls call themselves Let’s Eat Grandma. They weird as fuck, as so is the music. It’s also kinda flames.

23. Lush by Snail Mail

Channeling the girl rockers of the 90s and early 2000s, Lindsey might actually be better than most of them. This is some great indie rock.

22. Dirty Computer by Janelle Monae

This is her worst album by a mile. And it’s a damn shame this is the one that finally garners some mainstream traction. And yet, it made my list despite the fact I dislike many aspects of this album. So why is it not only on the list but so high? Because it’s Janelle Monae and this girl can sing and some of the songs are fire despite themselves. Just maybe next time, less rapping and maybe less thirst.

21. Some Rap Songs by Earl Sweatshirt

We in 2018 but this dude is in 3018. This man cares nothing for the current state of rap, he’s off doing his own thing on his own planet.

20. Be The Cowboy by Mitski

I saw Mitski live back at FYF Fest and I’ve been a fan ever since. And how pleasantly surprised was I that her new album is even better than her last.

19. Room 25 by Noname

Showing some impressive growth since her last album, Noname once again proves not only can women rap but their perspective can often lead to results that transcend the gender lines. While I do miss the Rugrats appeal of her last album, I can’t complain much, since this is just too good.

18. Good Thing by Leon Bridges

I was dubious after my first listen. I prefer the more classic Leon Bridges sound. And yet after a few spins, this album not only won me over, but creeped higher and higher up this list. I’m a sucker for great R&B.

17. So Sad So Sexy by Lykke Li

Lykke Li is a stunningly fascinating artist, who never really repeats herself and always bring something different and new. This dip into the weird and electronic really works and maybe my favorite album of hers. Too bad the love hasn’t been universal, y’all missing out.

16. The Now Now by Gorillaz

I’m gonna say something kinda controversial. This album is way better than Humanz, the comeback album the Gorillaz released. It’s just tighter, sounds more like a Gorillaz album especially on the production side, and it’s just so weird it’s great. Love it.

15. Saturn by Nao

What a great year for female led albums. While the rest of us are out here sucking, at least the ladies brought it this year. And one of them is Nao, whose unique voice always struck a cord with me and her space themed album is a real delight. Not a weak link in the house.

14. YSIV by Logic

I admit it, I’m kinda a sucker for Logic. I just like the dude and when I saw him live he really won me over. And after two pretty good albums, he’s returned to the sound that got me hooked in the first place. Drowning in the throwback 90s hip-hop forum, this is my prefered wheelhouse for him. Hope he doesn’t pivot too much on the next one, because I dig this shit. His best since Under Pressure.

13. Heaven and Earth by Kamasi Washington

I love great jazz and this is as good as it gets for modern jazz. Plus it’s truly epic, with songs often clocking in at over 9 minutes and really it’s one of the few albums this year that truly take you on a journey. Not my favorite of his and it’s as long as a Michael Bay movie but god when it’s this good, can you really hate?

12. Blood by Rhye

I’m gonna let you in on a little secret. This might be a better album that Woman. Rhye is a dude who sings like Sade and fills the void that she leaves behind since homegirl releases an album every million years. Also might be the sexiest album of the year, and yes I’m looking at you Dirty Computer.

11. Wide Awake! by Parquet Courts

Who would have thought that Parquet Courts would release an album that deals with modernity and politics? Go figure, it works, but the boys don’t let that stop them from getting a little funky too. Their best album yet.

10. Tell Me How You Really Feel by Courtney Barnett

A small little introverted ball of energy of an album. It’s fucking great.

9. Twin Fantasy by Car Seat Headrest

Surprisingly solid year for rock, as you can see by the last three albums. And here we get an album which is kinda a reworking of previous work but who cares, it’s Car Seat Headrest and it’s damn good too

8. Hive Mind by The Internet

Funky. Fun. Free. Fucking. Fantastic.

7. 7 by Beach House

Fitting that 7 placed, well, #7 on my list. Total accident. But you know what wasn’t an accident? How good this album is. Beach House might have perfected their sound on Bloom, but on 7, they expand their sound with winning results. Ear candy for sure. Legit in competition for their best album.

6. Constant Image by Flasher

Best true rock album of the year by a mile, this album kicks all kinds of ass. It starts at 11 and never goes below that. It never slows down, never sputters, just keeps on going and going and going.

5. A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships by The 1975

You can have these guys all you want, you can’t hold their ambition against them. They really do reach for the stars. Diving into a kind of modern guilt, and listening to way too much Kanye, these guys definitely have some interesting ideas. But also they are just really good at making power pop for the masses while sneaking in some unexpected gems and depth.

4. Semicircle by The Go! Team

I’m probably the only person who had this as their favorite album of 2018 for the majority of the year. And that’s not hyperbole, it’s their best album and the best they’ve ever sounded. Plus sometimes sugary music is really sweet.

3. High As Hope by Florence & The Machine

I prefer the last album for sure, but this is damn close to another perfect record. Girl got pipes man. And the music is just beautiful. So so good.

2. Honey by Robyn

Ditching the dance anthems of her previous work for something a bit more lowkey and chill, this is often times much more personal. We finally get to dive deep into Robyn herself. And mixed with her usual flair, some great production and all around excellence, this album deserves to be as high as I put it.

1. Microshift by Hookworms

Figures that in maybe the weakest year of albums in my memory that a band I never heard of before tops my list. 2018 was weird man. Including this album, which has these guys exploring their synth side to fantastic results. I can’t tell you how amazing this album is, just stop reading and listen already.

My Favorite Movies of 2017

Wow, it's March and I'm finally getting to this. Sorry been busy. And I've seen almost every movie nominated for Best Picture, sans Darkest Hour. And I still haven't seen Thor, Florida Project, and a few others. And yes I've seen the Shape of Water. Anyways the list.

25. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2

Not as good as the first but it's charming and fun and fluff. Good enough.

24. Mudbound

Incredibly depressing but gorgeously shot and very well acted. Wish it was better than it actually is.

23. Spider-Man: Homecoming

I have really big issues with the film but it gets Peter Parker so right. The Spider-Man stuff, not so much.

22. Wonder Woman

If only all DC films were this good. Like Spider-Man, I have issues, but it does so much well that although it's overrated, it's still pretty good.

21. A Ghost Story

If you can't get over the fact that the ghost is a sheet with eye holes, you're gonna hate this. But once you get past that, it's hauntingly beautiful.

20. Beauty and the Beast

Disney has a pretty good track record with these live remakes and this continues the trend. Really well made.

19. I, Tonya

Reminds me of Goodfellas but for figure skating. And it works. Well mostly.

18. Split

M. Night might be back you guys.

17. Dunkirk

It's so well made and the stuff in the air and the boats is really good. The soldiers on the beach though? Maybe not so much. Also its a 2 hour movie that feels like 3.

16. The Big Sick

This movie has massive problems but it does enough great stuff that it totally won me over.

15. Logan Lucky

Like a redneck Ocean's 11, it kinda sneaks up on you how good it is until it's nearly over and you are like, whoa.

14. John Wick 2

More of the same. That's not a bad thing. Keep it going.

13. The Disaster Artist

A really good movie about the making of a really bad movie. Also Franco is kinda amazing in this.

12. Star Wars: The Last Jedi

I know the complaints and the qualms. I get it. And the first half is good/solid but not great. But the back half is really stupid good.

11. War for the Planet of the Apes

While I wish there was more "war" like the title suggest, it's still very, very, very good and the motion capture and special effects on the apes is jaw dropping good.

10. The Lost City of Z

Kinda like a realistic Indiana Jones with a fascinating story and great performances from actors you wouldn't really expect to bring the heat.

9. Call Me By Your Name

Feels like a 70s movie and it looks amazing. Plus the acting all around is top notch and it's a touching story. If only the kid was a little older...

8. The Post

The script is kinda meh but the rest is really great. Plus I'm a sucker for a good movie about journalism and it's Spielberg so duh.

7. Baby Driver

Another one where the actual story is kinda bleh, but everything about it elevates it to high art. It's fun and fantastic.

6. Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

I know some people hate this movie. And I know the race stuff is really sloppy. But it's a damn good movie.

5. Phantom Thread

It's not really about fashion (which I actually wish there was more of). Instead it's kinda a sneaky movie about the women in this mans life. Fascinating.

4. Blade Runner 2049

Somehow they made a sequel to the sci-fi classic and it's stupid good. I kinda want more.

3. Lady Bird

One of the best coming of age films outside of the world of John Hughes. Really hope it has legs to stick around in peoples minds because it deserves it.

2. Get Out

I hope this wins the Oscar but I doubt it. I liked it a lot at first but the more I think about it, the more I notice the little things, the more I see the world through it's eyes, the more brilliant I realize this movie is. 

1. Logan

One of the best super hero movies ever made. And a damn good movie in general. People don't appreciate how great this movie is. It's so much better than Spider-Man: Homecoming and Wonder Woman it's not even funny. I'm gonna miss Wolverine.

My Favorite Albums of 2017

Gonna be honest, not a great year for albums. Top heavy for sure. Surprised many of these actually made the list, as they wouldn't have normally, so take this all with a grain of salt. Like always, my favorite albums, not necessarily the best.

50. The Echo of Pleasure by The Pains of Being Pure At Heart

While the album sounds often like a band dying right in front of us, it still has those moments that made you fall in love with these misfits in the first place.

49. Harry Styles by Harry Styles

While it no way nears the highs of say Justin Timberlake's solo debut, it's way better than it has any right to be, and shows so much promise, mainly because it's just a way more interesting direction for the artist than his boy band group ever even sniffed. Pleasant surprise of the year for sure.

48. In Mind by Real Estate

Real Estate has a distinct sound on this record they seem to really perfected it. But that's the problem right? It's a perfect Real Estate record but doesn't show any growth or rough edges that sometimes makes music shine. Maybe next time they should try something a little different, but not too different.

47. Funk Wave Bounces Vol. 1 by Calvin Harris

An album full of summer anthems, for better or worse. Calvin Harris plays match maker, teaming up artist that probably have no business being on the same track and seeing what happens. And many times it doesn't work. And many times it works way too well. 

46. Songs of Experience by U2

While I don't praise this band inexplicably like Rolling Stone magazine, they still make really good music and they are criminally under appreciated. These guys are this old and still this good. Yeah they aren't great, but some of the stuff is still very very very good.

45. Villains by Queens of the Stone Age

While I much prefer their previous effort, this funky album isn't the match made in heaven you'd think with their team up with Mark Ronson, but it does give the band a bit of a kick in the ass it needs. I just miss the drudge of the last record, which was unapologetically dark and twisted in the best way. 

44. Automaton by Jamiroquai

Yes it's 2017, nearly 2018 and yes I listened to a Jamiroquai album. And yes it's pretty good. 

43. Visions of a Life by Wolf Alice

Probably should be higher up but I haven't spent enough time with this record for it to sit. But it's fuzzy and fascinating, full of really great rock that is sorely missing from everywhere really. 

42. Planetarium by James McAlister & Various Artists

To be fair, James is just one of the artist on this album, teaming up with Sufjan Stevens among others. And what we get is an album inspired by our very own solar system. It's a little weird, almost too weird at times, but when Sufjan grabs hold man oh man sometimes it gets mightily pretty.

41. Painted Ruins by Grizzly Bear

What an obtuse album. Really difficult to really dive into. But if you are patient, you will be rewarded. I just wish it was a bit more listener friendly.

40. Everything Now by Arcade Fire

Hands down the worst Arcade Fire album. And yet it's still an Arcade Fire album, and it's still good enough to squeeze into this list. But it does scare me a bit.

39. Mister Mellow by Washed Out

A visual album I guess, that actually doesn't have many real songs on it, but the songs it does have are a nice break for the usual Washed Out flavor while still feeling dare I saw washed out.

38. Everybody by Logic

A bit preachy. Okay way too preachy. But beyond that, another solid to great effort by Logic.

37. Sleep Well Beast by The National

For whatever reason, this album didn't resonate with me like past records from the band, maybe since it feels a bit more tender and less unstrung and biting. It's a bit of a break away from their normal fare, and some dug it. I dug it too, just wish it was more like The National of the past.

36. No One Ever Really Dies by N.E.R.D.

While at times if feels more like Neptunes presents The Clones than an N.E.R.D. record, it is night to have these weirdos back. Let's get something straight though, the music by N.E.R.D. probably isn't very good. But I don't care.

35. Infinite Worlds by Vagabon

Another artist I knew nothing about that came and dropped a record I really dug. Can't wait for more.

34. Humanz by Gorillaz

If there was a theme this year, it's artist releasing new records that I like but don't love. Some of these have been on longer hiatuses than others, case in point. This is better than a Gorillaz reunion album should have been but still I crave more.

33. Relaxer by Alt-J

Definitely not the album I was expecting from these guys, but they're weird as hell so what do you really expect. Still loved it.

32. Lust For Life by Lana Del Rey

This is the best album Lana has ever released. She has finally really perfected her sound and it shows. Probably should be higher. Here is hoping for more from her, upward and onward.

31. American Teen by Khalid

While homeboy sounds like he's 30, he sings songs about not even being 20. And it's just a great record all and all. Can't wait for more from this man as he matures and his sound evolves.

30. Fin by Syd

Like I said, this is the year women took control of R&B and the record by Syd reflect that. Sexy and cool, confident and brash, it's fantastic. Maybe it gets a little lost at times or tries to be mainstream in stretches that fail, but when it tries to make it's own path, it truly sails.

29. War & Leisure by Miguel

Now this is more like it. Late addition to the list and deserves to be there. Love the record.

28. Aromanticsm by Moses Sumney

I guess we can just call this the year of R&B, as it dominates my list. The airy album breathes life into an otherwise lackadaisical list. Dig Moses and can't wait to hear more.

27. Hot Thoughts by Spoon

Spoon topped my list not too long ago and sadly I feel this is a step back. Yet it's still Spoon which is better than no Spoon and even lesser Spoon is still great.

26. Life Without Sound by Cloud Nothings

Maybe the most under appreciated album on the list, I saw it on no end of the year lists and don't understand, since it's maybe the Cloud Nothings best effort yet.

25. SweetSexySavage by Kehlani

Channeling TLC's CrazySexyCool in the most blatant way while bringing it into the 21st century, this Kehlani record is all kinds of great.

24. Dirty Projectors by Dirty Projectors

If this is their last record, then what a record to go out on.

23. Ctrl by SZA

While I am not as all in on the record as many, since it's topped plenty of lists, it's still great and fresh and polished for someones debut of sorts. I want to see more and I hope her sound and voice grow.

22. american dream by LCD Soundsystem

It's the worst album they have ever released and yet like Radiohead, that's still stupid good. I'm glad to have LCD Soundsystem back even if the hiatus was really more like a mini vaca.

21. Pure Comedy by Father John Misty

Dude is long winded and cynical as hell but man oh man does he know how to string out a story.

20. Hug of Thunder by Broken Social Scene

Another long break for an artist, another great but not perfect return from the dark. 

19. Big Fish Theory by Vince Staples

Like I've said countless times on this list, this isn't my favorite from Vince Staples but man oh man does it bang at times.

18. Something To Tell by Haim

I was worried about this. Worried a lot. When I saw them galavanting with Taylor Swift and such I started to panic. I didn't want them to get a whiff of that stink on them. And glad to say they didn't, even if some of the pop anthems from before are replaced with a growth and experiment of sounds at times. But it hits more times then misses.

17. MASSEDUCTION by St. Vincent

Didn't love it like her last record but it's close enough.

16. Haiku From Zero by Cut Copy

Is it a Cut Copy record? Yup! Does it bounce? Yup! Will it make its way on to my end of the year list? Yup!

15. Crack-Up by Fleet Foxes

So glad that Fleet Foxes are back on their bullshit.

14. Blkswn by Smino

Another album from an artist I never heard of until this year and another record that should be on more end of the year lists. It's dope as fuck.

13. Process by Sampha

That voice tho.

12. The Far Fields by Future Islands

Your dad's favorite band that he never has heard of yet is still keeping soft rock alive.

11. Slowdive by Slowdive

I'm gonna be honest, this is my first Slowdive record. And it blew me away. Might need to go back into the catalog and dig up the oldies. Plus who knew they still had this in them?

10. A Deeper Understanding by The War On Drugs

Probably should have made the top 5, it's that good. The songs are long and sprawling and truly emotional. The album moves me.

9. Take Me Apart by Kelela

There were many female R&B singers trying to fight for the throne, but one reigns above them all. Kelela, and it's not even close. Sorry SZA. Sorry Syd. Sorry Kehlani. Sorry ladies. Better luck next time.

8. Flower Boy by Tyler The Creator

Who the hell knew this dude had this kind of record in him?

7. No Shape by Perfume Genius

The best thing Perfume Genius has ever released, easy. It's an incredible record and a true artistic achievement. So happy I got to see Perfume Genius live this year too as I got to witness the majesty in person. 

6. More Life by Drake

If only Drake had an editor, because if you trim the fat, this is maybe the best rap album of the year. Well maybe not but it's damn closer than it should be. Instead it's too long yet much better than Views even if that feels like a hot take.

5. Somersault by Beach Fossils

Beach Fossils is what Real Estate wishes it could be. The most even and consistently great album on the list, all killer not filler. A damn shame it's not getting the praise it deserves, this should be topping lists left and right. It got that sunny sound but enough experiments and expansion to keep things very interesting.

4. Ti Amo by Phoenix

A french band singing in English inspired by Italy. Go figure. And while critics may complain about the lack of guitar, it's so damn catchy and full of ear worms I really don't care. Magnifico!

3. Melodrama by Lorde

I liked this album on my initial listen but didn't love it. Then I listened to it again. And again. And again. It really grows and gets better with each listen, and it's damn close to being just as good as her firecracker debut. It's more mature and an and expansion of her sound. While I miss part of the old Lorde, like the production, this new Lorde is still excellent.

2. Damn by Kendrick Lamar

The perineal runner up once again comes in second on my list. So close.

1. I See You by The xx

This is the best thing The xx have ever made, including Jamie xx solo record. It takes the bands sound and adds Jamie's newfound experiments and completely perfects their sound. I don't think it can get better than this for The xx, this is the peak, this is the mountain for them, it's all downhill from here. But who cares, because the view is gorgeous.

My Favorite Songs of 2017

Keep it short and sweet. Good year for songs, not so good year for albums. Here are my favorite songs of 2017, not the best, not the brightest, just my personal favorites.

100. "Little of Your Love" by Haim

99. "Midnight Train" by Sam Smith

98. "Pineapple Skies" by Miguel

97. "The Embers" by Vagabon

96. "Shutdown" by Joywave

95. "Mood" by dvsn

94. "Tangerine" by Beach Fossils

93. "No Known Drink Or Drug" by Japandroids

92. "My Only" by Pains Of Being Pure At Heart

91. "Pleader" by Alt-J

90. "Homemade Dynamite" by Lorde

89. "Los Ageless" by St. Vincent

88. "Miracles (Someone Special" by Coldplay

87. "how do you sleep?" by LCD Soundsystem

86. "Portland" by Drake

85. "Black Rainbows" by Cut Copy

84. "A Violent Noise" by The xx

83. "Ti Amo" by Phoenix

82. "Sign of the Times" by Harry Styles

81. "Netflix & Dusse" by Smino

80. "Know" by Syd

79. "Things Are Right With You" by Cloud Nothings

78. "Neptune" by James McAlister

77. "911 / Mr. Lonely" by Tyler The Creator

76. "Love" by Lana Del Rey

75. "Fool's Errand" by Fleet Foxes

74. "Up All Night" by The War On Drugs

73. "Big Fish" by Vince Staples

72. "This Is The World Of The Theater" by The New Pornographers

71. "Automaton" by Jamiroquai

70. "Kept Me Crying" by Haim

69. "Sugar for the Pill" by Slowdive

68. "ELEMENT." by Kendrick Lamar

67. "Halfway Home" by Broken Social Scene

66. "Get Lost" by Washed Out

65. "Cool Your Heart" by Dirty Projectors

64. "Andromeda" by Gorillaz

63. "Chanel" by Frank Ocean

62. "May 1st" by Beach Fossils

61. "Get It Together" by Drake

60. "You and I" by Toro Y Moi

59. "The Way You Used to Do" by Queens of the Stone Age

58. "Shine A Light" by Shabazz Palaces

57. "Darling" by Real Estate

56. "Midnight" by Jessie Ware

55. "Biscuit Town" by King Krule

54. "The Highs" by Panama

53. "Blood on Me" by Sampha

52. "Get Out Of Your Own Way" by U2

51. "Die 4 You" by Perfume Genius

50. "Everything Now" by Arcade Fire

49. "Leaving LA" by Father John Misty

48. "Bad Love" by Earl St. Clair

47. "Trouble (Extended Mix)" by The Knocks

46. "Do You Still Love Me?" by Ryan Adams

45. "Disco Tits" by Tove Lo

44. "Heroin" by Lana Del Rey

43. "Don't Delete The Kisses" by Wolf Alice

42. "Baybee" by Jay Som

41. "The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness" by The National

40. "Undercover" by Kehlani

39. "Green Light" by Lorde

38. "other voices" by LCD Soundsystem

37. "Love Can Be..." by Vince Staples

36. "Told You So" by Miguel

35. "Airborne" by Cut Copy

34. "Mourning Sound" by Grizzly Bear

33. "Lemon" by N.E.R.D.

32. "J-Boy" by Phoenix

31. "Black Spider-Man" by Logic

30. "Ran" by Future Islands

29. "WhisperI'lllistentohearit" by Spoon

28. "Drew Barrymore" by SZA

27. "Mercury" by James McAlister

26. "Sugar" by Beach Fossils

25. "On Top" by Fenech-Soler

24. "Boredom" by Tyler The Creator

23. "Third of May / Odaigahara" by Fleet Foxes

22. "DNA." by Kendrick Lamar

21. "Replica" by The xx

20. "Girl Like You" by Toro Y Moi

19. "3WW" by Alt-J

18. "(No One Knows Me) Like The Piano" by Sampha

17. "LMK" by Kelela

16. "8TEEN" by Khalid

15. "Right Now" by Haim

14. "Tuttifrutti" by Phoenix

13. "Slide" by Calvin Harris

12. "Strangest Thing" by The War On Drugs

11. "Plastic" by Moses Sumney

10. "Enter Entirely" by Cloud Nothings

9. "Amphetamin" by Smino

8. "Slip Away" by Perfume Genius

7. "Star Roving" by Slowdive

6. "The Louvre" by Lorde

5. "Burn Out Blues" by Washed Out

4. "HUMBLE." by Kendrick Lamar

3. "Truth" by Kamasi Washington

2. "Passionfruit" by Drake

1. "Say Something Loving" by The xx

My Favorite Movies of 2016

Here are my favorite films from last year. Always takes me a bit to catch up and while I haven't watched everything I've wanted, I've seen enough. Strangely enough, ever movie nominated for Best Picture made my list. Anyways, as always, this is what are my favorite movies, not what I think are the best. If there is any overlap, so be it.

25. Bleed For This

I'm a sucker for boxing movies, and this movie does just enough, plus has two great performances at it's core, that I can't leave if off the list. Way too good of a movie for it to flop the way it did. Too bad, y'all missed out.

24. Midnight Special

Similar to Stranger Things, it channels Spielberg movies of the 80s better than most. While the ending left me wanting, the lead up did not, loved the mystery, the weirdness, the style. Great flick.

23. Silence

I have no idea why I find religious movies fascinating, maybe cause I've struggled with religion myself. I think this movie has some truly thought provoking and intense moments, if only it had stuck the landing. Also it's Scorcese, and does he make bad movies?

22. The Birth of a Nation

It's a shame with all the Nate Parker business, but I'm usually able to separate the man and the art. Which helps in a movie like this, which is very very good and very very raw. It's a shame this movie got buried, because it deserves an audience.

21. Patriots Day

Is it too soon? Probably, but it does tell a harrowing story of the tragic events of the Boston Marathon bombings with such quality and style reminiscent of Paul Greengrass. If only Greengrass directed this film, it could have been top 10 material possibly. But Peter Berg does work and he's the only one on this list twice, which should be noted.

20. Hacksaw Ridge

The beginning is so stereotypical and by the numbers, I nearly stopped watching. Which would have been a mistake since once we get to the war stuff, it's truly moving and intense and most importantly, damn heroic. And besides the fact Mel is probably a terrible human being, dude makes good movies.

19. Lion

It's basically Slumdog Millionaire 2, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. And the first half is very very very good, propped up by fantastic performance by a child actor, which is very rare. Should have used this kid for The Jungle Book. Anyways, the later half falters a bit but the total story is quite moving.

18. Deepwater Horizon

Maybe the most surprisingly good movie of the year. It's really great. The way Peter Berg gives us the people on the rig and make them feel like real people, loved that stuff. Really made me feel for them, connect with them, so when the disaster strikes, it hits like a sledgehammer. And the fire is truly terrifying. If only it didn't wobble a little in the ending, but that's nitpicking. 

17. Nocturnal Animals

This might not be a good movie. It's kinda high trash. And yet I liked it. Found the style great, the performances great, the story full of pulp. Yes the movie is basically a woman reading a terrible book but I really dug it and it aged well for me.

16. Fences

It definitely feels more like a play on tape then a real movie, but the performances are just so good, especially Viola and Denzel, that you just can't help but sit and watch the hell out of this. Truly an acting clinic.

15. The Nice Guys

While I think it has tonal problems, I still dug how playful, how weird, how fun this movie was. Plus Crowe and Gosling have great chemistry and it's the kinda buddy movie they don't make no more.

14. 10 Cloverfield Lane

It's not a very good Cloverfield movie, but it's a very good trapped movie. Intense and mysterious, the movie kept me on edge. Maybe one of the best thrillers this whole year or any of the past few.

13. The Lobster

The main concept of this movie is ridiculous. Utter ridiculous. And yet, especially in the first half, I was all in. Farrell is great, the idea is clever, the movie is both funny and tragic and just so damn weird and fresh, I just can't.

12. Everybody Wants Some!

Linklater is the best. And this movie, which is basically us hanging out with these guys, who in the beginning are probably not people I would normally hang out with, won me over. There is no plot, and it doesn't matter. I loved it. I want some more. Get it? You get it.

11. Swiss Army Man

Lot's of great weird movies this year, and this might take the cake. Plus finally a Daniel Radcliffe performance I can get behind. It's batsh*t insane and I loved it. So much WTF, so much win.

10. Hidden Figures

A true crowd pleaser, it's so much better than The Help, it's not even funny. An important story to tell, it's well acted and really moving. It's also made for the masses. How can you hate on this movie? It's just hit all the right buttons, it feels like a top tier Disney movie without the pratfalls that entails.

9. Green Room

It's a simple story and it's told with perfect precision and execution. It's basically about a band who find themselves in the wrong place and the wrong time and gotta get out. And it just slays it. It's really hard to describe why it's so great, so just watch and you'll know

8. Deadpool

I didn't care for the trailers, but thank god the movie is so much better in the theater. Maybe one of the better comic book movies since Kick-Ass and the Nolan Batman Movies. And it's because it doesn't take itself to seriously, doesn't have just ridiculously stupid stakes and it is fun and funny and just weird enough.

7. Hell or Nigh Water

It's basically No Country For Old Men 2 and that's not a bad thing. It's not the kind of movie that really transcends. It's just very good at doing what it does and it knows what it is. Plus the acting is great and the screenplay is sharp. I think maybe people are over praising it, but that doesn't mean it's not a great movie. It is. It just is what it is, and that is, pretty damn good.

6. Zootopia

Maybe my favorite animated movie is some time. Which is so rare because I don't usually love animated movies anymore. I'm not a big Pixar guy. The other animated movies I've really liked recently would be Rango or Fantastic Mr. Fox. And now this. Plus the world building is great.

5. Moonlight

Split into 3 parts, the first part is so good that the other two struggle to keep up. Luckily they are also very good, and the ending is near perfect in it's understated execution. Filled with great performances, including the kids and the supporting characters, it's a quiet showcase that slowly knocks you out. 

4. Arrival

First off, the ending just floored me. It's so good that the rest of the movie could have been garbage and it still would have made my list. Luckily the rest of the movie is top notch. It takes what is a cool idea, gives us a different spin and isn't afraid to get intellectual. It's about language and interpretations and semantics and human nature. And it's amazing.

3. Manchester by the Sea

I was not looking forward to watching this movie. It looked like it would be rough. Luckily I was very wrong. It is able to have huge dramatic pieces with enough comedy sprinkled in so you don't slit your wrist. The central performance by Affleck is great, almost makes you forget that homeboy might not be right outside the screen. Anyways, it feels like the best Alexander Payne film not directed by the man. That's not a criticism, more like a big compliment.

2. La La Land

Haters gonna hate. And you can hate all you want, I love La La Land. I don't care what anyone says. I don't even like musicals and yet this won bowled me over. Loved the colors, loved the characters, loved the two central performances, loved the style and cinematography, loved that the movie let me escape into a dream world for it's run time. Love this movie.

1. O.J.: Made in America

Is it even a movie? That is up for debate, but it was screened in the theater and it's nominated for an Oscar so that's good enough for me. And probably one of the first times ever a doc made the top of my list. But this isn't any normal documentary. This is OJ. This is like 7 or 8 hours long of a trip down that rabbit hole. And it's fascinating and devastating and ridiculous and most importantly, incredible. Truly the best doc I've seen in years and an experience no one should miss.

My Favorite Songs of 2016

Last year I didn't post a favorite song list here, but this year I plan to. My favorite 100 songs of 2016. I know it's a lot but no commentary, just the list

100. "33 God" by Bon Iver.

99. "Go!" by M83

98. "Confessions Pt. II" by BADBADNOTGOOD

97. "Sick Love" by Red Hot Chili Peppers

96. "Pyramids" by Common

95. "Crime Cutz" by Holy Ghost!

94. "Come Down" by Anderson Paak

93. "Golden Gal" by Animal Collective

92. "Pink + White" by Frank Ocean

91. "Glowed Up" by Kaytranada

90. "Secrets" by The Weeknd

89. "White Light" by Shura

88. "Water" by Ra Ra Riot

87. "Vincent" by Car Seat Headrest

86. "Dust" by Parquet Courts

85. "22 (Over Soon)" by Bon Iver

84. "Best to You" by Blood Orange

83. "Sunny Duet" by Noname.

82. "Weston Road Flows" by Drake

81. "All Night" by Chance The Rapper

80. "Episode" by Gallant

79. "Choose Me" by James Blake

78. "Dis Generation" by A Tribe Called Quest

77. "Dang!" by Mac Miller

76. "Suddenly" by Drugdealer

75. "4r Da Squaw" by Isaiah Rashad

74. "Sorry" by Beyonce

73. "No More Parties in LA" by Kanye West

72. "Untitled 07" by Kendrick Lamar

71. "By Design" by Kid Cudi

70. "Burn The Witch" by Radiohead

69. "Lake By The Ocean" by Maxwell

68. "Radio Silence" by James Blake

67. "Blackstar" by David Bowie

66. "Feel Like I Do" by Disclosure

65. "(Girl We Got A) Good Thing" by Weezer

64. "On Hold" by The xx

63. "Room in Here" by Anderson Paak.

62. "High and Low" by Empire of the Sun

61. "Good Lava" by Esperanze Spalding

60. "Untitled 03" by Kendrick Lamar

59. "Rising Water" by James Vincent McMorrow

58. "The Right One" by KING

57. "Shut Up Kiss Me" by Angel Olsen

56. "Really Doe" by Danny Brown

55. "Me And Your Mamma" by Childish Gambino

54. "Prima Donna" by Vince Staples

53. "Lost Youth/Lost You" by How To Dress Well

52. "Can't Get Enough of Myself" by Santigold

51. "Cold To See Clear" by Nada Surf

50. "Too Deep" by dvsn

49. "Let Me Be Me" by NiteFunk

48. "Eyes on Me" by Classixx

47. "The Resume" by BJ The Chicago Kid

46. "Cranes in the Sky" by Solange

45. "May I Have This Dance" by Francis and the Lights

44. "Something About You" by Majid Jordan

43. "Do It, Try It" by M83

42. "Stranger" by MOTHXR

41. "Diddy Bop" by Noname

40. "Skipping Stones" by Gallant

39. "We Don't Give A" by Nao

38. "I Can't Give Everything Away" by David Bowie

37. "Black Man in a White World" by Michael Kiwanuka

36. "The Sound" by The 1975

35. "Starboy" by The Weeknd

34. "Because I'm Me" by The Avalanches

33. "Decks Dark" by Radiohead

32. "Heart is Full" by Miike Snow

31. "Solo" by Frank Ocean

30. "One Dance" by Drake

29. "24K Magic" by Bruno Mars

28. "I'm 20" by Frankie Cosmos

27. "No Problem" by Chance The Rapper

26. "Bump" by Usher

25. "FloriDada" by Animal Collective

24. "Drunk Drivers/Killer Whales" by Car Seat Headrest

23. "The Big Big Beat" by Azealia Banks

22. "Physical" by St. Lucia

21. "Untitled 06" by Kendrick Lamar

20. "1990x" by Maxwell

19. "Say What You Feel" by Jagwar Ma

18. "The Space Program" by A Tribe Called Quest

17. "I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful so unaware of it" by The 1975

16. "Hold Up" by Beyonce

15. "I Feel It Coming" by The Weeknd

14. "Your Best American Girl" by Mitski

13. "Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1 & 2" by Kanye West

12. "Don't Touch My Hair by Solange

11. "Augustine" by Blood Orange

10. "8 (circle)" by Bon Iver

9. "Angels" by Chance The Rapper

8. "Laser Gun" by M83

7. "Talking To Myself" by Gallant

6. "Modern Soul" by James Blake

5. "All Night" by Beyonce

4. "Daydreaming" by Radiohead

3. "Feel No Ways" by Drake

2. "Nikes" by Frank Ocean

1. "Ultralight Beam" by Kanye West

My Favorite Albums of 2016

Not gonna lie, 2016 has been a terrible year. And when it came to music, especially albums, while there have been some definite heavy hitters, it has been mostly just good, not great. And yet still I was able to make a top 50 list. These like always are my favorites, not the best, even though I always note, that some of the best albums of the year might be present. I judge on my own criteria, basically what I like the best at this particular moment. Literally tomorrow this list could be different. I'm mercurial. Deal with it. Anyways, here we go.

50. You Know Who You Are by Nada Surf

This would never make any end of the year critics lists, but Nada Surf has always been one of my personal favorite bands and this was their best album in some time. All around solid, nothing new but everything very well polished. Great work guys, keep it up.

49. 4 Your Eyez Only by J. Cole

Either you appreciate J. Cole or you just don't get it. I'm looking at you Shea Serrano. I fall in the former camp. Well kinda. I know his weeknesses. Lyrically, he could be better. Much better. And the production, while solid, is a little sleepy. Reminds me of Talib Kweli, who never really figured it out when he wasn't with Hi-Tek or Mos Def. And yet here I am looking forward to every record he drops, with only the slightest diminishing returns.

48. Weezer (The White Album) by Weezer

Can we talk about Weezer for a minute. These guys were done, making terrible music spanning several albums  that were only still making music because of the goodwill they achieved with their early work. And I'm a Make Believe apologist, but Hurley, Weezer (The Red Album) and Raditude are awful. And then Rivers figured it all out, and they started making good music again. This is the second really good album in a row. No joke.

47. 99 Cents by Santigold

Santi's best days, as Santogold, gave us a new wave island fusion sound that was a kick in the ass. But then she changed her performing name, and well, kinda got a little boring. I'm glad to say 99 Cents, while not a full return to form, is a step in the right direction, as it feels very much alive and jittery. The highs drown out the lows and the positivity shins through. One of the funnest albums  of the year.

46. Black America Again by Common

I don't love the new Common album. But game recognize game. And this is the best Common has sounded in years, with an anger and passion behind it. It almost like a soundtrack to a movie that has yet to exist. 

45. Home of the Strange by Young The Giant

While I might not love the direction they are going, when I personally prefer their latest, it is nice to see them put real meaning behind their music, even if it isn't always 100% successful. Risk and reward. And this one does reward those who listen.

44. We Are KING by KING

Channeling late 80s/early 90s female lead R&B, these laid back grooves will not only take you back, but keep you up. Expertly crafted and nearly perfectly executed, it's hard to find R&B like this anymore. Was also a late edition to the list, so glad I took the time to squeeze it in.

43. Sunlit Youth by Local Natives

I don't know if Local Natives will ever "figure" it out. Whether they will ever get big or completely hone their sound. They try, they don't always land smoothly, but I enjoy the journey. Their latest is a meandering musical journey, perfect for a road trip across the country, just like the one I discovered their music on. Go West young souls.

42. In My Mind by BJ The Chicago Kid

First off, great year for Chicago music. But more on that later. With his sophomore album, BJ the Kid has given us the most modern soulful album I've heard in a while, mixing the old and the new very well. It doesn't always soar but when it hits, by does it hit, and the supporting cast ain't no joke. Such a great year for R&B and we are just getting started on this list.

41. Painting With by Animal Collective

Without fail, Noah Lennox weird little projects always make their way on my list. He makes strange catchy music with his bandmates, and I just can never get enough. Be it Panda Bear or Animal Collective or whatever else, I just want more, more, more. 

40. Puberty 2 by Mitski

Probably the most appropriately titled album of the year, Mitski leads us on an emotional journey through her mind, dealing with all sorts of issues, be it depression, racial identity, sexual politics, among other. All the while she just really nails it. Good for her.

39. The End of Comedy by Drugdealer

I know basically nothing about Michael Collins and his various bands and projects. Dude seems to get around for what I can gather. And yet, here I am listening to this psychedelic pop record that feels like it's straight out of 1974, ten years before I was born, and loving it. It's saccharine for sure, and definitely nostalgic, but it is also dope. And I don't mean the drug. Pun not intended. Okay it was.

38. 24K Magic by Bruno Mars

Clocking in just above 30 minutes, Bruno Mars latest is a sugar rush, the epitome of short and sweet. Owing a lot to Mark Ronson, it feels like Bruno Mars is really at his highest level of confidence and it shows on the record. It's a deep as a kiddie pool and it doesn't always work but when it does, it flies. If only he could stay away from the slow jams. 

37. Centerfold by MOTHXR

Fronted by a Gossip Girl star, this indie band masquerading as an electronic R&B outfit with a strange name and great hooks. While many might complain they are good not great, I beg to differ, feeling that the music does what it does, very very well. So grab some headphones and chill. You will be rewarded with at least a few ear worms.

36. Atrocity Exhibition by Danny Brown

I hate Danny Brown's flow. It's weird, his voice is weird too, and he never clicks with the beats he's on. And yet, I still enjoy his music despite my huge issues. I can't even tell you why. Maybe because it's so weird and there are so many great moments among the madness that I just accept my fate.

35. We Move by James Vincent McMorrow

James used to be a folk singer with an edge, but has no so slowly become an alternative R&B mainstay. That voice, goodness grief. Falsetto much? And folk side helps him avoid the pitfalls of most singer-songwriters whose voice often are leagues ahead of what is on the paper below them. I prefer his latest, but this is more than suffice.

34. Emily's D+Evolution by Esperanza Spalding

Remember when Esperanza Spalding became the only jazz musician to ever win Best New Artist at the Grammy's? Probably you don't, since Jazz heyday is long gone. There is no doubt she has talent, but this album really came out the blue. Who knew she has this funky Jazz fusion record in her, mixing old and new, channeling Bowie at times, and really just exploding all expectations she previously built. Maybe the most pleasant surprise and largest leap by an artist I've seen this year.

33. Care by How To Dress Well

Care is polished. It's as "mainstream" as Tom Krell might get. And it works. Mostly. Sometimes when you are under the big lights you either sink or swim. And this album mostly swims. So much so that it deserves a spot on my list. I just wish he returns to the dark corners where he belongs, because while this is very good, his last two were great.

32. Matter by St. Lucia

I love synthpop. I dunno why. And when it's done right, I am all in. As is the case with St. Lucia's sophomore record, which sounds an awfully lot like Passion Pit, but like the Naked and the Famous, that's not a bad thing. And I feel St. Lucia ascends above the comparisons making great 80s music in the 21st century.

31. 99.9% by Kaytranada

The best Canadian album of the year is also an electronic journey that's part funky, part punk and all the while hip-hop sensible. Celestin is like any good DJ with an impeccable ear and a fresh sense of style. Plus homebody knows who to bring on that would fit with his sensibilities to make this one of my favorite debut albums of the year. Can't wait to hear what's next from him.

30. For All We Know by Nao

It's only fitting that with the passing of Prince, we have those carrying the torch. One of them is the British singer Nao, who crafts funky R&B like no other. Her voice is so unique and she swings it like a sword. Really great record, even if it's a little long in the tooth.

29. My Woman by Angel Olsen

Yes, the later half at times feels like a sad sack slog, but Angel Olsen when she shines, is really blindingly good. Defiantly excellent.

28. Love & Hate by Michael Kiwanuka

Imagine if Curtis Mayfield or Otis Redding made a record today about our life and times. That's kinda what you get here. Kiwanuka comes into his own with the help of Danger Mouse. It's soulful, it's current, and it's all rather moving. It can be dark but benith there is rays of lights you can grasp. Great, great record.

27. Telefone by Noname

Another great record from the Chi, Noname, who you might recognize on the occasional Chance track, steps out on her own. With a sleepy delivery reminiscent of slam poetry, she dips into her life and times, often with a touch of nostalgia. It's very well delivered, the production being playful and fresh and the storytelling really coming in to it's own. Proof we don't have enough female rappers in the mainstream.

26. Starboy by The Weeknd

Starboy is hardly The Weeknd's best work. It shouldn't be on any end of the year lists. It's him fully embracing his pop side while leaving the much more interesting and darker tendencies behind. Yeah the lyrics are still a little messed up, but that's just it, they are a little messed up, compared to House of Balloons (his best work), which was straight f*cked up and beautiful. And yet, there is so much catchy pop here and that voice is so smooth, so so smooth, I just can't resist. Especially when Daft Punk stops by.

25. Hard II Love by Usher

I'm not a big Usher fan. Never really dug his music. But as he has gotten older, he might be getting better. His voice is still on point but not the lyrics, production and overall music around it, is just better. Yes, Usher made a better record than the Weeknd. And it kinda wasn't even close. But that album cover though. Woof.

24. Sept. 5th by dvsn

Hey, great R&B is great R&B. Hell this is the third R&B record in a row on this list. And on their debut, dvsn has a confidence and a mood that many acts take years to find. They know their sound, their OVO Sound to be clear. Often times they feel like the soundtrack of the hours after the club, walking down the wet city streets to your car than whatever debauchery is happening under the roofs. It's all high contrast, neon and smooth. Grab some headphones.

23. Awaken, My Love! by Childish Gambino

Childish Gambino aka Donald Glover has the hottest show on TV, Atlanta, and will soon be in a Star Wars movie. Boy has found his groove post Community. And then musically, the former nerdy rapper's music has evolved and is now unrecognizable. Not a single rap on the record, instead he channeling Parliament and Funkadelic in a way that much of this music wouldn't feel out of place on Maggot Brain. Love the direction, love the record, cant wait for the next one to sound nothing like this.

22. Farewell, Starlight! by Francis and the Lights

Second album with an exclamation point in a row! And it happens to be another excellent one. Francis has friends in high places and you can see why. Homeboy sounds so much like Peter Gabriel it's nearly disturbing. And on this record, he gives us the Genesis record in the 21st century we never thought we needed.

21. Views by Drake

Views is way too long. If Drake had cut the fat, he'd have a top 10 record, easily. But as it is, this is still a good Drake album, even if it's mostly more of the same. Less rapping, more singing than before, Drake is dangerously close to collapsing in on himself. But in the meantime, we get his very specific brand of hip-hop, and it's enough to keep us hungry for the next. But he's on thin ice.

20. blackSUMMERS'night by Maxwell

The middle of his proposed trilogy, Maxwell sure takes his damn time. We might not get the finale for another 7 years, but as this record and the previous proved, it'll be worth the wait. You really can't get R&B better than this, so supremely well crafted that it leaves many in it's dust. 

19. Blackstar by David Bowie

It's almost too perfect. The man knows he's fading and leaves us his goodbye note in album form. And it's amazing, coming from a guy who only really dabbled in and out on Bowie. RIP my dude.

18. Malibu by Anderson Paak

Anderson Paak has been everywhere this year. He first showed up on Dre's Compton and since then has become the hottest name out there not named Chance The Rapper. If he shows up on your album, that track is gonna be fire, almost like a modern day Nate Dogg. But some of his best work is on his own album, a beautiful eclectic collection of California infused music. It's groovy, it's funky, it's fun and more than anything, it's awesome.

17. Freetown Sound by Blood Orange

It's not Cupid Deluxe for me, but Dev Hynes continues to make great music, this time diving into the racial and sexual politics of today. A times both introspective and topical, the album is a great rumination of the troubles of our times through the lens of this artist. Deep.

16. I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It by The 1975

The album, much like it's title, is long winded and oscillates between very well delivered pop rock and more experimental instrumental journeys. It's schizophrenic and yet much like the lead singer, isn't afraid to look like an ass if the music benefits from it. So strange for an artist to feel like a generic, better than average pop act on the radio but their record to reveal something much more deeper and interesting. It's the weird stuff I loved the most.

15. Ology by Gallant

Probably the best pure R&B album of the year, sometimes the best R&B is just one that truly nails it, keeping frills to a minimum and letting the voice just crush. And boy does Gallant crush. 

14. Wildflower by The Avalanches

Maybe it took so long for all the samples to clear, but it was worth the wait, and album that flows from one song to the next, feature great guest stars and even better production. It's like a Frankenstein on a summer day to say the least, and hopefully we won't have to wait nearly as long for the next one.

13. untitled unmastered. by Kendrick Lamar

Maybe the best b-sides album I've ever heard. 

12. 22, A Million by Bon Iver

Sometimes you gotta let an artist experiment and freak out a bit, just to get it out of their system. And that's what we get here, Bon Iver doing everything in his power to muffle his own voice. And yet it works, beautifully. A truly strange yet magnificent record.

11. Every Now & Then by Jagwar Ma

Apparently this is a dance/psychedelic record, but to me it feels just like a really great rock record in line with the best work of Foals, Local Natives and Young The Giant. Ever year I discover a band that I never heard before and fall in love. This year, it's Jagwar Ma. Definitely one of the highlights of 2016.

10. The Life of Pablo by Kanye West

The Life of Pablo is not a great album. Some may say it is, but I disagree. But it does have greatness within it. Enough moments that are truly something only a musical genius like Kanye can create. Now saw what you will about Mr. West outside of his music, but dude's struggle is our benefit sadly. And I just hope he gets right, for his own sake and for the music.

9. A Seat at the Table by Solange

Until this year, I was a bigger fan of Solange than her sister. Then Beyonce dropped an album which turned me around. And yet Solange later dropped her own that nearly brought me back. It's that good. Deeper and more experimental than her sister's, it doesn't have the highlights of the Beyonce record but it's stunningly close. Closer than it has any right to be.

8. Teens of Denial by Carseat Headrest

Apparently this is their 13th album. And yet it's the first I've ever heard. And well, I need to go through the backlog, because if it's half as good as this, then I've been missing out. 

7. We Got It From Here...Thank You 4 Your Service by A Tribe Called Quest

I might be bias. A Tribe Called Quest is my favorite rap outfit of all-time. I listen to The Low End Theory and Midnight Marauders religiously. And even I didn't think they had this in them. Their time was over. Phife was gone, rest in peace. And yet, when I heard rumblings about a new record, I was cautiously optimistic. And then I heard it, and from track one, I was floored. This is not just a good job, good effort record. This is some of the best stuff they've ever done. And that's saying something coming from these legends.

6. Junk by M83

While this is definitely not the album I expected or wanted from M83, especially after the brilliance of their previous effort, it did win be over eventually. And then beyond. A love letter to the 80s and Gonzalez's own childhood, it's both nostalgic and yet fresh. And the real MVP is Mai Lan, who takes a good track and makes it a great one, often wrestling control of the album from Gonzalez for the better. Listening to this was a real joy.

5. Lemonade by Beyonce

I have never been much of a Beyonce fan. I dislike her Destiny's Child days and I feel much of her music is rather repetitive and shallow. But then I watched the HBO special that accompanied the album and I was in shock. It's breathtaking. And now I consider myself a fan. Sometime things change. 2016 was quite a year.

4. The Colour in Everything by James Blake

I'm gonna say something that many probably won't agree with. I think this is James Blake's best record. It's consistently great, track to track, all killer, no filler. 

3. A Moon Shaped Pool by Radiohead

I love King of Limbs but even I admit it's a lesser Radiohead album. Moon Shaped Pool is not lesser Radiohead. It's prime Radiohead, and features music that can hang with their best work. Makes me so happy to have a truly great Radiohead album again, even though they aren't rare, haha.

2. Coloring Book by Chance The Rapper

I don't care what Chance says, this isn't a mixtape, it's a damn album. And a great one too. He deserves all the praise and attention he is now receiving. It's religious musings, the production, the collective energy, it's all gravy. Best rap album of the year and arguably the best album of the year period. And it's biggest strength is in a sh*t year like 2016, is it's unabashed positivity and light. Can't wait for Chance 4.

1. Blonde by Frank Ocean

There wasn't a single album I had wanted to hear more than the newest by Frank Ocean. And boy did I have to wait, baited and switched several times and even having to sit through the solid yet underwhelming Endless. And then finally, finally Boys Don't Cry err Blond arrived and it was not what I expected. It was good but it didn't blow me away. Then I listened to it again. And again. And again. And it all started clicking. And now, now I can't believe my initial tepid response. It's brilliant. Truly. And now I just want more, more, more.

My Favorite Movies of 2015

The Oscars are tomorrow and well, it's a good as time as any to finally write about my favorite movies from the past year. I always preface by saying I haven't seen much. There are a ton of movies I wanna see but haven't. Some include Carol, Brooklyn, Inside Out, Anomalisa, The End of the Tour, Mistress America, Chi-Raq, It Follows, Love & Mercy, The Look of Silence, etc. Anyways, here it is. I also want to add, these are my favorite movies, not the best. You might think a movie is better than another movie, and I might agree. So hopefully that is clear.

25. Dope

It's ridiculous but in a good way. Kinda like an inner city Ferris Bueller. It's funny, colorful, has good music and all the characters are memorable in their own way. Very solid, even if it gets too cute at times.

24. Going Clear

I find Scientology fascinating and actually read a big chunk of the book this doc is based on. It's just so crazy that it's hard to believe it's real. I'm not a big doc guy but I couldn't get enough of this stuff.

23. Joy

I like David O. Russell's frantic style. I think his movies work best when they are on the verge of imploding. So I like Joy, which I feel should have gone deeper down that edge. But hey, JLaw is great.

22. The Man from U.N.C.L.E.

There were a few great spy movies this year. Sadly none of them were James Bond. But I dig this movies throwback style and Henry Cavill had me smitten, showing off way more charisma here than he has in that Superman costume.

21. Tangerine

I hated the beginning of this movie. I think it's awful. But once you get past that, and embrace the style and just utter strangeness, it's actually a pretty good movie. And latter half is especially strong and Mya Taylor really should have been nominated for best supporting actress, she's incredible. 

20. The Walk

It's very old school and Joseph Gordon-Levitt's French accent is dubious at best, but it won me over by being very entertaining, having some nice heart and the actual walk scenes are really great.

19. Slow West

Probably my favorite "true" Western this year, even though it's kinda an anti-Western. Fassbender is also great and the story is truly unique, with a fresh style.

18. The Hateful Eight

Really surprised that looking at this list that I have this movie so low, because I really liked it. Especially after watching it in 70mm. The experience was great and truly special. The movie itself isn't half bad either, even if it's probably lesser Tarantino. 

17. Amy

My favorite doc of the year. It's a heartbreaking look at the tragic career of Amy Winehouse, who has such a great voice but lacked the resolve to fight off her demons. It's much better than the good not great Nina Simone doc.

16. What We Do in the Shadows

When it comes to pure comedy, I don't think any movie made me laugh more than this strange mockumentary about vampires by the guys behind Flight of the Concords. Figures. 

15. Room

You wanna sweat while watching a movie? Watch Room. It's intense. Loved the stuff in the actual room. But, spoiler alert, felt it looses momentum once they are out of said room. Hence why it's so low on the list. Oh and Brie Larson is bae. 

14. Mission: Impossible - Rouge Nation

My favorite spy movie of the year and my third favorite pure blockbuster. Is it as good as Ghost Protocol? Nah, but it's damn close. 

13. Ex Machina

Perfectly cast and very well made. I believed the girl was a damn robot without effort. And it's twisted, dark, intriguing and okay frustrating too but hey, you can't have it all.

12. Steve Jobs

I'm happy they made the movie the way they did. I don't want to see a standard fare biopic about Jobs. I don't care. I just want moments that show what he may or maynot have been like. Show me the maddening genius, and I think it does.

11. The Big Short

First off, this movie will piss you off, not because it's bad, because it's so good at illiciting the reaction it wants to. It's also pretty funny, Ryan Gosling is amazing and it makes a very bitter pill easy to swallow.

10. Straight Outta Compton

Way better than it had any right to be. The casting is nearly perfect. And even though it's probably 15 minutes too long, I enjoyed it very much, especially figuring out how to tell the story of NWA without making it come off cheap, tone deaf, condescending or corny. 

9. Creed

Not only the best Rocky movie since the original, but it is so well shot and acted that it might give the original a run for it's money. Okay, maybe not.

8. The Martian

Do you like science? Watch the Martian. 

7. Beast of No Nation

If this wasn't on Netflix, this movie would be talked about way more and taken much more seriously, because it's truly remarkable. The kid and Idris Alba are amazing and the movie will shake you to your core. I was speechless afterwards.

6. Bridge of Spies

The trailer for this movie is terrible. Like god awful. It's over dramatic and sells the movie so poorly. Which is such a shame because this movie is very understated but expertly crafted. It's a sneaky great Spielberg film.

5. The Revenant

I know the movie is getting backlash, especially Leo's performance, but I don't care. I was engulfed into this movie and that bear attack scene, my god. It looked great, the acting was great and the story was simple. It doesn't have to be complicated. He's left for dead. But he wants to get back home and exact revenge. What else do we need.

4. Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Strange putting this here since I am not a big Star Wars guy. But for the first 30 minutes of this movie, I was grinning like an idiot and felt like I was 10 years old. That's special. That's something that doesn't happen very often. It was magical. And I loved it.

3. Sicario

The tension in Sicario is so thick, you can cut it with a knife. The most intense movie I saw all year. Reminded me a lot of Zero Dark Thirty. That's a good thing.

2. Spotlight

Spotlight is so plain and understated, it makes it strange. It doesn't show off, there aren't any huge scenes that knock your socks off. It's just a movie that tells it's story well, presents it with just the right sense of patience, pacing and restraint. It's the best acted movie I saw all year and probably the best overall movie I saw all year. It's damn near perfect and love the fact is shows old school journalism the way I wish it was like more often.

1. Mad Max: Fury Road

Mad Max creates a world so effortlessly, at a breakneck speed that doesn't let you catch your breathe, and all while having a shoe string of a story. It's one giant chase scene. That's it. But we don't need anything more. It looks great, the stunts are bonkers, the sound is epic, Charlize Theron is a badass and Tom Hardy is maybe a better Max than Mel ever was. I was on an adrenaline high the whole movie. It's f*cking fantastic.

My Favorite Albums of 2015

So here we are, 2015 is nearly over and once again I'm posting a list of my favorite albums of 2015. Like I always say, these are my favorite, not what I believe to be the best. If there is a bit of overlap, especially since many of my favorites are critically darlings, that's purely coincidental (okay not really). Anyways, 2015 for albums was far superior to 2014. And I could have legitimately made a top 100 albums list but I'm only a little crazy, not a lot. Whatever, let's get down to business.

50. Miley Cyrus & Her Dead Petz by Miley Cyrus

There is always a WTF album on my lists, and well, let's get this one out the bag. I dug this album. The production is so weird, hell the album in total is weird. It's kinda bold when you get past the somewhat forced drug references. Miley is a total freak but creatively she kinda made this super strange and kinda dope record that I can't believe I like as much as I do. Maybe it's the Flaming Lips that are sneaky the MVP here. Now if it was only half as long...

49. Dopamine by Borns

So first off, Borns is a dude (and spelled in a weird way I don't know how to type). I have a soft spot for men with androgynous voices (think Rhye or Daley). Second, this album is kinda great. It's catchy and is the kind of pop/alternative album that comes along every now and then from an artist that may come and go. It reminds me a lot of Hozier or Gotye. Hopefully this will not be the last I hear from Borns, because I kinda like having him around.

48. Multi-Love by Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Apparently these guys are a rock band, but you could have fooled me. They make a jumble of all sorts of genres, from alternative, r&b, electronic, funk and pop. It's a lot of copy/paste kinda jams. And it all kinda blends really well and the highs, oh the highs. Really glad to have discovered these guys this year and can't wait to hear what's next, I'm pumped. 

47. I Thought The Future Would Be Cooler by YACHT

I thought this album would be cooler. Just kidding, it's dope. Listen to it already.

46. What For? by Toro Y Moi

Chazwick doesn't always follow the script and doesn't always release the albums I want. But hey, eventually he releases the album I didn't know I needed. And this one, which is kinda a full on indie pop record isn't always my bag but it's so cheerful and sunny and downright great at times I can't help but be won over.

45. Momentary Masters by Albert Hammond Jr. 

So Julian Casablancas isn't the only talented guy in The Strokes. And you can definitely hear the Strokes all over Momentary Masters, but what is old is now fresh again because these are not Strokes songs, they're Albert's, whose voice and lyrics are lighter and more playful and simply a nice change of pace. Maybe on the next proper Strokes record Julian might wanna share the mic a bit. Just a thought.

44. Are You Alone? by Majical Cloudz

Simply put Are You Alone? is a precious album. And I mean that as a compliment. It is so fragile and meek but feels like it could crumble in my hand if I don't handle it with care. And that vulnerability comes across through the wires in your headphones. It's all rather beautiful and very special. Oh and try not to get choked up at least once a song.

43. Compton by Dr. Dre

I'm gonna be honest, I never thought I'd have a Dr. Dre album on my list ever again. I thought we would never see Detox and Dre's best days were a mere memory. Then he scraped that god forsaken album, and made this, and you know what, I wasn't won over immediately but it wore me down. It kinda just works. And Kendrick is the sneaky MVP. Maybe the best part of the album is he follows the 2001 script and limits his lyrical content and lets the role players shine meanwhile overseeing the production even when he's not always the producer. And it just vibes.

42. Kablammo! by Ash

When I was in high school and part of college, I loved Ash. Like no one knew who they were but they made really great punk/pop rock with infectious hooks and teen dreams. And now they are old but my god do they still rock. I didn't even know they were still together and they dropped this out of nowhere and it's like I'm 18 again. What a trip and this isn't just nostalgia. It's a legitimately great LP. This is the kind of record Blink-182 wish they could make at their age.

41. Why Make Sense? by Hot Chip

Wanna groove a bit? Listen to the latest by Hot Chip, a sleek little number which shows these guys can still shake it even after their peers have decided to hang up. I always felt these guys were the British equivalent to the now defunct LCD Soundsystem, so it's nice to see them back (even though they never left). Maybe they need to be a little messy and more inspired, but that's nitpicking when you're this good and got this kinda bounce.

40. Poison Season by Destroyer

I know Dan Bejar from The New Pornographers, as that guy who isn't Carl Newman. But he's had a nice little career as Destroyer and million other projects and on Poison Season he continues to show why he's so prolific. It's indie rock in some sense and baroque pop in another, and a some horns for good measure. Reminds me of a less fanciful Beirut but that's just this album since apparently each record is markedly different than the next. Which is a shame, because I really want to here more of this.

39. The Names by Baio

Sometimes members come out of the shadow of their band and make great music of their own. And I'm not talking about the lead but like the keyboard player (Albert Hammond Jr.) or in this case the bassist. Chris Baio is here to make music that isn't Vampire Weekend and some may actually like it more. I still think Vampire Weekend's stuff is far superior but damn this is amazing too. Keep making them ear worms, I can't get enough.

38. Girls in Peacetime Want To Dance by Belle and Sebastian

Every band needs to make an album to dance to. This is Belle and Sebastian's stab at it and well, surprise surprise, it's rather excellent. And between the songs that can't help but get you moving is just very excellent and sweet indie rock. Oh and song writing too! How novel.

37. Mr. Wonderful by Action Bronson

It's cool to know white people not named Eminem can rap. This, coupled with the pretty good Mac Miller record made me believers this year. But this one excels over that and much of the rap this year simply because Bronson sounds like Ghostface reborn with pale skin. Plus Bronson has healthy sense of humor, which is endearing and charming. Oh and the production is slick and versatile. Dope record.

36. Froot by Marina and the Diamonds

While I don't usually care for pop that isn't Justin Timberlake or Michael Jackson, if pop is done well, I take notice (see Charli XCX last year). This year, the one that caught my ear was by Marina and the Diamonds, which has style as cartoonish as that name. I mean look at the album title for god sake. And the music is a very well done pop because it has a little bit of an exotic feel to it and the girl has pipes. That never hurts. So enjoy some synthy indie pop.

35. AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP by A$AP Rocky

If you are gonna get high to any album this year, this is the one. Now I don't condone that kinda stuff, but I know it when I hear it. Mainly because while the latest by A$AP doesn't have the highs of his previous record, it's a bit more consistent, his voice is much more clear and the album is clearly about something. Drugs. Lots and lots of drugs. 

34. Fading Frontier by Deerhunter

I love Deerhunter but I did not like Monomania. I'm glad this isn't Monomania, but something of a return to their older sound. These guys always have a knack for making really gorgeous rock music that never ever settles in a groove, instead just meanders. That way they keep you guessing even within tracks is great, but they aren't improvisors, more like gamblers. I know, it doesn't make sense, but the music is good, I promise.

33. Unbreakable by Janet Jackson

My god it's good to have Janet Jackson back, still with the voice, still with the jams, still with the feels. 

32. I Don't Like Shit, I Don't Go Outside by Earl Sweatshirt

While it doesn't have the highs of Doris, On Earl's sophomore record he cuts the fat and is much more focused. It might seem at first as a downgrade in terms of guest appearances and production values, but it's more of a strip down to the essentials. He's still a gifted storyteller that just grasps your attention and doesn't let go. Grab your backpack, headphones and bob.

31. The Story of Sonny Boy Slim by Gary Clark Jr.

Gary Clark can play the guitar with the best of them, so luckily this album full of rock and blues gems isn't just him jamming, because it could have been and that would have been great. Fortunately it's more than that, much more balanced. Hell it's nearly a religious experience, equating playing as prayer. That's what elevates the music and that's why we take the journey with him. Enjoy the ride.

30. Panda Bears Meets The Grim Reaper by Panda Bear

I prefer Lennox with Animal Collective but Panda Bear isn't something you settle for. It's way too good for that. And this might be his best solo work to date. Now how do you describe this music for those uninitiated? No clue. It's experimental pop? Maybe? It's electronic? But not really? It's just really weird and psychedelic? It's an acid trip? Maybe the best way is just to say, it's good stuff. Really good stuff.

29. I Love You, Honeybear by Father John Misty

Fleet Foxes miss Tillman. You can't lose a talent like that and not have a gaping hole left. But enough about his previous bands, because Tillman is one of the most gifted song writers out there. Every song feels like a short film of sorts, and you can really picture everything, like a great painting or a vivid dream. It's folk rock for the 21st century and it's brass and ballsy and beautiful. Just f*cking beautiful. 

28. The Scene Between by The Go! Team

Now here is an album I haven't seen on any best of lists. It's a goddamn shame, because this record is stupid good. The Go! Team has kinda evolved from cheerleader hip-hop/rock into a full on pop group, and are better for it. The best thing they had done lately was "Buy Nothing Today" and this album is basically that songs extended into album for. And I ain't mad. It's unapologetically catchy, sunny and so sweet it'll rot your teeth.

27. The Waterfall by My Morning Jacket

It's a damn shame that this album was as successful or acclaimed as it should have been because it's a return to form for My Morning Jacket, showcasing a lot of what made us all fall in love with them back in the days of Z and It Still Moves. Hopefully this wil lget the recognition it deserves when time does what time does, because it truly is a work of art and some great rock and or roll, which is kind of an endangered species these days.

26. All Possible Futures by Miami Horror

 I never heard of Miami Horror before this year, so they might be my personal favorite discovery of 2015, which is weird because they already have a record or two in the books before this. I kinda see them as a mix of Cut Copy and Chromeo, and I ain't mad about that. It's unapologetically cheerful and catchy and very very pop. It almost goes overboard but doesn't quite, just holding enough back to keep things very interesting and not full on pandering. Oh and it's fantastic and will get you dancing before too long.

25. The Epic by Kamasi Washington

Little know fact, well not really, but recently I've been getting into Jazz. So The Epic kinda had perfect timing, mixing inspired covers and new material that truly makes a pill like Jazz which can be hard to swallow go down smooth. Just like the album title suggest, it's epic, a 2 hour experience that is never a slog but an exhilarating experience, full of truly remarkable saxophone fronted music. If I hadn't start listening to Jazz on my own, this would have been the album to suck me in. It's that good.

24. Ratchet by Shamir

I guess you can call this gender bending nu-disco, but Shamir refuses to be labeled. Oh and homeboy got swagger for days giving us a diverse stream of cuts that are so weird, so ridiculous and yet so brilliant. It feels like a blackout weekend in Vegas, which makes sense because Shamir grew up in Northtown and labeled his excellent EP after it. And while I don't care for the town (Las Vegas) itself, if they can bring truly original talents like this out, I think I can let a few things slide.

23. No Cities To Love by Sleater-Kinney

I've never been a big fan of Sleater-Kinney. Not my cup of tea and also they were popular when my music taste where elsewhere. But their glorious return is such a kick in the ass, I can't keep it off the list without being ashamed in myself. It's has a confidence and energy that even the best bands only have wet dreams about. Can't wait till they are grandmas still rocking. They would too.

22. Goon by Tobias Jesso Jr.

Remember Ben Kweller. Wasn't he great? Tobias Jesso Jr. reminds me of Ben Kweller. But he better than Kweller ever was and this is his first record. It's soft and gentle and a pussified Father John Misty in some respects. But the song writing is so good and the sound is so damn near heartbreaking you can't help but being moved (there is a damn song to his baby daughter that will make you tear up). Unless you have no heart? You aren't heartless are you? Are you?!

21. Beauty Behind The Madness by The Weeknd

House of Balloons is still one of the best R&B albums I ever heard, completely mesmerizing and twisted. But it's hardly fodder for mainstream success, so you gotta take the good with the bad. Beauty Behind The Madness is The Weeknd's breakout album, which is a bit watered down and almost at times too mainstream for it's own good but damn does some of the twisted stuff still soaks through and that voice is that that voice, possibly the best right now in the game.

20. Sound & Color by Alabama Shakes

Brittany Howard has a voice like a freight train, and I mean that as the highest compliment. It's like a sledgehammer that will knock you out with it's power. It's the bands ultimate weapon and coupled with their outstanding backing instruments, Alabama Shakes might legitimately be Rocks biggest hope. Their mix of blues, soul and rock is just sublime. And they deserve that Grammy nod.

19. Wildheart by Miguel

Let's just get this out of the way. Miguel is a horny dude and this album just drips sex (it's literally the theme of the album). It's also amazing, and that voice, oh man that voice, it can't be beat. While I will always hold Kaleidoscope Dream in a higher regard, this is a fitting follow up, giving you everything you want from an artist who is following a near classic. He put in the work and it shows, so why can't he enjoy the spoils.

18. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful by Florence + The Machine

To be honest, this is not my kind of music. It isn't what I normally listen to but man oh man, when you make an album so consistently good and so bold and you got a voice like that, how can I leave it off the list? It ultimately won me over and I'm happy it did, because this album is downright amazing. I guess you can call this rock because it rolls you out and leave you on the floor breathing heavily. It's a knockout.

17. Coming Home by Leon Bridges

Coming Home is the best Sam Cooke album in the 21st century. Oh and it's not by Sam Cooke (RIP), instead it's by a throwback crooner by the name of Leon Bridges who hadn't even heard about the musical legend until a few years ago. And now he brought us a throwback album that feels like it could have been record in 1962. Yes it is an awful lot like Raphael Saadiq's recent throwback sound but how can you complain with it's this damn smooth.

16. Caracal by Disclosure

Some people have been giving this album some flak. And it's justifiable in some regards, because this isn't Settle. But it is still one of the best electronic/dance albums out this year and has a ton of great joints with that distinct Disclosure sound. Yes it doesn't really expand much on the sound and it does leave you craving more but sometimes artists make baby steps. I'm patient.

15. The Incredible True Story by Logic

I really liked Logic's previous record, so much that I was actually afriad when I heard he had a new one coming out so soon. My fear were quickly extinguished when I listened to it. While it's missing the personal element of the previous LP, this time he goes with an interesting concept album which once you swallow the pill is great lyrically and production wise as well. Once again Logic proves doubters wrong but delivering a confident album, hands down one of the best rap records out now.

14. Every Open Eye by Chvrches

Polished is often used as a negative when it comes to music. But here I use it as a compliment. Every Open Eye is very polished and fine tuned to near perfection. It's also a pure pop album fronted by a kickass woman who doesn't take sh*t. Good for her and good for the band who have largely avoided the sophomore slump by doing one thing, making music like their freshmen album but better. Yes they aren't anything revelatory and the copy cats might be catching up but they put a little distance between them and the followers with a very strong effort. Kudos.

13. What Went Down by Foals

Sometimes when people complain that rock and roll is dead, I point them to an album that proves otherwise. This year it's, well, this. 

12. If You're Reading This It's Too Late by Drake

Technically this is a mixtape but who cares, it's album quality and it's one of the best rap ones this year too. It's not made for radio play and yet it still achieved mainstream success. Yes it's missing the most popular song Drake had this year, but who cares, it is very good at doing what Drake does well, curating his image and delivering his vision and message. Yes Drake isn't for everyone but man, game recognize game.

11. Surf by Donnie Trumpet and The Social Experiment

This isn't the Chance record we wanted, it was the one we deserved. Mainly because Chance is part of a unique ensemble and the trumpet player of all people gets headline. Go figure and who cares, because this album is brilliantly experimental and overwhelmingly positive. It really is the most unique hip-hop album of the year mainly because it marauds as a jazz-fusion album. I guarantee it will make you smile and I wish there was more music like this that just makes you feel good deep down in your heart and soul.

10. Dornik by Dornik

How good is Dornik? He not only draws comparison to The Weeknd, Frank Ocean and Miguel, but even to the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson. That is not faint praise. And he lives up to the hype, delivery a very low key R&B album that throws in a little of retro flavor for good measure. The biggest knock on the album is that it might be a little too chill (it also is missing one of Dornik's best songs inexplicably), but that's why I dig it so much, because it's the perfect soundtrack to a warm summer twilight when the sky is still has a little light left fleeting. So lay down, relax and press play.

9. VEGA INTL. Night School by Neon Indian

For someone who is one of the pioneers of chillwave, on his latest album Alan Palomo has no chill. It's a schizophrenic record that is musically very dense and sonically expansive. Feels like a fever dream at times, and nearly tips over because it's so overwhelming. But it is so so good and so funky and fun. It's one of the best electronic albums of this year or any in memory really.

8. Depression Cherry by Beach House

Beach House make the most melancholy music I've ever heard and it's rather stunning. They have perfected their sound that one wonders where they can go next? Well here apparently, this time experimenting and expanding their sound in new ways. They don't stray far, just little bits here and there, but it's enough to make this album a rather refreshing experience for old fans and a hook for newbies. Oh and that other album they made this year wasn't half bad either, but lets be real, this is the gem.

7. Uptown Special by Mark Ronson

We want the funk, clearly, and on Mark Ronson's new record he does what he does best, give us throwback jams that perfect mix the old school and the new school. Although "Uptown Funk" might have been the breakout track, the MVP on this is actually Tame Impala's Kevin Parker who shows up a few times and of course the 6th man is Mystikal, back from the dead. I was very surprised this wasn't on many more end of the year lists because it really is maybe the funnest record of the year.

6. Art Angels by Grimes

I could never get into Bjork. I just can't make the leap. The furthest I'm willing to go is Grimes, who is damn experimental in her own right. So I'm glad she decided to mix it up a big, combining those big ideas with some big jams. Yes her voice can be Barbie doll precious but it is also truly unique and transcendent, plus she's a weirdo, so that a big plus in my book. And the highlights on this album are truly sublime. My favorite "pop" record of the year by a mile.

5. Summertime '06 by Vince Staples

Figures that the best gangster rap album in ages is actually an anti-gangster rap album. 2015 folks. But seriously, Vince Staples, the former Crip and far and away the best member of Cutthroat Boyz is a revelation. Plus the production is dank and that's a compliment. Man this sh*t bangs, is grimey in a way Clipse never was and showcases some truly vivid storytelling. Staples is a talented orator who really throws you into the deep end of the pool of his deep dark experiences. I was mesmerized on this mixtape and this is even better. Almost any other year this would be the best rap record of the year. Some people have terrible luck.

4. Carrie & Lowell by Sufjan Stevens

You wanna have a good cry? Listen to the latest by Sufjan Stevens and I promise you, you're gonna cry. The deeply personal album is also a return to form by the indie folk singer, telling the story of his mother's death and his childhood trips to Oregon. It's extremely touching, beautiful and tragic. It truly is a very special record, one that only comes along every blue moon.

3. Currents by Tame Impala

How does a band who is the best psychedelic rock band out there decide to almost completely ditch that for a more synth/electronic sound and actually get better? We may never know. But somehow Tame Impala did it on this record which is just stupid good. Maybe it's just pure talent, a good ear and the balls to take a risk and completely succeed. 

2. In Colour by Jamie xx

Gonna say something rather controversial here, so bare with me. In Colour is better than anything the xx have ever done. There, I said it. It's the best electronic/dance record of the year, expansive, diverse and truly sublime. Nice to see Jamie xx ditch the minimalism of his previous work and be truly free as a bird. Fly brother, fly.

1. To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar

Was it ever really in doubt? To Pimp a Butterfly is maybe the best rap album in a decade, no joke. It's a masterpiece that people will remember for ages. A testament of our time and our lives. And the fact it's so polarizing, that it actually makes some people angry and others cry, just further is a testament of it's brilliance. I don't know if Kendrick can ever follow this up, but I don't care. We got the gold.

My Favorite Albums of 2015 (Honorable Mentions)

2015>2014, especially when it came to albums. This honorable mentions list might be superior to much of the actual top 50 from last year. Hell I could have made a legit top 100 list, but I'm not that crazy, just a little. So here are 25 honorable mentions because 10 wasn't enough and I am a bit long winded. And no these are not in any particular order, but the true list will be.

The Desired Effect by Brandon Flowers

Brandon Flowers really thinks he might be the second coming of Bruce Springsteen. He is obviously not, but this might be as close as he gets. This is a secretly kinda great record, that nearly made my top 50. This would have been my sh*t in the 80s. It has a great vibe and even a healthy sense of humor. Terribly under appreciated and maybe the best thing anyone from The Killers has done since Sam's Town.

All of Something by Sports

Try finding info about Sports online. It's nearly impossible with a name that is all kinda of terrible on Google. But it's worth the effort, and with a record that clocks in at 22 minutes, it's the definition of short and sweet. And how sweet it is, with it's high energy fuzz buzz. It's zooms by with a high that last much longer than any track on the LP.

Return to the Moon by EL VY

This isn't The National's newest record. It's far from it actually, much more upbeat and a little more experimental, and hardly as great, but good in it's own kinda funky way. It's a nice little change of pace that I hope leaks into the next proper record. But not too much, because The National do what they do very very well.

Cherry Bomb by Tyler The Creator

Tyler The Creator is what he is. He's not for everyone, but he is undeniably talented. And this is proof, an album that is way better than it has any right to be. If anyone respected the man and gave this a listen they'd realized they missed one of the best rap albums that came out in 2015 and maybe Tyler's best album to date.

What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World by The Decemberists

My best days with The Decemberists are long gone. They maybe one of the greatest college bands I've ever heard, but I grew and they kinda didn't. Plus they seemed to stop studying the thesaurus and instead tried to go a little mainstream. Yet this record has an emotional core lacking in much of their work, which has to count for something. Plus, the music is still damn pretty.

Inanimate Objects by Atlas Genius

If you listened to Atlas Genius before this record, you'd know they could make good music but I certainly didn't expect this record to be this enjoyable and the music to be consistently good and tight. It's nothing revolutionary or remarkable, just very good rock/alternative/whatever you want to call this. Sometimes bands get better the second go and make the leap. This is the leap.

Ivywild by Night Beds

The album at times feels like an out of body experience, the kind of music you hear on the horizon while flying over a sea of clouds only for your alarm to wake you up just before you start falling. Yup, it's that kinda trip. Enjoy the ride.

V by Wavves

Wavves make summer surf/stoner rock better than almost anyone else on the planet, yet with peers Parquet Courts and Cloud Nothings right there or even better, they can't rest of their laurels. So while V isn't their best (King of the Beach is still tops), it's still pretty good and the perfect soundtrack for a drive down the PCH with some illegal substances.

A Head Full of Dreams by Coldplay

If this is in fact their last album, it's kinda a let down as a finish. But that doesn't mean this isn't a good record, because it is. And it's very different, a mix of their most pop stuff they have ever done with some very welcome experimentation. If you are gonna go out, might as well get a little weird.

The Album About Nothing by Wale

Wale used to be super weird and interesting then he got mainstream and kinda boring. I'm glad he is back to being some weirdo obsessed with Seinfeld. And he even got the blessing from the man himself. Oh and the record is pretty dope too, sans some of the shoehorned R&B collab stuff. Been a good year for hip-hop not by some loser name Fetty Wap.

Honeymoon by Lana Del Rey

Yes, it's just more sad songs about California, and it's diminishing returns to say the least, but it's still good enough and the girl has found her voice. On her debut, I didn't know for sure if she could sing, but now I know she can. Hopefully she embraces the gangster side of her again, I miss the hot mess.

Sour Soul by BadBadNotGood

I put them here simply for giving us the best Ghostface has been in ages. Production is immaculate and Ghostface Killah feels reborn, spitting rhymes like cheap ammo. This sh*t bangs hard and it makes me miss the days when members of Wu-Tang made dope music. Long live the W.

Music Complete by New Order

Sometimes you are a band or group from ages ago and your best days are long long gone, but you pull yourself up and show that you can still make great music. This is New Orders' proof of purchase. And I'm buying their stock again. I'm all in. If they can make stuff like this again, you have my ears. Oh and I can't get enough of the funky piano. More please.

Dark Sky Paradise by Big Sean

Big Sean on his latest album has made me say something I thought I never speak. He made a good rap album you guys. The punching bag who used to be that one guy who was always the weakest rapper on your favorite songs is done playing games. Somehow, someway, Kanye and friends rubbed off on him and he gives us an effort that is beyond solid, it's legit. 

No No No by Beirut

Yeah the album is far from perfect and it's a bit sleepy at times but Beirut use instruments most bands would be afraid to touch outside of Vampire Weekend and their sound is always welcome. It's charming and disarming, that you can't help but ultimately be won over, even if their previous was far superior.

Born in the Echoes by The Chemical Brothers

First off, they really should just do a record collaboration with Q-Tip, because they both seem to mesh really well. Second, this is a nice little album you guys, full of music that will get your body moving. It's not really dance music, just music that propels you forward and up, up and up. Oh and the Beck track that closes is a nice touch.

b'lieve i'm goin down... by Kurt Vile

Another album to nearly crack the top 50, Kurt Vile's latest is more sunny folksy musings that are better than they have any right to be. It's more of the same, but when the same is this, I'll take a double. Plus he has a song called Pretty Pimpin which is pretty pimpin'. 

No Life For Me by Wavves X Cloud Nothings

Wavves make the honorable mentions list twice, this time by teaming up with Cloud Nothings in a marriage that isn't quite made in heaven, but brings out some very good grooves. Now these two need to team up with Parquet Courts and all hell will break lose. My ears are not ready.

American Beauty/American Psycho by Fall Out Boy

We really didn't appreciate Fall Out Boy until they were gone, and now that they are back, we are spoiled. They are adept at making some of the best power pop/rock than any band since Blink-182 and this record is much better than the last. I wouldn't say they are completely back to the highs of their past, but bands who come back almost never come back this good. Like riding a bike I guess.

Tetsuo & Youth by Lupe Fiasco

Speaking of comebacks, my god did I lose all hope for Lupe after Lasers, maybe the worst album by one of my favorite artists I've ever heard. I will never forgive him for that, and the follow up didn't do much to wash out the sour taste, so I was pleasantly surprised by Tetsuo & Youth. Lyrically, it's on point, music vibes, not so much, and it's a bit long winded. But you can say Lupe is back without coughing first. That's a start.

Better Nature by Silversun Pickups

Remember these guys? Hopefully you do, because at this latest record proves, they can still rock. It deserves your ears and these guys deserve to be rediscovered. I promise they are still good.

Another Eternity by Purity Ring

Yes, technically these guys were first, but they so have always felt to me like second banana to their cousins in music Chvrches. Yet with Another Eternity, they give it the old college go and try to dethrone their peers. Sadly, it's not quite there, but it's better than a noble effort. It's a very good LP full of some music that is often better than those other guys. Can't wait for the next one.

Kindred by Passion Pit

Passion Pit has always made very busy and bombastic music, often turned up to 11. This is really no different, even though they have dialed it down a notch, to maybe a 9. With that, we get to embrace the emotion deep at the albums core since we don't have to constantly wonder if Michael is doing too much coke.

Prom King by Skylar Spence

You might remember him as Saint Pepsi, which I will always believe is a better name and a damn shame I think he was forced to change it. But the vibe is still there. Can't get enough of this junk, it's so catchy and funky. Gotta keep the party going and just enjoy yourself (get it? you get it).

Thank Your Lucky Stars by Beach House

Spoiler alert, Beach House made my top 50 and nearly had two records on the list, but this one just misses the cut. So close yet so far. Either way, it's a little more downbeat and striped down than Depression Cherry, but that doesn't mean it's a lesser record. Oh no no no. This is melancholy to the max and dripping with craftsmanship. It's stupid good too.

My Favorite EPs of 2015

Still have a few albums to listen to, but December is usually a slow music month, so here is a primer for my other lists that will come later. Here are my 10 favorite EPs of 2015.

10. You're Gonna Make It by Mates of State

Remember these guys? They still make very catchy music, which they can't seem to keep the momentum up for on a full album so an EP might be just enough Mates of State for the most of us.

9. Crosswords by Panda Bear

In many ways this EP just feels like the natural extension of the Panda album that came out this year, which is also great. So naturally, it deserves a place here.

8. Love is Free by Robyn & La Bagatelle Magique

It's new Robyn. What else do you need to know?

7. So Classic by The Knocks

Classic is the EP's anchor but it's full of other gems, like "Collect My Love" and a killer remix. It's a shame it's over way too soon.

6. Small Talk by MNEK

MNEK is dope. This EP is dope. You guys like dope sh*t right? This is dope sh*t.

5. The Beyond / Where The Giants Roam by Thundercat

The talent on this EP is insane, and it doesn't disappoint. Wish we got a full album full of this goodness, because 6 songs ain't enough grooves y'all.

4. I Don't Want To Let You Down by Sharon Von Etten

It's a little sad sack, but it's the good kinda sad sack. Sharon gots chops too and the songs cut.

3. February 15 by Nao

The other EPs on the list are great but it's the top 3 that are in another league. This is next level sh*t right here. And all are R&B infused, which gives me hope for the state of the genre.

2. M3LL155X by FKA twigs

Well, FKA twigs is here to stay you guys. And my god does her stuff bang. Nearly flawless EP, and most year this would be far and the way the best EP to come out all year. So close though.

1. Hallucinogen by Kelela

Six tracks of nearly flawless edgy R&B music. Quite possibly the most consistently great collection of music that came out this year. No joke. 

My Favorite Albums of 2015 (So Far)

2015 will be a better year from music than 2014. It's not even close. I can make a top 50 albums list right now and it would be better than all of last year's. And there are still great music on the horizon. So here, at the basic halfway point of the year, it's time to delve into what's good. And there is so much good.

Honorable Mentions:

Panda Bear Meets The Grim Reaper by Panda Bear, Another Eternity by Purity Ring, What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World by The Decemberists, The Album About Nothing by Wale, Rebel Heart by Madonna, Sour Soul by BadBadNotGood, Cherry Bomb by Tyler The Creator, American Beauty/American Psycho by Fall Out Boy, What For? by Toro Y Moi, and Kintsugi by Death Cab for Cutie

25. The Desired Effect by Brandon Flowers

Brandon Flowers is not a cool dude. The first Killers album was though, and then they left all that behind with diminishing returns. And so Flowers goes solo for a second time and fully embraces his inner dork. And he must really like Genesis because he's made a surprisingly delicious and guilty pleasure album for the ages. Or at least this year.

24. Why Make Sense? by Hot Chip

You wanna get down? You could do worse, much worse, than groove to the latest by Hot Chip. It's summertime, let's party.

23. Tetsuo & Youth by Lupe Fiasco

I have unrealistic expectations of Lupe. He dropped 2 pretty great albums and I truly felt he had a classic album somewhere inside him. Then he sh*t the bed with not one but two stinkers. Is this a return to form? Hardly. It's focused and there is actual substance, but it's bloated to say the least and every song is way too long. But it has so many moments that I suddenly find myself with hope once again in Lupe. Just cut the hair bro.

22. Girls in Peacetime Want to Dance by Belle & Sebastian

Good indie albums aren't hard to find. But it's a pleasant surprise when a group you stopped listening to ages ago releases something that inspires you go to back to their catalog. Never change.

21. Goon by Tobias Jesso Jr.

This is best Ben Kweller album ever. Oh, it's not a Ben Kweller album? Still really good though.

20. The Scene Between by The Go! Team

Long gone are the days of The Go! Team's mix of cheerleader chants and old school hip-hop vibe. The Go! Team was always a mess, but a loud, interesting, sonically infused mess. Here they clean up their sound, become something a bit sunnier and more mainstream, without sacrificing quality. Did you like "Buy Nothing Today" off their last record? Then you are gonna love this sh*t. I sure did.

19. Froot by Marina and The Diamonds

Marina feels an awfully lot more exotic than Welsh. An she feels way too polished and confident for an indie pop act. Call her an enigma and call this album a puzzle. I don't know why I dig it, but I do. Maybe it's just something really stupid simple. It's really well done pop, without insulting my taste buds.

18. Mr. Wonderful by Action Bronson

Action Bronson is the white Ghostface with the panicked flow and the same impeccable taste in beats (this might be the best produced rap album out this year). Plus he earns major points for having a sense of humor and some soul, which is increasingly rare in rap these days. And what we have here is just a flat out good rap album from the unlikeliest of sources. Word word.

17. No Cities to Love by Sleater-Kinney

The girls are back, and it's good to hear them. The album is basically one long slow motion punch in the face. It's dialed up to 10 and never let's up. Not really my style but damn game recognize game.

16. Coming Home by Leon Bridges

Leon Bridges just dropped a retro soul/R&B album that will undoubtable draw comparisons to Sam Cooke. But I think the more apt comparison is Raphael Saadiq, whose throwback The Way I See It is still one of my favorite R&B albums ever. Does this come close? No, but it's slick and quick and best of all, real smooth.

15. I Don't Like Shit, I Don't Go Outside by Earl Sweatshirt

While it might not him me like the previous album, Earl Sweatshirt and his emo musings and dark storytelling is still beyond captivating. He makes headphone rap better than anyone else and probably currently owns the throne as the best core Odd Future member on the block. 

14. Wildheart by Miguel

On this previous LP, Kaleidoscope Dream, Miguel released an expertly crafted R&B album, one of the best in ages. It worked, really really well, mainly because of his silky smooth voice. On Wildheart, there is a bit more experimentation and broadening of sound. It works. Mostly. I still prefer the previous record but when homeboy makes music like this, I'm just being petty.

13. I Love You, Honeybear by Father John Misty

Mixing modern rock sentiments with folk, the former Fleet Foxes drummer kinda hits it out the park. Deeply personal and a little bit twisted, the album rewards those who listen carefully for the little gems buried underneath the folk rock blanket. 

12. Ratchet by Shamir

Shamir has an androgynous sound that I just can't explain, and with him he brings a dark disco straight out of the shady corners of Vegas. It's a bit moody and kinda funky and downright catchy. Is this pop? Disco? Funk? Something else? I don't know. I just know is that it's my jam.

11 AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP by A$AP Rocky

Hazy. That's what it was like after the first listen to A$AP's latest. More focused and defined than his last, it might not necessarily be better, but the drug fueled trip is worth the price of admission. Just let go and press play.

10. Surf by Donnie Trumpet and The Social Experiment

Surf is so infectiously sunny, you can't help but smile ear to ear the whole way. It's hard to categories, but I guess this is a fusion record. It's a little bit rap, little bit hip-hop, little bit jazz, little bit funk, little bit pop, little bit world. But what it is a lot of is good. So good, with the perfect balance of Chance, who seems to know he's best in small bursts. Oh and now you have a favorite trumpet player, which is nice. 

9. How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful by Florence + The Machine

Vocal artillery. That's the only way to describe the powerhouse that is the latest Florence + The Machine record. It's impeccably crafted, magnificently produced and tailor made to fill stadiums. It might not be my favorite record, but damn is it not one of the best albums out easy. You gotta appreciate the work.

8. Sound & Color by Alabama Shakes

Brittany Howard's voice is like a freight train. And the band weilds it like a sledgehammer, as it's maybe the best weapon any current band has in their arsenal. But it's not all about that voice. The talent and skill around her is top notch and musical musing of the Alabama Shakes seriously rule. Long live the queen.

7. Uptown Special by Mark Ronson

Is there anyone who is cooler than Mark Ronson? I mean yes, obviously, and he's kinda a big dork. But the music, it's just cool as the polar bear's toenails. Mixing throwback sounds with modern hip sensibilities better than anyone else in the game, he know's exactly what he's doing. And nobody tops his stuff. How come not everyone lines up to work with this guy leaves me flabbergasted. You literally really can't do any better.

6. Summertime '06 by Vince Staples

Vince Staples is such a story teller and this LP continues in the vain of this masterful EP Hell Can Wait. It's the best gangster rap album in years by being more than a gangster rap album. It's grimey, it's abrasive and it's downright fascinating. The production feels like the natural selection of any rap in recent memory and while it's a bit long and it doesn't always hit, when it does, it bangs.

5. The Waterfall by My Morning Jacket

Easily my favorite My Morning Jacket record since Z, sometimes all you need is a good old fashioned rock record that just nails it. While sonically ambitious, it's nothing you haven't heard before. Yet what it does well, it does really well. And it's best to follow the title and let the music just wash over you. Copacetic. 

4. If You're Reading This It's Too Late by Drake

Technically it's a mixtape, but damn if it's not better than most legit LPs. Now Drake is not for everyone, but you gotta recognize that he has a distinct style, and what he does, he does really really well. Is he genuine? Hardly, but really what rappers are anymore? He's focused, determined and the tracks are slick and urgent. It's really remarkable stuff. Just image how good the actual album is gonna be. Scary.

3. Carrie & Lowell by Sufjan Stevens

It took tragedy for Sufjan to return to his folk roots, where he always fit best, seamlessly mixing the old and new. Inspired by his mother's death and in turn his childhood memories growing up, we get maybe his most personal album and arguably his best. It's damn near a masterpiece. Ten years ago we got Illinois, one of my favorite albums of all-time. And now I have Carrie & Lowell. So if I have to wait another decade for yet another classic, I will, because damn it'll be worth it.

2. In Colours by Jamie xx

The xx are the kings of minimalism. And Jamie xx is the engineer, often using the bare minimum of instrumentals to elicit strong and downright shattering emotions. And yet you feel that homebody is dying to break out, to feel the pure freedom of music without arbitrary (and self imposed) limits. Which is why when he does expand his sound and sonically goes buckwild, we get this diamond in the rough. A mix of instrumentals (well instrumentals with vocal accompaniment) and downright boogie down productions, one feels like Jamie xx really is coming out of his shell on this record, and we should all be greatful. It's f*cking splendid and maybe the best stuff both members of The xx have ever been a part of. 

1. To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar

What is there to say that hasn't already been. So I'll be brief. This is one of the best rap albums I have ever heard and maybe one of the best off all-time. 

Album Review - Mr. Wonderful by Action Bronson

Inexplicably, I really dig this album. Action Bronson sounds an awful lot like Ghostface Killah that you can't really listen to him without thinking of the other. He's the weird, white, self aware Ghostface. And this album is better than anything Tony has put out in a while. It's not a comedy album, it just has a sense of humor, which is refreshing, and soulful, throwback production that is almost too good for it's own well being. Ultimately it's not a classic in any way, but it's a nice change of pace from the seriousness of Kendrick's latest, and it does feel more like a really great mixtape than a good album, but that's being picky. It's shockingly diverse, polished and downright fun. Hip hop needed this silly nonsense. 

Grade: B+

Album Review - Froot by Marina and The Diamonds

Marina Diamandis, the Welsh singer-songwriter and across the pond pop star, is one step from being Katy Perry or Taylor Swift. But that one step is very important, as those stars are very vanilla, very average vocally and very popular. Meanwhile barely anyone in the US knows Marina sans a few, and yet she sounds very polished, she has hooks galore and should be very popular. That step keeps here from gaining that fame, and also keeps the music from falling into oblivion, there is an effort here and craft. It's nothing groundbreaking, it's just pop done really well. It's rather bright for a breakup record, and sometimes it does get very rudimentary, but it has enough spice and edge that it rises up from the mundane. It's better than it has any right to be, and caught me hook, line and sinker.

Grade: B

Top Ten - Daft Punk

Naturally, Daft Punk have been around for a while, with a very strong and diverse catalog. So why not make them next. Like I said before this a mix of what are my personal favorites and what I believe are their best songs. Here are the top ten.

10. "Make Love" from Human After All

Number ten is always the hardest. "Verdis Quo" was in the running. "Derezzed" from the Tron Legacy soundtrack was there too, but for whatever reason, "Make Love" takes the cake, a truly beautiful moment on the otherwise mixed bag that is Human After All.

9. "Lose Yourself To Dance" from Random Access Memories

As close to Daft Punk will ever get to "Get Lucky", funny, on the same record.

8. "Digital Love" from Discovery

In many ways, unlike many Daft Punk songs, this track is less music and more story. A love story. And a heartbreaking one at that.

7. "Human After All" from Human After All

Daft Punk gets their rock on, and while many people complain about the repetitive natural of this track and others on the record, they sleeping. There was some great stuff, case in point.

6. "Hard, Better, Faster, Stronger" from Discovery

Half song, have video game, all killer, no filler.

5. "Touch" from Random Access Memories

An epic of a song, that's hauntingly beautiful and quite possibly the best song on the record. Okay, the second best song on the record.

4. "Da Funk" from Homework

I usually see this song as the one that launched what we would know call Daft Punk. Fittingly.

3. "One More Time" from Discovery

For the longest time, this was probably the most popular Daft Punk song off all time and you can easy see why. It's the blueprint. The dance beats. The robot voices. Infectious to a fault. It's all there. And it's perfect.

2. "Get Lucky" from Random Access Memories

I was very tempted to put this at number one. Really. So tempted. Because it's amazing.

1. "Around The World" from Homework

The video is awesome, but the song is better. This is Daft Punk.

Album Review - Goon by Tobias Jesso Jr.

I know basically nothing about Tobias Jesso Jr. He sounds an awfully lot like Ben Kweller, with his mix of folk, pop and piano rock. His songs are peppered with love loss and longing. It might feel like a warm spring here in LA, but in the early morning while listening to this record, felt very much like fall. The music is full of melancholy but no infinite sadness. There is a warm, like a sweater. It's nothing groundbreaking or original, but it is very well done, and this might now sound like the greatest compliment, but I'm glad I listened to this album. Pleasantly surprised, easy on this Sunday morning.

Grade: B+

Album Review - To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar

To Pimp A Butterfly feels like a book. Less album, more novel. To Kill A Mockingbird comes to mind, fittingly. On the record Kendrick has a lot on his mind to say, and most of it isn't a popular opinion. But he don't care, he got's that itch, he needs to speak his piece. It just happens that he layers over some complex jazzy beats, undoubtably influenced by his work with Flying Lotus. In many ways, To Pimp A Butterfly sounds like Black Messiah, Yeezus, You're Dead!, Stankonia, amongst others, thrown in a blender. It's a little messy, a little preachy. It's not an easy listen. Nothing bangs, but tracks cook. And Kendrick sounds angry or on the verge of tears, often both.

Kendrick wants to tell his story. Wants you to listen. Wants to be heard. And it's hard to sit through. It's difficult to listen to an album expecting something and getting something totally different. Two-thirds in, I started getting emotional, and I don't know why. The album just hit me. Smack. It was just beautiful. It was saying such truths about times of the past, times of now. How things change, how things don't. How people change, how people say they will change and how people won't change. Rap albums that tackle difficulty and are successful at it? Wow, unicorns are less rare.

Here was a man giving me his experience, and relaying the experience of his people. Race, poverty, humanity. That is not simple stuff, it's complex, like the album. It might be a masterpiece.

Grade: A

Top Ten - The Strokes

This is a new feature I'm trying out. It was inspired by I believe Stereogum. It's where I list what I believe are the top ten best songs by a particular artist. And before we get started, this is my opinion. These are not only what I think are the best songs by a particular band or singer or rapper or whatever, but are also often my favorite too. Keep that in mind. Agree to disagree from the beginning and you'll enjoy yourself more. So here we go, The Strokes.

10. "Soma" from Is This It

Number 10 was very hard to pick. It was either this or "Reptilla." Plus I was tempted to add something, anything from Comedown Machine, a record that isn't actually terrible. But I had to go with "Soma" since it's the song I most associate with really launching the whole Strokes for me. Coupled with "Is This It", it announced the Strokes have arrived.

9. "Two Kinds of Happiness" from Angles

I just love Julian Casablancas vocal performance on this song. It just is all over the place, and shows some interesting range. Plus the arrangement is kinda hot mess, emphasis on hot.

8. "The End Has No End" from Room On Fire

Hello! This song is the best. Hello! And how the song builds up to the explosion of the latter half with Julian sounding awfully angry, goodness gracious.

7. "Someday" from Is This It

The song is a little bit of a heartbreaker, seeping with melancholy. Oh and it's amazing too.

6. "Automatic Stop" from Room On Fire

Maybe the best guitar riff on any Strokes song ever. And that's saying a lot.

5. "Hard To Explain from Is This It

In many ways I find this song and "Someday" the ultimate Strokes couplet. Together they basically sum up everything about the Strokes you could ever really need. Peanut butter and jelly. Peanut butter and chocolate. Peanut butter and banana.

4. "12:51" from Room On Fire

People who complain about Room On Fire being just more of the same, are you happy now? We haven't gotten a true Strokes like Strokes album since. But they aren't all wrong. The one song on the album that you can deem "experimental" and "different" is also the album's best.

3. "Under Cover of Darkness" from Angles

Angles is kinda underrated, and so is this song, a true classic that stands among The Strokes' best. It's an unpopular opinion but this song is better than anything on Room On Fire and most of Is This It. 

2. "Last Night" from Is This It

Obligatory. This is the Strokes song everyone and their mom knows. And for good reason, it's fantastic. Number one party anthem.

1. "You Only Live Once" from First Impressions of Earth

It's strange that the best Strokes song ever made, and it really isn't even close, is off their junior album, the one where things started falling apart. The album is a bag of loose marbles, but somehow, someway, they made this gem.

Album Review - Another Eternity by Purity Ring

For an "indie group", Purity Ring sounds awfully mainstream. Apparently this is "future pop", but to me it sounds very current, mixing EDM and hip-hop. It's very catch, the lyrics are appropriately obtuse and the hooks hook you in. It reminds me of a lot of Chvrches, but only mildly as interesting. I only wished this album had a little more bite. Thankfully it's all killer, no filler, zooming by with a quick ten tracks deep. And when it jumps, it shows off Purity Rings considerable hops. A step forward to success but maybe a step back creatively, I call it a pleasant wash.

Grade: B-

Album Review - Dark Sky Paradise by Big Sean

Big Sean has always been an artist you mostly just bare with. He is often on great songs, usually as the weak link. See "Mercy" or "Clique". He's alright in small doses, much like 2 Chainz, and you often wish he just sticks to the hook and doesn't lay a verse. And yet he is surrounded by obvious talent and released a new album, easily his best yet. That's not saying much. Yes there has been some surprising praise of this album, and I'll join the chorus with a caveat. It's not a great record by any means but it's okay, kinda good at times. Why? Mostly since Big Sean seems to have stepped up his game a bit, and also because Kanye, for whatever reason, decided to grab this by the horns and produce it. Lil Wayne, Drake, Kanye, John Legend, E-40(!) among others show up, so Big Sean knows he can't do the heavy lifting by himself. At times this album feels like he's trying to be J. Cole, which is admirable to an extent. It's an easy listen, and a step in the right direction, and ultimately a pleasant surprise. Lowered expectations can do wonders.

Grade: C+