21 Albums of the Year
21 Albums of the Year
By: Audrey Cooper
As we stand on the precipice of another new year, it is only fitting to highlight the top albums that captivated the hearts of listeners worldwide and left a lasting impact. Here are the albums, some new and some old, that helped us get over a breakup, enjoy a night out with friends, run a marathon, and jam out in our cars.
1. Higher - Chris Stapleton
In his 5th solo album, Stapleton sounds as good as ever. The award-winning singer-songwriter amazes audiences with his soulful tone and unique sound that is entirely his own.
2. Boys of Faith - Zach Bryan
Following the release of his massive self-titled album, singer-songwriter Zach Bryan released this surprise short album. Popular new artist Noah Kahan joins Bryan on “Sarah’s Place” to produce a beautiful blending of vocals from these two rising stars.
3. 1989 (Taylor’s Version) - Taylor Swift
1989 (Taylor’s Version) is Swift’s fourth re-recorded album by the infamous singer-songwriter. The album features updated vocals as well as tracks that did not originally make it onto the initial album.
4. Rumours - Fleetwood Mac
The iconic album’s last run at the top of the Billboard charts was in February 1978, but it has made a dramatic comeback thanks to TikTok and the release of Daisy Jones and the Six, a show based on the book inspired by the band’s story and music.
5. Aurora - Daisy Jones and the Six
Although the band may not actually exist, Aurora is a beautiful 1970s-inspired classic rock record. The songs are filled with vocal harmonies and choral melodies. The televised version of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel features original songs performed by the fictional band, which is headlined by Elvis Presley’s granddaughter Riley Keough and The Hunger Games star Sam Claflin.
6. Endless Summer Vacation - Miley Cyrus
Cyrus’s eighth album is an airy and stylish moving-on record. Cyrus paints herself as mature but just messy enough to keep things interesting.
7. Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd - Lana Del Rey
The songwriter’s ninth album is heavy, disarmingly truthful, and rebelliously quiet. The songs illustrate her vocal skills due to their lack of choruses or hooks, as if Lana is standing alone, singing into a microphone.
8. AM - Arctic Monkey
Debuted on September 9, 2013, AM was Arctic Monkey’s fifth studio album. It was immediately popular, being named one of the top albums of the year. This album never gets old, with the psychedelic rock style of the band continuing to reach listeners today.
9. After Hours - The Weekend
Be careful listening to this album; you will inevitably become an addict. Abel Taesfaye, known professionally as The Weekend, delivers a masterpiece, both in his cinematic music videos and the album’s collision of new wave and R&B.
10. Now and Then - The Beatles
Although this is not technically an album, it is worth mentioning as the infamous final song for The Beatles. With a little help from AI and subtle new vocals from Paul McCartney, The Beatles released a new single this year from one of John Lennon’s demos from the 1990s.
11. GUTS - Olivia Rodrigo
Rising pop star Olivia Rodrigo rocks out in her second album, bringing back 1990s grunge and punk vibes. Like most teenage angst albums, Rodrigo speaks on boys and her self image in a style reminiscent of icons like Avril Lavigne.
12. For All the Dogs - Drake
A forever force within the music industry, Drake’s eighth album highlights his usual unique blend of rap and R&B.
13. Alone at Prom - Tory Lanez
Audiences and critics alike are thrilled with Tory Lanez’s new album, which encapsulates a catchy 1980s retro vibe with vibrant sounds and tunes.
14. Unreal Unearth - Hozier
Hozier impresses yet again with his third studio album, full of incredible vocals and captivating lyrics. Hozier gives his all into this album, filling every song with its own meaning and depth.
15. I Can’t Let Go - Suki Waterhouse
Suki Waterhouse’s debut album is gorgeous and gloomy, meeting all expectations of fans. The album illustrates Waterhouse’s confidence and vulnerability as a rising artist.
16. SOS - SZA
Audiences claim SOS to be the best album released by singer-songwriter SZA, though this album is only her second. The album features guest appearances from Don Toliver, Phoebe Bridgers, and Travis Scott.
17. One Thing At A Time - Morgan Wallen
Currently the biggest artist in mainstream country, Wallen’s new album features 36 songs. Wallen currently owns the first 16 slots on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
18. Harry’s House - Harry Styles
The stylish Harry Styles continues to impress with this trendy upbeat album, capitalizing on a mix of funk and folk.
19. When We Were Friends - The Backseat Lovers
Holding a variety of rock and upbeat audio, this album is perfect for a chill study day or a stroll through campus. The Backseat Lovers is a four-member indie rock band that will steal your heart immediately upon listening.
20. Stick Season - Noah Kahan
Each track within Noah Kahan’s breakthrough album is jam-packed with emotion and beautifully crafted lyrics. If you need a new artist to obsess over this winter, listen to Kahan and fall in love.
21. UTOPIA - Travis Scott
The fourth studio album, UTOPIA, is full of great collaborations, powerful lyrics, and visionary blends of genres. Travis simply takes his audience on a journey.
Whether you are into the latest chart-toppers or timeless classics, this year’s most popular albums offer something for every type of listener. We hope your holiday season is filled with good music and even better experiences.
For more 25 Days of Square content follow us on Instagram and keep reading at umsquaremagazine.com.
All photos belong to their respective owners.
Graphic by Rebecca Tyner.