The Best Albums of 2023 (So Far)
Congratulations everyone, we made it to the end of the year. 2022 was a wild ride (to say the least), but it did provide some really good music, and it looks like 2023 will do the same. I’m sure that next year will come with its own surprises, but at the very least, we’ll have a host of new music to get us through it. From Paramore’s revival to the return of Iggy Pop, and Green Day — these upcoming albums will be there to keep us company all year round. Check it out!
Iggy Pop, Every Loser (January 6th)
Retirement, who? Iggy Pop might be 75 but he’s not slowing down anytime soon. In fact, on January 6th he’s ringing in the new year with his new album Every Loser. Produced by Andrew Watt for Gold Tooth Records, the album features the rock-legend's signature electric sound.
Sam Smith, Gloria (January 27th)
Sam Smith is entering a new era. After teasing fans with the thumping “Unholy,” Smith is gearing up to release his next album. Judging from the title and Smith's newfound love of cheeky lyrics and leather, Gloria is shaping up to show a more rugged side of the singer. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Green Day, Nimrod: 25th Anniversary Edition (January 27th)
Greenday is returning to its roots. The rock band re-packaged their hit record Nimrod to celebrate its 25th year anniversary. According to Pitchfork the re-release includes original demos, exclusive recordings from their live-shows, and two unreleased shows.
Ellie Goulding, Higher Than Heaven (February 3rd)
In 2023 Polydor Record is bringing Ellie Goulding’s angelic vocals from the studio straight to you. Higher Than Heaven, drops on February 3rd, and according to the artist, “It’s about being passionately in love.” Listen to the album's first single, “Let it Die” for a preview of the synthesized music that’s yet to come.
Shania Twain, Queen of Me (February 3rd)
Grab your cowgirl boots and head to the dance floor because Shania Twain is back, baby! On February 3rd, the queen of country is releasing her sixth album Queen of Me, along with a nation-wide tour. The singer explained the concept behind the album on Instagram, writing: “These days, I’m feeling very comfortable in my own skin - and I think this album reflects that musically. Life is so short and I want to be uplifted, colorful, unapologetic and empowered. I want to carry a clear message, particularly as a woman, to always remember my power and I hope the songs are a reminder to you, of that same power inside you.” Cheers to that!
Paramore, This is Why (February 3rd)
Paramore released their first single “This is Why” in 2022, following a five year hiatus. In 2023 they’re returning to the music scene in full swing with a debut album and coinciding tour. This Is Why, features the zany punk-rock sound you know and love — just, all grown up.
Caroline Polacheck, Desire, I Want to Turn Into You (February 14th)
Polacheck puts her pop vocals to the test in her fourth album, Desire I Want To Turn Into You. As the title suggests, the upcoming record is all about human desire and connections. Listen to her latest EP, Welcome To My Island for a preview of her synthesized sound.
Macklemore, Ben (March 3rd)
Macklemore is changing things up with his latest album, Ben, which is a nod to his real name Benjamin Haggerty. If his latest single, “Faithful” is any indication of what’s to come, fans of the rapper can expect cleverly strung together lyrics and his signature drawl.
Lana Del Rey, Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd (March 10th)
Lana’s next album is shaping up to be an instant classic. Earlier this year she released the title track, which featured her signature woeful hum and poetic lyrics. If history repeats itself, the full album will do the same. A fresh Lana Del Rey masterpiece right in time for spring? What more could you want!
Metallica, 72 Seasons (April 14th)
Metallica has returned, and their new music proves heavy metal is alive and well. Next spring the iconic band will release their new album 72 Seasons, but to hold us over they dropped a new song called Lux Æterna. The electric track sounds like a refreshed version of the music that made them famous.
Someone, somewhere, once said, “Music is food for the soul.” I believe them! Since the beginning of time, music has served as a way to communicate, facilitate relationships, express emotions, and form communities—and it just keeps getting better. This year, the music industry is overflowing with dynamic projects.
Legacy acts such as Metallica and Killer Mike produced records that reminded us all of their star power. Meanwhile, Boygenius released a stunning debut album, Katrynada and Anime collaborated on a summertime soundtrack, Lil Yachty reinvented himself (again), and Hozier proved his lyrical pen is mightier than ever. The best news? There’s even more music to come. While we wait to see what else is in store this year, we’ve rounded up the best albums of 2023 so far. Whether you're in the mood to dance, cry, disassociate, or all of the above—we've found the perfect record for that. Enjoy.
Jungle, Volcano
Volcano is a groovy masterpiece. Jungle’s latest album takes their electronic funk sound to new heights—so much that listening to the 14-song tracklist feels like hopping in a time machine. Prepare to feel like you’ve been transported to a night out at Studio 54.
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Hozier, Unreal Unearth
Unreal Earth is Hozier’s latest— and greatest—piece of work. In this record, he puts his pen to the test, toying with clever wordplay and imagery to discuss the complexities of life. Just try uncoding the vampy single, “Eat Your Young.” Listening to this album is like looking through a kaleidoscope—each time, you’ll discover something new.
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Niall Horan, The Show
The Show is Niall Horan’s fourth album, and the best display of his artistry thus far. In this record, he truly comes into his own, allowing his matured vocals to bounce across pop-rock tracks that'll get stuck in your head. I’d suggest starting with “Meltdown.”
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Kaytranada & Amine, Kaytramine
What’s better than a powerhouse collaboration? In Kaytramine, the renowned producer Kaytranada teamed up with the rapper Amine to deliver the album we didn’t know we needed. Let it be the bright, fresh, and fun soundtrack of your summer.
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Raye, My 21st Century Blues
As the saying goes: hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. In My 21st Century Blues, Raye proves this theory to be true. Throughout the album’s 15-track run, she sings about toxic relationships, body dysmorphia, and even an existential crisis.
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Killer Mike, Michael
Michael is Killer Mike's first solo album in over a decade. The record expertly weaves his lyricism with gospel music to string together the rapper's life story. If you want to know who Michael Santiago Render really is, listen to this.
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Måneskin, Rush
In 2021, Måneskin took over the world with their cover of “Beggin”—and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. This year, the Italian rock band released Rush, an album filled with the thumping beats and sultry melodies we’ve grown to love. If you haven’t heard of them yet, Rush is a great way to get acquainted.
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Elle King, Come Get Your Wife
Elle King’s latest offering, Come Get Your Wife, showcases the country artist's earnest side. In this album, she goes back to her Southern Ohio roots, singing most of the tracks alongside a banjo. Come for her honey-sweet drawl and stay for Miranda Lambert's feature on “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home.)”
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SG Lewis, AudioLust & Higher Love
AudioLust & Higher Love is a party starter, plain and simple. The 15-track record is full of irresistable synths that will get anyone up and moving. If you’re looking for a effortlessly cool setlist for your next party, this record is for you.
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Metro Boomin, Heroes and Villians (Villans Version)
Metro Boomin’s Heroes and Villians (Villians Version) showcases his production power at its best. The expansive tracklist features collaborations with John Legend, Travis Scott, 21 Savage, A$AP Rocky, and more — creating a fascinating journey from start to finish.
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Labrinth, End & Begins
Labrinth’s latest offering will make you feel like you’re in an episode of Euphoria (minus the drama). In Ends & Begins the musician puts you in a trance with tantalizing beats and vulnerable lyrics. Put this album on if you’re in need of some introspection.
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Miley Cyrus, Endless Summer Vacation
If there’s one thing Miley Cyrus knows how to do, it’s having fun. In Endless Summer Vacation, she invites you to join the party, with a mix of sing-along ballads and club-ready tracks.
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Lil Yachty, Let's Start Here
Let’s Start Here makes one thing certain: this is not the Lil Yachty you remember. In this record, he trades his rhythmic bars for a groovy 70s-inspired adventure. Listening in is like taking a psychedelic, without the hallucinations.
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Fall Out Boy, So Much (For) Stardust
Calling all emo-lovers: Fall Out Boy is back with another banger. If you like spending a sunny afternoon screaming to music in your car, then please, consider So Much for Stardust for your next karaoke lineup. With punchy lyrics and heart-thumping beats, each track will make you wish you were a member of the band.
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Gracie Abrams Good Riddance
Indie scene queen Gracie Abrahms finds her footing in Good Riddance. The artist’s second album is full of lyrical treats and whimsical earworms that’ll make you feel like the star of a Greta Gerwig film. If you’re looking for music that emulates writing poetry in the park, then this is for you.
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Boygenius, The Record
After dominating the pop charts with "Silk Chiffon" Boygenius released their debut album The Record. Over the course of 12 songs the band muses about life with cutting, poetic, lyrics, that only Lucy Daucus, Pheobe Bridgers, and Julien Bakers would dare to admit.
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Florence & The Machine, Dance Fever (Complete Version)
Just when we thought Florence’s latest album couldn’t get better, she proved us wrong. Dance Fever (Complete Version) includes three new poems to accompany the original tracks. The stripped-down tracks provide a unique opportunity to connect with Florence and truly understand her message. It’s pure, unfiltered, art. What a treat!
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Kali Uchis, Red Moon in Venus
Venus is named after the goddess of love, but it looks like Kali Uchis is gunning for that title. Her latest album is a perfectly crafted mix of pop and r&b, with an undercurrent of romance to tide you over. Press play and prepare to feel like a divine being.
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Daniel Caesar, Never Enough
After a multi-year break, Daniel Caesar has returned to the music industry with a vulnerable record based on self-reflection. If spring is for renewal, then summer is for celebrating what emerges, and as we embark on the next season of life, Never Enough provides a perfect soundtrack to carry you through it.
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Iggy Pop, Every Loser
Retirement, who? Iggy Pop might be 75 years old, but he’s not slowing down any time soon. In fact, on January 6, he rang in the new year with his new album, Every Loser. Produced by Andrew Watt for Gold Tooth Records, the album features the rock legend's signature electric sound.
See the original post on Youtube
Sam Smith, Gloria
Sam Smith has entered a new era. After teasing fans with the thumping single “Unholy,” Smith released their next album, Gloria, which shows off a more rugged side of the singer. Don't say we didn't warn you!
See the original post on Youtube
Green Day, Nimrod: 25th Anniversary Edition
Green Day is returning to its roots. The rock band repackaged the hit record, Nimrod, to celebrate its 25-year anniversary. The unexpected release includes original demos, exclusive recordings from Green Day's live shows, and more.
See the original post on Youtube
Ellie Goulding, Higher Than Heaven
Everyone should say "Thank you" to Polydor Records for bringing Ellie Goulding’s angelic vocals from the studio straight to our headphones. The album, according to the artist, is about “being passionately in love," and her joy is so palpable, that you won't be able to resist a smile while listening.
See the original post on Youtube
Shania Twain, Queen of Me
Grab your cowgirl boots and head to the dance floor, because Shania Twain is back, baby! On February 3, the queen of country released her sixth album, Queen of Me, along with a nationwide tour. According to Twain, this record is about feeling "uplifted, colorful, unapologetic, and empowered." Cheers to that!
See the original post on Youtube
Paramore, This is Why
Following a five-year hiatus, Paramore released its first single, “This is Why,” in 2022. In 2023, the band returned to the music scene in full swing, with a debut album and coinciding tour. This Is Why, features the zany punk-rock sound you know and love—just all grown up.
See the original post on Youtube
Caroline Polacheck, Desire, I Want to Turn Into You
Polacheck puts her pop vocals to the test in her fourth album, Desire I Want To Turn Into You. As the title suggests, the record is all about human desire and connection. It's a synthesized love fest from start to finish.
See the original post on Youtube
Macklemore, Ben
Macklemore is changing things up with his latest album, Ben, which is a nod to his real name: Benjamin Haggerty. Come for his catchy rhymes and stay for his signature drawl.
See the original post on Youtube
Lana Del Rey, Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd (March 10)
Lana’s latest album Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd," features her signature woeful hum and poetic lyrics. If you're looking for music to languish over, then this one is for you.
See the original post on Youtube
Metallica, 72 Seasons
Metallica has returned, and its new music proves heavy metal is alive and well. Their latest album, 72 Seasons is full of electric music that will remind you of their glory days. As the adage goes, what was once old is (in fact) new again.
See the original post on Youtube
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