Now is the time of year where everyone makes a list of the top critically praised music of the year, but what were you really listening to? What albums got the most plays on your iTunes? What songs did you constantly rock during your morning commute? It’s time to give us the new music you couldn’t get away from in 2013.
Personally, I had limited opportunity to explore a large variety of new music. But this was a surprisingly strong year for fans of late 90s style Hip-Hop, so I indulged mostly in that genre. But I did get in a few other gems.
My heaviest rotation in 2013:
Kanye West, Yeezus: Critically praised and constantly on deck and for good reason. It’s original, abrasive, statement music that is simply being overshadowed by its creator’s ego.
Pusha T, My Name is My Name: Highly anticipated this album and when it dropped I had a hard time stepping away from it. Practically an apex of coke inspired rap.
Daft Punk, Random Access Memories: There was a weird mixed reaction when this came out but I haven’t stopped listening to it. Incredible chill mashup of dance/disco/techno.
J. Cole, Born Sinner: Rhymes for days. The album is a bit thematically repetitive at times but I returned to listening to Born Sinner more than Drake, Wale or the A$AP crew’s 2013 efforts.
The-Dream, IV Play: Who? What? Huh? Left field, I know. I’ll admit I’m love with The-Dream’s production work, so when I heard he had out new material I rolled the dice and copped it. The lyrics are ridiculous—like terrible b-sides of some R. Kelly’s corniest lyrics. But the whole album is laced with base-thumping, sexed-up production.
Lorde, Pure Heroine: Literally grabbed this just a few weeks ago and was blown away. Yes, Lorde’s voice is incredible and the songs earnestly written, but I was mostly impressed by the crazy atmospheric, cohesive production. Still listening.
So what was your favorite new music from this year?
Image montage by the author.
