1. Solange, “A Seat At The Table”
A chronicle about black womanhood, Solange’s “A Seat At The Table” is a breathtaking album that captures the sociopolitical and socioeconomic struggles that plague American society in 2016. From the Civil War hymns that document the horrors black Americans had to face in the 19th century to the cries of black women and men killed in ways reminiscent of Eric Garner and Sandra Bland, Solange offers an alternative counterpart to her sister’s Lemonade, which is a breathtaking work of art in itself as well.
Recommended if you like: tea cakes, tiramisu, pink carnations.
2. Troye Sivan, “Blue Neighbourhood”
Honestly, it’s hard to find a fault with “Blue Neighbourhood.” It’s creatively and intellectually executed both lyrically and musically. Troye Sivan is raw, honest, and open-hearted. That’s probably why he captures the sound of now so well -- he isn’t afraid to sound vulnerable, and that’s why his music strikes a chord with so many people.
Recommended if you like: Spotify’s “Discover Weekly” feature, paper towns, helium.
3. Chance The Rapper, “Coloring Book”
Okay, this technically isn’t an album, per se -- it’s a mixtape. But, honestly, if you haven’t checked out “Coloring Book” yet, you’re missing out. The Chicago native has dominated the 2017 Grammy awards game, with 7 nominations in 5 categories; in case you didn’t know already, he’s a beast. Chance is one of the strongest rappers in the game today, digging deeper and defying hip-hop norms.
Recommended if you like: gospel choirs, messy art studios, checkered floors.
4. Bon Iver, “Bon Iver, Bon Iver”
Old, but gold? Bon Iver specifically named each song on the album to represent a place or the emotions represented by a place. For example, “Holocene” is named after a bar in Oregon, and “Minnesota, WI” features plucked guitars and distorted saxophone.
Recommended if you like: blank paper, sailboats on the horizon, knitted scarves.
