With 2024 just around the corner, we’ve got a year of new music ahead. But before we break out the confetti and champagne, let’s take a look back at some of the tracks that defined the music scene of 2023.
It’s been a full year of new music, from singles to EPs to albums. So, while we wait to ring in 2024, here’s a roundup—in no particular order—of my five personal favorite albums of 2023.
Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd – Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s ninth studio album, Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd, brought back Americana in full force. It’s an exploration of lust, heartbreak, and every complicated thing in between.
Her songs take influence from folk, gospel, pop, and psychedelic sounds to produce a mixture of impressively diverse tracks that still mesh. Nostalgia’s never felt so good.
Rat Saw God – Wednesday
Rock band Wednesday’s fifth studio album, Rat Saw God, is reminiscent of teenage angst in all the best ways. The ten tracks range in emotion, from soft whispers that effortlessly grow into screams.
Wednesday’s navigating first heartbreaks, anxieties, and growing pains, all while growing up in the South. It’s a melodic coming-of-age like no other.
Javelin – Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens’ tenth studio album, Javelin, explores sentimentalism in a heartbreakingly authentic way. Folksy instrumentals, combined with hints of electronic influences, illuminate Stevens’ poetic lyrics.
Reminiscent of his older works, it’s a delicately intimate love letter, stamped and sealed for everyone to read.
Desire, I Want to Turn Into You – Caroline Polachek
Caroline Polachek’s fourth studio album, Desire, I Want To Turn Into You, is hopeless romanticism where you can’t help but sing along. The avant-garde sound is comprised of a surprising mixture; synths, bagpipes, choirs, and Spanish guitar intriguingly define this album.
At the core, however, is Polachek’s distinct pop princess sound. It’s a desire on the dance floor.
The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We – mitski
Mitski’s seventh studio album, The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, explores love in an articulately complex way. This is Mitski’s first album recorded with a full band, complete with an impressively daunting seventeen-person choir.
Each song ranges in intensity, from visceral screams to slow ballads, but the tracks blend together amongst the emotional turmoil. Grief, rage, and lust make their way to the center stage as Mitski longs for love most beautifully.
Final Thoughts
From country to jazz and everything in between, 2023 has been the year of albums that cater to the most eclectic range of tastes. No matter the top tracks of your Spotify Wrapped, there’s an album out there for anyone and everyone.
Which albums were your favorite of 2023?
