TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2023
FRIENDS & DISCO TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2023
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FRIENDS & DISCO TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2023 〰️
NO. 10
Praise A Lord Who Chews But Which Does Not Consume; (Or Simply, Hot Between Worlds)
by Yves Tumor
Yves Tumor's latest masterpiece, 'Praise A Lord Who Chews But Which Does Not Consume,' boldly carves out a new musical frontier, seamlessly merging rock and grunge into the mainstream world. With an unparalleled sense of style, Yves Tumor emerges as an icon; every lyric he delivers carries weight and authenticity, grabbing your attention with its powerful resonance.
In this groundbreaking album, Yves Tumor's distinctive drums take center stage, akin to a prominent background singer, underscoring the emotional depth of each track. 'Praise A Lord' is not just an auditory experience; it's an exploration of a genre-defying soundscape where Yves Tumor's artistic prowess shines.
This album marks a moment of evolution, pushing boundaries and establishing Yves Tumor as a force to be reckoned with in the intersection of rock, grunge, and mainstream music.
NO. 9
Rêverie
by Les Imprimés
Les Imprimés unveils his debut album, 'Rêverie,' with a soulful finesse that delicately touches the heart. The album is a testament to Les Imprimés' enduring presence, offering an easy-listening experience that showcases his dream-state sounds. This collection proves that Les Imprimés isn't just passing through; he's here to stay, providing a musical backdrop that effortlessly accompanies you while you’re cooking your favorite dish or hosting your first ever party at your new apartment you’re so proud of.
In a harmonious fusion of the old and the new, 'Rêverie' breathes life into a soulful revival that resonates with the younger generation. Les Imprimés masterfully combines elements of the past with a contemporary twist, ushering in a sound that captivates the youth and revitalizes the popularity of soul. With an ear to the ground, he reintroduces new sounds that were missing in the landscape of new-age soul, crafting an entirely fresh sonic experience within the genre.
NO. 8
Let’s Start Here
by Lil Yachty
Lil Yachty's latest album “Let’s Start Here,” emerges as a groundbreaking moment in the rap community, injecting a fresh perspective that the genre has long yearned for. In an era where rap culture seemed content with stagnation, Lil Yachty disrupts the norm by seamlessly intertwining the realms of rap and psychedelic rock. A convergence not just in sounds but also in fashion, both genres embracing a shared ethos of the rockstar lifestyle.
This album marks Yachty's audacious leap into uncharted territory, offering a novel take on his sound that has garnered widespread attention and respect. Infused with psychedelic influences, he showcases a depth to his artistry that extends beyond the confines of the rap world.
Lil Yachty, with this release, proves that he is not only a trailblazer within the rap community but an artist capable of earning admiration and recognition from a broader audience.
NO. 7
Good Lies
by Overmono
This year, Overmono gave us their sonic masterpiece, 'Good Lies,' a crowning achievement that cements their reign over the electronic scene for the past couple of years. Attending an Overmono show is not just witnessing music; it's a badge of understanding the pulse of the scene. With their contagious love for music, surrendering to the irresistible pull of their energy becomes inevitable. 'Good Lies,' the album, stands as a testament to Overmono's virtuosity in crafting chord progressions that resonate at a visceral level. This is not background music; it's an auditory spectacle meant to reverberate through the grandest speakers you own, creating an immersive experience where letting loose is not merely encouraged but practically mandatory.
In the realm of 'Good Lies,' Overmono invites you to embark on an odyssey of transcendence, a collective journey where you and your friends can lose yourselves in the music. It's more than an album; it's a fervent invitation to revel together, a sonic voyage that encapsulates the very essence of Overmono's magnetic presence in the electronic world.
NO. 6
Live Vol. 2
by Parcels
'Parcels Live 2' album, is a journey into their passion for house and techno music. The album echoes the groovy bass lines reminiscent of the 'old Parcels,' showcasing the band's evolution and commitment to their unique sound. What sets Parcels apart is their extraordinary talent, seamlessly blending funk, techno, and house genres using real instruments, resulting in a musical concoction that feels genuinely exceptional. Throughout the album, they manage to capture the essence of their live performances, creating an atmosphere that is both dynamic and electrifying.
Notably, the recording process faced unexpected challenges, with the shadow of the mafia attempting to shut down the gig, becoming embroiled in a perplexing Parisian club war. Despite these hurdles, the band persevered, recording the album amid the chaos. It's worth noting that this dedication follows months of meticulous planning, including flying in a film crew from the US and allocating the entire budget to ensure a production of unparalleled quality.
In the end, 'Parcels Live 2' stands as a testament to the band's resilience and creativity, delivering an album that not only captures their musical prowess but also the unique stories and challenges that accompany their artistic journey.
NO. 5
Playing Robots into Heaven
by James Blake
James Blake's 'Playing Robots into Heaven' emerges as a potential magnum opus in his eclectic career. Despite advanced soundscapes that define the album, it's unfortunate that it might have been overshadowed by the sheer complexity that may make people turn off this album. Stick with it. The album maintains the unmistakable essence of James Blake – the same artist everyone knows and loves, just with a refreshing twist.
What sets this album apart is the culmination of Blake's extensive professional journey, where he seamlessly incorporates learned techniques into what feels like one of his most honest and genuine creations. 'Playing Robots into Heaven' exudes a forward-thinking and emotional aura, capturing an entirely new energy that Blake has discovered in the process. This album represents an evolution for James Blake, where his technical skills meets a deeper emotional resonance.
It may have flown under the radar due to its complexities, but 'Playing Robots into Heaven' stands as a testament to Blake's artistic honesty and innovation.
NO. 4
Happy Music
by Supershy
Embarking on a new sonic venture, the ever-talented Tom Misch, now known as Supershy, ventures into the realm of electronic house with his debut album. The single 'Happy Music,' released back in 2022, served as the inception of this new musical identity, drawing widespread acclaim for its innovative sound. Under his new moniker, Supershy now catering to a diverse audience with an unbridled passion for house music. Describing Supershy's realm as emotional house music seems fitting. It's an experience where the beats are perfectly calibrated to evoke a range of emotions.
Listening feels like those moments when you lock eyes with your partner or best friend, and though unspoken, a shared understanding of love permeates the air. Supershy achieves this magic by infusing themes of romance and love into the vocals, complemented by the perfect BPM that keeps the vibe just right. He has crafted an album that transcends the boundaries of conventional house music. It's a testament to his ability to create timeless moments and evoke emotions.
When you put on a Supershy track, you can always count on being transported into a space that never misses the mark. It's a testament to his artistry and the promise that Supershy is an artist we can consistently lean on for a vibe.
NO. 3
Volcano
by Jungle
Jungle's latest creation, 'Volcano,' marks the fourth gem in their discography, solidifying their status as one of the premier bands with universal appeal. Across the demographic spectrum, Jungle effortlessly reaches into the depths of listeners' hearts through their synchronized vocals and emotionally charged melodies, creating an experience that resonates to everyone listening. In 'Volcano,' Jungle takes a bold step forward, showcasing their peak artistry in their most progressive work to date.
Each track is a beautiful story that demonstrates Jungle's progress in crafting music that transcends genres and eras. What makes 'Volcano' even more remarkable is Jungle's unwavering connection with their fanbase. Their unbelievable following is a testament to the band's ability to create music that becomes a lifelong companion for fans.
With this album, Jungle not only cements their place in the musical landscape but ensures they're here to stay, with dedicated fans who will undoubtedly stick with them forever.
NO. 2
Bewilderment
by Pale Jay
Pale Jay emerged prominently on the music scene this year, showcasing his distinctive blend of R&B soul that captivates listeners with its ethereal quality and velvety sounds. Adorning his signature red ski mask, Pale Jay has deliberately steered clear of the limelight, forgoing tours, live shows, and interviews, cultivating an air of mystery around his persona.
In a revealing note on his Spotify profile, Pale Jay shares a poignant moment from his life—an introspective period during a motorcycle accident that prompted a vow. He pledged that if he recovered, he would devote his life to music. Years later, he fulfilled this promise by signing with Colemine Records, and now he's gaining the recognition he truly deserves. Within his debut album, Pale Jay lays bare his soul, delving into themes of heartbreak, personal struggles, and triumphant resilience against life's hurdles. The artist's decision to remain enigmatic, coupled with his unique life story, adds an extra layer of intrigue to his already compelling musical narrative.
Whether Pale Jay will continue to embrace a low-key existence or whether the allure of secrecy propels him into the spotlight remains to be seen—either way, it's this mystique that might just propel him to greater popularity.
NO. 1
The Head Hurts but the Heart Knows the Truth
by Headache
Our top album of 2023. Heading into uncharted musical territories, 'Headache' stands as an audacious and forward-thinking masterpiece. This groundbreaking album, meticulously crafted by Vegyn and featuring the poetic brilliance of Francis Hornsby Clark, seamlessly integrates an AI voice, taking listeners on a sonic journey like no other. 'Headache' doesn't just create music; it cultivates an immersive experience that tugs at our sense of nostalgia, leaving us with a profound sense that we've traversed a past life. Every track on this album is a carefully woven tapestry, leaving no room for a skip, as it keeps the audience intrigued—prompting the question:
Who is Headache, and where did this massive marvel originate?
The album unfolds like a series of mysteries waiting to be unraveled. The lyrics, seemingly drawn from an enigmatic source, resonate as poetic expressions that encourage introspection and contemplation. Channeling influences from 'The Streets' and seamlessly merging them with electronic elements, 'Headache' offers a unique auditory experience. To fully immerse yourself in its narrative, put on your headphones, press play, and embark on a journey through the world that Headache has artfully crafted. You'll emerge on the other side with a newfound appreciation for the musical innovation that this album brings to the table.