Zach R.’s Top In 2017

1. Lorde – Melodrama

No other album this year had a more clear, biting thesis statement than Lorde’s incredible sophomore release. A restless look into the life of a young person failing upward, Melodrama brought stunning production, Lorde’s singular lyricism, and a healthy dose of, well, melodrama into a perfect, addictive pop masterpiece.

2. Dirty Projectors – Dirty Projectors

A unique, almost too-personal look at the crumble of a relationship both romantic and professional, Dirty Projectors’s self-titled paints a vibrant picture; the story of DP mastermind Dave Longstreth and former band member Amber Coffman, told non-linearally, with all of the pieces forced together like a mis-cut jigsaw puzzle. Precise, oddball production gives certain songs the feel of a fucked up Justin Timberlake record (see: “Death Spiral”). Don’t miss this strange trip.

3. (Sandy) Alex G – Rocket

A dark, twisted folk world unlike any I’ve visited before, Alex’s latest was perhaps the most motley record of the year, allowing him to bounce around a vast palette of sound without ever coming off as disjointed. Some of the most raw, haunting melodies I’ve heard all year.

4. Boy Band – Begin

No other band this year has made a debut as downright fun as Boy Band’s debut EP Begin. The 5 songs tackle confidence, heartbreak, feminism and death–with some of the catchiest melodies and most gorgeous harmonies of the last 12 months. The lead singles “Sorry (High & Dry) and “Up From The Mud” are some of my favorite tracks of the year, as well. Looking forward to big things from the folk pop trio in 2018.

5. Bleachers – Gone Now

Jack Antonoff’s sophomore release as Bleachers provided a fine-tuned, fun-as-heck lineup of innovative pop bangers–the kind of songs best experienced from the middle of a crowd that knows every single word.

6. Travis Crowley – The Trouble Kid Tape
7. HAIM – Something To Tell You
8. The xx – I See You
9. Harry Styles – Harry Styles
10. Jay Som – Everybody Works

Most-Anticipated for 2018: Vampire Weekend

Want to see what the rest of the staff liked this year?
Check out The Top Albums Of 2017,
2017 Art Clickgrid, and The 2017 MEBBIES!