Reviews: Albums

Brent Faiyaz has a distinct sound and voice that shines through this album, demonstrated by its nearly half a billion peak listens. The themes Faiyaz works into his music aren't the most fitting for a site like this one, but that is part of why he is as successful as he is. His music involves much of the darker side of love and lust, a distinction that has created somewhat of a 'meme' culture surrounding his music (due to his distinctly toxic lyricism). His skill can not be denied, however.

The Moss has a special ability making music in a wide range of styles. My other favorite from them is the single 'Willie's Song', which is considered reggae. This album, on the other hand, is an alt rock/indie rock inspired album that I highly recommend you give a listen. Not only do they sound great and masterfully craft an amazing ambience with the music, they also did an amazing job with the lyricism (i.e. on 'Celebrate'). Highly recommend, great vibe.

With over 1 billion listens, this album speaks for itself in terms of quality. Perhaps most surprisingly, this was Joji's debut album. Joji has a very unique sound and style that, I believe, does as well as it does thanks to the distinctly vulnerable lyrics he lays atop music with a very specific somber atmosphere, producing an almost 'cathartic' sort of sound. All this to say, Joji mastered the art of displaying and evoking emotion.

Fans of Brent Faiyaz will recognize this name. Sonder was the name Brent produced music under when he first started his career (alongside two producers, Atu and Dpat). Digressing, this album/EP is, in my opinion, some of the best music Faiyaz has produced to date. The themes aren't as dark as his more recent music, but the music has a way of producing strong emotions. I attribute this both to his amazing voice, as well as the choir-like backdrop to most of the songs on this project.

This song sounds like what a sunny, lazy day at the beach feels like. I must preface that this is a song and not an album, so the score is a little unfair to the albums on this list. However, this song is really good. The Moss is an interesting band with a very interesting range of styles. The only thing I can say about this song beyond what I've said already is: listen to it now.

Peach Pit's music feels like a somber Sunday. Regardless of whether its because of or in spite of that, Being So Normal stands as one of my favorite albums by any band to date. Alrighty Aphordite was the first to hook me, with a goosebump-inducing guitar riff during the first chorus. However, once I picked the album up, I found the slower, somber songs to be the most impactful. Can't recommend Peach Pit enough.

This one is most definitely not for everyone, but I would recommend everyone give it a try. $uicideBoy$ are well known for their harsher sound and lyricism and High Tide in the Snakes Nest is no exception. In fact, I think this is one of their harsher albums overall. Ruby and $crim mix hip hop and punk to create an album that does great in the gym. I also find their personal perspectives on life to be a great influence on people going through tough times, mentally. Not for everyone, but give it a shot.

Likely one of the best albums I've had the pleasure of listening to. Palace blends newer alternative rock styles with classical & blues rock tones to create a unique but comfortable sound. This album has several songs that have landed in my most played over the years. An album I can never get tired of, no matter how much I listen to it. One downside—there are a one or two songs that may not be everyone's cup of tea. Regardless, a must listen.