My top 3 (in no certain order!):
Kendrick Lamar - How To Pimp a Butterfly
Not only the most appropriately timed album possible but the blend of jazz and rap makes for a deservedly-Grammy nominated album.
Tame Impala - Currents
Who hurt Kevin Parker? He's clearly recovering from a breakup and reevaluating his life and we all know how breakups make for great albums (ahem, Adele).
Jamie xx - In Colour
Not the dance album you were expecting but something much deeper. The minute I hear "Gosh" start up I'm like, go for it!
The rest of the best:
Leon Bridges - Coming Home
I swear, this guy is straight out of 1964. His clothes, his band, his dancing, his way of referring to his friends as "cats" - it all makes for a smooth album.
Adele - 25
No shit, the queen returns to form.
Kelela - Hallucinogen
I can't wait for a full album from this girl. Weird and abstract beats with a gorgeous voice. Which brings me to...
FKA twigs - M3LL155X
Tahiyah Barnett continues to amaze me with her alter ego, FKA twigs.
Courtney Barnett - Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit
The distinct sound of Courtney talking/singing through songs just kills me - such a way with words
Blur - The Magic Whip
I know, I know, I adore British artists. It was such a pleasant surprise to see these guys not only reunite but put out a fantastic album!
Wolf Alice - Our Love is Cool
These rockers manage to take me back to all the early 90s grunge sounds. So impressive.
Iron & Wine and Ben Bridwell - Sing Into My Mouth
An unlikely pairing between friends with extensive albums of their own, this covers album was such a breath of fresh air this summer.
Beach House - Thank Your Lucky Stars
I was a little concerned when Depression Cherry was released - what the hell was that? Then this album was released and I was immediately relieved. Blissful, dreamy perfection.
-Libby Hostetler
