According to my Apple Replay, I listened to about 37,000 minutes of music. Here are my top ten albums for 2023.
1. Javelin – Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens’ “Javelin” feels like a culmination of his musical odyssey, weaving together the intricate tapestries of his past work into one cohesive narrative of raw emotion and vulnerability. This album stands as a poignant reflection of Stevens’ life in the wake of his partner’s absence, channeling the eclectic sounds of his career—from the symphonic layers of “Illinois” to the introspective minimalism of “Carrie & Lowell.” It is a journey through the various stages of grief and acceptance, with each track reverberating the pain of loss and the quiet search for meaning that follows. Stevens crafts each song with the meticulous care of a seasoned artist who knows the depths of his own soul, using “Javelin” not just to explore the void left behind but also to celebrate the complex, bittersweet tapestry of a life shared and a love that continues to echo beyond presence. My favorite tracks are Goodbye Evergreen and Shit Talk. In a career full of masterpieces, this one might be his highest peak.
2. Everything is Alive – Slowdive
Slowdive’s “Everything is Alive” is a masterclass in shoegaze. “Everything is Alive” by Slowdive reimagines shoegaze through the contemplative gaze of middle age (not an insult, as I’m 50), where the genre’s signature dreamy soundscapes meet a newfound depth. It’s a shoegaze evolution that resonates with the beauty of maturity. My favorite tracks are Andalucia Plays and Kisses.
3. HellMode – Jeff Rosenstock
Jeff Rosenstock’s “HELLMODE” is an unbridled reflection of our tumultuous times, with each album ratcheting up the intensity to match the world’s growing chaos. Amidst the deluge of overstimulation and anxiety, the record stands out with moments of unexpected tranquility that underscore its energy. To me, this is an album that must be listened to from beginning to end.
4. Guts – Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s “Guts” is a raw and relatable tale of youth and vulnerability. It mixes energetic pop-punk with heartfelt ballads, echoing the ups and downs of teenage life. It’s a relatable record that covers the trials of adolescence and the messiness of personal growth, all while keeping a sense of humor and realness. Vampire made me stop doing whatever it was I was doing and made me listen to it again right then and there. It has been a handful of times in my life that has happened.
5. First Two Pages of Frankenstein – The National
The National’s “First Two Pages of Frankenstein” is a typical Sad Dads album. This is its biggest strength but also its biggest weakness.
6. The Record – boygenius
The harmonious trio known as boygenius (comprised of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus) delivers “The Record,” an album that intertwines their individual talents into a sublime collective experience. Not Strong Enough is the best song here as it demonstrates the strength of all three songwriters, but there is not a bad note on this album. It is one of those albums that you discover something new on each listen.
7. Weathervanes – Jason Isbell
Jason Isbell’s storytelling prowess is evident in “Weathervanes,” where his soulful voice and intricate guitar work paint vivid pictures of life’s myriad moments. Isbell’s ability to craft songs that feel both personal and universal is a testament to his skill as a songwriter and musician. King of Oklahoma and Cast Iron Skillet are short stories worthy of being compared to Flannery O’Connor but in song form. Honestly, his music will always be in my top ten lists.
8. But Here We Are – Foo Fighters
The Foo Fighters’ “But Here We Are” is a testament to the resilience music can bring to a person facing big losses. Dave Grohl channels the pain of losing his first and last best friends (his mom and Taylor Hawkins). It is their best album since the beginning of their career.
9. Rustin’ in the Rain – Tyler Childers
Tyler Childers’ “Rustin’ in the Rain” is a blend of country, folk, and bluegrass that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Childers’ ability to narrate stories through his music is captivating. In Your Love is an amazing song on its own but the video puts the song on a whole new level.
10. Cartwheel – Hotline TNT
Closing out the list is “Cartwheel” by Hotline TNT, an album that’s a hidden gem within the indie rock scene. Its lo-fi aesthetic, combined with earnest lyricism, creates a sense of intimacy that’s both comforting and invigorating. It is a perfect roll down the windows and play loud.
What were your favorite albums of the year? Which ones did I miss? What was your top ten albums for 2023?
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