I’m not remotely trying to put up an “end of year” best-of that’d be on the level of what my betters have done. I’ve certainly listened to more artists than what’s below…I just didn’t happen to feel strongly enough about them have a longer list. There are albums I liked – the James Hunter Six for example – but I’d still be hesitant to call “one of the year’s best.” What follows would make that list, no hesitation.
Laura Mvula: Sing to the Moon
Love, love, love this album. Easily my favorite LP of the year and such a brilliant, enrapturing effort.
Lady: S/T.
Not just a delightfully fun listen but you gotta love how it brings together two talents enjoying their second act.
Earl Sweatshirt: Doris
My favorite hip-hop release of the year (Yeezus, lose the wheel). I never connected with Tyler, the Creator (not his fault) but for whatever reason, Earl and his album totally got me.
The Internet: Feel Good
Speaking of Odd Future, loved the laid-back grooviness of The Internet’s sophomore album. Vicodin helps but I would have liked it even without the opiate enhancement.
Valerie Stone: Pushin’ Against a Stone
Laura Mvula and her back-up singers created the sound of the year but Valerie might have “voice of the year” on lock.
Songs
Again, this list is purely personal and it’s not based off of singles but simply the songs that I will be bumping well into 2014 and beyond.
Just a name and a number with the means to reach ya.
I don’t like Drake, generally, but this song has burrowed like an ear worm in the worst way.
Let us live, that fantasy.
I’m not sure I get the whole acid rap thing but anything that flips “Clean-Up Woman” in 2013 gets a heavy (head) nod.
Technically, more than a year old but I didn’t come across to it until 2013. Same deal with this track from Revolutionary Rhythm.
Hands down, probably the one song I listened more than anything. A little Lauryn loop goes a long way.
chatter