In recent years, I have developed a short attention span…
So my list follows suit. Although there was A LOT of great music to be released this year, below you will find my favorite albums of the year. I hope they resonate or you become a fan of the noise that’s been on repeat in my #TIDAL & #Apple rotations.
I. The Patience | Mick JenkinsOne of the best hip hop releases of 2023. From the wordplay to the delivery to the production,
The Patience has been played everyday since its release in August. And i have yet to get tired of it. You can tell Mick Jenkins took his time with crafting this project. There are absolutely no skips. His music continues to get better with time. He's consistent and one of the most underrated rappers of our time.
Best Track: 2004
Best Production: 007 | Guapanese
Best Lyrics: ROY G. BIV
Instrumental Album available
here. And it's just as good as the version with lyrics.
III. PRAYERS & PARANOIA | SIPHO.
UK born singer, Sipho is a FORCE. As soon as I started the album, I was hooked. Think of his voice as Seal in the 2020s with more grit, more soul, and more range. I believe he will be an artist to watch in 2024.
Favorite Tracks: ELEVATION | THE CHEMICALS | RUN FOR YOUR LIFE
IV. Raven | Kelela
The best way I can describe this album is to say it is an experience, especially the second half (starting at track Closure). I understand this project may be an acquired taste for most readers, but if you are a fan of house and ambient music, then this is for you.
Favorite Tracks: Happy Ending | Closure | Bruises
V. Snaxxx | MndsgnOne Word: JAMMING. It's very sensual, funky, and simply creative as hell. There is not one bad track on this project. Its consists of mainly smooth instrumentals, so if you are a J Dilla fan, then this will be right up your alley.
Favorite Tracks: Fillsmeup | LUV MIRAGE | Playinthesegames
Honorable Mentions
- All for You | Amaria
- Slugs of Love | Little Dragon
- MICHAEL | Killer Mike
- New Blue Sun | André 3000
- Glorious Game | El Michels Affair & Black Thought
