MICHAELA’S TOP ALBUMS OF 2013


I am no strangers to making lists, whether it’s a To-Do List or a Shopping List. But when it comes to writing a list of the Top Ten Albums of 2013, I was stumped. I had no idea where to start. How could I possibly limit myself into only choosing 10 albums. It’s been a great year for music. So I tried my best to compile a list of albums that I deem worth mentioning:

10. Beyonce – Beyonce

Since I have only had the privilege of listening to 30 minutes of each song, i can’t fully place her higher than a 10. But I had to put Queen B on the list for her brilliance. An artist that doesn’t publicize her release date, produces 14 songs and 17 music videos while touring is a machine. Her idea of a ‘visual album” is not only clever but its life changing in the way this generation views music. As she states in her video, people are going on iTunes, listening to 30 minutes of the song and then if they like it, they will purchase it. By doing what she did, she enabled the listener to not only perceive the lyrics but also conceptualize them.  Queen B is alway taking things to the next level, and I’m excited to see what else she has in store.

9. Disclosure – Settle

This album rises to a whole new level. With the lists of guest artists and the countless hooks and dance grooves, theres no wonder Disclosure has been rising in the charts. They add an intriguing, unique aspect to music and they definitely know how to get someone up and dancing.

8. Foals – Holy Fire

Foals has undoubtedly taken techno music to the next level. Through this album, Foals has shown us that they can be emotional and eccentric, thus not following the mainstream of other fellow techno-artists. Especially with their catchy single, “My Number” and “Inhaler”. They have shown us that they are constantly creating and thinking of new ideas for their music and as a fan, I am intrigued and eager to see what they come up with next.

7. MSMR – Secondhand Rapture

The first time that I heard one of their song was through a friend  and the rest was history. The talented way that they combine classic pop with trip-hop elements to create catchy, upbeat songs. There is no doubt that this unique band is going anywhere. They will definitely be in the music business for awhile.

6. Local Natives – Hummingbird

Local Natives are one of my favorite bands and I was so thrilled when had the privilege of seeing them in concert. It was one of my favorite concerts. Their second album, Hummingbird, illustrates Kelcey’s vocal abilities as well as their melodious instrument playing and harmonies. I look forward to hearing what else they have in store.

5. Atlas Genius – When It Was Now

When It was Now  is a solid indie rock album that kept my attention with every song. With their catchy lyrics and hooks, there’s no doubt anybody listening to their music won’t be up on their feet dancing. Especially to their famous song, “Trojans”.  I look forward to hearing new stuff from them.

4. Daughter – If You Leave

I had the opportunity to see Daughters live and it was incredible. I definitely recommend going to their concert. I never felt so absorbed and bewitched by lyrics in my life.Elena Tonra’s ethereal voice mixed with the instruments surrounding her causes the listener to go on a such a tranquil journey. You feel the intensity of the emotions of heartbreak and loss, as if these moments were happening in your life at that very moment.

3. Haim – Days Are Gone

There’s no question why this three sister trio band are so likable. Their unique style, sense of humor and vocals are definitely what the music industry has been missing. Their carefree attitude and ability to bring back 80s pop with catchy tunes such as “Falling” and Days are Gone” is commendable. Especially, considering the fact that they are all related and working together.

2. Lorde – Pure Heroine

Being captivated by her songs Royals and Tennis Club. I only expected great things from Lorde. .Her radiant, unique voice combined with her catchy lyrics, it’s no doubt that people have already been raving about her.. The progressive way she has caught up with the mainstream and has made her way up to the charts is just fascinating. and the fact that she did all of this and she’s just 16 years old, is incredible.

1. The Civil Wars – Civil Wars

After hearing their first album Barton Hollow, I was hooked. Whenever I listen to their music, I get captivated by the inscrutable beauty of Joy William  and John Paul White’s harmonic voices. Their songs are constantly on repeat on my iPod.  The second their second album was released, I instantly fell in love with their song, “The one that got away”. I could easily discern the additional instruments they added for this album. The combination of the instruments with their intensified emotional lyrics affect the listener on a whole new level. It enables the listener to become so absorbed with the emotion they are trying to convey. I’m eagerly waiting for the day I am able to see them in concert.

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