2019 albums ranked 𓇳

a lot of my favorite albums from this year are the ones that are the most immersive. they’re the records i keep coming back to because there’s always another detail, transition, or production choice to appreciate.

some highlights from my top albums:

Tyler, the Creator / IGOR

one of the most creative hip hop records of the decade. Tyler completely reinvented his sound here, blending neo-soul, alternative, hip hop, and synth-pop into something that’s emotional, and incredibly cohesive. every transition and production choice pushes the story forward. my favorites are GONE, GONE / THANK YOU, I THINK, and RUNNING OUT OF TIME.

Beyoncé / Homecoming

one of my favorite live albums ever released. beyond the performances, what makes this so special is the level of thought behind every arrangement, transition, and musical detail. she takes songs we already know and completely transforms them, making the entire performance feel like one continuous experience. my favorites are Before I Let Go, Crazy In Love, and Diva.

Lana Del Rey / Norman Fucking Rockwell!

this is my favorite Lana album. i love how cinematic and effortless everything sounds, it’s filled with gorgeous songwriting and some of her strongest vocal performances. every song feels like another chapter in the same story. my favorites are Cinnamon Girl, Mariners Apartment Complex, Venice Bitch, and The greatest.

Solange / When I Get Home

such an immersive album, it flows more like a continuous experience than a collection of songs, pulling from neo-soul, jazz, hip hop, and ambient music. it’s subtle, hypnotic, and reveals more every time i revisit it. my favorites are Binz, Almeda, and Stay Flo.

Weyes Blood / Titanic Rising

an album that sounds nostalgic and futuristic at the same time. the songs feels so grand, but also comforting at the same time. the orchestral arrangements are beautiful and Natalie’s songwriting really shines here. my favorites are Andromeda, Movies, and A Lot’s Gonna Change.

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