A Year in Review: 2023
As 2023 comes to an end it’s time we take a look at the albums that left an impressionable mark this year. As you can imagine there were quite a few projects released this year, so for brevity’s sake I’m choosing to focus only on the top 6 albums released this year. Before we get into this project let's first discuss what makes an album ‘AOTY’.
Cultural Impact
I've considered how the broader culture responded to and engaged with the project. Did the project contribute to shaping cultural discussions and broader societal conversations? These are the considerations running through my mind as I review this year's projects. To make it among the top albums for the year, it needs to do more than just be about the music—it should have a real impact on culture.
Musical Depth
Beyond examining albums' cultural impact, it's crucial to dive into their musical depth. How do artists bring their projects to life? What sonic ingredients do they blend in to make the whole experience richer? And how well do they express emotions and ideas through their lyrics? An artist's skill in communicating their creative vision through sound, setting themselves apart from peers, and pushing boundaries in the field is a key aspect to consider for the album of the year.
Replayability
Last but not least, the album should make you want to press play again. Some albums might be deep and impactful but fail to entice multiple listens —they end up being one-time listens. Today, we're evaluating these projects based on how much they pull listeners back in for more, and, spoiler alert, they typically score high in replay value.
Apart from what I mentioned earlier, I prioritized certain factors. For example, I'm exclusively considering albums released before December 1, 2023, conforming to traditional album standards (a la not an EP), and ensuring a diverse representation across various genres.
Alright, so let’s get into it…
BEST ELECTRONIC ALBUM
RAVEN by Kelela
Kelela's much-anticipated second studio album, "Raven," was released on February 10, 2023. Despite its early release in the year, the album has left a lasting impression on me. Its impact extends beyond the time that has elapsed since its release.
CULTURAL IMPACT
I initially became intrigued by the name "Raven" and its symbolic meaning. It soon became evident that its symbolism is intricate, representing transformation and divine messengers in some cultures, while in others, it signifies death and trickery. What caught my attention is how the album explores both aspects. This theme becomes particularly compelling when you consider the backdrop of the past few years. It has been six years since Kelela's last release, and during this time, significant personal and cultural changes have unfolded. We've collectively navigated a global pandemic, witnessed political unrest, and endured an ongoing Rihanna drought. It's safe to say that everything, including ourselves, has evolved. Kelela's album, "Raven," perfectly captures this period of change.
I've always been drawn to projects that maintain a clear narrative and motif throughout. It demonstrates intention, vision, and a commitment to a specific point of view.
MUSICAL DEPTH
The album covers a range of topics. Kelela speaks on this theme of renewal in her first released single, "Washed Away”. “For the first point of contact out of my hiatus, it felt more honest to lead with an ambient heart-check”, Kelela describes. It’s ethereal and atmospheric; and doesn’t shy away from space, in fact, it’s produced in a manner to invite introspection and reflection.
"Holier" initially grabbed my attention with its dark, moody atmosphere and subtle buzzing beat. The track title and the beat convey undertones of religion and biblical references, including subtle nods to a churchlike organ toward the end of the song. What drew me in the most is the contrast between the song's vibe and its lyrics. Despite the dark tone, the lyrics focus on self-worth, with lines like "I'd rather be holier" suggesting a desire to be in a place where one is loved and revered. Alternatively, "Holier" could signify a commitment to maintaining high moral standards and avoiding moral compromise during moments of doubt.
"Contact" is a certified bop, a dance track that the gay gworls have been waiting for. Interestingly, this song takes me back to the rave scene, an interest I picked up two summers ago. It's a light-hearted, stress-free song about liberation and release. The title "Contact" cleverly alludes to multiple interpretations. Kelela’s lyrics in the second verse, "Your hands on my body, the feeling is so right / I'd go all the way if it's up to me, hey-yeah," emphasize the physical contact, while many of her sonic choices suggest a contact high.
Personally, I appreciate that this is a pro-marijuana song, which, if you're familiar with Kelela, shouldn't be surprising. As someone living and experiencing NYC, this track perfectly encapsulates our nightlife, vividly portraying the ambiance of a faded night. The track features moments of distortion and smokiness, and at times, Kelela uses the pace to tell a story—conveying inner dialogue or emulating the fast-paced energy of sprinting through the city.
“Sorbet” has quickly become one of my favorites. Kelela's vocals are hauntingly beautiful, and the lyrics are intricately complex. The song delves into themes of sex, lust, release, and confusion. On the surface, it comes across as a sensual track, with sultry tones and drums echoing the heartbeat of someone on the brink of climax.
Lines like "I can hear your breathing (Let it all out) / Rock with me, I'll turn you out / Talk to me then turn around / Hold it, three, two, one" build up to an intense moment. However, despite this climax, Kelela concludes the song with "I don't know where we are," hinting at a sense of confusion about the relationship's status and the freedom they've just experienced.
There's not much else to say about this album. Raven was tens across the board, no notes.
REPLAYABILITY RATING - 9.0
BEST RAP ALBUM
GUMBO by Young Nudy
Young Nudy, an Atlanta native, dropped his fourth studio album, "Gumbo," on February 28, 2023. I first heard about Young Nudy when my partner, Kay, played “Peaches & Eggplants' in our apartment (y'all - she was playing it at least once a day haha). Surprisingly, I was instantly intrigued by him and his latest project. What sets this album apart as a strong contender for Album of the Year in the Rap genre is Young Nudy's unwavering commitment to the theme—an element that, in my opinion, is often lacking in this genre.
(Hot take🔥: I generally find that male rappers lack imagination and their songs tend to come off as boring.)
CULTURAL IMPACT
Atlanta has consistently led the rap scene, boasting iconic names like Outkast, Migos, and 2 Chainz, and now, the likes of Young Nudy. The city's undeniable impact has been instrumental in shaping the genre and pushing the culture forward. ‘Gumbo' seamlessly integrates into the vibrant tapestry of Atlanta's rap scene, proudly representing black culture. The album is vividly expressive, community-oriented, and a testament to what happens when an artist commits to a vision— echoing the legacy of the giants who came before Young Nudy.
MUSICAL DEPTH
What’s caught my attention with this album is the apparent food motif - every track is named after a food dish.
The lead single from the album is “Peaches & Eggplants” featuring 21 Savage. Despite its non-appetizing title, the track, including its remix with Sexxy Red and Latto, is both playful and catchy, with a silly and sexual nature. The chorus, where Young Nudy emulates the sounds of intercourse with "Boaw, boaw, boaw, boaw," is simultaneously ridiculous and engaging. The chemistry between Young Nudy and 21 Savage is both complementary and evident - which considering they are cousins, makes sense.
My current favorite is 'Portabella.' While I usually hesitate with songs about drugs given music's history with substance abuse and its toll on lives, I'll make an exception for this track. It skillfully narrates Young Nudy's love for microdosing, centered around the theme of mushrooms/shrooms. He tackles that common question about substances, “What them drugs do to you?”. His reply eases me “I used to lose my mind, you showed me patience”.
What really hits the spot for me is the trippy and nostalgic vibe the song cues. Nudy's voice is smoky, yet penetrating. The beat takes me back to Wiz Khalifa's “Kush and OJ,” and there's this playful touch with xylophone-like sounds in the chorus.
REPLAYABILITY RATING - 7.5
BEST FOLK ALBUM
JAVELIN by Sufjan Stevens
I was introduced to Sufjan Stevens through his song "Death With Dignity," prominently featured in my favorite TV drama, This Is Us. What stood out to me was his musical sparseness—the song embraced space, allowing moments of reflection rather than filling the track with an abundance of lyrics or thoughts. Years have passed since that song left a lasting impression on me, and since then, I've kept an eye on Stevens and his projects. His latest release, “Javelin”, came out on October 6, 2023, and has already made a significant impact on his discography.
CULTURAL IMPACT
The significance of this project deepens when considering the broader context of Stevens's personal life. Prior to the release, two tragic events unfolded: Sufjan announced to his fans that he was suffering from Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a condition where the immune system attacks the nerves. Additionally, Stevens dedicated his new album to his late partner, Evans Richardson, who passed away in April. Unfortunately, this context lays the groundwork for understanding why this album resonates.
“Javelin” offers poignant reflections on love, relationships, and grief, highlighting their cyclical nature. One cannot experience one without having experienced the other. This album serves as a reminder that, while these emotions are complicated and complex, they are deeply human. This is something that we can all resonate with, as there are likely many instances in which we've loved intensely and subsequently grieved deeply as well.
MUSICAL DEPTH
Initially, “Goodbye Evergreen” struck me as a breakup song, but not in the traditional sense of a romantic relationship ending. However, considering Sufjan's external challenges, that interpretation wouldn't be surprising. After a few more listens, I started to sense that the goodbyes in the song are more about grieving for who you once were or what you once knew. The term "evergreen" often symbolizes immortality and eternal life, so bidding farewell to it implies that something that was once constant and everlasting is no longer.
"Will Anybody Love Me" features a beautiful banjo backdrop. In terms of lyrics, it takes a self-deprecating and morose tone as the artist contemplates discarding his body and life: “Tie me to a tiny wooden raft / Burn my body, point me to the undertow / Push me off into the void at last.” Sufjan raises a poignant question, wondering if anyone will ever love him unconditionally. Despite its deeply introspective theme, the song maintains an upbeat and catchy vibe. It undeniably resonates, capturing the universal questioning of whether love will find us all.
REPLAYABILITY – 6.8
BEST POP ALBUM
GOLDEN by Jung Kook
Jung Kook, a member of the globally successful group BTS, stepped into the solo spotlight with his highly anticipated debut album, “Golden”, released on November 3rd. This album not only marks the commencement of his solo career but also signifies a two-year hiatus as he has recently enlisted in mandatory military service.
CULTURAL IMPACT
For Jung Kook, "Golden" holds significant importance for several reasons. It marks a pivotal crossover in every sense, particularly noteworthy for the K-pop genre, which has faced challenges breaking into the Western market. The album successfully delivers on all fronts expected from a pop album, encompassing ballads, club bangers, and catchy tunes. Notably, it features collaborations with artists like Latto, Major Lazer, and Jack Harlow.
MUSICAL DEPTH
I first discovered the album through "Seven feat. Latto" (explicit), which gained widespread popularity on TikTok due to its catchy and risqué chorus. My surprise stemmed from the sexually charged lyrics and the choice of featuring Latto. This collaboration marked a significant shift in the K-pop and Rap genre, suggesting an increasing overlap in audiences. It also signals a blurring of the lines in what is traditionally considered "western content."
"Standing Next To You" is a thematic earworm that has been playing non-stop in my head since the album's release. It brings to mind a song you might hear in American Dad sung by Steve, but executed even better. The Michael Jackson influence is evident, making this song thematic, triumphant, and utterly spectacular. This spectacular quality holds particularly true when you delve into the lyrics.
Upon initial listening, it seems like Jung is reassuring a love that they will “survive the test of time”, overcoming any obstacles. However, I couldn't help but consider that this might be a message to the "army," especially since Jung will be on a hiatus to fulfill his mandatory military service until 2025. With that context, "Standing Next To You" takes on the character of a love letter to his fans, expressing that despite the hiatus, he will continue to love and think of them.
There’s not much to say about “Yes or No” other than that it may be the most perfect, pop romance song. It poses the age old question, “do you like me, yes or no?” The song's catchiness and charming nature makes sense considering Ed Sheeren collaborated with Jung to create this track.
REPLAYABILITY – 7.0
BEST EXPERIENTIAL ALBUM
NEW BLUE SUN by Andre 3000
Much like Kelela, it's been years since we last heard from Andre 3000. To be precise, it's been nearly two decades since he dropped an album. "New Blue Sun" took me by surprise. I had resigned myself to thinking that the last musical offering from him would be either “The Love Below” or the “Idlewild” soundtrack. I'm glad the drought is finally over. Released on Friday, Nov. 17, "New Blue Sun" is described as a "stunning 87-minute mind-bender—minimalist, experimental, tribal, and transcendent."
CULTURAL IMPACT
Andre takes on a new artistic form with his first fully flute project. This project isn't about rap, beats, clever puns, or double entendres. As expressed in his opening track, "I Swear, I Really Wanted to Make a 'Rap' Album but This Is Literally the Way the Wind Blew Me This Time". What sets this project apart is how this album speaks to Andre’s present life. Personally,I find it particularly impactful that someone of Andre 3000's age showcases the wisdom and restraint to understand when silence is more potent than words. He demonstrates a keen awareness to not speak just for the sake of it. Which raises a thought about the significance of silence and stillness and society's growing need for both.
MUSICAL DEPTH
I won't attempt to dissect the complexity of "New Blue Sun" with my limited intellect and language, so I'll keep this brief. One aspect I appreciate, as mentioned earlier, is the stillness and spaciousness. Delving deeper into this, I find “space” crucial because it compels listeners to confront their thoughts, akin to meditation. Creating space in music offers an opportunity to engage more profoundly with oneself and the art. Several giants, including Philip Glass, Pharoah Sanders, Kendrick Scott, and many more, have embodied this in their work, and it has been transformative, to say the least.
I'd also like to highlight the track titles. While the music is deeply reflective and spiritual, the titles don't take themselves too seriously. Tracks like “Ants To You, Gods To Who?” and “The Slang Word P(*)ssy Rolls Off the Tongue with Far Better Ease Than the Proper Word Vagina. Do You Agree?" demonstrate Mr. Benjamin’s comedic and light-hearted nature. He strikes a fine balance of skill and intent, with a chill.
REPLAYABILITY – 8.7
So, let's address the elephant in the room—R&B.
Honestly, I struggled connecting deeply with an R&B album this year. It's not that there weren't strong contenders, like “Jaguar II”, “The Age of Pleasure”, and “Fountain Baby”. However, the number of songs that truly resonated with me felt few and far between, and the replayability seemed inconsistent across the board. I might even go so far as to say that Beyonce's “Renaissance” still holds the crown for the top R&B album, despite dropping the year before. But I’m in the spirit of giving credit where it's due, and while there were a few projects this year that didn't quite make the cut, they did have some standout songs that I absolutely loved:
HONORABLE MENTIONS - R&B
JAGUAR II by Victoria Monet
Victoria Monet is my bisexual queen, and I'll forever stan her. While “Jaguar II” is technically Victoria's debut album, I personally see it as her sophomore effort since “Jaguar” left a permanent mark on me. This latest project showcases her growth in artistry (writing, dancing, investment, etc) and I genuinely can't wait to see what's in store for her.
Songs that hit:
“On My Mama”
“Stop (Askin’ Me 4Shyt)”
“Alright”
“How Does It Make you Feel”
THE AGE OF PLEASURE by Janelle Monáe
You can tell the amount of effort Janelle Monae put into this album and its production. It’s cohesive, it's confident and sounds absolutely phenomenal on our Sonos system.
Songs that hit:
“The Rush (feat. Nia Long and Amaarae)”
“Champagne Shit”
“Phenomenal (feat. Doechi)”
“Haute”
FOUNTAIN BABY by Amaarae
Before you drag me, I acknowledge that categorizing Amaarae's sophomore album, “Fountain Baby”, as pure R&B might not be the best fit. But what I like most about this record is how it unmistakably pays homage to diverse influences and genres.
Songs that hit:
“Disguise”
“Co-Star”
“Water From Wine”
In conclusion (especially since this shit is running long), 2023 stood out as a monumental year. From the return of dormant artists to moments of dance and deep introspection on the human experience, the year truly delivered.
If you've made it to this point, you're either a true music enthusiast or someone who appreciates my perspective. Either way, thank you, and I'd love to hear your thoughts on 2023’s year in music. .