Curious what notable personalities in the scene think was great this year? So is TGEFM! So we reached out to some of our favorite luminaries ranging from musicians, label personnel, and more for their “Best of 2023” lists. Now, listen: TGEFM is not a taskmistress. Contributors can write these out however they want. So if it doesn’t actually look or read like a list… and sometimes it really is just a list with no other observations! Who cares?
Dark and heavy duo Holy Wars released the new EP Cult Classic in 2023. The music of Kat Leon and Nicholas Perez is as punk in attitude as it is as melodic and precise in musicality. Check out what the band loved in 2023.
Holy Wars’ Favorite Albums of the Year
Kat: One of my favorite albums of 2023 would be Lana Del Rey‘s Did You Know That There’s A Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd. Also winning for the longest title of the year. This whole album has a vibe with a stand out track for me being “A&W”. I love how there is a shift in this song and I respect Lana so much for being an artist that knows who she is and she has a sound and a voice that is so unique to her. Much respect.
A left turn album from this would probably be Knocked Loos Upon Loss Singles. Both tracks “Deep in the willow” and “Everything is Quiet Now” has been on repeat for both Nick and I to the point that when we were buying a new car this year, we made sure to test drive with these songs to test the speakers.
Nick’s Favorite Riffs/Breakdowns of the Year
Definitely Knocked Loose for sure both “Deep in the Willow” and “Everything is Quiet Now” for favorite breakdowns. This band really knows breakdowns and bring killer riffs.
I actually like the riff in Olivia Rodrigo‘s “Bad Idea, Right”. I suppose most would find this one unexpected for me but this album is really great and I really like that riff.
Kat’s Favorite Tarot Cards/Crystals of the Year
For a new/modern deck: My favorite tarot deck is The Wild Unknown by Kim Krans. There is something that just attracts me to this deck. I love the illustrations and its whole vibe.
But tried and true for me will always be my Mom’s deck which is the original Rider-Waite Tarot. Hers is perfectly worn in from years of use before her passing. Whenever I want to feel close to her again, I pick a few cards from this deck.
Kat’s Must Have Makeup of the Year
I discovered some favorites this year for makeup:
For foundation: Ilia is my new fav. It’s lightweight and gives great coverage with a dewy glow.
For lipstick: I am addicted to Estee Lauder Lip 304 Quiet Riot. My go to shade for photos and live and love the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint
For face wash: I started using Tatcha rice wash and dewy skin cream plumping moisturizer
Holy Wars’ Favorite Podcasts of the Year:
And the writer is with Ross Golan. It’s really inspiring to hear the songwriter’s journey behind such legendary songs.
The Sunshine Place – For a wild true story about a rehab facility turned dangerous cult. This one holds your attention!
