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?
Hailing from the vibrant music scene of central Massachusetts, Wind Walkers are leading in redefining the very essence of post-hardcore and alternative metal. In their innovative approach, they fearlessly combine the relentless power of modern metal with the irresistible allure of pop, creating a sound that is as thought-provoking as it is infectious. Their latest album What If I Break? is a glimpse into the boundless creativity that lies within them. The band has shared some of their favorites of 2023.
The year 2023 proved to be truly exceptional, with an array of outstanding new music that captivated us. As we reflect on the past months, the difficulty of selecting our favorite albums became apparent. After passionate debates and perhaps a few tears, we managed to distill our choices down to the top five albums of the year. Here they are, presented without a specific ranking for your enjoyment!
Honorable Mentions
These albums, though not making the final cut for various reasons, deserve recognition as remarkable works of art. Whether they are EPs, recent discoveries, or simply didn’t quite make the top five, each one is well worth a listen.
Spiritbox – The Fear of Fear
Silent Planet – Super Bloom
Noah Kahan – Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever)
Caskets – Reflections
The Word Alive – Hard Reset
FOXCULT – The Indigo Fault
Hozier – Unreal Unearth
Currents – The Death We Seek
Polaris – Fatalism
Catch Your Breath – Shame On Me
Honey Revenge – Retrovision
Invent Animate – Heavener
Sleep Token – Take Me Back To Eden
We must clarify that this list is not presented in any particular order. However, unanimously, Take Me Back To Eden was our favorite of the year. This album is nearly flawless, showcasing an exceptional blend of various vibes, emotions, and genres. From start to finish, it seamlessly combines heavy elements with expansive soundscapes and infectious hooks. Undoubtedly, Take Me Back To Eden stands as one of the best records in recent memory. As a band committed to genre-blending and musical exploration, it would be remiss not to include this masterpiece.
Dermot Kennedy – Sonder
This selection surprised many of us, emerging unexpectedly as one of our favorites. Open-mindedness to diverse musical genres led us to anticipate the excellence of this album from the moment its singles were released. Dermot Kennedy delivers a vocally powerful performance that is impossible to ignore. In the realm of pop music, Sonder offers a complete experience, combining feel-good vibes with emotional expansiveness.
Holding Absence – The Noble Art Of Self Destruction
As longtime fans of Holding Absence, the release of this album became an instant obsession for us. The band’s unparalleled artistry and talent shine through, encapsulating the essence of what makes this group extraordinary. With top-notch vocals and songs filled with drive and depth, The Noble Art Of Self Destruction is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates our music, as Holding Absence remains a true inspiration.
PVRIS – EVERGREEN
Our penchant for phenomenal vocalists is evident, and EVERGREEN is no exception. The album boasts insane vocal elements, coupled with great melodies and adventurous production choices, making it stand out. This is what happens when exceptional vocal writing meets a willingness to push boundaries—an album that is a definite must-listen.
NF – HOPE
Adding a curveball to our list, NF’s HOPE is simply too powerful to overlook. The production on this album feels like it was crafted for a cinematic experience, and the vocals span the spectrum of modern-day rap and pop. The highs and lows take the listener on an emotional rollercoaster, providing enjoyment throughout. Despite coming from an alternative rock/metal band perspective, we highly recommend this album for those with open minds.
So, there you have it—our favorite albums of 2023! We sincerely recommend immersing yourself in these incredible pieces of art, hoping you derive as much enjoyment as we did.
And perhaps, while you’re at it, you can check out our latest album, What If I Break? 🙂 <3
