I love reflecting back each year on the music that I’ve loved, but I’ve got to be honest, 2017 wasn’t a standout year for music in my opinion, however there were still a few gems released this year. Changes in the way people consume music has meant that more singles and EPs are being released by artists, rather than albums – this is reflected by three EPs (and one “mini” album) making it into my list. Also, this year I’m including a playlist of my 10 favourite songs alongside my favourite albums. My lists seem to be comprised mainly of pop music, which is probably no surprise given that it’s the genre I’m most involved in, and also that the pop label has expanded so much in recent years that so much music fits under it. With that said, in no particular order, here are my favourite albums and songs from 2017:
ALBUMS:
Aquilo – Silhouettes
This English duo from up north make dreamy pop, and their debut album feels mature for two guys just starting out. Easy to listen to, but with depth and character to the songs.
Dua Lipa – Dua Lipa
Another debut album from a British pop artist, and what a debut it was. It’s been a big year for Dua, having featured on some of the biggest songs of the year, as well as receiving critical acclaim for her own album.
Maggie Rogers – Now That The Light is Fading (EP)
Introduced to the world through Pharrell in a video that went viral, American singer-songwriter, Maggie Rogers, took the attention in her stride and delivered one of the best EPs of the year. Looking forward to her full album when it undoubtedly drops next year.
Jacob Banks – The Boy Who Cried Freedom (EP)
Jacob has one of those voices that just demands your attention – full of soul and emotion. This EP is a perfect blend of soul and pop, reminiscent of some of the great American blues artists, with a modern twist.
Lorde – Melodrama
Probably my most anticipated album of the year, and even though it doesn’t quite reach the heights of her debut album, it certainly doesn’t disappoint. Lorde continues to be the artist that all other female artists aspire to.
Julia Michaels – Nervous System
Julia Michaels is on fire right now. Having written some of the biggest songs for artists like Justin Bieber, she also had one of the biggest songs of the year with her hit single ‘Issues’. This mini album is close to pop perfection.
Asgeir – Afterglow
Icelandic singer-songwriter, Asgeir, delivers yet again with this album. Although this is a more polished album than his previous one, it still straddles the indie-mainstream line without alienating either side. Gorgeous vocals and melodies.
Oh Wonder – Ultralife
Another highly anticipated album from one of favourites artists in recent years. Again, it doesn’t quite satisfy as much as their debut album did, but it’s still a brilliant offering from the British pop duo
Sigrid – Don’t Kill My Vibe (EP)
This year was all about breakthrough artists for me, and discovering Norwegian artist, Sigrid, was one of the highlights. I like everything about this EP.
Rag ‘n’ Bone Man – Human
Another debut album from another breakthrough artist. Even though the hit single was played to death on the radio, this album was definitely was of the best all round albums of the year. I even did a little cover of Human – shameless plug!
SONGS:
Here is a playlist of my 10 favourite songs from 2017
