Album Of The Week

Album: Ca$ino

Artist(s): Baby Keem

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary: Energetic, chaotic, and pretty different to his normal stuff.

I listened to this because I’m a huge fan of The Melodic Blue and was really excited for this drop, especially since it just came out. It feels more confident and focused, but still chaotic in a good way. “Birds and the Bees” has that sharp, aggressive energy I like, “I Am Not a Lyricist” is simple but catchy, and “Circus Circus Freestyle” feels raw and fun. Not every track hits the same, but overall it lived up to the hype for me and kept me interested the whole time.

Album: My Favorite Things

Artist(s): John Coltrane

Genre: Jazz

Summary: Chill, interesting, and easy to listen to. I liked it more than I expected.

I hadn’t listened to any of his albums in full before. I just knew he’s really respected and randomly chose this one. The songs are pretty long, but they don’t drag because the sax playing keeps changing and building. “My Favorite Things” is my favorite since it takes a simple tune and stretches it out in a cool way. “Summertime” feels slower and more serious, and “Everytime We Say Goodbye” is softer and calmer, which balances the album out. Overall, it was a solid listen. Even without knowing much about jazz, I could still enjoy it, and it made me interested in hearing more from him.

Album: The Fall-Off

Artist(s): J. Cole

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary: Focused, confident, and personal. It feels like J. Cole proving he can still rap at a high level while talking about where he’s at in his life and career.

This album wasn’t recommended to me by anyone. I’ve been a J. Cole fan for years, so I was already excited for it. I woke up at 4:30 in the morning to listen to the whole thing with my good friend Ishan, which made it feel even bigger. It felt like something we’d been waiting on for a while.

Right away, the album feels direct. Cole talks a lot about his career, the idea of falling off, and how people see him, but it doesn’t come off as defensive. It just sounds honest. The production is clean and consistent, and nothing feels overcomplicated. The songs are strong because of the rapping and what he’s actually saying.

The album flows well and doesn’t drag. It mixes more aggressive tracks with calmer, more personal ones without it feeling messy. My favorite songs are “SAFETY,” “Run a Train,” “Bunce Road Blues,” “WHO TF IZ U,” “The Fall-Off Is Inevitable,” and “I Love Her Again.” “SAFETY” sets the tone really well. “Run a Train” brings more energy. “Bunce Road Blues” feels more personal and reflective. “WHO TF IZ U” is straightforward and confident. “The Fall-Off Is Inevitable” feels like a clear statement. “I Love Her Again” is more emotional and ends things on a strong note.

Overall, it feels like an album made by someone who knows exactly what he’s doing. It doesn’t try too hard, and it doesn’t feel like he’s chasing anything. It’s just solid throughout.

Album: 30 Degrees Everywhere

Artist(s): The Promise Ring

Genre: Indie rock

Summary: Warm, earnest, and quietly emotional. It feels like something you put on when you don’t want loud music, just something that gets how you’re feeling.

This album was recommended to me by my friend Joaquin, and what stood out right away was how straightforward it is. Nothing feels overdone or forced, it’s just simple songs that hit because they’re honest. The album flows really well, and even though the sound stays pretty consistent, it doesn’t get boring. My favorite songs are “Red Paint,” “Heart of a Broken Story,” “A Picture Postcard,” and “The Sea of Cortez.” “Red Paint” is a strong opener that sets the mood right away. “Heart of a Broken Story” feels especially raw, while “A Picture Postcard” is quieter but really effective. “The Sea of Cortez” wraps things up in a way that feels calm and fitting.

Album: Songs for the Deaf

Artist(s): Queens of the Stone Age

Genre: Alternative metal

Summary: Loud, gritty, and relentless. This album feels like a drive through the desert with the radio stuck on the heaviest station possible.

This album was recommended to me by a Griffin, a member of the incredible band Nurse Don't Die, and it immediately stood out for how aggressive and cohesive it sounds. It’s intense without feeling messy, and every track feels purposeful. My favorite songs are “No One Knows,” “Songs for the Dead,” “The Sky Is Fallin’,” “Do It Again,” and “Another Love Song.” “No One Knows” is an obvious highlight with its unforgettable groove and tight drumming. “Songs for the Dead” hits hard right from the start and never lets up. “The Sky Is Fallin’” slows things down slightly and adds a darker, more atmospheric feel, while “Do It Again” and “Another Love Song” keep the album feeling raw and driven.

Album: London Calling

Artist(s): The Clash

Genre: Punk rock

Summary: It’s energetic, catchy, and easy to get into. Love the album.

Before this, I had only heard the title track, so the rest of the album was new to me. I liked how it doesn’t all sound the same and keeps things interesting. My favorite songs are “Jimmy Jazz,” “Lost in the Supermarket,” and “The Guns of Brixton.” “Jimmy Jazz” stands out because it’s slower and has a cool groove. “Lost in the Supermarket” is more calm and the lyrics are straightforward. “The Guns of Brixton” is darker and heavier, and the bass really stands out. Overall, it’s a solid album that was fun to listen to and kept my attention the whole time.

Album: Run The Jewels 2

Artist(s): Run The Jewels

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary: It’s bold, aggressive, and full of energy, but it also hits hard with some serious messages.

This was my first time listening to Run the Jewels 2, and I got into it pretty quickly. My favorite tracks are “Blockbuster Night Part 1,” “Lie, Cheat, Steal,” and “Close Your Eyes.” “Blockbuster Night Part 1” stands out because it’s fast-paced, intense, and really showcases the chemistry between Killer Mike and El-P. “Lie, Cheat, Steal” is punchy and clever, with lyrics that make you think while still hitting hard. “Close Your Eyes” is heavier and darker, giving the album some serious weight and contrast without slowing it down. Overall, the album feels sharp, well-crafted, and kept me hooked from start to finish.

Album: African Giant

Artist(s): Burna Boy

Genre: Afrobeats

Summary: It’s smooth, confident, and easy to get into, but it still has some serious moments.

This was my first time listening to African Giant, and I liked it pretty quickly. My favorite tracks are “Wetin Man Go Do,” “Collateral Damage,” and “Pull Up.” “Wetin Man Go Do” stands out because it’s more chill and thoughtful, and it feels really natural. “Collateral Damage” is more intense and talks about real issues, which gives the album some weight without being boring. “Pull Up” is fun and high-energy, and it keeps the album from feeling too heavy. Overall, the album feels well put together and kept my attention the whole way through.

Album: The Beatles

Artist(s): The Beatles

Genre: Rock

Summary: Chaotic, creative, and all over the place in a good way. The album feels loose and experimental but still very listenable.

It's the last Album Of The Week for the year, so Himani recommended her favorite Beatles album, The White Album. This album is long and packed with variety: some songs are simple, some are loud, and some are just strange, but that’s what makes it fun. My favorite songs are “Back in the USSR,” “Why Don’t We Do It in the Road,” “Yer Blues,” and “I’m So Tired.” 

“Back in the USSR” is energetic and catchy. “Why Don’t We Do It in the Road” is short, raw, and kind of ridiculous. “Yer Blues” is heavy and gloomy in a straightforward way, and “I’m So Tired” feels honest and epitomizes its name. For me, there are a few skips on this album, but it remains interesting the whole way through.

I decided not to write a block of text about every single one of my favorite songs from this album so here's a list the one's I didn't write about: "I Will," "Birthday," "Everybody's Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey," "Sexy Sadie," and "Helter Skelter."

Album: Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66

Artist(s): Sérgio Mendes and Brasil '66

Genre: Bossa nova

Summary: It’s smooth, upbeat, and stylish. The album feels relaxed but still full of energy and personality.

This was my first time listening to Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66, and it was an easy album to get into. My favorite tracks are “Mas Que Nada,” “Tim Dom Dom,” and “Agua de Beber.” “Mas Que Nada” stands out the most because it’s extremely catchy and sets the tone for the whole album with its confident, upbeat feel. “Tim Dom Dom” is playful and rhythmic, and it really shows off the group’s tight vocals and lively percussion. “Agua de Beber” is calmer and smoother, and it gives the album a more relaxed, almost breezy moment. Overall, the album feels polished and fun, and it flows really well from track to track without ever getting boring.

Album: Doolittle

Artist(s): Pixies

Genre: Alternative rock

Summary: It's loud, fun, and a little weird. It’s surprising how catchy it is, even when it gets noisy.

This was my first time listening to Doolittle, and I liked it more than I expected. My favorite tracks are “Hey,” “Here Comes Your Man,” and “I Bleed.” “Hey” really stood out because it’s slower and kind of tense, and it builds in a way that keeps you interested. “Here Comes Your Man” is super catchy and upbeat, and it’s probably the easiest song to get into on the album. “I Bleed” is loud and rough, and it shows the more aggressive side of the band. Overall, the album feels all over the place, but in a good way, and it kept my attention the whole time.

Album: Diamond Life

Artist(s): Sade

Genre: Soul

Summary: Calm, catchy, and really easy to listen to. It’s the kind of album you can put on anytime and just relax.

I’ve always liked how simple and chill Sade’s music is, so Diamond Life is an album I go back to a lot. My favourite tracks are “Your Love Is King,” “Cherry Pie,” and “Sally.” “Your Love Is King” is smooth and warm, and it sets the tone for the whole album. “Cherry Pie” has a fun, steady groove that makes it one of the more upbeat songs here. “Sally” is softer and a bit more emotional, and it gives the album a nice calm moment. Overall, it’s just a really easy, enjoyable listen all the way through.

Album: Off the Wall

Artist(s): Michael Jackson

Genre: Disco

Summary: Bright, energetic, and super fun to listen to. It’s one of those albums that just feels good all the way through.

I’ve always liked Michael Jackson’s late-70s sound, so Off the Wall is an easy favourite. My top tracks are “Rock With You,” “Off the Wall,” and “I Can’t Help It.” “Rock With You” is just a perfect feel-good song. It's simple, warm, and always fun to listen to. The title track has this upbeat energy that makes the whole album really enjoyable. “I Can’t Help It” has a softer, laid-back vibe and it's honestly one of my favourite songs he ever recorded.

Album: Heavy Weather

Artist(s): Weather Report

Genre: Jazz fusion

Summary: Bright, energetic, and super fun to listen to. It’s one of those albums that just feels good all the way through.

This album was recommended to me by the world-famous band Fifty Fils’s stunt coordinator, Ishan. Heavy Weather is an easy album to get into. My favourite songs are “Teen Town,” “Palladium,” and “The Juggler.” “Teen Town” is a fast, bass-driven track that hits right away. “Palladium” has a lively, catchy feel, and “The Juggler” is more laid-back with a smooth groove that’s really nice to zone out to.

Album: 93 'til Infinity

Artist(s): Souls of Mischief

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary: 93 ’til Infinity is a smooth, confident rap album with laid-back beats and sharp, easygoing lyricism.

I decided to listen to this album because the title track’s beat is so well known - rappers I follow, like J. Cole, have used it for freestyles. My favourite songs ended up being “Live and Let Live,” “A Name I Call Myself,” and “Never No More.” All three have great delivery, solid production, and that relaxed but focused style. Overall, it’s a clean, timeless listen that’s fun to come back to.

Album: Sailing the Seas of Cheese

Artist(s): Primus

Genre: Funk metal

Summary: Weird, groovy, and full of great basslines. It’s got a sound that’s hard to pin down but easy to enjoy.

This album was recommended to me by Ishan, the bassist of the world-famous band Fifty Fils. Sailing the Seas of Cheese is a fun listen all the way through. My favourite songs are “American Life,” “Eleven,” and “Tommy the Cat.” “Tommy the Cat” has crazy energy and a really cool groove. “American Life” has has a smooth, spaced-out vibe that stands out, and “Eleven” keeps things offbeat in the best way.

Album: Everybody's in Show-Biz

Artist(s): The Kinks

Genre: Rock

Summary:  Funny, catchy, and full of personality. This album mixes humour and sharp lyrics with classic Kinks energy.

This album was recommended to me by Himani. This album is a blast to listen to. My favorite songs are “Maximum Consumption,” “Top of the Pops,” and “Acute Schizophrenia Paranoia Blues.” “Top of the Pops” has a sort of fun vibe that ridicules fame in the best way. “Acute Schizophrenia Paranoia Blues” is just a cool, weird track that stands out.

Album: The Boy Who Played the Harp

Artist(s): Dave

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary:  The Boy Who Played the Harp mixes thoughtful lyrics with interesting beats, with Dave being more vulnerable than ever, while still keeping his signature style.

I’m a big fan of Dave’s album Psychodrama, so I was really excited for this release. My favourite tracks are “No Weapons” and the title track “The Boy Who Played the Harp.” “No Weapons” hits hard with its message and melody, while the title track has a more personal vibe that’s really easy to get into. The Boy Who Played the Harp is a great album that shows Dave at his best as an artist while retaining what makes him stand out.

Album: Poison

Artist(s): Bell Biv DeVoe

Genre: R&B

Summary:  Poison mixes R&B and hip-hop with cool beats and smooth vocals, creating a really interesting, unique sound.

I’d heard the song “Poison” before and really liked it, so I decided to listen to the whole album. A highlight of the album for me is “Do Me!”, which keeps the same energy as "Poison", while “When Will I See You Smile Again” slows things down in a way that actually hits. Poison is a really cool and catchy album which is very easy to listen to.

Album: Fin de Siècle

Artist(s): The Divine Comedy

Genre: Alternative

Summary:  Clever, catchy, and energetic. Fin de Siècle mixes upbeat tunes with thoughtful lyrics in a fun and memorable way.

This was a Himani recommendation. My favourite track off the album has to be “Thrillseeker.” I love how it creats an almost James Bond-esque feeling. I also really like “The Certainty of Chance,” which has a reflective, almost nostalgic feel, and “Here Comes the Flood,” which is just powerful. Listening to the album straight through feels like a mix of fun and thoughtfulness. It's catchy, dramatic, and impossible not to enjoy.

Album: Discovery

Artist(s): Daft Punk

Genre: Electronic

Summary:  Discovery is a fun, energetic album that mixes electronic music with disco and pop to create a bright, catchy sound.

I've obviously heard Daft Punk's hits before, but I've never heard one of their albums in full before - and I was not disappointed. My favourite track is “One More Time.” It’s simple but powerful, with a beat that never gets old. I also really like “Crescendolls,” which has a fast rhythm and a great groove that keeps the energy going. Discovery balances excitement with calm ambiences in a really tasteful way.

Album: Quadrophenia

Artist(s): The Who

Genre: Rock

Summary:  Ambitious, explosive, and emotional. This album blends power with introspection, it feels both epic and intensely personal.

My favourite track off of the album has to be “The Real Me”; I was floored by its energy. I love its bassline and unrelenting force. I also really like “I’ve Had Enough,” which captures the frustration and emotional chaos at the heart of the album, and “5:15,” where the band balances confidence with melancholy. Listening to Quadrophenia straight through feels like being taken on a journey - loud, messy, and unforgettable.

Album: Hunky Dory

Artist(s): David Bowie

Genre: Rock

Summary:  Playful, strange, and moving. Hunky Dory balances whimsy with deep reflection, creating something that feels theatrical yet intimate.

This album was recommended to me by Himani. The song "Life on Mars?" immediately stood out to me because of how cinematic it is - it's probably my favourite song on the album. "Quicksand" creates a darker, layered atmosphere, and its lyrics are really memorable. "Andy Warhol" is also one of my favourites, I enjoyed the guitar part so much it made me want to learn how to play it myself. What surprised me most was how naturally Bowie moves between moods without losing his sense of direction on the album. I really enjoyed this album and I would wholeheartedly recommend that people listen to it.

Album: Black On Both Sides

Artist(s): Mos Def

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary:  Thoughtful, soulful, and versatile. This album balances being laid-back with sharp messages, creating something that feels both personal and universal.

I didn’t get this album through a recommendation, I just heard "Fear Not of Man" and liked it so much that I decided to give the whole album a shot. Mos Def’s voice is calm but commanding, and he shifts easily between rapping and singing, always with a sense of purpose. My favourite tracks are “UMI Says,” which creates a warm, hopeful atmosphere, and “Love,” which carries a sense of raw honesty. It’s a smart, heartfelt project that manages to be both timeless and very much of its era. Listening to it all the way through was a rewarding experience.

Album: Jaco Pastorius

Artist(s): Jaco Pastorius

Genre: Jazz

Summary:  Energetic, creative, and full of surprises. This album shows off what the bass can do in ways I’d never heard before.

Ishan, a great friend of mine, recommended this to me. I had never heard of Jaco Pastorius before, so I didn’t really know what I was getting into. Right from the start, though, it was clear this wasn’t a typical jazz album. Jaco makes the bass stand out - sometimes it’s funky, sometimes smooth, sometimes just unpredictable. My favourite tracks are “Come On, Come Over,” which is super fun and catchy, “Kuru/Speak Like a Child,” with its big, colourful sound, and “Okonkole y Trompa,” which is calm and almost hypnotic. It’s a mix of different styles, and even when it gets a little weird, it’s always interesting. This album is really unique and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to it.

Album: Night Diving

Artist(s): Max McNown

Genre: Country

Summary:  Honest, easygoing, and better than I expected. Night Diving has a laid-back sound with some really strong songs that are simple but meaningful.

This album was recommended to me by Brody, a friend of mine. I don’t usually listen to country music, and it’s not really my thing, but this album was a nice surprise. My favourite songs are “Azalea Place” and “Roses and Wolves.” They’re catchy without trying too hard and have a lot of feeling behind them. Overall, it’s not my favourite album, but I get why people like it, and it’s definitely a solid listen.

Album: Hell Hath No Fury

Artist(s): Clipse

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary:  A cold, uncompromising, and sharp album that shows Clipse's vivid storytelling and hard-edged beats.

I listened to Hell Hath No Fury because I liked their recent album Let God Sort Em Out so much that I wanted to check out their other work. The production here, handled entirely by The Neptunes, is stripped-down yet menacing. Every beat feels skeletal but perfectly placed, giving Malice and Pusha T the space to deliver. It’s an album that balances intensity with precision, never wasting a second. My favourite songs are “Nightmares,” “Keys Open Doors,” and “Momma I’m Sorry.” Each showcases a different side of the duo: the paranoia of “Nightmares,” the confidence of “Keys Open Doors,” and the reflection of “Momma I’m Sorry.” This is now easily one of my favourite albums of all time, and I fully understand why this album is so critically acclaimed.

Album: Step to Rhythm

Artist(s): Turnstile

Genre: Metal

Summary:  Punchy, high-energy, and full of groove. Step to Rhythm is packed with hardcore intensity with just enough melody to keep you hooked.

This is technically an EP not an album, but it was recommended to me and I enjoy it so here we are. A friend, Joaquin, recommended this EP to me. The riffs on this EP hit hard but stay catchy, and the drumming gives the whole thing this forward momentum. “Pushing Me Away” is my favourite track because it’s relentless but still feels fun, with a riff that just bounces. “Canned Heat” is another highlight, short and sharp with a hook that sticks. The vocals are raw but not overbearing, and they fit perfectly with the chaotic energy. This isn't the kind of music I normally listen to, but I found myself really enjoying it. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who likes aggressive, hardcore music.

Album: Relentless

Artist(s): Pentagram

Genre: Metal

Summary:  Raw, heavy, and surprisingly emotional. Relentless is a great listen that blends thunderous riffs with eerie atmosphere, creating a dark, powerful sound.

This album was recommended to me by Azaan, one of my good friends. I thoroughly enjoyed this album. The guitars are heavy without being messy, and there’s this gritty energy throughout the whole album that makes it feel alive. “Relentless” is my favourite track on the album because it kicks off with intensity and never lets up. “Sign of the Wolf (Pentagram)” is another standout, with a riff that just sticks in your head. The vocals are haunting in a cool way. The whole album has this consistent, driving mood that makes it super easy to get lost in. Definitely worth a listen if you’re into anything heavy.

Album: Melodrama

Artist(s): Lorde

Genre: Pop

Summary:  Honest, emotional, and super catchy. Melodrama is an album that feels both personal and fun to listen to because of its sharp songwriting and shimmering production.

This album was recommended to me by Caroline, one of my friends. I’d only heard "Royals", so I didn’t know what to expect from a full Lorde album. The production is clean but creative, and the lyrics are sharp without trying too hard. “Green Light” is the obvious banger, but “The Louvre” and “Supercut” stuck with me. I also really liked “Liability” because it’s simple but hits hard. The whole album flows well and feels like one big story. It’s short, easy to get into, and keeps getting better the more you listen.

Album: Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness

Artist(s): The Smashing Pumpkins

Genre: Alternative rock

Summary:  Sweeping, emotional, and ambitious. This album feels like stepping into someone else’s dream; loud, quiet, strange, and beautiful all at once.

Akriti, a friend of mine, recommended this to me. I’d never listened to The Smashing Pumpkins before, so I didn’t know what to expect. From the first track, it was clear this wasn’t just another alt-rock album. It’s massive a long album (28 songs) and somehow manages to cover everything from soft piano ballads to heavy, distorted rock. What surprised me most was how cohesive it still feels. “Tonight, Tonight” and “Bullet With Butterfly Wings” pulled me in, but songs like “Muzzle” and “Porcelina of the Vast Oceans” kept me there. It’s a lot to take in, but in a good way. 

Album: I Left My Heart in San Francisco

Artist(s): Tony Bennett

Genre: Jazz

Summary:  A timeless, elegant collection of songs anchored by one of the most iconic vocal performances in American music. Listening to this while walking through San Francisco made the city feel like a movie set.

Tony Bennett’s I Left My Heart in San Francisco is warm, sweeping, and full of quiet emotional power. His voice is rich but never showy, and the arrangements strike a perfect balance between intimate and grand. My favourite track on the album is "Candy Kisses", which caught me off guard with its simplicity. Being in San Francisco while listening to this made the experience even more special; the album turns everyday scenery into something cinematic.

Album: Rage Against the Machine

Artist(s): Rage Against the Machine

Genre: Alternative metal

Summary:  Loud, politically-charged, and powerful. This album is unapologetic in the best way possible and is easily one of my favourite albums of all time.

Ishan, a good friend of mine, recommended this album to me. I’d heard “Killing in the Name” in passing before, but I'd never heard the full record. Listening to it front-to-back was an entirely different experience - it’s relentless, both in sound and message. The raw energy, guitar work, and vocals create a confrontational yet calculated sound. “Wake Up” stood out as my favourite song on the album. The whole album feels like an enjoyable punch to the gut.

Album: Rise

Artist(s): Herb Alpert

Genre: Jazz

Summary: A sleek, smooth, and sophisticated album that fuses jazz and funk. It's my default album to listen to while on a long walk.

Rise is a polished blend of laid-back funk, jazz, and pop that feels effortlessly cool from start to finish. The title track immediately stood out to me, not just for its groove and trumpet lines, but because I recognized the riff sampled in Biggie Smalls' “Hypnotize.” The rest of the album delivers a similarly rich experience, with tracks that balance mellow rhythms and sharp musicianship. Even without vocals, Rise manages to feel expressive and full of character, making it a standout instrumental album.

Album: The Doors

Artist(s): The Doors

Genre: Psychedelic rock

Summary: A bold, moody debut that mixes poetry with punchy rock, full of atmosphere and charisma. A quintessential listen for rock fans.

Himani recommended this album to me a while ago as a good introduction to The Doors. It's one of my favourite rock albums and I realized that I hadn't listened to it in a while so I thought I'd make it my album of the week for this week. This album doesn’t waste time. Right from “Break on Through (To the Other Side)” it’s clear The Doors had a unique sound - tight grooves, eerie keys, and Jim Morrison’s commanding voice. “End of the Night” is a standout for me: slow, haunting, and simple. The whole album moves between high-energy tracks and more spaced-out moments, but it always keeps its edge. If you’re into classic rock that’s a little weird but still hits hard, this is a solid listen.

Album: Perfect from Now On

Artist(s): Built To Spill

Genre: Indie rock

Summary: A layered album that blends introspection with distortion, balancing emotional depth and experimental sounds.

This album was another recommendation from my former World History teacher. Perfect from Now On is dense but never overwhelming, full of intricate guitar work, and winding song structures. The production is raw in a way that feels intentional - every feedback screech and layered harmony builds atmosphere instead of clutter. “Velvet Waltz” is easily my favourite track. It starts soft and slowly unravels into something massive, with those guitar lines that feel like they’re collapsing in slow motion but somehow stay perfectly in sync. If you’re into music that stretches out and takes its time, this album is for you.

Album: Skinty Fia

Artist(s): Fontaines D.C.

Genre: Post-punk

Summary: A potent and atmospheric dive into modern post-punk. The album delivers raw emotion and poetic lyrics with a sort of fierceness.

Luke, a good friend of mine, said that he was a big fan of this album and that gave me the inclination to listen to it. Honestly, I didn't know anything about Fontaines D.C. before listening to Skinty Fia. From the very first track, their sound immediately pulled me in. They exhibit an atmospheric feel, with a driving rhythm section, intricate guitar work, and deeply emotional vocals. There's a sense of melancholy and introspection woven throughout the album, often exploring themes related to identity and displacement. My favourite track, "I Love You," stands out with its intensity and the raw honesty in the lyrics, while other songs like "Jackie Down The Line" immediately pulled me in with their compelling energy. This album was a captivating listen for me, proving to be moody, thought-provoking, and leaving a lasting impression.

Album: One More For From The Road

Artist(s): Lynyrd Skynyrd

Genre: Blues rock

Summary: An energetic live album that captures Lynyrd Skynyrd at their peak, packed with extended solos, crowd engagement, and style.

This album was recommended to me by my AP US History teacher. Honestly, my only background of his music taste was the fact that he was an Eric Clapton fan (like I am), so I didn't really know what to expect going into this album. The band sounds loose but incredibly tight, balancing their loud presence with incredible musicianship. “Free Bird” is obviously the centrepiece, as popular and iconic as it is, the solo just never gets old for me. I also loved “Saturday Night Special” and “Travelin’ Man,” which are just as energetic. As someone who enjoys classic rock, this album immediately clicked. It's loud, unpolished in the best way, and full of attitude.

Album: I'll Sleep When You're Dead

Artist(s): El-P

Genre: Hip-hop

Summary: A dark, dense, and ambitious record that showcases El-P’s raw lyricism and inventive production. It's an overall great experimental hip hop album.

I got this album recommendation from my former World History teacher, who I consider to have good taste. We discussed a few albums but this was the one he seemed to be the most excited about, so it's the one I wanted to listen to first. I’ll Sleep When You’re Dead immediately pulled me in with its gritty beats, layered soundscapes, and El-P’s complex, sometimes dystopian lyrics. The album's production is aggressive but textured, blending distorted synths, live instrumentation, and sharp percussion in a way that feels almost cinematic. My favourite track has to be “Smithereens (Stop Cryin'),” where El-P’s intensity and wordplay hit hardest for me. It’s a heavy album but it rewards listeners who are willing to dive deep. As a fan of Piñata by Freddie Gibbs and Mad Lib, this album felt really familiar and appealed to me quickly.

Album: Sound Affects

Artist(s): The Jam

Genre: Punk rock

Summary: A sharp, stylish, and smart album that showcases The Jam at their best - essential for fans of British rock.

I discovered Sound Affects through a Spotify radio recommendation while listening to a playlist of British rock bands. I decided to give it a shot because I had heard parts of their other critically acclaimed album, Setting Sons. This album felt more experimental than what I had previously heard from The Jam, drawing clear inspiration from The Beatles' Revolver and blending in funk and elements of psychedelic rock. "Start!" immediately stood out as my favourite track; it’s punchy, fast-paced, and driven by a bassline that pays homage to The Beatles' “Taxman.”

Album: Me and Mr. Johnson

Artist(s): Eric Clapton

Genre: Blues

Summary: A lovely tribute to Robert Johnson. This album is a must-listen for any fan of classic rock.

I discovered this album as my AP US History teacher was explaining societal changes in the 1930s, specifically the rise of jazz. He mentioned Robert Johnson, a musical pioneer of the time, who is an inspiration to several notable artists. One of these artists was Eric Clapton. Once I found out that Clapton created a Robert Johnson tribute album, I, being a massive Eric Clapton fan, listened to it as soon as I could. Clapton's mastery of the guitar is evident and his covers of Johnson's songs are wonderful. It's hard to pick a favourite song from this album, but "Little Queen of Spades" was one of the album's greatest highlights for me.