Top New Music Albums of 2017: A Retrospective
The year 2017 was a treasure trove of musical gems, with artists pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional albums that resonated with audiences worldwide. Here, we present a curated list of the best new music albums from 2017, spanning various genres and showcasing the diversity and richness of the musical landscape.
Genre-Bending Masterpieces
2017 saw many artists experimenting with different genres, creating unique soundscapes that challenged the status quo. Here are a few standout albums that blurred the lines between genres:
- Kendrick Lamar - "DAMN.": A hip-hop masterclass that seamlessly incorporates elements of funk, soul, and pop, "DAMN." is a testament to Lamar's unparalleled storytelling and production prowess.
- SZA - "Ctrl": This R&B debut album explores themes of love, self-discovery, and vulnerability, with SZA's soulful vocals and introspective lyrics backed by a blend of neo-soul, pop, and hip-hop.
- St. Vincent - "Masseduction": Annie Clark, aka St. Vincent, delivers a synth-pop gem that explores themes of desire, power, and identity, with her signature guitar riffs and clever lyrics.
Indie Rock Gems
Indie rock had a strong year in 2017, with many bands releasing albums that showcased their unique styles and artistic growth.
![HITS OF 2017 | Year - End Mashup [+150 Songs] (T10MO)](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/eO9Z9p7ssas/maxresdefault.jpg)
| Album | Artist |
|---|---|
| "Melodrama" | Lorde |
| "Sleep Well Beast" | The National |
| "Big Thief - Capacity" | Big Thief |
Electronic and Dance Music Highlights
2017 was a standout year for electronic and dance music, with artists pushing the boundaries of production and sound design.
- LCD Soundsystem - "American Dream": The dance-punk pioneers returned with an album that seamlessly blends their signature dancefloor anthems with introspective lyrics and intricate production.
- Frank Ocean - "Blonde": While not strictly an electronic album, "Blonde" features lush soundscapes and innovative production techniques that blur the lines between R&B, pop, and experimental electronic music.
- Aphex Twin - "Collapse": Richard D. James returned with a typically esoteric and innovative electronic album, showcasing his unparalleled production skills and commitment to pushing the boundaries of electronic music.
Honorable Mentions
Here are a few more exceptional albums from 2017 that deserve your attention:
- Jlin - "Black Origami": A groundbreaking electronic album that incorporates elements of footwork, jazz, and African music, "Black Origami" is a testament to Jlin's unique vision and production skills.
- Perfume Genius - "No Shape": Mike Hadreas' fourth album is a stunning exploration of love, desire, and identity, with lush orchestration and powerful vocals.
- The War on Drugs - "A Deeper Understanding": This indie rock album features sprawling, guitar-driven anthems that evoke the spirit of classic rock while remaining firmly rooted in the present.
As we look back on 2017, it's clear that the year was marked by innovation, experimentation, and exceptional artistic vision. The albums listed here represent just a small sampling of the incredible music released in 2017, and serve as a testament to the enduring power and relevance of music in our lives.
