On most weeks throughout the year, I write about stand-out albums that really grabbed me. But for every album that I write about, there are so many others that never get featured here on Sonic Subway. To right a wrong as the year comes to a close, here are are my top ten of those albums.
10. John Moreland, Visitor
John Moreland's Visitor is another standout album that reflects the Oklahoma singer-songwriter's introspection while exploring new sonic textures with atmospheric and electronic elements.
9. Michael Kiwanuka, Small Changes
I’ve been a big fan of Michael Kiwanuka since I first heard his 2016 album, Love & Hate. It was and continues to be one of my favorite albums over the past decade. Kiwanuka’s latest album, Small Changes, once again highlights the British singer-songwriter’s soulful artistry, blending his rich vocals and warm instrumentation.
8. English Teacher, This Could Be Texas
English Teacher’s This Could Be Texas delivers sharp, witty lyrics and great post-punk instrumentation, showcasing the band’s knack for blending humor with social commentary. Hailing from Leeds, the rising quartet has gained recognition for their energy and thought-provoking approach to modern indie music.
7. Maggie Rose, No One Gets Out Alive
Maggie Rose's fourth album, No One Get's Out Alive, seamlessly blends Americana, soul, rock, pop, and folk into a contemporary sounding album that showcases Rose's skillful storytelling and powerful voice.
6. Jessie Murph, That Ain't No Man that's The Devil
Jessie Murph’s Ain't No Man That’s The Devil shows off her strong, fierce, and captivating voice, unfiltered storytelling, and a blending of some cool haunting melodies with a contemporary pop edge. Crazy that Murph is only twenty years old.
5. Leif Vollebekk, Revelation
Canadian singer-songwriter Leif Vollebekk's fifth album, Revelation, wonderfully blends narrative lyrics with cinematic arrangements, reflecting Vollebekk's spiritual explorations and dreams during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
4. Been Stellar, Scream From New York, NY
Been Stellar has been getting quite a bit of attention in the NY City music scene and rightfully so. Their indie rock sound feels like the channeling of the restless energy of the city. And it's greatly showcased on their debut album Scream From New York, NY.
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3. Yard Act, Where's My Utopia
Leeds, UK, Post-Punk band, Yard Act's debut album, The Overload, was a top ten album for me in 2022. Two years later they have return with Where's My Utopia? Co-produced with Gorillaz member Remi Kabaka Jr., the album marks a stylistic shift incorporating diverse musical influences including disco (really). It's a great step forward for the band and a great album.
2. Vampire Weekend, Only God Was Above Us
Ezra Koenig has done it again. Only God Was Above Us, Vampire Weekend's fifth album, finds Koenig once again fusing pop, baroque pop, Afro-pop, and classical to perfection create a sound scape that can only be of his making.
1. MJ Lenderman, Manning Fireworks
MJ Lenderman's distinctive blend of alt-country and indie rock provides the perfect backing for the 25 year old singer-songwriter's candid, off-beat, and insightful lyrics.
What I love about music is its power to transport me. Sometimes it’s unexpected, sometimes it’s exactly where I want to be. A single melody can unlock memories I didn’t realize I still carried, while certain chords or lyrics take me to another time or place. Some songs feel like home, offering shelter, while others deliver me to an unknown place or space, stirring emotions I can’t quite name. In this way, music isn’t just sound—it’s a sonic subway, delivering me to a station of refuge or one I never knew existed.
Music has always been an important part of my life. My family and friends knew this well, often asking me what I was listening to and what I liked. It was always humbling to be asked, and eventually, I gathered the courage to create this music blog—to put into words what draws me to certain music and why.
Over the years, my passion for writing has grown, along with my excitement for sharing musical discoveries. I hope your time here sparks excitement and leads you to a musical discovery of your own. More than anything, I hope your visit brings a little joy to your day.
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