50. THE MICROPHONES- MICROPHONES IN 2020
“Microphones in 2020” is one forty-five minute song from this resurrected alias of Phil Elverum, which delves deeply into his past, examining the process of making his art along with his often heartbreaking existence and many transformations.
Key track Microphones In 2020
49. THUNDERCAT- IT IS WHAT IT IS
Loose, fast-moving and freewheeling album from standout L.A. bassist, with its heart rooted in deep funk and jazz.
Key Tracks I Love Louis Cole; Dragonball Durag
48. CHICANO BATMAN- INVISIBLE PEOPLE
Hooky, upbeat album from Latino, SoCal, psychedelic funk band. They celebrate diversity and know that love conquers all.
Key Tracks Invisible People; Color My Life
47. LUCINDA WILLIAMS- GOOD SOULS BETTER ANGELS
Angriest and most hard rocking album of Williams storied career. “Good Souls” takes Trump and company directly as she takes her musical cues from punk and heavy blues.
Key Tracks Down Past The Bottom; Wakin Up
46. BLACK THOUGHT- STREAMS OF THOUGHT VOL. 3: CANE & ABLE EP
Third volume in solo series from the frontman of Philly’s legendary The Roots. Though the EP is often hit or miss, the highlights are worth the trouble as Thought collaborates with indie-pop group Portugal. The Man and The Artful Dodger.
Key Tracks Good Morning; Fuel
45. RICO NASTY- NIGHTMARE VACATION
After a slew of EP’s and mixtapes, “Nightmare Vacation” is the official debut album from Baltimore rapper/singer Rico Nasty. Employing 16 different producers over 16 tracks, Nasty runs the gamut of her different sounds, including aggressive rap, pop and Rihanna-influenced R&B.
Key Tracks Smack A Bitch (Remix); iPhone
44. MEDHANE- COLD WATER
Gritty debut from Brooklyn independent rapper with beats rooted in soul & jazz. Quiet but serious and deadly focused.
Key Tracks I’m Deadass; TRS
43. BOB MOULD- BLUE HEARTS
Long time indie hero continues his winning streak with hard hitting, straight ahead indie-punk, angrily focused on the sad and sorry state of America.
Key Tracks Siberian Butterfly; Everything To You
42. BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN & THE E STREET BAND- LETTER TO YOU
Springsteen’s 20th studio album is his best and most upbeat in years, recorded live in the studio with the E street band.
Key Tracks Janey Needs A Shooter; Ghosts
41. HAYLEY WILLIAMS- PETALS FOR ARMOR
Lead singer of emo-punk band Paramore releases her solo debut of experimental pop with danceable undertones.
Key Tracks Simmer; Dead Horse