These are the albums I listened to the most in 2019, in no particular order. These records made the list for a few reasons: production, lyrics, concept, longevity, creativity, and more. These are the ones that simply don’t get old, and I am happy to take them with me into the new year. With that said, there is still a best album of the year – so read on to find out who took the top spot!
The Juice Vol. l – Emotional Oranges
Release Date: May 10, 2019
Standout Appeal: This album is important because all of the verses are essentially structured as relatable conversations between two people, and Emotional Oranges have single-handedly brought back the male+female R&B duo. Despite remaining generally anonymous (the members do not openly reveal their identities), for the consistently organic dialogue and uniqueness alone, The Juice Vol. I easily makes the cut. Also hands down, best live show of 2019.
Must Hear Tracks: “Personal”, “Motion”, “Hold You Back”
Final Word: There hasn’t been one friend of mine that didn’t appreciate that I put them onto this album. Check out my review from earlier this year to learn more about the mysteriously talented pair.
Songs For You – Tinashe
Release Date: November 21, 2019
Standout Appeal: Not only is it the highly anticipated follow-up to Joyride, but it’s an independent release from the multi-talented singer (who publicly announced separating from her previous label). Fans are gagged over the return to her unique, hands-on, approach to her sound and visuals, and this album is a testament to how important it is for artists to have creative control.
Must Hear Tracks: “Life’s Too Short”, “Feelings”, “Touch & Go”
Final Word: I did not want to put this list in any order, but this is the BEST ALBUM OF 2019. Still unsure? Deep-dive into Songs For You, track-by-track, with my full album review here.
Fever – Megan Thee Stallion
Release Date: May 17, 2019
Standout Appeal: Aside from key features on the record from artists like Juicy J and DaBaby, Megan takes the writing credits on the entire 40-minute project. With quotable lines in literally every song, you’re constantly reminded that her songwriting skills are insane. Although it’s no surprise that Tina Snow catapulted her into fame, the mixtape Fever (Megan states that neither of the releases are “albums”) was a summer staple and on repeat for the remainder of the year.
Must Hear Tracks: “Shake That”, “Simon Says”, “Realer”
Final Word: I’ll be honest, if I could have chosen Tina Snow instead for 2019 I would, but I think that that this mixtape is still very credible and deserves to be highlighted.
Hi This Is Flume – Flume
Release Date: March 19, 2019
Standout Appeal: The 38-minute mixtape was accompanied with a trippy, psychedelic visual, filmed in Western Australia by director and artist Jonathan Zawada. It features collaborations with slowthai, JPEGMAFIA, SOPHIE, and Kučka and is enjoyed best all at once.
Must Hear Tracks: The mixtape is meant to be listened to in full, as each track is essentially a smaller component within a larger body of work. With that said, standout tracks include “High Beams”, “Voices”, and “How To Build A Relationship”.
Final Word: If you enjoyed the more experimental tracks on Skin, you’ll appreciate this mix. I strongly suggest watching the visual first, or the elements you hear within in the tracks will be a bit disconnected from the story. You can read more about the video and watch it here.
Hot Pink – Doja Cat
Release Date: November 7, 2019
Standout Appeal: It’s the long-awaited sophomore album and follow-up to 2018 indie release Amala (think “Go To Town” and “Cookie Jar”). After countless months of Instagram live sessions (in which clips were shared) and leaked bytes of potential tunes, Hot Pink was finally released and all the speculation ended with satisfaction. The album jumps from genre to genre, with Doja taking massive risks both musically and vocally. She’s singing, she’s rapping, she’s doing it all.
Must Hear Tracks: “Talk To Me” , “Won’t Bite”, “Say So”
Final Word: If you need an album to put on while you’re getting ready with your girls (or guys) – this is it! A very easy listen but incredibly engaging and upbeat.
Heavy Handed – Pixel Grip 4/12 – video
Release Date: April 12, 2019
Standout Appeal: This Chicago trio’s consistency in producing fire material back-to-back is almost scary, and this debut album was no different. The chances of you hitting “skip” at any point during Heavy Handed are extremely slim, and besides – you won’t want to from the moment it begins. Rita Lukea’s silky vocals command your attention and take you on a glittery, electro-pop journey from start to finish. Each song smoothly melts into the next, with each song better than the one before (if that’s even possible). This is another one of those albums that I always recommend to friends, and they thank me later!
Must Hear Tracks: “Soft Peaks”, “Can’t Compete”, “Body Like That”
Final Word: One of thee hottest bands in Chicago right now. A must-see and a must-listen. I don’t have to convince you after you play this record.
The Juice Vol. ll – Emotional Oranges
Release Date: November 8, 2019
Standout Appeal: I’d ideally be against putting two releases from the same artist in one list, but both albums were released this year and I refuse to choose one over the other.
Must Hear Tracks: “Just Like You”, “Iconic”, “Don’t Be Lazy”
Final Word: It’s blatantly apparent that their musical potential is limitless, with the pair managing to put out two strong albums just months apart. I cannot stress enough how important it is to jump on this bandwagon now, because 2020 is looking to be a phenomenal year for Emotional Oranges.
Well there you have it! If there are any albums you think should be on this list, please comment your favorites! Thanks so much for reading, and don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with what’s next for me in 2020! HAPPY NEW YEAR!