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Kendrick Lamar (DAMN.), Jay-Z (4:44), Lorde (Melodrama), Father John Misty (Pure Comedy), and The National (Sleep Well Beast) top ‘50 Best Albums of 2017.’

The big moment is finally here – the final edition of the best albums of 2017.  After releasing three editions along the way, this list selects the 50 Best Albums of 2017.  Unsurprisingly, this list is top-heavy, led by juggernauts courtesy of Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Lorde, Father John Misty, and The National.  In case you were curious, yes, that DAMN album is still no. 1.  Without further ado, here are the 50 Best Albums of 2017.

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1. Kendrick Lamar, DAMN.

Interscope 

DAMN! Even after a year chocked-full of incredible albums, Kendrick Lamar still has the ‘one to beat.’ It goes without saying that K-Dot is a god among MCs and everything he releases is certain to be damn good. DAMN. ends up being truly extraordinary.  Unsurprisingly, it’s nominated for multiple Grammys, including album of the year.

Gem of Gems: “HUMBLE.”

2. Jay-Z, 4:44

Roc Nation  

4:44 is by far the best Jay-Z album in years.  Starkly different from the majority of his albums, it’s deeper and notably, more open and personal.  Where it lacks the radio-ready hits that some of his biggest albums have delivered, it makes up for it in substance. 4:44 is deserving of its multiple Grammy nominations including the most prestigious, Album of the Year.

Gem of Gems: “4:44”

3. Lorde, Melodrama

Republic

Now a more mature, 20-year old, Lorde expands her artistry throughout the course of Melodrama.  After a four-year hiatus, the alternative-pop artist returned soundly, delivering one of the year’s most consistent and most intriguing efforts.  Lorde successfully executes the concept, something incredibly tough to do with conceptual albums.

Gem of Gems: “Green Light”

4. Father John Misty, Pure Comedy

Sub Pop 

Father John Misty delivered another exceptional album with Pure Comedy.  Though more demanding this his previous album, I Love You, Honeybear, it’s also more ambitious. Josh Tillman is among the most gifted songwriters in modern times, able to blend the serious, the humorous, and the satirical seamlessly.  Once more, he works his magic on Pure Comedy.  Fittingly, Pure Comedy earns a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Music Album.

Gem of Gems: “Pure Comedy”

5. The National, Sleep Well Beast

4AD

The National deliver one of the most intriguing albums of 2017 with Sleep Well Beast.  It’s dark and experimental, not to mention accessible, yet at times, more inaccessible.  It’s the mark of a true work of art that never ceases to captivate.  The music, lyrics, and of course, the baritone of Matt Berninger, rock to the nth degree.

Gem of Gems: “The System Only Dreams in Total Darkness”

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6.Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, The Nashville Sound

Southeastern 

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit delivers a gem with The Nashville Sound, blending Americana, country, and rock seamlessly.  The songwriting by Isbell is stunning – creative, relevant, and thoughtful. There are no misses over the span of 10 consistent songs.

Gem of Gems: “Anxiety”

7. Sam Smith, The Thrill of it All

Capitol

In 2013, Sam Smith won the hearts of the world with his excellent debut album, In the Lonely Hour. Smith follows it up sensationally with another gem in The Thrill of It All.  Here, he serves up incredible, nuanced, vocal performances throughout, chocked-full of sincerity and emotion.  Perhaps not every song is a ‘hit,’ nor, is this a groundbreaking affair, but all in all, Smith ‘brings the heat’ and personal perspectives to The Thrill of It All.

Gem of Gems: “Too Good at Goodbyes”

8. Tyler, the Creator, Flower Boy

Columbia

Tyler, the Creator has made a name for himself as one of the most polarizing musicians of recent times.  Despite his penchant for controversy, the talented musician delivers his crowning achievement with his fourth studio album, Flower Boy. The unapologetic rapper allows himself to dig deeper in regards to his material, not to mention showing considerable growth as a producer.

Gem of Gems: “Who Dat Boy”

9. Fleet Foxes, Crack-Up

Nonesuch

Crack-Up, the third studio album by Fleet Foxes, is a demanding listen, but ultimately, a truly rewarding, comeback album.  It can’t be overstated that this album requires decoding – multiple listens for everything to sink in.  But, the risks and progressive approaches taken by the band offers one of the most unique and distinct albums of 2017.

Gem of Gems: “Third of May / Ōdaigahara”

10. Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Soul of a Woman

Daptone

Soul of a Woman, the final album by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, ranks among the collective’s strongest. Late soul singer Sharon Jones sounds as electrifying as ever, delivering performances filled with authenticity, emotion, and grit.  With no miscues, Soul of a Woman is a fitting finale to a phenomenal career.

Gem of Gems: “Call on God”

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11. Chris Stapleton, From a Room: Volume 1

Mercury

Chris Stapleton wasn’t generous in regards to the duration of his sophomore album, From a Room: Volume 1 (luckily, Volume 2 arrived in early December). Despite its brevity, Stapleton delivers another superb country effort that stands out because of its authenticity.  While all nine songs are fantastic, arguably the unapologetic “Them Stems” is the crème de la crème.

Gem of Gems: “Them Stems”

12. The xx, I See You

Young Turks

The xx returns with a well-conceived, third studio album, I See You. I See You trends on the quiet side of the spectrum, but isn’t devoid of rhythm or groove.  Occasionally it plays out a bit too subtle, but more often than not, it’s intriguing.  Gems include “Dangerous,” “Say Something Loving”, and “On Hold”.

Gem of Gems: “Say Something Loving”

13. Ryan Adams, Prisoner

Blue Note

Ryan Adams dropped a formidable divorce album with Prisoner.  Better yet, he dropped one of the truly elite albums of 2017. He authentically captures the feelings of uncertainty, regret, and loneliness following a break-up.  The simplicity of the lyrics makes Prisoner relatable to everybody.

Gem of Gems: “Do You Still Love Me?”

14. Sampha, Process

Young Turks

Sampha proves he’s the real deal on his debut album, Process.  Throughout the course of the album, Sampha captures his own emotional rollercoaster.  It’s not a jubilant affair – particularly songs such as “Blood on Me” or “(No One Knows Me) Like the Piano” – but musically, it’s a tour de force.

Gem of Gems: “Blood on Me”

15. Kelly Clarkson, Meaning of Life

Atlantic

The best way to describe Kelly Clarkson is brilliant. The 35-year old pop musician continues to move us.  On Meaning of Life, she releases the most soulful album of career.  Throughout the album, she exhibits attitude (“Love So Soft” and “Whole Lotta Woman”), and slaughters ballads (“Meaning of Life”, “Move You”, and “I Don’t Think About You”).  Clarkson sounds as fresh as ever vocally, dripping in grit, nuance, and power.

Gem of Gems: “Love So Soft”

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16. Miguel, War & Leisure

RCA

Urban contemporary musician Miguel delivers on his fourth studio album, War & Leisure. Throughout the course of the album, the production work is superb, the vocals top-rate, and the songwriting on-point. While he lets lust get the best of him at times, more often than not, he shines, particularly moments like “Told You So” where he channels the late, great Prince.

Gem of Gems: “Told You So”

17. Kesha, Rainbow

Kemosabe

Kesha was ‘out of commission’ for five years, an eternity in pop music. The hiatus was tough, as she was embroiled in an intense, legal argument with Dr. Luke, the producer who helmed her first two albums.  Despite a turbulent, trying time, she’s returned better than ever on her third studio album, Rainbow.  Chocked full of eclecticism, shifting from style to style, most of it works well, particularly the soaring “Praying”. 

Gem of Gems: “Praying” 

18. SZA, Ctrl

RCA 

On her proper, major label debut, Ctrl, SZA showcases incredible artistry and proves she’s “got next.” Ctrl is a well assembled urban contemporary album that’s incredible relatable to its listeners. SZA tackles in topics of sex, relationship, adulthood, and self-esteem. She balances simplicity and complexity masterfully.

Gem of Gems: “Love Galore”

19. Khalid, American Teen

RCA

American Teen showcases the lofty potential up-and-coming teenage R&B artist Khalid possesses. Khalid earned a breakthrough single with “Location”, depicting the desires of his young heart.  In addition to “Location,” Khalid also triumphs with gems including the spirited title track, the melodic “Cold Blooded,” and the dramatic “Shot Down”, which perfectly captures the effects of over infatuation.

 Gem of Gems: “Location”

 

20. Queens of the Stone Age, Villains

Matador

With Villains, rock band Queens of the Stone Age had the unenviable task of following a juggernaut-of-an-album, …Like Clockwork (2013). Despite having ‘big shoes to feel,’ Villains, produced by Mark Ronson, impresses from start to finish.  The effort sounds hellish to the nth degree, led by ferocious standouts like “Feet Don’t Fail Me,” “The Way You Used to Do”, and “The Evil Has Landed”.

Gem of Gems: “The Way You Used to Do”  

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21. St. Vincent, Masseduction

Loma Vista

St. Vincent shines on Masseduction, an intriguing album that incorporates ample pop cues, but still retains alternative sensibilities.  Masseduction is driven by issues surrounding love and sex – naturally intriguing topics. Annie Clark nothing short of intriguing in her own right.  Highlights include “Pills,” “Masseduction,” “Sugarboy,” “Los Ageless”, “Happy Birthday, Johnny,” and “New York”.

Gem of Gems: “Los Ageless”

22. Daniel Caesar, Freudian

Golden Child Recordings

Canadian R&B has been hot as of late, and 22-year old Daniel Caesar continues to the trend.  On Freudian, he fuses love and spirituality seamlessly.  Artistically, he showcases the utmost potential, never missing the mark.  Freudian ranks as one of the best R&B albums of the year, as well as one of the best albums overall.

Gem of Gems: “We Find Love”

23. Spoon, Hot Thoughts

Matador

Spoon’s latest album, Hot Thoughts, followed a successful effort, They Want My Soul (2014).  As great as They Want My Soul was, Hot Thoughts is better.  Spoon embrace change on Hot Thoughts, offering listeners a different sound and overall vibe.  Consistent throughout its course, nothing tops the formidable opening trio of “Hot Thoughts”, “WhisperI’lllistentohearit,” and “Do I Have to Talk You into It.”

Gem of Gems: “WhisperI’lllistentohearit”

24. Ed Sheeran, ÷

Atlantic

Ed Sheeran assembled another enjoyable, highly respectable album with ÷.  While ÷ doesn’t supplant the singer/songwriter’s previous album, +, it has its own share of notable moments.  Among the bright spots are “Shape of You”, “Castle on the Hill”, and “Perfect”.

Gem of Gems: “Shape of You”

25. Chris Stapleton, From a Room: Volume 2

Mercury

From a Room: Vol. 2, like the aforementioned From a Room: Vol. 1, is also comprised of just nine songs. Also like Vol. 1, Vol. 2 showcases tremendous musicianship and incredible consistency. Throughout From a Room: Volume 2, Stapleton embraces outlaw country, contrasting the dominant, modern, pop-oriented style. For this alone, he deserves kudos to the nth degree.

Gem of Gems: “Tryin’ To Untangle My Mind”

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26. Eminem, Revival

Interscope

Eminem returns in top-notch form on Revival, his first new album in four years.  Throughout the course of the Revival, he tackles numerous topics including politics, racism, and father-/husband-hood.  Keeping things interesting, Eminem has a star-studded cast and at times does some unique, compelling things with his flow and rhymes.

Gem of Gems: “Untouchable”

27. Logic, Everybody

Def Jam

For some, the inclusion of Everybody, Logic’s third studio album, will be a polarizing choice. Arguably, Logic didn’t “dig into” some of the racial, social, and political issues he references, but he did at least open the discussion.  The concept of album no. 3 may be far-reaching, but there’s still plenty to like about Everybody, namely the rapper’s ill flow.

Gem of Gems: “1-800-273-8255”

 

28. The Killers, Wonderful Wonderful

Island

As corny as it might sound, The Killers make a “wonderful, wonderful” comeback after a five-year hiatus with Wonderful Wonderful.  Brandon Flowers remains a compelling frontman through and through, even if he doesn’t consider himself to be “the man” as he once did. The sounds and production are compelling, while the songwriting, for the most part, is interesting. The Killers haven’t lost their touch.

Gem of Gems: “Run for Cover”

29. Lana Del Rey, Lust for Life

Interscope

Lana Del Rey is quite the character. Regardless, what’s undeniable is her distinct voice.  Throughout her fourth full-length album Lust for Life, Lana Del Rey showcases her best attribute. Lust for Life proves to be more exciting than Honeymoon, and more well-rounded than her debut, Born to Die.  Perhaps it pales in comparison to Ultraviolence, but it’s a competitive fight to say the least. 

Gem of Gems: “Summer Bummer”

30. Calvin Harris, Funk Wav Bounces, Vol. 1

Columbia

Calvin Harris “puts in work” on Funk Wav Bounces, Vol. 1.  By far, this is the best album of Harris’ career. The Scottish musical beast assembles a star-studded cast and somehow manages to make it all work – for the most part.  If nothing else, the grooves are just too good to resist.  Plenty of “feels” to catch – “don’t be afraid.”

Gem of Gems: “Rollin”

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31. Rex Orange County, Apricot Princess

Rex Orange County

In the case of 19-year old Rex Orange County (Alex O’Connor), age is merely a number.  He released one of the elite albums of 2017 with Apricot Princess. He showcases an expressive voice filled with nuance, a knack for personal, believable songwriting, and superb musicianship.  Too often, kids are knocked due to youth and inexperience.  Rex Orange County shows he’s ‘more than ready’ to shine. 

Gem of Gems: “Apricot Princess”

32. Declan McKenna, What Do You Think About the Car?

Columbia

Ah, look what we’ve got here – yet another talented kid from the UK – Declan McKenna.  Like the aforementioned Rex Orange County, age is merely a number.  What Do You Think About the Car? ends up being a fantastic debut album for McKenna, chocked-full of depth and touching on transcendent, societal issues.

Gem of Gems: “Paracetamol”

33. Demi Lovato, Tell Me You Love Me

Island / Hollywood

Demi Lovato delivers an enjoyable, well-rounded album with Tell Me You Love Me.  The best attribute of the album are the soaring vocals of Lovato. She continues to get better and better.  There are also some top-notch songs, led by the likes of “Sorry Not Sorry”, “Tell Me You Love Me”, and “You Don’t Do It for Me Anymore”. Also, the production work can’t be neglected – da bomb.

Gem of Gems: “Sorry Not Sorry”

 

34. Foo Fighters, Concrete and Gold

RCA

Dave Grohl and Foo Fighters shine on Concrete and Gold, an album more compelling than their 2014 effort, Sonic Highways.  There are no outright misses, with all songs having redeeming characteristics.  Perhaps not every song is a hit, but there are enough gems to make this satisfactory as a whole. “The Sky is a Neighborhood” is arguably the song to beat.

Gem of Gems: “The Sky is a Neighborhood”

35. P!nk, Beautiful Trauma

RCA 

P!nk delivers another well-rounded album with Beautiful Trauma, her first album following a five-year hiatus.  Despite the extended absence, her voice is as awe-inspiring and powerful as ever. While Beautiful Trauma isn’t her best album, there are ample consistent and enjoyable moments.

Gem of Gems: “What About Us”

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36. Depeche Mode, Spirit

Columbia

On Spirit, Depeche Mode examines the moral, social, and political turmoil of present times.  Frontman Dave Gahan isn’t particularly enthused about anything over the course of Spirit, painting a pessimistic portrait of the direction of life.  While this isn’t an empowering album, it is a realistic, thoughtful tour de force.  As awesome as single “Where’s the Revolution?” is, “Scum” may be the most intriguing record.

Gem of Gems: “Scum”

37. Harry Styles, Harry Styles

Columbia

Harry Styles ‘steps up his game’ from his One Direction days on his debut solo album, Harry Styles.  One of the selling points of Harry Styles is the fact that Styles takes a more rock-oriented approach to pop, eschewing any semblance of bubblegum pop. The crème de la crème is the soaring “Sign of the Times” where his voice sounds absolutely terrific.  Besides “Sign of the Times,” Styles also delivers on gems including “Carolina,” “Only Angel,” “Ever Since New York,” and “Woman.”

Gem of Gems: “Sign of the Times”

 

38. Migos, Culture

300 Entertainment

Was “Raindrop, drop top / Smokin’ on cookie in the hotbox” enough to earn Migos and Culture a coveted spot on the Best Albums of 2017 list? No of course not, but having “Bad and Boujee” among a number of other standouts from Culture didn’t hurt its cause.  It’s not a deep album, but Culture does find Migos flexing in top-notch form.

Gem of Gems: “Bad and Boujee”

 39. alt-J, Relaxer

Atlantic

There are plenty of great musical moments throughout the course of Relaxer, the third studio album by British indie-rock darlings, alt-J. While Relaxer has its share of relaxed moments, stylistically, there’s little relaxing about shifts and various ideas.  Relaxer is an intriguing album, but not without its flaws. Nonetheless, the eclecticism is a pro more often than not, yielding some thrilling moments.

Gem of Gems: “3WW”

40. Vince Staples, Big Fish Theory

Def Jam

Vince Staples dropped a satisfying sophomore album with Big Fish Theory. It’s not only one of the best rap albums of 2017, it’s one of the best albums, period. There is a lot to absorb, yet at the same time, a lot to love and appreciate about this album.  Staples tackles racism and inequality, his come up, and love among other topics throughout the course of the project.

Gem of Gems: “Yeah Right”

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41. Björk, Utopia

One Little Indian

Björk delivers another captivating ‘Tinder’ album with Utopia. A lengthy effort crossing the 70-minute mark, it’s well worth the listen.  The sounds – particularly the flute, vocal, and string arrangements – are excellent.  The production is compelling as well, even if things occasionally get a bit cluttered or noisy. Vocally, she’s as effective and haunting as she’s ever been.

Gem of Gems: “Blissing Me”

42. John Mayer, The Search for Everything

Columbia

The Search for Everything is by far the best John Mayer album in years. Consistent to the nth degree, Mayer delivers a return to form worthy of much more buzz than it has received.  Despite its painful underratedness, The Search for Everything rivals the brilliance of Mayer’s tour de force, Continuum (2006).  Many songs could duke it out for must listen.

Gem of Gems: “Still Feel Like Your Man”

 

43. Paramore, After Laughter

Atlantic

After Laughter is an album that far exceeds expectations.  Despite the drama behind the scenes with line-up changes and various internal arguments, Paramore uses it as fuel for the fire.  The band has some legitimate hits on their hands with “Hard Times”, “Told You So”, and “Fake Happy” among others.

Gem of Gems: “Hard Times”

44. Joey Bada$$, All-AmeriKKKan Bada$$

Pro Era / Cinematic Music Group

Joey Bada$$ became the latest musician to RESIST President Donald Trump.  While the sensational ALL-AMERIKKKAN BADA$$ references the 45^th president of the United States, the album can be most accurately characterized as taking a stand for justice for blacks.  Not the flashiest album of 2017, Joey Bada$$ has assembled a consistent, thoughtful record that transcends the normal subject matter and the confines of hip-hop.

Gem of Gems: “Y U Don’t Love Me?”

45. Big KRIT, 4eva is a Mighty Long Time

BMG Rights Management

Big K.R.I.T. definitely doesn’t get the credit he deserves.  Perhaps it is because the Mississippi rapper-producer is a throwback – incredibly old-school.  Nonetheless, throughout his underrated career, he’s shown he has some great skills on both the boards and in regards to the bars. Double album 4eva is a Mighty Long Time is top-notch, regardless of K.R.I.T.’s underrated profile; soundly executed and enjoyable.

Gem of Gems: “Everlasting”

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46. Gorillaz, Humanz

Parlophone

Perhaps the biggest flaw of Humanz, the fifth studio album by Gorillaz, is why it’s appealing. As an album, Humanz is all over the place, lacking unification as a whole.  While that sounds like a fatal flaw, aren’t many pop albums filled with records as opposed to songs as of late? Sure, not everything works on Humanz, but this big album has more than enough appealing moments.

Gem of Gems: “Let Me Out”

47. Death from Above 1979, Outrage! Is Now

Warner Bros.

Canadian punk-rock duo Death from Above 1979 dropped a tight, enjoyable album with Outrage! Is Now.  While the band hasn’t been prolific, they prove quality trumps quantity throughout the album. Great music, rousing vocals, and incredible creativity makes Outrage! Is Now an intriguing effort.

Gem of Gems: “Never Swim Alone”

48. 2 Chainz, Pretty Girls Like Trap Music

Def Jam

On his fourth studio album, Pretty Girls Like Trap Music, 2 Chainz is consistent more often than not.  Perhaps he doesn’t deliver a masterpiece, but Pretty Girls is definitely a fun, worthwhile listen, particularly for southern rap enthusiasts.  It runs long, but it’s chocked full of trap hits.

Gem of Gems: “It’s a Vibe”

49. Gabriel Garzón-Montano, Jardín

Stones Throw

Who is Gabriel Garzón-Montano? For many “that is [indeed] the question.”  For those who’ve followed indie releases from 2017, they know this singer/songwriter had alternative R&B on lockdown.  Jardín may go down as one of the year’s most underrated efforts, but it should also be placed on every ‘best albums of 2017’ list.

Gem of Gems: “Crawl”

 

50.Taylor Swift, Reputation

Big Machine

Reputation earns the honors of being arguably the ‘most polarizing’ album to earn a spot on this list.  While the latest project by Taylor Swift isn’t quite as ‘elite’ as some that grace this list, it’s a compelling affair with its fair share of moments.  Swift goes ‘all in’ on pop this round.

Gem of Gems: “Call It What You Want”

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