top10albums2021 - Tumblr blog

[top10albums2021]

Nick Harnett - Fusion Media

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021 In order

1. Turnstile - ‘Glow On’ Obvious really, and not a lot more to add than has already been said, but it's raucous, fun, genre-defining and is going to turn this band into megastars.

2. ETID - ‘Radical’ Their best album since Gutter Phenomenon. A band that continues to evolve and pour heartfelt lyrical poetry into chaotic punk. Simply a must listen. Much has been said of Every Time I Die's consistency. Long may they reign. 3. John Mayer - ‘Sob Rock’ It's pop, but not as you know it. Sexy guitars, soaring choruses and catchy as hell. This album may not win John any new fans, but it sure as hell cements me as a fanboy. 4. VOLA - ‘Witness’ Riffy, synthy, swirly prog metal from VOLA. I love a massive chorus, and these guys deliver throughout. 70's inspired cosmic energy mixes with chuggy guitars to create almost radio-friendly prog, if such a thing exists. The latter half of the album delves into ethereal acoustic rock, to complete a compelling listen. 5. Jesse Daniel - ‘Beyond These Walls’ One of the stalwarts of 'save country music', Jesse's new album covers everything you want from a roots based country record. Self deprecating lyrics and mournful tales laden with fast tracking drums and intricate guitar work - the record takes a different direction each song, mixing elements of bluegrass with traditional country anthems. 6. Amigo The Devil - ‘Born Against’ A lazy comparison would call this record a hallmark of Tom Waits, but a raspy, angry singer-songwriter who stomps on the piano keys one moment and smashes a guitar the next will always drive that connection. Evangelical in parts, this is a true storytelling record, mixing country with roots rock and exceptional lyricism. 7. Architects - ‘For Those That Wish To Exist’ For me, and reading other comments in the blog, this is a real celebration record - not only for a band that have consistently delivered for over a decade, but for a whole movement and genre. It's also bloody good. 8. Harikari For The Sky - ‘Maere’ A new discovery for me this year. A post-black metal record that charted in the top 10 in Germany. A wall of noise from beginning to end with some piano thrown in for good measure. A Placebo cover at the end is a nice surprise. 9. The Dirty Nil - ‘Fuck Art’ A rollicking good pop punk record, full of cheeky lyrics and anthemic choruses. Like a Weezer in waiting. Simply a fun record to throw on. Feels like a step-change record for this band who have stadiums awaiting them. 10. J.Cole - ‘The Off Season’ J.Cole is probably the most consistent rapper of this generation, and this welcome new addition delivers again, but brings in new collaborators, new beats and a slightly brighter tone that previous records. One of the records of the summer.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Lorna Shore - ‘To The Hellfire’ Spiritbox - ‘Circle With Me’ Bruno Mars, Anderson Paak (Silk Sonic) - ‘Leave The Door Open’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Eve Morrison - Concord Music

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Foxing – ‘Draw Down The Moon’ I adore this album. I didn’t become a fan until I first heard Nearer My God and wondered where they had been all my life. I love the more pop influences on this record. Some songs wouldn’t be out of place on ‘Sam’s Town’, and one even has some Knights of Cydonia vibes, but please don’t let that put you off!!

2. Manchester Orchestra – ‘The Million Masks Of God’ I am so grateful that I get to work on this band as one of my all time faves. Another stunning album, which I am desperate to see them play live. Devastated not to be able to make the US dates supported by Foxing!!

3. Wolf Alice – ‘Blue Weekend’ This band are getting better with every record. Lipstick On The Glass is beautiful track and I enjoy listening whilst walking around wistfully at sunset specifically.

4. Weezer – ‘Van Weezer’ Look, this album is ridiculous but it also bangs, so just accept it for what it is. I Need Some Of That was made for stadium rocking.

5. Turnstile – ‘Glow On’ I think we’re all in agreement that this is an album of the year. ‘Holiday’ is just a phenomenal track in its own right and makes me happy every time I listen to it.

6. Biffy Clyro – ‘The Myth Of The Happily Ever After’ Biffy have been very busy the past couple of years, but this album still holds up in my opinion. Hunger In Your Haunt, Witch’s Cup and Slurpy Slurpy Sleep Sleep are great songs!

7. Mogwai – ‘As The Love Continues’ Just another lovely album from Mogwai. They blew my face off at the Mercury Awards show in Sept, and I was very grateful as I haven’t had the chance to see them live yet.

8. Idles – ‘Crawler’ I like the darker sound of this record. V enjoyable.

9. Self Esteem – ‘Prioritise Pleasure’ This woman has had an incredible year and it is fully deserved. What an album. Love what she is doing for women in music and in life. It’s honest and empowering, and she should be on her way to great things! A Christmas Day essential.

10. Lana Del Rey – ‘Chemtrails Over The Country Club’ This album was my summer jam. More dreamy sad pop to wander around the cemetery at sundown to.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Wet Leg – ‘Wet Dream’ Billie Eilish – ‘Happier Than Ever’ Willow – ‘Meet Me At Our Spot’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Sam Sleight - ex-Stereoboard/ex-Rock Sins

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Arab Strap - ‘As Days Get Dark’ Without question, the most incredible thing I have heard this decade. Aidan Moffat's marriage of the mundane and the profound in his poetry combined with Malcolm Middleton's infectiously bleak instrumentation makes for a sublime experience. Death and sex make perfect bedfellows in this opus, and if you scratch beneath the surface, it's funny as hell when not trying to make you bawl.

2. MØL - ‘Diorama’ MØL's trajectory is staggering. 2018's debut, Jord, was a tour de force in the often maligned blackgaze genre, but with Diorama they hit unexpected and staggering new heights, making their already-near-perfect first LP look comparatively amateurish.

3. Low - ‘HEY WHAT’ The best sounding album of the year, a track like White Horses makes you question the limits of the guitar. The most ingenious use of six strings since Tom Morello took to the stage, but substitutes the Van Halen influence for a unique take on the indie genre.

4. Lingua Ignota - ‘SINNER GET READY’ Neoclassical horror infused with Appalchian folk music makes for one of the most emotionally stirring albums released this side of 2019's CALIGULA. Horrifying and beautiful in equal measure, Lingua Ignota's perseverance and resilience are laudable, as sad as it is that the reasons for these character traits should hang over her work.

5. Turnstile - ‘Glow On’ Somehow, Turnstile continue to improve, fitting far more hooks into three minute bangers than they have any right to. Heartening to see this latin-infused, summery punk get the plaudits it deserves.

6. Sugar Horse - ‘The Live Long After’ Neurosis playing The Cure. Cult of Luna ala Bauhaus. This post-goth amalgam is the epitome of phenomenal dynamism and sets the loud/quite benchmark for the decade. DECIBELS!

7. Converge - ‘Bloodmoon: I’ A collaboration five years in the making, the way in which Converge, Chelsea Wolfe, Stephen Brodsky and Ben Chisholm are able to mesh their distinctive sounds in a cohesive way is nothing short of a marvel.

8. Divide and Dissolve - ‘Gas Lit’ The first drone album I have ever adored, the way in which Divide and Dissolve encapsulate the struggle of indigenous people through their heavy ambience is staggering.

9. The Body - ‘I've Seen All I Need to See’ Harsh white noise that manages to invoke a sense of dread whilst creating songs rather than just soundscapes. A great entry point to the horror that is The Body's oeuvre.

10. Frontierer - ‘Oxidized’ Perhaps the most extreme thing I have listened to this year. A collision of Car Bomb's histrionics and the hardest of grooves coalescing into the hellish. ------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Arab Strap - ‘The Turning of Our Bones’ Turnstile - ‘Fly Again’ Mogwai - ‘Ritchie Sacramento’ -------

[top10albums2021]

James Spence - Atonal Agency/Rolo Tomassi 

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In no order

Turnstile - ‘Glow On’ It's hard to say anything new about this and hard to imagine it won't be at the top of most lists this year but WHAT a record. Instant classic. Hania Rani & Dobrowa Czocher - ‘Inner Symphonies’ A return to form for Hania Rani after a difficult second album that didn't hit the mark for me. Some beautiful compositions with collaborator Dobrowa Czocher. Portrayal Of Guilt - ‘We Are Always Alone’ Completely furious. It captures a lot of what I love about late 90's/turn of the millennium screamo and makes it its own thing. Loathe - ‘The Things They Believe’ I love that this band has the confidence to release the best heavy record of 2020 and follow it up with an ambient record. Streets ahead! Knocked Loose - ‘A Tear In The Fabric Of Life’ I'll be honest, I know their last album was very popular but it didn't grab me. This clicked instantly and I totally get it now. Christian Löffler - ‘Parallels: Shellac Reworks’ I listened to this a lot when I need to focus. Very minimal, hypnotic electronic music with classical flourishes that keep it engaging, Midwife - ‘Luminol’ My favorite thing about this artist and this album is the gentle, almost lullaby-like quality to all of it. Its simplicity is what makes it so special. Rachika Nayar - ‘Our Hands Against The Dusk’ An expansive, experimental album that pushes what you can get out of a guitar to the absolute limit while remaining very listenable. Jon Hopkins - ‘Music For Psychedelic Therapy’ A very meditative collection of music that deviates from the recent path of his albums. Sugar Horse - ‘The Long Live After’ Best British debut in heavy music this year. A perfect mixture of achingly beautiful and crushingly heavy.

  ------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Holding Absence - ‘Celebration Song’ Orlando Weeks - ‘Look Who's Talking Now’ Croatian Amor - ‘Compass’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Dan Smith - MNRK Head Of Promotion UK, Music

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021 In no order

Spectral Wound – ‘A Diabolic Thirst’ Incredible black metal record, Frigid & Spellbound has the best riff of the year.  Turnstile - ‘GLOW ON’ I’m a very welcome member of the “Over 35 Turnstile fan club”.  Smashing Pumpkins meets Good Riddance plus some weird shit, nice one.  Mastiff - ‘Leave Me The Ashes Of The Earth’ When I first heard this record it was so heavy I wanted to vomit half way through Fail. Top ledge diamond geezers from Hill.  Still - { } Another bunch of Hull smashers. Screamo kids with black metal influence. Bangs Big Zuu - ‘Navigate’ For me one of the most important human beings in the UK at the amount, a positive voice for the British youth who’s transcended grime into an artist, TV star, comedian, chef, presenter.  Boston Bun – ‘There’s A Nightclub Inside My Head’ French house at its finest, great record for the clubs being shut and the covid isolation walk around Hackney with a bangin hangover.      Der Weg einer Freiheit – ‘Noktvrn’ The best modern black metal band for me. Not as good as Finisterre but that was always going to be impossible, Gegen das Licht probably my favourite track of the year.  Deafheaven – ‘Infinite Granite’ From the Davey Havok vocals to the shoegaze love in instrumental this was an utter return to form for the band. Potentially the most important band of our era.  Nervosa - ‘Perpetual Chaos’ Not usually a massive thrash fan but utterly love this band, always smash it whatever the line up (that Crypta record is bangin’ as well). Cult of Luna – ‘The Raging River’ It’s Cult of Luna. 

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Spectral Wound – ‘Frigid & Spellbound’ Der Weg einer Freiheit – ‘Gegen das Licht’ Rolo Tomassi - ‘Drip’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Emma Van Duyts - Public City PR, Director

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Turnstile - ‘Glow On’ This record has been on repeat in our house for most of this year. A real breath of fresh air

2. Mastodon - ‘Hushed and Grim’ ‘Hushed and Grim’ was the soundtrack to the build out of my new office. I’d go in at different times of the day and know I had gotten 90 mins of work done. It’s also the most beautiful ode to one of the best there ever was. Nick John. Love it. 3. 68- ‘Give one, Take one’ This record was originally supposed to come out last year but you know…. Pandemic and all. A good ol’ blast of rock n roll fun 4. Silk Sonic  - ‘An Evening with Silk Sonic’ A later comer in the year but OH boy what a record. Straight up boner jams 5. Quicksand - ‘Distant Populations’ An incredible return from NYC’s finest. I love everything this band do 6. Beartooth - ‘Below’ A record to kick your ass and everyone else who is around you. Caleb Shomo is the Prince of Metalcore. 7. Blanket- ‘Modern Escapism’ I’m taking liberties and adding 5 of my bands this year. Modern escapism is a perfect soundtrack to the apocalypse 8. While She Sleeps - ‘Sleeps Society’ Another round of bangers from the Sheffield lads. 9. Billie Eilish - ‘Happier Than Ever’ A gorgeous gentle record full of confidence and huge growth of an exceptional artist. Excited to see where she goes from here 10. Megan Thee Stalllion - ‘Something For Thee hotties’ The new Queen of hip hop. Mic drop ------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: 68′ - ‘Bad Bite’ Mastodon - ‘More than I could chew’ Silk sonic - ‘Smokin’ out the window’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Chris Pritchard - Band manager/venue manager

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Portico Quartet - ‘Monument’ Always had a thing for this band and would always keep my ear out for new music. This new album is a much more direct release by them and every song released up until album release were on loop so it was no surprise that the whole record was great. Live jazz with moments of kraut rock, dub and breakbeat. It’s a genuine treat to listen to. 2. The War On Drugs - ‘I Do’t Live Here Anymore’ Have been a fan on the periphery for years now and although many may say this is a much more poppier release than previous albums, I have fallen for it completely. Somewhere between Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen and even moments of Blue Nile. Its a genuinely lovely record and about the only thing that I have had on for the last few weeks. 3. Ross From Friends - ‘Tread’ Never disappointed by RFF and the new album is no different. He has moved away from his more lo-fi house beginnings and this record really is a true show of his strength at making albums of really lovely electronica rather than singles or EPs. 4. Andy Shauf - ‘Wilds’ I am late to the Andy Shauf party but during teh first hal of the year, I built up a mild obsession. Both for his songwriting and production. A really amazing songwriter and story teller. This new surprise album was an amazing thing to see land and it really is as strong as previous releases. 5. Kings Of Conveience - ‘Peace Or Love’ Really thought there would not be another record by KoC - not sure why but it felt like I wouldn’t be hearing any new music by the band. Rather than being a real diversion from previous material, they have released a record that is completely in keeping with their previous albums and its just as strong. A whispery folky pop gem. 6. Riki - ‘Gold’ I thought her debut album was really great but a little more gothed out than this new one. The songs are Depeche Mode & Talk Talk sequel synth pop and is a real masterclass in that style. 7. Bummer - ‘Dead Horse’ To this day, it always baffles me that Thrill Jockey are releasing some of the best heavy music these days. Its quite a departure from the jazz/indie and experimental Id normally be accustomed too. Bummer were a band I already liked and this one is a belter too. Total Melvins/Unsane/Kepone/Jesus Lizard worship. If you like any of these bands, this is for you.

8. Toledo - ‘Jockeys Of Love’ Maybe not a full length record as such but its my list and Ill do what I want. After hearing that Jorge Elbrecht had produced a song by this new band, I was keen to hear more. Amazing lo-fi indie pop done so well and they are definitely a band for the future. 9. Turnstile - ‘Glow On’ This had to be on the list. Plenty of bands out there doing this style of hardcore but it doesn’t connect with me but after hearing the “Share A View” EP last year, I knew that when they released their record, something different and progressive would come. The band seem to have found that middle ground that keeps them fully embedded in their scene while adding some amazing nuances that make this a genuinely modern and new sounding record. No surprise this has landed on so many AOTY lists. Just lovely that its on some you wouldn’t expect as well. 10. Floating Points with Pharaoh Sanders & The London Symphonic Orchestra - ‘Promises’ This is breathtaking. A new classical composition by Floating Points spread across a number of movements. It’s sparse and delicate and something you will get totally lost in. Between jazz improvisations and crescendoing orchestral sections, it’s a total joy.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Nation Of Language - ‘This Fractured Mind’ John Francis Flynn - ‘Shallow Brown’ Rat Cage - ‘Hypocrite City’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Dexter Hubbard - Badhead Music

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Foxing – ‘Draw Down The Moon’ For years it was huge dark mark on personal emo scene points. I did not get Foxing. At all. Immediacy, melodies, production and stories on this record though swept me in. Love it. Can’t wait for them to come to UK next year so I can pretend I’ve always liked them.  

2. Mogwai – ‘As Love Continues’ Literally the lockdown album. Somehow given great memories associated with the worst of times.  

3. Super American – ‘SUP’ Perfect pop-punk album. As early as midway through the second track you know this isn’t gonna let you down.

4. Ryley Walker & Kikagaku Moyo – ‘Deep Fried Grandeur’ Artist of the year. Ryley Walker released 3 great captivating and wildly different albums in 2021. This my pick of the bunch.  

5. Parannoul – ‘To See The Next Part Of The Dream’ Bizarre combination of being the best-terrible sounding record I’ve heard. Full of melody, sounds incredible on headphones.

6. Home Is Where – ‘I Became Birds’ Six tracks. 19mins long. It’s an album. #5thwave baby. 7. Stephen Fretwell – ‘Busy Guy’ Whelp.

8. Katy Kirby - ‘Cool Dry Place’ No idea how this feels so subtly unique yet so familiar. 9. Joy Orbison - ‘Still Slipping vol. 1′ Perfect snapshot of someone in particular space and moment of their life. What an album should be, (though he calls this a mixtape, duh).

10. Origami Angel – ‘Gami Gang’ Relentless, never lets up over twenty tracks and 50mins. Excited to see what this lot continue to do in 2022.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Dollar Signs – Bad News Jahari Massamba Unit – Riesling Pour Robert Vampire Weekend & Goose – 2021 (January 5th, To Be Exact) -------

[top10albums2021]

Mark Woodyatt - Mark & Me (podcaster)

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021 In order

1. Thrice – ‘Horizons/East’ This album is so genuine and the most refreshing album of the year for me. The instrumentation throughout this album is perfection and Dustin Kensrues vocals have never sounded better. This album really has something for every Thrice fan out there.

2. Hayley Williams – ‘Flowers for Vases/Descansos’ Emotionally visceral and complex, the soothing guitar and piano accompanied by the beautiful lyrics touching on themes of love and loss have made this my most listened to album of 2021. My enjoyment and understanding matures with each playthrough of this musical masterpiece.

3. Turnstile – ‘Glow On’ From start to end the fusion between hardcore, punk and alternative rock makes this album unique. You won’t want to skip any track on this jewel of an album.

4. Gojira – ‘Fortitude’ “Beautiful” is not often a word applied to a metal album, but it fits here in every respect. Melding various styles with a rousing emotional journey and a sensibility of all life existing together, is nothing short of perfection,

5. Mastodon – ‘Hushed and Grim’ Full of Mastodons signature sound, but with clear and evident evolutions. They have grown as people throughout hardship and the music brews with their experience and emotion. It might be a solid hour and a half but there isn’t a song worth skipping.

6. Chvrches – ‘Screen Violence’ Their best work. Their unmistakable style is enriched by a new energy, as if they were finally blooming to tell the whole truth about the way they see the world. The sound feels richer and deeper in every single track. A must listen.

7. Biffy Clyro – ‘The Myth of the Happily Ever After’ This is Biffy Clyros bravest, sincerest and most eclectic album the band have ever put out. A very unpredictable gem that offers a level of authenticity that felt restrained since the album Opposites.

8. Wolf Alice – ‘Blue Weekend’ A cohesive collection of songs that may be seen as a reflection of the band members souls as well as a warm embrace for people who listen. Its magnificent, passionate, mind-blowing and daring all at the same time.

9. Every time I Die - ‘Radical’ This record one-ups Low Teens in every possible way. Incredible album for an incredible band.

10. Don Broco – ‘Amazing Things’ There are no other bands like Don Broco on this planet. Unafraid to push the boundaries this album consists of unapologetically experimental and genre bending rock music. Some of the catchiest tracks I have heard all year. Plus, their music videos are just pure genius.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Beartooth – Fed Up False Advertising – Personal Space Puppy – The Kiss -------

[top10albums2021]

Holly Raven - Good As Gold Group

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order Taylor swift - 'Red' I loved 'Red' anyways but the re-recordings, the extra songs and the 10 minutes version of All Too Well just topped it off! The collaboration with Phoebe Bridgers is just stunning.   Every time I Die - 'Radical' Never has a band been so consistent as Every Time I Die. I was worried they reached their peak with Low Teens but this is just a perfect record. Olivia Rodrigo - 'SOUR' My favourite Debut album of 2021! I think her and Dan Nigro make a great songwriting duo and for someone who is just 18 years old, the songs she wrote herself enough for you and happier are great pop songs. Billie Eilish - 'Happier Than Ever' Billie smashed it with follow up to her debut record. I feel like she made the exact album she wanted with this and it works! Turnstile - 'Glow On' Everyone loves this record don’t they? A great album that you can put on whatever mood you are in! Architects - 'For Those That Wish To Exist'  This is a beautiful record, lyrically and sonically! A well deserved number one album for Architects. Lil Nas X - 'Montero’ I love him, I love this album and I love the guests on this record from Megan Thee Stallion, Miley and Doja Cat. I thought he would be a one hit wonder but this record has proved he isn't. Doja Cat - 'Planet Her' The last two years Doja has really become an absolute queen! The vocals are beautiful and keep you on your toes for the whole album. Angels & Airwaves - ‘Lifeforms' I have been waiting for this album for a long time. They delivered a great record and some really catchy songs! Drake - ‘Certified Lover Boy’ Not my favourite Drake album but has some great songs!

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Lil Nas X - ‘MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)’ Billie Eilish - ‘Happier Than Ever’ Olivia Rodrigo - ‘Traitor’ -------

[top10albums2021]

James Scarlett - Founder/band booker, 2000trees & ArcTanGent Festivals

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021:  In order

1. Mastodon – ‘Hushed and Grim’ They’re back! This feels like the album we’ve all been waiting for since Crack the Skye and it’s certainly the best thing they’ve released since then. It takes some time, but once you’re in, this is a varied work of pure genius.

2. The Wildhearts – ‘21st Century Love Songs’ The best songwriter of the 90s is back and is writing the best songs of the 2020s. What a band and what an album. More than a return to form, this is the sound of a band on absolute fire.

3. Rivers of Nihil – ‘The Work’ Wow! I’ve listened to this album loads and I’m still wrapping my head around the shear breadth of what they’ve attempted. This is the most ambitious metal release of 2021 and what’s more, they’ve absolutely nailed it.

4. Converge & Chelsea Wolfe – ‘Bloodmoon I’ More than the sum of its parts (Converge + Chelsea Wolfe + Cave In’s Stephen Brodsky), this is a truly staggering record that sounds like all my favourite bands playing all my favourite songs. I love it.

5. The Dirty Nil – ‘Fuck Art’ The Dirty Nil only know how to make albums one way… hit after hit after hit. So so so great!

6. URNE – ‘Serpent & Spirit’ The sound of all your favourite metal bands getting together and writing a prog-metal masterpiece. 1988 Metallica jamming with 2002 Mastodon anyone?

7. DVNE – ‘Etemen Ænka’ Like Neurosis & Cult of Luna squaring up to Mastodon & Baroness. A band with the potential to become a serious post-metal heavyweight.

8. Amenra – ‘De Doorn’ They were already pretty much the best/my favourite live band on the planet, but now they’ve gone up a notch with what I think is probably their best album. Featuring new co-vocalist Caro from Oathbreaker, this is a work of dark, beautiful brilliance.

9. Epiphanic Truth – ‘Dark Triad: Butter Psalms to a Sordid Species’ Their bio says this album is a “ multi-faceted, psychedelic odyssey combining elements of Death/Black/Doom Metal with Jazz, Chamber music, EDM and ambient/noise music”. It’s absolutely bonkers in all the best ways.

10. Cult of Luna – ‘The Raging River’ They are calling it an EP, but for any other band this would be a career defining album. Always majestic and always brilliant, I love this band.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Mastodon – ‘Teardrinker ’The Wildhearts – ‘A Physical Exorcism’ URNE – ‘The Palace of Devils and Wolves’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Elise Cobain - Music Content Specialist 

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In no order

Don Broco – ‘Amazing Things’ This album is back-to-back brilliance with every element (visual, live and audio-wise) fine-tuned to the bodacious standard only Broco deliver.

Trash Boat – ‘Don’t You Feel Amazing?’ Trash Boat have burnt down the walls of the past and created a truly stand out, candid album that showcases the absolute beast-tier of a band they are.  

Tigercub – ‘As Blue as Indigo’ This album is distilled adrenaline that has catapulted them into the eyes and ears of the world (and rightly so).

Boston Manor –  ‘DESPERATE TIMES DESPERATE PLEASURES’ There is nothing this band can’t do when they get creative and this distilled EP-hit is what I’ve been waiting for after the long year of 2020.

Nothing But Thieves – ‘Moral Panic Part 2′ Anyone discovering NBT this year has got everything they could want to know about this band in one LP: beauty, power and passion.  

The Pale White – ‘Infinite Pleasure’ The Pale White create this irresistible indie infused rock that, partnered with Adam Hope’s signature vocal, are a true gem of the British music scene.

Yonaka – ‘Seize The Power’ I’ve been a fan of Yonaka for the long haul and with every release they present a refreshing take on their alternative style with incredible songwriting.  

Spiritbox - ‘Eternal Blue’ There’s so much to fall in love with in this debut release and one that I reckon is 2021’s best metal LP release.

Kid Kapichi – ‘This Time Next Year’ This self-produced album demands your attention and is full of sexy riffs and real-talk that I haven’t heard in a record for some time.

Press To Meco  -  ‘Transmute’ The thing I’ve always loved about this band is there ability to write insanely uplifting melodies and riffs that are perfect both in listening and live mode.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Yonaka – ‘Ordinary’ HCK9 – ‘Cartoon Smile’ Palaye Royale – ‘Punching Bag’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Tom Newman - Cooking Vinyl, Product & Marketing Manager

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Every Time I Die - 'Radical' I did often wonder how they would follow up 2016's 'Low Teens' but Radical does not disappoint. Somehow they manage to get better and better every album, 20 years in. The utter riffs on this, mixed with Keith's vocals / lyrics are incredible. 

2. Turnstile - 'GLOW ON' They've changed the game, a real hardcore crossover album 3. The Darkness - 'Motorheart' At a time when everyone is releasing their 'lockdown' album, The Darkness come in and do the opposite, providing loads of fun songs with some great riffs to boot. (Sorry, one I worked on, but I've been a huge Darkness fan since 2003, so that's allowed!) 4. The Bronx - 'Bronx VI' Full disclosure, an album I worked on and first heard two years ago - but I never grew tired of it. It's everything you'd want out of a Bronx album. 5. Architects - 'For Those Who Wish To Exist' I tip my hat to Architects, they keep getting better each album. And that Winston McCall feature is mental. 6. '68 - 'Give One Take One' Yes, another record I worked on. Josh Scogin can write a bloody song. 7. Skeggs - 'Rehearsal' You can't listen to this album and not want to be chilling on a beach somewhere... 8. Limp Bizkit -  'STILL SUCKS' 'Dad Vibes' proves LB have still got it 9. The Hell - 'Joris (a Hardcore Opera, part 2) An incredible band that should be huge. WHOEVER is behind this band is an utter genius. 10. $uicideboy$ - 'Long Term Effects of SUFFERING' Some real bangers on this album ------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Limp Bizkit - 'Dad Vibes’ Every Time I Die - 'Post-Boredom Turnstile - 'HOLIDAY'  -------

[top10albums2021]

Austin Peters - Creative Director | Audiotree TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 202 In no order

Sleep Token - ‘This Place Will Become Your Tomb’ Completely blown away by the songs on this album, it felt like the music + lyrics were channeled from something way beyond human consciousness, super powerful stuff.

VOLA - ‘Witness’ Banger after banger after hook after hook, this album start to finish just feels like VOLA truly came into form.

Spiritbox - ‘Eternal Blue’ I was hooked on SB the moment I heard “Perennial” and this album is just such a refreshing take on a genre that often feels cookie cutter.

Don Broco - ‘Amazing Things’ Never knew this band, didn’t think I’d be into it, and I was so wrong. I can’t stop listening to Manchester Super Reds No. 1 Fan.

Jordan Rakei - ‘What We Call Life‘ Pretty much annoying Rakei touches I love, and this album is no different. Thematically feels very aligned with here I’m at in my own life.

Vildhjarta - ‘Masstaden Under Vatten‘ The most ridiculous metal songwriting I’ve heard in a long time, in that it constantly surprises and amazes me how creativity knows no bounds in the metal world.

Volumes - ‘Happier?’ I can’t stop listening to “Bend” and I think that’s a reason to just put this whole album on the list.

Outrun the Sunlight - ‘A Vast Field of Silence‘ Not much to say here, other than I spend 4 years with the music on this album, I love them, and I’m really excited it’s finally out in the world.

Tesseract - ‘Portals’ What a crazy live album, an unreal length and feat to pull off, and a lot of these versions I enjoy more than the album versions, which I think says something about this band’s capability on a stage.

 Simple Being - ‘Echo & Fissure‘ Pretty much my go-to music for when I’m just around the house working, napping, meditating, or cooking. It just calms me instantly.

------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Sleep Token - ‘The Love You Want’ Outrun the Sunlight - ‘Awareness’ Sleep Token - ‘Atlantic’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Megan Page - Record Store Day UK Coordinator

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In order

1. Lana Del Rey – ‘Blue Banisters’ I just don’t know how it’s possible to keep coming out with sad girl banger after banger but for me this one tops them all. I’m always in awe of Lana Del Rey.

2. Berwyn – ‘TAPE2/ Formalhaut’ This is a stunning record written to the backdrop of immigration struggles –  a deeply personal and honest album which explores isolation, mental health and vulnerability. A must listen. 3. Baby Queen – ‘The Yearbook’ An absolutely perfect pop record from start to finish. These songs have been stuck in my head all year! 4. For Those I Love – ‘For Those I Love’ An incredibly moving body of work exploring loss, class, grief and hope. It’s haunting and beautiful. 5. Self Esteem – ‘Prioritise Pleasure’ Powerful, anthemic, uplifting and fun. IDTATT is the best song of the year for me. 6. Arlo Parks – ‘Collapsed in Sunbeams’ So soulful and sweet it gives me that warm, fuzzy feel whenever I give it a spin. 7. Joy Crookes – ‘Skin’ To me, Crookes is one of the most important new faces in British Soul. Not only an incredible voice but an important album which delves into heartbreak & womanhood as well as British identity and politics 8. Wolf Alice – ‘Blue Weekend’ If you’ve ever struggled in a bad relationship this album carries a real emotional punch. A brilliant third album that doesn’t disappoint. 9. Viagra Boys – ‘Welfare Jazz’ A solid post-punk record with a fun country twang (for real) 10. Black Country New Road – ‘For the First Time’ Where do you start with a record like this???? It’s a mysterious triumph. ------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Self Esteem – ‘I do this all the time’ Lana Del Rey – ‘Dealer’ The Staves – ‘Good Woman’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Goc O'Callaghan - Co-founder and Director of ArcTanGent 

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021: In no order

Manchester Orchestra - ‘A Million Masks of God’ The hauntingly beautiful vocals of Andy Hull are like a familiar hug whilst addressing the issues of life and death. Bicurous - ‘(re)constructed’ Rowdy danceable post-rock with nuances of And So I Watch You From Afar. ‘Palapalapa’ is a sing-along-shout-along feel good factor song. Foxing - ‘Draw Down The Moon’ Lyrically poetic with a storytelling aesthetic combined with a weird yet perfectly curated mash-up of synthwave, groove, emo indie rock. Biffy Clyro - ‘The Myth of Happily Ever After’ Biffy returning to be “old” Biffy with the restraints of a major label removed, what made Biffy good back in the day has resurfaced here but with a huge amount of musically maturity. Lana del Ray - ‘Chem Trails over the Country Club’ A huge departure to what I normally listen to but this album has been on repeat all year. Maybeshewill - ‘No feeling is final’ What a way to return after a hiatus! Maybeshewill are back, levelling up with their signature aesthetic of cinematic-soundscapes. MØL - ‘Diorama’ Heavy, blackgaze, melodic and chaotic - something of an addictive listen. Genghis Tron - ‘Dream Weapon’ This album is already banned from my car as "something I’m not fit to drive to"…this album is so energetic with expansive compositions, a must listen! Lift - ‘There is Beauty in Everything’ From Dan Stevenson of Frontierer, I have been partial to the development of this album long before its release. Beautifully experimental, ambient, electronic soundscapes that couldn’t be contrasting to the brutual, heavy edge that Frontierer do so well. Wolf Alice - ‘Blue Weekend’ There is something so elegantly emotionally-provative about this album, musically interesting with transitions between alt-rock, shoegaze and country-pop. ------- 3 Songs I Love From 2021: Bicurious - ‘Palapalapa’ BIffy Clyro - ‘Slurpy Slurpy Sleep Sleep’ Manchester Orchestra - ‘Telepath’ -------

[top10albums2021]

Matt Hughes - Co-director at Good As Gold Group/band manager/2000trees Festival line Up Consultant

TOP 10 ALBUMS OF 2021 In no order

Turnstile - ‘Glow On’ An obvious one really isn’t it? Album of the year.

Pupil Slicer - ‘Mirrors’ My ‘metal’ album of the year, and it has been since it was released earlier in 2021. Heavy and smart and huge and nasty and wonderful and abrasive and impeccably put together. What a wonderful band.

Genghis Tron - ‘Dream Weapon’ Came out no where and stole my heart. Like a hardcore band being produced by the composer of ‘Tron’ OST. Dreamy and awesome.

Sam Fender - ‘Seventeen Going Under’ The best album to tide me over between Xcerts albums. I jest. It is magic and i adore it more on every listen.

Deaf Heaven - ‘Infinite Granite’ WhAt hAppEnED tO ThE rIffS? Who cares. A thing of actual, genuine beauty.

Backxwash - ‘I lie here buried with my rings and my dresses’ My 2021 discovery, and an album i have listened to every week since its release. Heavy and catchy and beat filled and nasty as hell, a superstar is born.

Tigercub - ‘As Blue As indigo’ My most listened to album of 2021? Maybe. The album that whenever i put on even the kids stop and say ‘whats this? its ace’? Absolutely.

Architects - ‘For Those That Wish To Exist’ Forget the fact that i adore this band, and people. Forget the fact that this record is my first UK number 1 album i have worked on. Forget the fact that after working with these humans since 2013, I am still as much of a fan as i was when they released ‘Ruin’ in 2007. Forget all that and just spend time with this album, start to finish, the most incredible journey of a record from 2021. Stunning.

Spiritbox - ‘Eternal Blue’ Proud to have been a small piece of their rise this year, but WHAT an album, WHAT a voice, WHAT production, WHAT riffs, WHAT a way re reinvigorate a genre. 

Cleopatrick - ‘Bummer’ No idea why this album isn’t on more end of year lists, maybe because it has a ‘lane’ and is very much sticking to it. regardless, i cannot get over its scratchy, dirty, catchy, euphoric huge-ness, and i fall in love with these messy songs the more i listen to them.

-------  3 Songs I Love From 2021: Black Country, New Road - ‘Athens France’ Gojira - ‘Amazonia’ Sam Fender - ‘Seventeen Going Under’ -------