ANCHR's Picks: 37 Favorite Albums and 17 Best Songs of 2017
There are those albums that everyone and their mother has listened to and loved this year; Damn. by Kendrick Lamar. Melodrama by Lorde. Masseducation by St. Vincent. Sleep Well Beast by The National. That list goes on and on, and of course, those are all great albums, but these albums below...they're just as important and they all deserve recognition too. Since so much great music came out this year, it was such a struggle narrowing down the list to 37 albums (20+17...get it?!), but grab your headphones and tune into to ANCHR's favorite albums of 2017. Oh also, since it would be like choosing a favorite child, please note that these are in no particular order. Here we go!
POND- The Weather
Fronted by Nick Allbrook, Perth's POND deliver energetic, psychedelic tunes in their 7th studio album that will instantly sweep everyone off their feet (pun intended). The Weather completely engulfs listeners, creating a mystical world with its entrancing synths and hypnotizing melodies. Their live show adds even more depth to the already layered, multifaceted record.
Go To Tracks: "Sweep Me Off My Feet," "30000 Megatons," and "Paint Me Silver"
More on POND- head here!
NE-HI- Offers
After initially forming to score a film that never saw the light of day, NE-HI released their self-titled debut album in 2014. This year, they followed it up with sophomore record Offers, which fits in wonderfully with the booming Chicago rock scene, but stands out with recognizable guitar tuning and tones that have become a signature for the four piece. The record also has this raw and authentic quality, which translates beautifully during their live shows. This year alone, they toured nationally, played legendary Chicago venues like Empty Bottle and Metro, and performed at Pitchfork Festival. You can also catch them at Thalia Hall on NYE with Twin Peaks.
Go To Tracks: "Sisters," "Out of Reach," "Stay Young"
More on NE-HI- head here!
King Gizzard- ALL OF THEM
In case you weren't aware, King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard are album-cranking maniacs. Seriously, they put out FOUR albums just this year, and they've even dropped a few other singles this month... while still promising to have a fifth album out before 2017 ends. King Gizz are totally revolutionary in the way that they release music; In addition to cranking out so many albums, their fourth was completely free. They even uploaded masters for vinyl and CD versions, along with artwork, and encouraged fans to create their own physical copies. Each of their albums also has their own sonic style and theme, and one of them was even a full collaboration with Mild High Club. Still, it's impossible to pick just one favorite, so settle in and listen to all four records that the psych kings of Australia put out this year.
Go To Tracks: "Rattlesnake," "Crumbling Castle," "Rolling Stoned"
Ron Gallo- Heavy Meta
Ron Gallo takes on a realist approach to rock'n'roll in his debut solo album, after having played in the Philly band Toy Soldiers for years. Gallo brilliantly writes about important matters on Heavy Meta, getting deep with not only his lyrics, but with his clever song titles. While Gallo definitely uses his album as a platform to speak his mind, Heavy Meta also maintains another fun and lighthearted side with the humor laced in the aforementioned song titles. Gallo's stage presence also always keeps his audiences happily entertained when he performs the tracks live.
Go To Tracks: "Young Lady, You're Scaring Me," "All the Punks are Domesticated," "Put the Kids to Bed"
More on Ron Gallo-head here!
Lucille Furs- Lucille Furs
Chicagoans Lucille Furs have perfected a retro rock and roll sound that puts a refreshing spin on the grooves we all love from the 60's and 70's, sort of like if The Beatles and The Rolling Stones had a lovechild. Their self-released debut album takes you on a trip back in time and features irresistible melodies that instantly get jammed in your head. The album also really showcases the group's skills as musicians and songwriters, with the impeccably witty lyrics in songs like "Alabaster Crayon" and the unique instrumentation used throughout the record.
Go To Tracks: "Alabaster Crayon," "Baby Blaise," "Between Us Two/I Saw You"
More on Lucille Furs-head here! (and don't forget they're playing our anniversary show January 5th!)
Japanese Breakfast- Soft Sounds From Another Planet
Michelle Zauner (Japanese Breakfast) returns with her sophomore album bearing blunt lyrics, intriguing titles, and dreamy vocals. In songs like "Boyish," Zauner pours her heart out over a retro sounding melody that places you back at your high school prom. Relatable to anyone who's ever been let down by a crush, the tune acts as a friend-zone anthem. Zauner's fearlessness in her lyrics remains a common theme on the album; carrying over into songs like "Road Head. In addition to the brilliance of the words threaded through the record, Soft Sounds From Another Planet integrates different textures and moods into the music and melodies, making this album a must listen.
Go To Tracks: "Road Head," "Boyish," "Diving Woman"
The Fluids-No Kidding!
Brooklyn's The Fluids only caught my attention in September of this year, with their incredibly catchy and nostalgia-inducing earworm of a debut single; "Creatures." The tune drew all sorts of Talking Heads comparisons, but with each subsequent single the trio put out, their sound stood out as refreshing and unique. Before I knew it, I was considering The Fluids one of my favorite new bands and recommending them to anyone who would listen. Get on board with The Fluids and check out an exclusive track by track of No Kidding! straight from the band here.
Go To Tracks: "Creatures," "Lines," "Midnight"
Sir Sly- Don’t You Worry, Honey
Sir Sly's sophomore album may have been a long time coming, but one listen to extremely earnest and honest musings of lead singer Landon Jacobs and you'll understand why Don't You Worry, Honey comes three years after their debut. Jacobs candidly sings about the struggles he faced during the three year gap, including losing his mom to brain cancer and getting divorced. In addition to the pain and heartbreak you can sense in Jacobs' songwriting, this album also showcases a profound sense of growth; both personally and musically. Expanding upon the indie pop/rock styling of their earlier material, Don't You Worry, Honey incorporates hints of R&B and a deeper set of production skills.
Go To Tracks: "Altar," "High," "&Run"
More on Sir Sly- head here!
Marika Hackman- I'm Not Your Man
Marika Hackman makes a departure from her somber folk sound on her debut album with this candid and charming indie rock follow up. Backed by The Big Moon as her band(who also had an incredible album out this year), I'm Not Your Man is also laced with hints of their relaxed friendship; the Big Moon's styling complimenting Hackman's fearless and raw narratives so well.
Go To Tracks: "Boyfriend," "My Lover Cindy," "Cigarette"
More on Marika Hackman- head here!
Beach Fossils- Somersault
A lot of my favorite albums play out in a cinematic sense, just like a soundtrack, but Somersault by Brooklyn's Beach Fossils plays out more like a season of a television show; each song acting as its own episode that fits well with the rest. Each track on the album maintains the band's signature lo-fi and nonchalant energy, but they all explore a different and broader sound as well. "Social Jetlag" incorporates jazzy keys and a flute, while "Saint Ivy" brings in strings and more flute, mixing in bits of other genres to the indie rock base.
Go To Tracks: "Sugar," "Social Jetlag," "May 1st"
More on Beach Fossils- head here!
Jude Shuma- Reflection
Chicago's Jude Shuma released his debut full length record this year, after recording it all himself. A one-man band, producer, singer-songwriter, and all around renaissance man, Shuma took on the challenge of wearing multiple hats for this record. Shuma's hard work all came together in a dreamy, groovy, retro-tinged blaze of glory that showcases him expanding upon the sound he honed in on during his earlier EPs.
Go To Tracks: "Champagne Cigarette," "Lemonade," "1-800-HELP"
More on Jude Shuma-head here!
Meatbodies-Alice
California rockers Meatbodies delivered a multi-dimensional album with Alice. The record begins with birds chirping at the start of "Burning Fields" before segueing into an instrumental guitar track that fades into drums. The drum beat smoothly transitions into track 2, "Kings," and the first two songs establish the theme of the album; transitions that keep you on your toes. Throughout the 11 tracks, there are twists and turns that keep you wondering where exactly the song will go next, and the cohesiveness in their transitions continues track to track.
Go To Tracks: "Creature Feature," "Alice," "Fools Fold Their Hands (Grievous Evils Under the Sun)"
Ten Fé- Hit the Light
Indie-electronic London duo Ten Fé released a drip feed of singles leading up to their debut album, which came together as a unique and dynamic album. The songs crafted by Ben Moorhouse and Leo Duncan range from climactic narratives with relatable lyrics to nostalgic synth-filled pop tunes that won't be leaving your head anytime soon after one listen to the record.
Go To Tracks: "Twist Your Arm," "Time," "July Rain"
More on Ten Fé-head here!
Twinsmith- Matters
Omaha's Twinsmith bring on simplicity and sing-along choruses with their sophomore album Stay Cool, which does exactly that. The mellow melodies are instantly likable and perfect for driving with the windows down, which fit perfectly with the July release date. The band also recorded the album out of their own home, which gave them a newfound sense of creative freedom and allowed them to push boundaries in a comfortable space. Their sense of ease definitely translates into the cool mood of the album.
Go To Tracks: "Matters," "You & I," "Only You"
More on Twinsmith-head here!
The Big Moon- Love in the 4th Dimension
Young London quartet The Big Moon bring a fun and fresh energy to their debut album that immediately received a lot critical acclaim. The four piece's incredible chemistry comes across both live and on the recordings, and they stand out with lead singer Juliette Jackson's unique vocal tone. The 11 tracks also carry a diversity that explores different moods and tones, which keeps listeners intrigued and engaged.
Go To Tracks: "Formidable," "Cupid," "Bonfire"
Sundara Karma- Youth is Only Ever Fun in Retrospect
From Reading, UK, four piece Sundara Karma combines sticky guitar melodies, sing along choruses, and feel good vibes to create infectious indie-rock tunes on their debut album. Originally out in January, the quartet re-released their debut in July of this year to tack on a few more songs, upping the track count to 15 songs. Although each song exists in its own space, the July additions fit in so well with the original tracklisting that they only strengthen the story being told.
Go To Tracks: "Deep Relief," "Flame," "Explore"
More on Sundara Karma- head here!
Sampha-Process
South London based producer and singer-songwriter Sampha brings his instantly recognizable, rich vocals and stand-out beats to his complex and diverse debut album Process. After making music since 2009, collaborating with the likes of Jessie Ware, Drake, SBTRKT, and Lil Silva, Sampha's album was a long time coming and a much deserved move into the spotlight.
Go To Tracks: "Blood on Me," "Incomplete Kisses," "Plastic 100°C"
This is the Kit-Moonshine Freeze
This is the Kit, the brainchild of Kate Stables, delivered their fourth studio album this year, which features heavenly harmonies and gentle, perfectly placed layered arrangements. Influenced by the concept of stories and truths shifting overtime, Stables' storytelling on this record paints a picture for listeners using a full array of instruments, including a group of saxophone players. The National's Aaron Dessner also makes an appearance on the record.
Go To Tracks: "Moonshine Freeze," "Bulletproof," "
More on This is the Kit- head here!
Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile-Lotta Sea Lice
King and queen of cool Kurt Vile and Courtney Barnett teamed up for this chilled out collaboration, coming together from worlds apart to create the perfect pairing. The 9 tracks of Lotta Sea Lice feature both Barnett and Vile on a mix of indie and alt-country songs, which translate perfectly into the live sense. The duo spent the fall touring the country performing songs from their collaborative album, as well as a handful of their own catalogs, complimenting each other perfectly.
Go To Tracks: "Continental Breakfast," "On Script," "Over Everything"
More on Courtney and Kurt-head here!
together PANGEA-Bulls and Roosters
LA based rock band together PANGEA's fourth studio album brings jangly guitars, summer vibes, whistling melodies, and choruses that beg listeners to sing along. Bulls and Roosters has the same rowdy spirit that the band has built a reputation for, but it also hones in on a more developed production quality, with more clean cut recordings than some of their earlier work.
Go To Tracks: "Sippy Cup," "The Cold," "Money On It"
More on together PANGEA- head here!
Rag'n'Bone Man-Human
British soul singer Rory Graham (Rag'n'Bone Man) gained a lot of traction this year for his official debut album's title track, "Human." From commercials to movie trailers and curated playlists, the song was everywhere, but the album itself hits on so many different soundscapes and sub-genres. In addition to Graham's soulful vocals, the deluxe version of the album carries ballads, gospel elements, pop hooks, and even hip hop characteristics when Graham switches from singing to rapping.
Go To Tracks: "Arrow," "Your Way or the Rope," "Lay My Body Down"
Jay Som- Everybody Works
Californian singer-songwriter Melina Duterte, AKA Jay Som, stuns with her sophomore release, Everybody Works. The record is full of Duterte's heartfelt narratives mixed with a blend of indie rock and pop that will make you dance, laugh, and cry.
Go To Tracks: "Lipstick Stains," "Baybee," "The Bus Song"
Wolf Alice- Visions of a Life
London's Wolf Alice took a bit a hiatus after a successful run of their debut album My Love Is Cool, and their devoted fanbase welcomed them back with open arms for their sophomore album. The 12 tracks of Visions of a Life take you on a winding road, starting with the dreamy, ethereal introduction of "Heavenward," followed by the in-your-face, loud and punk attitude behind their lead single "Yuk Foo." The rest of the albums sees lead singer Ellie Rowsell explore different vocal pockets with her incredible ability to cut from an airy falsetto to a jagged growl, as the rest of the band follow suit with an ability to explore different sonic moods with their instruments.
Go To Tracks: "Beautifully Unconventional," "Sadboy," "Don't Delete The Kisses"
Omni- Multi-task
Atlanta's Omni followed up their 2016 debut with Multi-task, which brilliantly combines the simplicity and laidback tones that they established as their style with a broadened sense of maturity and complexity. Honest and candid lyrics intertwine with punchy guitar melodies to tell stories of a 20-something lifestyle.
Go To Tracks: "Heard My Name," "Date Night," "Tuxedo Blues"
Chicano Batman- Freedom is Free
Los Angeles psych-funk masters Chicano Batman delivered their third album Freedom is Free, which is full of grooving bass lines and harmonies that are reminiscent of your favorite oldies songs. The lyrics also pack a powerful and relevant message so you can rock out with a purpose.
Go To Tracks: "Angel," "Friendship (Is A Small Boat In A Storm)," "Freedom Is Free"
Coast Modern- Coast Modern
LA duo Coast Modern packed in an expansive and wide-reaching catalog on their debut self-titled album. After gaining traction and nods from the legendary Smashmouth with singles like "The Way It Was" and "Guru," the band's growing fandom eagerly welcomed the 18 track album. Between instrumental blips that transition the tracks perfectly, the songs range from the perfect party tune to the ideal summer driving jam. If you need some lighthearted bops, turn to Coast Modern.
Go To Tracks: "Frost," "Comb My Hair," "Now I'm Cool"
More on Coast Modern- head here!
(Sandy) Alex G- Rocket
The eigth album from the lo-fi king Alex G brought on the official name change to (Sandy) Alex G and a transition into alt-country music. After announcing the name change earlier this year, (Sandy) Alex G teased Rocket with the simultaneous release of "Bobby" and "Witch," the former blending stunning harmonies with a haunting violin melody. The rest of the album explores different sounds, (Sandy) Alex G reaching out of his comfort zone.
Go To Tracks: "Bobby," "Proud," "Sportstar"
The War On Drugs- A Deeper Understanding
The War on Drugs' fourth album stays true to their sound, but brings on a more developed and thematic touch. The 10 track album spans over an hour, with most songs clocking in about six minutes, mixing synths and soft psychedelic tones that take the listeners on a journey. It's impossible not to get lost in the trance of Adam Granduciel vocals as they weave through the dreamy landscape of A Deeper Understanding.
Go To Tracks: "Up All Night," "Strangest Thing," "Knocked Down"
Blaenavon- That's Your Lot
British trio Blaenavon bring a diverse and sweeping sonic pallet to their debut album, each song carefully plotted, playing out almost like a soundtrack. Before the April release of their record, the band had already garnered enough attention to be booked for Lollapalooza, and man do they deliver during their live shows.
Go To Tracks: "Lonely Side," "Take Care," "Prague '99"
More on Blaenavon- head here!
Overcoats- Young
How often do you find a musical pairing who are actually real life friends? Look no further than the Brooklyn based Overcoats, made up of Hana Elion and JJ Mitchell. For their debut album, the pair worked with two producers so that they could fuse together their love of electronic and folk music, and their efforts definitely paid off when you hear the finished product. The organic sounds and their heavenly harmonies work so well with the beats used on each song. Elion and Mitchell also eloquently paint pictures and story tell with their lyrics, taking this album to another level.
Go To Tracks: "Smaller Than My Mother," "Leave The Light On," "The Fog"
More on Overcoats- head here!
Wand-Plum
The brainchild of Cory Hanson, Los Angeles' WAND shows a lot of growth and development with their fourth studio album Plum. Besides the fact the Hanson and his original band picked up two new members in 2016 before recording Plum, the band has also matured in terms of sonic scope. The record plays out best when listened to straight through, in one sitting, allowing you to appreciate the fleshed out arrangements and seamless transitions.
Go To Tracks: "Bee Karma," "Charles de Gaulle," "Blue Cloud"
For more on WAND- head here!
Tim Darcy- Saturday Night
Ought frontman Tim Darcy stepped out this year to drop his debut solo album, Saturday Night. The record explores new territory for Darcy as he stepped away from the collaborative nature and post punk styling of Ought and focused on a solo creative process. Listening to ambient folk music leading up towards the album's recording process lead to a couple of ambient sounding instrumental tracks making their way onto the album, and each song on Saturday Night manages to sit in its own pocket while still threading together a cohesive story. Read more about Tim Darcy's creative process here.
Go To Tracks: "Tall Glass of Water," "You Felt Comfort," "Saturday Night"
Molly Burch- Please Be Mine
The Austin based Singer-songwriter Molly Burch blessed us with this debut album this year, which was mostly recorded live in just one day. Pulling influence from timeless vocalists like Billie Holiday, Nancy Sinatra, and Peggy Lee, Burch delivers alluring and rich vocals and heartfelt lyrics.
Go To Tracks: "Downhearted," "Fool," "Please Be Mine"
More on Molly Burch- click here!
The Orwells- Terrible Human Beings
The third album from the infamously rambunctious rockers based right here in Chicago stayed on repeat for a quite a minute after it came out in February. With its cheeky lyrics and melodious riffs, Terrible Human Beings keeps the spirit of rowdy and loud rock music alive, especially in the live sense, thanks to frontman Mario Cuomo's stage antics. If you're looking for some fun-spirited jams, revisit Terrible Human Beings by The Orwells.
Go To Tracks: "They Put the Body in The Bayou," "Black Francis," "Creatures"
More on The Orwells- click here!
The Babe Rainbow- Self Titled
Australia's The Babe Rainbow make a great first impression with this self-titled debut album. Blending together warm tones, guitar distortion, a little bit of funk, and a whole lot of groove, the record immerses listeners on a sonic journey. We recommend listening to it on a good pair of headphones to fully appreciate the panning used during mixing. Bonus points: it was produced by fellow Aussie Eric Moore from King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
Go To Tracks: "Peace Blossom Boogy," "Monky Disco," "Superstition Shadow Walk"
The Technicolors- Metaphysical
Punchy drums, upbeat riffs, and grooving bass lines stand out on The Technicolors' third album Metaphysical. The record contains layers that are reminiscent of your favorite bands from the early 00's New York rock scene (i.e The Strokes, TV on the Radio, Yeah Yeah Yeahs) and Brit-pop bands, yet The Technicolors hail from Phoenix. If you're looking for some good vibes that will rejuvenate your day, turn on this album.
Go To Tracks: "Lillies for Lily," "Congratulations, You're a Doll," "26 on a Tuesday"
White Reaper-The World's Best American Band
The Louisville rockers in White Reaper propelled into the national rock scene with this album, following up 2015's White Reaper Does It Again. This year alone we saw them on festival line ups across the country, like Hangout and Lolla, as well as touring with some of our favorite other bands. TWBAB contains all the rough edges and grittiness that we all love about rock and roll, but the group managed to make each song a catchy little, hook-laden earworm that's guaranteed to get stuck in your head just as easily as most pop songs.
Go To Tracks: "Judy French," "The Stack," "Little Silver Cross"
More on White Reaper- click here!
*Bonus Round*: 17 Best Songs of 2017
Now that you made it through our favorite albums, in no particular order, here are our 17 favorite singles of the year!