At the end of every year WXAV takes part in a long standing tradition of trying to narrow down all the albums that were released and condense them into a top ten list. This incredible feat was undertaken by a handful of the DJ’s at the station at the end of last year to decide what the top ten albums of 2018 should be.
There are a few rules. First, only albums released between December 15, 2017 – December 10, 2018 qualify for consideration. Next, re-releases, live albums, and compilation albums are not able to be considered. Finally only one EP is allowed per submission.
Starting of the bottom of the list we have ASTROWORLD by Travis Scott. The album propelled him to a new level on the music scene. The single “SICKO MODE” cannot be escaped when your on a night out on the weekends, and for good reason. The whole album shows a large evolution in the sonic direction that Travis Scott wants to take his fans.
Coming in the number nine spot is KIDS SEE GHOSTS. If the album name caught your attention you will be pleased to hear that so does the music. This Kanye West and Kid Cudi Project comes in at under 25 minutes and no time is wasted giving listeners an exciting and different take on the two rappers sound.
Number eight on the list is Virtue by The Voidz. This experimental rock setlist creates a medium for those looking for an experimental take on alt rock. This change in sound comes after the heavy electronic influence on their previous album.
Courtney Barnett takes the number seven spot on our list with Tell Me How You Really Feel. The album builds upon her garage rock sound with noticeable tracks like “City Looks Pretty” and “Charity”. This second record has us excited to hear what other great songs Barnett wants to share with us.
DiCaprio 2 by JID is sixth on our top ten list, and is filled with bangers that are going to build a huge following for the rapper. Punch Brothers All Ashore is fifth on our list.
Punch Brothers continue to show they have great tunes that please long time fans while still being able to build upon their recognizable style.
Paul McCartney’s Egypt Station came in fourth on the 2018 top ten. Egypt Station is an essential for fans of the former Beatle. McCartney gives us an insight on has been on his mind which makes for a very personal album.
J. Cole’s album K.O.D is number three on our list and elevated the rapper to a new high that is rightfully deserved. The tracks on here sonically complement J. Coles lyrics with Cole opting for a slightly minimalistic instrumentation that makes his messages clear.
Coming into the number two spot is WXAV’s Top 10 Albums of 2018 Eddie Chavez Features Contributor Kacey Musgraves Golden Hour. Musgraves evolves into a soft rock sound that is completely different from her previous work. The album is packed with distinct tracks that embrace the Kacey’s change to a soft rock vibe while refining a fresh and unique take on the county genre.
Boarding House Reach is WXAV’s number one album of 2018. Jack White presents us with exciting sounds that enhance his sound to a different yet familiar territory. This album proves that Jack White has no shortage of ideas to keep things fresh and interesting.
Eddie Chavez
Features Contributor