When it comes to music not many people listen to full albums these days. You’ve probably heard the song “Havana” by Camila Cabello, but did you know it is from the album “Camila”? These days most people either listen to the top songs on the radio or stream the most popular tracks on music platforms. This taste is reflected in the kind of music artists are making these days, most stick to releasing singles that chart easier due to radio play and streaming. But albums are vital if the artist wants to tell a story, most albums follow a narrative from the beginning to the end. For some artists, multiple albums are tied into the same thread. For instance, the Korean group BTS released three albums in their “Love Yourself” series, all of which revolve around the subject of self-love and mental health. So the next time you need a ready-made playlist, play an album — you might discover some new tracks that you might not have heard on the radio. Here are a few of my favorites. In my opinion, these albums don’t have a single bad song.
- “1989” by Taylor Swift
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Even though I am a “Reputation” enthusiast because it was the album in which Swift took control of her story, “1989” is the better album. Play this the next time you have a girls night in with your friends.
Underrated tracks: “This Love” and “Clean
- “Illuminate” by Shawn Mendes
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We don’t give Mendes enough credit. Not only does he self-write his incredible songs, but he is also an unproblematic white boy. Listen to this album next time it is raining outside.
Underrated tracks: “Honest” and “Bad Reputation
- “Love Yourself: Tear” by BTS
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It’s hard to pick a favorite from all the work that BTS has produced. Since 2013, they have been releasing one amazing self-produced album after another. While my personal favorite album of theirs is “You Never Walk Alone”, “Tear” is just artistically and musically superior. Play this the next time you want to have a self-care session.
Underrated tracks: “134340” and “Paradise
- “AM” by Arctic Monkeys
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Even though you might not hear tracks by Arctic Monkeys on the mainstream radio, this independent British band still has a dedicated following. Their 2013 album “AM” is perfect for a laid-back house party.
Underrated tracks: “Knee Socks” and “Arabella
- “Modern Vampires of the City” by Vampire Weekend
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New York indie band Vampire Weekend released a new album recently but “Modern Vampires of the City” is still my favorite. Play this when you’re out with your friends on a late-night drive to get fast food.
Underrated tracks: “Finger Back” and “Step”