Are you looking for different music to listen to, trying to branch out of your normal genres, or even just looking for new songs to add to your playlist? Well, you’re in luck because I consider myself to be somewhat of a music guru. My credentials? I listen to an average of 3,000 minutes of music per week, equaling out to over two full days of the week. Though everyone’s music taste is different, and mine may not be everyone’s cup of tea, I urge everyone to give different music a try. You never know which artists may become your new favorite. So, here are eight albums that I consider to be perfect.
- “Songs From The Big Chair” – Tears for Fears
-
Tears for Fears’ album, “Songs From The Big Chair,” contains some of the most iconic and catchy songs. With “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” and “Head Over Heels,” there are many songs on this album that most people will recognize. Although those songs are incredible as they are, the rest of the album shows a huge variation of emotions, and you won’t regret listening.
- “Turn On The Bright Lights” – Interpol
-
“Turn On The Bright Lights” by Interpol definitely has a darker, moodier feel in most of the songs compared to some of the other albums in this list, but I think that is what makes it perfect. To me, songs are meant to evoke emotion in the listener, and this album is perfect for that. Whether it’s fall time or you’re on a late-night drive, this album will match the vibe and is definitely worth the listen.
- “Eyelid Movies” – Phantogram
-
Released in 2010, “Eyelid Movies” is an album filled with ethereal vocals and moody beats. This whole album is extremely versatile, bringing together bits of electronic, indie, and alternative genres. Additionally, it can capture many vibes and emotions in its listeners with each song. It’s the type of album that, once you listen, you will never forget.Â
- “Blood Sugar Sex Magik” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
-
Now on to my favorite band of all time: Red Hot Chili Peppers. Their album, “Blood Sugar Sex Magik,” is filled with such unique and funky songs, and some of them you’ve probably already heard. Every song brings something new to the table, making the whole album so diverse. Filled with such fun, dynamic songs like “Breaking the Girl” and “Give It Away,” this album is not only one of the best alternative rock albums of the 90s; it is one I consider perfect.Â
- “In Rainbows” – Radiohead
-
“In Rainbows” has been one of my favorite albums for longer than I can remember. Radiohead has this way of expressing emotion and vulnerability through their music that really allows the listener to deeply connect and feel the songs. Though if you choose to listen, this won’t be a very upbeat album, but you will be almost hypnotized, and it can even be a warm blanket for when you’re feeling down.Â
- “Back to Black” – Amy Winehouse
-
Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” shows incredible personality with lyrical and instrumental production. The songs are extremely soulful and fun, though most of them have a deeper meaning that is not as upbeat as the songs. Besides the beats and instrumentals, her voice is also so expressive, strong, and overall one of a kind. This whole album is definitely worth the listen, and I bet you’d find yourself adding many (or all) of the songs to your playlist.Â
- “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” – Panic! at the Disco
-
“A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” has the perfect mix of alternative and punk variations of pop. Compared to their newer releases, this Panic! at the Disco album is all tied together. From the first song, “Introduction,” to the last, “Build God, Then We’ll Talk,” this album is a whole production with an intermission in the middle. The first half of the album gives more of a punk feel, while the second half gives a theatrical feel, telling a story with every song. I 100% recommend everyone give this album a listen.Â
- “Brat” – Charli XCXÂ
-
Now, finally, for one of the biggest albums of 2024, “Brat” by Charli XCX. Yes, this has been one of the most popular albums released in the past few years, but it is also one of the most influential. When Brat was released, it introduced a whole new group of listeners to electropop and hyperpop. Though the album was very popular, not every song blew up as much as others. So, whether or not you’ve already gotten a taste of a “Brat Summer,” I urge you to give this whole album a listen from beginning to end.
Ultimately, you may not like every album I listed, but don’t be afraid to branch out into something new. You never know what may become your next favorite listen!
Can’t get enough of HC UMass Amherst? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, listen to us on Spotify, like us on Facebook, and read our latest Tweets!