DropTune's Favorite 2018 Albums
Hey Sputnik, long time no see? Although I've taken a sabbatical, that hasn't prevented me from indulging in 2018's greatest records. Here's a list of some of my favorite releases. Please note these are *not* in any particular order. Let me know what albums I've missed and any recommendations. |
| 10 |  | Senses Fail
If There Is Light, It Will Find You
If there's one album I can't stop hearing about, it's "If There Is Light..." Senses Fail rocketed back into relevancy by turning their wayback machine to 2003 and developing a nostalgic emo rocker. Although lyrically choppy and immature, "If There Is Light..." is a reminder that good emo music can still be developed in the 2010s. |
| 9 |  | Ghost (SWE)
Prequelle
Ghost shattered the glass ceiling with their mainstream debut. "Prequelle" found a common-ground for mainstream and hardcore fans to enjoy. A retro inspired sound and riff heavy songs built "Prequelle" as one of 2018's most unique releases. |
| 8 |  | Mike Shinoda
Post Traumatic
Mike Shinoda broke his silence following the world-shattering suicide of Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington with "Post Traumatic," a more than fitting title. Although underwhelming, "Post Traumatic" gives an introspective look at the reborn Shinoda in his quest to move on from the tragedy. |
| 7 |  | mewithoutYou
[Untitled]
Not to be mistaken with the EP (which is equally as good), mewithoutYou dropped a bombshell with "[Untitled]." Their mellow indie sound whisks listeners into a dreamscape. |
| 6 |  | MGMT
Little Dark Age
Comeback albums are always one of my favorites to listen to. It shows how much fuel is left in the tank of an artist and their ability to adapt and survive. MGMT dug themselves out of their rut of forgettable and indulgent records by releasing "Little Dark Age." Arguably their best release, "Little Dark Age" finds a balance between MGMT's quirky and dark side with an 80's infused rocker that I still revisit constantly. |
| 5 |  | Pennywise
Never Gonna Die
Few saw this release coming, but Pennywise more than delivered on a fun summer record. Pennywise's infectious positive energy, gut-punching instrumentals and political awareness easily made "Never Gonna Die" one of my favorites. |
| 4 |  | William Ryan Key
Virtue
"Virtue" is the perfect followup to "Thirteen" in so many ways. With just a tad more production value, "Virtue" takes my breath away with its use of tone and heartfelt lyrics. Here's to hoping for some radio play. |
| 3 |  | William Ryan Key
Thirteen
Yellowcard's retirement was a bummer. It's a shame they were never recognized for their talent and endless passion, but William Ryan Key wasn't out just yet. "Thirteen" was the first step in a chain of solo music that shows just how primed Key is. |
| 2 |  | Nine Inch Nails
Bad Witch
Trent Reznor shocked fans with a surprise LP release and returning to Nine Inch Nail's roots. "Bad Witch" provides an eerie glimpse into the Nine Inch Nail's current state: one of reflectance and contemplation. Questioning answers is the bands strong-suit, and "Bad Witch" plays that to perfection. |
| 1 |  | A Perfect Circle
Eat the Elephant
Arguably A Perfect Circle's most polarizing release, "Eat the Elephant" quickly became one of my favorites upon first listen. The groups art-rock approach to their contemplative theme delivered a dark and delirious shift from their usual industrial infused sound. Regardless of opinion, Maynard and co. took a bold step with "Eat the Elephant." Let's see where they go from here. |
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