Albums of 2017 – Steven L Minurka
1) Ariel Pink: Dedicated to Bobby Jameson
This album made me a fan. I knew of Pink for a while but never dove into his work, and this ride of sound really took me by surprise. It didn’t move me like Mount Eerie or impress me like Alvvays, but I felt a surge of excitement and curiosity with this release. With that said, things like that are why I love music so much, and probably why this is my favorite.
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2) Mount Eerie: A Crow Looked At Me
I wasn’t aware of this artist until Danny Brown praised his work. I certainly wasn’t prepared for this heavy album of loss and what remains of it, but it is a powerful yet-simple piece of work that ensures resolve despite grief.
3) Tyler, The Creator: Scum Fuck Flower Boy
Perhaps the most mature work Tyler has released. He hasn’t abandoned his radical charm, but it certainly has grown into something I really have enjoyed.
4) Courtney Barnett & Kurt Vile: Lotta Sea Lice
Maybe I’m being a little biased at this point, but this was a great album. I’m worshiping much of whatever Barnett is releasing and I’m a fan of Vile. Seeing them collaborate on this warm piece of work is something I cannot go against.
5) Kendrick: DAMN.
Probably my favorite artist of this generation, I always find myself coming back to this album months after release. While I don’t think it is on par with Lamar’s previous album, this release is certainly an enjoyable one.
6) Slowdive: Slowdive
Like with many bands that dissolve and return some years later, I was concerned that this album wouldn’t do much beyond satisfying nostalgic fans and fulfilling the shoegaze scene. Fortunately I enjoyed this album, and hopefully they’ll make more music for the time being.
7) Novellis: Kenjutsu Under The Moonlight
A beautiful tribute to lost family and friends, all the while bringing in some great beats and continued depth from someone who deserves more exposure. (This includes Clear Soul Forces)
8) Alvvways: Antisocialites
I was worried about this album being a mere retread of their debut, yet I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t impressed. The group definitely grew to their strengths and it really shows on this release.
9) Guided By Voices: How Do You Spell Heaven
A shorter and far more cohesive record than August By Cake, although more to the absurd sound of what makes GVB such a force of nature.
10) At The Drive-In: Interalia
While they are far from reinventing the wheel with prior releases from The Mars Volta, Sparta, and Antemasque, I enjoyed this album for whatever it is worth.