My top albums of 2018

Surprise! Just as you thought all of the "Top __ of 2018" were over, I present you with one more. In case you don't know me in person, I am a music fan. As such, I felt it was only my moral and civic responsibility to share some of fav albums of 2018 (in no particular order).

(I realize it's been over 3 months since the last post. But that's the beauty of this blog here. There are no deadlines.)

CRAZYTALK - Mat Kearney

Oregon-native Mat Kearney is one of my favorite artists, and his 2015 album, "Just Kids," is a record I continue to listen to regularly. His newest release, "CRAZYTALK," did not disappoint. Mat continues his dive into a unique mix of EDM and chill vocals with this album. Mat's style of rapping/talking/singing gives the album some nice vibes. It's a great album to listen to when you need some time to relax.
Recommended tracks: Kings & Queens, Better than I Used to Be

Djesse (Vol. 1) - Jacob Collier

If you haven't had the chance to listen to musical prodigy Jacob Collier explain his take on music theory topics, go check it out. I apologize if your brain explodes (mine does every time). This album is the first of a four-part album series.  Jacob's album ranges everywhere from crazy jazz piano solos (All Night Long) to quiet, subtle choral music (Home Is) and everything in between. Now, I understand if some of his music just doesn't jive with you, but I believe music is all about broadening your horizons, and Jacob is a modern-day prodigy: doing things that no one else is with his crazy harmonies and polyrhythms.
Recommended tracks: The first 3 tracks on the album (listen to these in order), All Night Long

Sweetener - Ariana Grande

Whatever you may think of Ariana Grande and her style, she has got a VOICE and this album perfectly suits her style.  I listened to this album after seeing Ariana on Carpool Karaoke with James Corden. Since then, it has become one of my favorite pop albums. Like ever. This whole album is a bop, and is one of those albums I can listen to straight through over and over. And that's why it's on my list.
Recommended tracks: R.E.M., no tears left to cry, goodnight n go

Simulation Theory - Muse

Very solid album. I've been a Muse fan for a little while now, and have enjoyed their progression in each album over time. "Simulation Theory" continues their high-energy, politically-driven rock music (with the occasional classical piano feature). Muse's theatrical presence on stage, in their music videos, and in this album remind me heavily of Queen, which may be another reason why I enjoy their music so much. 
Recommended tracks: Break it to Me (LOVE the use of autotune and the solo around 2:45), Thought Contagion (that hi-hat tho)

Trench - twenty one pilots

TØP made it big with their 2015 album, "Blurryface." The follow-up to that album came in the form of "Trench." While different from Blurryface, this album still has the signature sound of twenty one pilots. The amount of world-building and mystique surrounding this album is really what made this album for me. The album represents anxiety/depression/mental illness as a city named Trench. Themes of dealing with depression and escaping "Trench" abound throughout the album, finishing with stark lyrics: "In time, I will leave the city/For now, I will stay alive." This spark of hope for those who feel none is one of the most powerful ways music can be used. I really admire twenty one pilots for being willing to talk about difficult topics in their music.
Recommended tracks: Pet Cheetah (if you're feeling a rave coming on), Jumpsuit (one of the best uses of screaming in music I've heard), Neon Gravestones (My absolute favorite song on this album. Gets me emotional every time. Such a powerful song.)

And that's a wrap! 2019 is already off to a strong start in the music, so I'm sure this  Let me know what your favorites were last year.