5 Albums You Might Have Missed in 2018
The end of the year tends to remind us of everything we regret not doing. My biggest “what-if” of 2018 is missing Lala Lala’s opening set for Frankie Cosmos back in May. What could have been if I had only gotten into this album six months earlier? Lillie West’s latest is one of the most dynamic indie records of the year, with tender lyrics, irresistible hooks, and a runtime of just 32 minutes that makes it perfect for jamming on loop.
2. SALES - Forever & Ever
Orlando bedroom pop outfit SALES have perfected their intricate, melancholy sound on Forever & Ever. On this release, Lauren Morgan’s unique voice takes on a new level of coolness, backed by tight programmed drums and jangly, light guitar.
3. Hypoluxo - Running on a Fence
Filled with dark reverb and lead singer Samuel Jacob Cogen’s moody deep vocals, Running on a Fence showcases the Brooklyn band’s ability to build a song out. At heart, Hypoluxo is warm and nostalgic, but shrouded in a layer of glum guitar work that’s a treat to unravel upon each new listen.
With sensitive lyrics and warm, golden guitar, Bonny Doon’s Longwave feels just like driving into a sunset, movie-credits-rolling-style. The band’s lo-fi country-folk sound is mellow and endearing and will fill your heart with all kinds of good feelings.
5. Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever - Hope Downs
From the land down under, Rolling Blackouts’ first full-length album is tight, catchy, and full of back-to-back bangers. Self-proclaimed “tough pop/soft punk,” the album is one of the most fun LPs I’ve heard all year. Listen to bring a little Aussie sun to your coldest winter days.
(Also, there’s an unreleased Whitney song named after them, which is amazing.)