Brat by Charli XCX

Charli XCX’s Brat should be the new standard for club music.

With its iconic green album cover, Brat brought the club music genre back to the public eye. It gained popularity immediately on its release, inspiring TikTok dances and the term “Brat summer,” which encouraged a summer of unapologetic confidence. Charlie XCX’s fashion in her music videos gained popularity, inspiring new fashion trends.

After the album’s release, Charli XCX made updated versions of some songs–this time with new artist features. The pop star made a version of her song “Girl, So Confusing” with artist Lorde. “Girl, So Confusing” featuring Lorde soared to the top of the charts, and straight into my heart. This song is one of my all time favorites. Charli XCX also recorded a new version of her song “Guess”, this time featuring artist Billie Eilish. “Guess” featuring Billie Eilish is currently the most popular song from this album.

Brat is an absolutely pivotal album and Charli XCX deserves all of the recognition she’s receiving. This album not only made waves in the world of music, but it also challenged societal ideals of shame and embarrassment. Brat by Charli XCX represents more than just an almost lost genre of music, it represents a change in the judgmental conventions many people have grown used to. Charlie XCX didn’t just drop an album – she dropped an era. I adore Brat, and in my not even close to expert opinion, I think this album will be one of the best of the decade.

Alligator Bites Never Heal by Doechii

Alligator Bites Never Heal by Doechii is an underrated gem, packed with bangers from start to finish.

Doechii brings a fresh and unique sound that sets her apart from many rappers today. The album blends rap with heavy influences from classic R&B, paying tribute to the roots of hip-hop while still feeling modern. Tracks like “DENIAL IS A RIVER” and “NISSAN ALTIMA” highlight her ability to mix smooth melodies with hard-hitting verses, creating a sound that’s both raw and polished.

The production on this album is top-tier, with beats that hit hard and lyrics that cut deep. “DENIAL IS A RIVER” stands out as a masterpiece, combining emotional storytelling with a beat that demands attention. “NISSAN ALTIMA” follows closely, showing off her versatility and ability to create tracks that are both catchy and deeply personal. Every song on the album carries its own weight, making it a project without filler.

While Doechii isn’t yet a household name, this album proves she should be. She delivers a sound that’s fresh, unapologetic, and filled with the essence of real hip-hop. Alligator Bites Never Heal is a project that deserves far more recognition, and it cements Doechii as one of the most exciting voices in rap today.

The Tortured Poets Department by Taylor Swift

The Tortured Poets Department, Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated 2024 album, had fans excited, but honestly, it doesn’t live up to the hype.

If you heard Taylor Swift’s other recent album, Midnights, you’ve practically heard The Tortured Poets Department. She has found her niche and with that, created a very defined sound; maybe even too defined. While my ears are not fine tuned to Taylor Swift and her music, her discography in The Tortured Poets Department sounds almost identical to that found in her previous album–Midnights.

Although I would absolutely describe this album as lackluster and disappointing, there were a few songs that I can stomach, “So Highschool” and “I Can Do it With a Broken Heart.” Both songs are relatively catchy and almost enjoyable to listen to.

Swift’s song, “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me” gained a lot of popularity upon the album’s release. When I listened to it for the first time, I thought it was a joke, or maybe written by an 8 year-old. My only possible guess as to how it gained so much instant popularity is because she makes a couple vaguely bold statements stating that people should fear her.

Even though it didn’t meet the high expectations set by her past work, The Tortured Poets Department still has moments of brilliance. The album, though underwhelming, has resonated with fans who appreciate her introspective lyricism. 

Bright Future by Adrianne Lenker

Bright Future by Adrianne Lenker is a deeply emotional and beautifully crafted album.

Lenker always creates deeply personal, diary-like songs, and Bright Future continues this trend in spectacular fashion. The album feels like an intimate conversation, with stripped-down production that highlights Lenker’s vulnerable lyrics. Songs like “Vampire Empire” bring raw emotion, while “Free Treasure” showcases her poetic songwriting ability. “No Machine” stands out as one of the most moving tracks, blending gentle acoustic melodies with heartbreaking lyricism. The most popular songs, including “Sadness As a Gift”, “Fool”, and “Ruined”, capture the deep emotional core of the album.

The beauty of Bright Future is found in its simplicity. Lenker relies on acoustic arrangements and haunting vocals to carry the weight of her storytelling. The minimalistic approach allows her voice to shine, making every lyric feel even more poignant. Each track feels deeply personal, as though she’s letting listeners into her most intimate moments.

Bright Future is a stunning example of how music can be both heartbreaking and healing. It is not an album designed for casual listening—it requires full immersion to truly appreciate its depth. Lenker has created something timeless, an album that lingers in the mind long after it ends. For those willing to sit with its emotions, it is an unforgettable experience.

We Don’t Trust You by Future & Metro Boomin

We Don’t Trust You by Future & Metro Boomin is a mixed bag, but when it hits, it really hits.

Future and Metro Boomin’s collaboration has made some incredible hits in the past, and this album attempts to recreate that magic. Tracks like “Like That” and “Type S**t” showcases the duo at their best, with Metro Boomin’s production perfectly complementing Future’s signature flow. 

The album’s highlights are undeniable, with hard-hitting beats and catchy hooks that dominate playlists and social media trends. However, much of the album feels formulaic, as though they are relying on past successes rather than breaking new ground.

Despite the high-energy production, We Don’t Trust You lacks variety. Many songs sound too similar, making it difficult for certain tracks to stand out. While Metro Boomin’s beats remain impressive, there’s a sense that both artists are on autopilot. Fans of the genre will still find enjoyment in the album’s biggest moments, but it doesn’t offer much beyond that.

Though it may not be a revolutionary release, We Don’t Trust You delivers just enough bangers to keep fans engaged. While it may not be their most memorable work, Future and Metro Boomin still know how to craft a hit.

Charm by Clairo

Charm by Clairo is a dreamy, effortless, and deeply soothing album.

Blending indie pop with soft calming production, Clairo created an album that feels so personal yet also so universal. “Sexy to Someone”, “Juna”, and “Nomad” highlight her ability to turn simple melodies into something deeply moving–and are all some of my personal favorites. The most popular tracks, “Juna”, “Sexy to Someone”, and “Add Up My Love”, have been widely recognized for their emotional depth and soothing melodies.

The beauty of Charm is in its subtlety. Clairo’s soft spoken vocals and gentle instrumentals create not just good music but an entire experience, drawing listeners into her introspective world. The album is soothing yet melancholic, capturing the complexity of emotions in a way that feels effortlessly natural. While it doesn’t demand attention in the way many big pop records do, it’s subtle beauty makes it stand out.

Charm is an album that feels like a soft embrace, providing comfort in its delicate sound. Clairo has once again proven her ability to create music that resonates deeply. It’s an album that invites you to slow down, listen closely, and appreciate the beauty in subtlety.

GNX by Kendrick Lamar 

GNX by Kendrick Lamar is one of his most disappointing releases to date. 

Lamar has long been praised for his lyrical brilliance and ability to craft thought-provoking albums, but GNX feels uninspired. The album lacks the innovation and depth that typically are found in his work. Tracks like “Luther”, “TV Off”, and “Squabble Up” gained popularity, but they don’t carry the same weight as his past hits. While “Man at the Garden” and “Dodgers Blue” offer glimpses of his storytelling ability–and are my personal favorites–the album as a whole feels repetitive. 

Despite Lamar’s undeniable talent, GNX doesn’t break new ground. The production feels familiar, and the themes explored in the lyrics have been done better in his previous albums. Fans expected a bold artistic statement, but instead, they received a collection of songs that don’t stand out.

While GNX may still find its place among die-hard fans, it doesn’t live up to Kendrick Lamar’s usual standards. Compared to his past work, it feels like a missed opportunity to create something truly impactful.

Hit Me Hard and Soft by Billie Eilish 

Hit Me Hard and Soft by Billie Eilish is an absolute masterpiece. 

This album showcases Eilish’s ability to blend genres and push musical boundaries. “Birds of a Feather”, “Lunch”, and “The Diner” stand out as some of the best tracks, offering a mix of vulnerability and boldness. 

Popular songs like “Wildflower” and “Chihiro” have captivated listeners, solidifying the album’s success. Eilish offers different moods and styles, from introspective to upbeat. Each song contributes to an emotional experience, making this album one of her strongest yet.

Hit Me Hard and Soft proves that Billie Eilish is still evolving as an artist; it illustrates both her growth and creativity. Hit Me Hard and Soft and Billie Eilish will continue to be part of the forefront of music for many years to come.