Ms. Fury got us started on a pretty good list for the best pop music of this year, but what about songs, albums, or groups that don't fall into the million views, standard pop song category?
I'll get us started with a few releases I found really great this year.
First we have
Sithe Ayu - Senpai EP Sithu Aye has always combined lighter, or more positive sounds into his djent/prog/metal albums. So what's next? Taking prog metal into a funny charming area by giving us an upbeat sound track to accompany the classic senpai story arc, but with a twist. Weeaboo metal? Weeaboo metal.
Kamasi Washington - The Epic The album name is probably overused, but with a 32-piece orchestra behind much of the album, it creates a lush sound, with layers and layers of melody. Each song on the three album offering moves seamlessly between big band, esoteric jazz, classic jazz, and swing, with other genres peaking out here and there. It's a lot of fun.
Sylosis - Dormant Heart One of the best thrash metal bands ever, and certainly the best right now, I think Sylosis is terribly under appreciated in the metal world. Their latest album, in my opinion, further cements their place among the metal elite. Infinitely listenable, with tons of subtle emotion behind the wall of anger. Probably my favorite album of theirs since Edge of the Earth.
High Flying Birds - Chasing Yesterday Gallagher's band does continue where Oasis left off in a lot of ways, lyrically and in their sound. It shouldn't be too surprising. He's also the most well known musician on this little list by far. Having said that, the band itself never makes any news in my corner of the world. This album also shows a good bit of variety as well. Elements of blues and jazz, and even some electronic elements, all make their way into the songs. It's a good sound, and I think it's a great album to have on during slow days, or while driving.
So, who will add what to the list?