This year was a spectacular reminder that music is in a bubble where thousands of songs flow our way every day, trying to capture our attention. Well, the usual suspects (Harry Styles, The Weeknd) were riding the top 10 charts, but there were a few surprises, such as Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" released in 1985 (thank you, Stranger Things).
We can't wait to show you what moved us over the past 12 months, as some of our favorite albums were never featured on our website. Music that led us through our everyday life, which is enough of a reason for these albums to make it on our top 50 list for 2022.
Important to note, the list is not ordered based on what we think is best. These are all just great records we think you should be exploring now that the year is coming to an end.
TSHA - Capricorn Sun
Jul 7th / Ninja Tune
TSHA is a breath of fresh air in the organic electronica genre.
While she has been around for a few years, it was her debut album that solidified her well-deserved position amongst some of the people fore-fronting today’s dance scene. The UK-based producer literally flourished and has managed to create a multi-layered, yet consistent sonic journey that would appeal to anyone open to new horizons. The album is packed with both dance floor anthems and tracks you could play while on a solitary walk. Capricorn Sun can be characterized by its energizing positiveness, and as the year is about to end, this would be a great way to re-live some of those summer-like moments.
Stay up to date.
New music and exclusive updates in your inbox weekly.
Rival Consoles - Now Is
Oct 14th / Erased Tapes
In typical fashion, Ryan Lee West (AKA Rival Consoles) surprises fans with yet another exploratory and unpredictable album.
Now Is was released in the Fall of 2022 and it offered listeners a rich palette of emotions and experiences. While one might find Rival Console’s signature sound in some compositions, his 6th album is an absolute success when it comes to offering a peak into the evolution of Ryan as a musician throughout the years.
Loyle Carner - hugo
Oct 21st / Universal Music
On October 21st, Loyle Carner dropped his highly anticipated 3rd full-length record - hugo.
The British-Guyanese graced us with a wonderful 10-track collection that flows through emotions and confessions. With Loyle becoming a father after his 2019’s Not Waving, But Drowning, on the new record, he heavily gravitates towards topics related to his identity, mixed race roots, and parental relationships. In terms of features, the artist brings along poet John Agard, Wesley Joseph, political activist Athian Akec, and fellow London soul singers JNR Williams and Olivia Dean. A colorful palette.
A heated, yet gentle peak into Loyle’s inner world.
Kokoroko - Could We Be More
Aug 20th / Brownswood Recordings
Long-awaited, Kokoroko’s debut album Could We Be More oozed fans with a groovy wave of jazz and afro beats and perfect summer energy.
Released on August 5th, just in time for the heatwaves, the London jazz collective provided listeners with a soundtrack to those long nights filled with dancing, the sound of cheering, and positive vibrations. The 15 tracks in which the 8-piece float showcase the complex identity of the band. They seamlessly between emotions, and you’ve got slow burners like “Interlude” and “Those Good Times” juxtaposed with fire-y jams similar to the album’s opening track “Tojo”.
Lil Silva - Yesterday Is Heavy
Jul 15th / Nowhere Music
One of the earliest finds on Stereofox, with the first features of Lil Silva dating all the way back to the website’s inception in 2013.
Lil Silva (real name Tyrone Jermaine "TJ" Carter) has been active since the early 2010s, but Yesterday Is Heavy might be considered his debut solo LP. The English producer, singer, and DJ has a signature take on the UK dance and electronica scene and historically excelled at blending those with some UK garage, soul, and grime influences.
Besides his impressive production style and vocal abilities, the album shines with an overabundance of great features including Little Dragon, Charlotte Day Wilson, BADBADNOTGOOD, and Sampha.
SAULT - 11
Nov 11th / Forever Living Originals
We expected nothing but greatness from SAULT, and we got it. Five-fold, actually.
The British collective, comprised of Inflo, Cleo Sol, and Kid Sister, refrains from media features and often works with an array of unnamed collaborators. They also never played a show, but that doesn’t stop them from being amongst the top in the contemporary r&b, neo-soul, and funk space.
After releasing their sixth studio album Air in April, on the 11th of November, they surprise-dropped five albums at the same time (also as a free download), with the following statement, "Here are 5 albums released as an offering to God. Available for free download for five days. The password to unlock all 5 albums is in the message. Love SAULT X."
11 is one of them, but to be frank, they’re equally amazing and worthy of your divine attention. Remember - always add a little SAULT to your life.
Kendrick Lamar - Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers
May 13th / Aftermath & Interscope Records
Released on May 13th, Kendrick’s 5th studio (double) album made a bold statement from its very first opening track, “United In Grief."
Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers feels a lot more minimalistic (production-wise) than Damn (2017), with its heavy reliance on jazz, r&b, trap, and soul influences. The album is considered Kendrick’s most personal work-to-date as it takes the listeners on a reflective journey of his experience during therapy. Something he shares in Spotify’s documentary A Day In Ghana with Kendrick Lamar.
Easily one of the most notable albums of the year, it would be inappropriate to unfold everything in the few paragraphs we’ve allocated for this here. “Kendrick made you think about it, but he is not your savior”, as he sings on “Savior."
Steve Lacy - Gemini Rights
Jul 15th / RCA Records
The Internet members taking over the Internet.
Gemini Rights, Steve Lacy’s sophomore album, is a wonderful collection of a timeless blend of r&b, funk, psychedelia, and neo-soul. Album’s second single “Bad Habit” topped Billboard’s chart for weeks, which was a first for Steve. A well-deserved one!
The record features Fousheé and keyboardist Matt Martians. Other than that it’s all Steve himself who produced 90% of the album. According to an interview with Zane Low, Steve designed the album to be as cohesive as possible, so that listeners "make a decision to want to keep playing it again". In a world where we consume music as quickly as possible, we can safely conclude that he was successful in making us want more of Gemini Rights.
Moonchild - Starfruit
Feb 11th / Tru Thoughts
Amber Navran, Andris Mattson & Max Bryk (whose individual inputs into the Moonchild music are so many, it will take us half a page) crafted their 5th studio album after 10 years of "working and growing together."
While it is inevitably very Moonchild-esque, with their signature jazzy keys, playful percussion, and Amber's honey vocals, the project has some pretty funky and synth-infused tracks as the trio tried some different and very nice sounds and textures.
A truly landmark release, Starfruit is as experimental and interesting as it needs to be to still captivate the 10-year-long fanship while keeping the much-loved signature sound of the trio.
Robert Glasper - Black Radio III
Feb 25th / Loma Vista Recordings
Robert Glasper’s Black Radio series is nothing short of exquisite.
Earlier this year, the artist returned with a worthy successor of Black Radio II, released almost a decade ago. The album champions the sound of contemporary jazz, hip hop, and alt r&b and is a gift to any true music fan out there, not only because of its variety and depth but because it illustrates the evolution of Robert in the past years as both producer and leader.
It might take you a while to read the stellar feature list, but it’s absolutely staggering - vocals by Amir Sulaiman, Killer Mike, BJ the Chicago Kid, Big K.R.I.T., D Smoke, Tiffany Gouché, Q-Tip, Esperanza Spalding, Yebba, H.E.R., Meshell Ndegeocello, Lalah Hathaway, Common, Musiq Soulchild, Posdnuos, Gregory Porter, Ledisi, Ant Clemons, Jennifer Hudson, PJ Morton, Ty Dolla Sign, India Arie.
Bonobo - Fragments
Jan 11th / Ninja Tune
Bonobo’s 7th studio album Fragments feels like forever ago, but technically it dropped on January 14th. With most singles being released towards the end of 2021, Simon still surprised fans with quite a few unreleased gems, and that was the perfect start to the year.
The LP features collaborations with prominent names like Jordan Rakei, O’Flynn, Jamila Woods, Joji, and Kadhja Bonet. Bonobo is known for making the best out of collaborations, and Fragments is no exception.
2022 was quite successful for the UK-born producer, who has been touring extensively with his live band for the presentation of Fragments. A must-see show.
Kenny Beats - LOUIE
Aug 31st / XL Recordings
As a publication that heavily covers instrumental music, there’s no way we’ll miss on covering a record crafted by one of the most wanted hip hop producers - Kenny Beats. The producer behind some of your favorite records in the past 10 years put out his debut solo album LOUIE in August via XL Recordings.
The album is mostly instrumental, and even if you pick vocals here and there, they’re predominantly feeling like instruments and part of the whole enchanting mix. The credit list is beyond impressive and features names like Mac DeMarco, Omar Apollo, Vince Staples, Slowthai, JPEGMafia, Cory Henry, Thundercat, Fousheé, and Remi Wolf… to name a few. You could tell he has a lot of talented friends.
Pro tip - if you want to travel back a few decades, spin “Really Really." It’s really good.
DOMi & JD BECK - NOT TiGHT
Jul 29th / UMG Recordings & APESHIT
Formed in 2018, multi-talented duo DOMi & JD BECK released their highly anticipated debut album in the summer of 2022 in partnership with Anderson .Paak’s own label APESHIT INC. That alone should tell you enough - French-born Domitille Degalle and US-born Beck are a rising new force in the instrumental jazz and soul scene.
NOT TiGHT is packed with stellar features including Thundercat, Mac DeMarco, and .Paak himself. The best way to describe the whole album experience is dazzling. Get ready for a modern read on the classic jazz and soul sound, performed flawlessly.
Fun fact - we first spotted them while performing alongside Ariana Grande and Thundercat (wearing the infamous fuzzy raccoon hat) in last year’s adult swim’s live festival.
Tourist - Inside Out
May 20th / Monday Records
If you’re looking for a record that embodies the whole range of emotions, look no further than Tourist’s 4th studio album Inside Out.
In just 10 tracks Tourist (real name William Edward Philips) embodies anything from grief and nostalgia all the way to euphoria and the feeling of hope somewhere in the future. Inside Out is by far the most personal record the UK artist has put out, and it feels like a story chopped into pieces and episodes.
The album was followed up by a Reworks edition that included a captivating remix from Berlin-based Chilean DJ and producer Sofia Kourtesis.
Wet Leg - Wet Leg
Apr 8th / Domino
With their smart lyrics and indie rock crunches that bring back to life the spirit of the genre, Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers are certainly out to grab the attention. The British band said they did not take it seriously at first, but their label Domino caught their cynic ways on time, and now we hear them everywhere.
Their subjects are absurd, and maybe that’s why they are loved so much. Even Iggy Pop went out and said “You could ask 100 people to sing it (Chaise Lounge), and it wouldn’t sound the same.” That is the fun track about a warm beer backstage coming right after the story of the creep wanting to take you home and watch “Buffalo 66 on DVD.” Bring the tank tops out, people. We finally have someone to wear them for.
Carmody - Imperfect Constellations
Sep 2nd / Young Poet
Ever since her debut EP with Tom Misch - Out to Sea back in 2014, Carmody’s been on our radar (and everyone else’s, we’re sure).
Her first solo album Imperfect Constellations started forming 3 years ago, and after many twists & turns, it began its amazing and almost a-year-long rollout at the end of 2021. Releasing as 3 EPs titled Constellation A, B, C, and the full 15-song album afterward, this introspective and heart-warming project explores Carmody’s emotional & personal world and topics like grief, family, memory & so much more. Falling somewhere between acoustic folk, indie, and alt-pop, the album is very poetry-driven and carries her signature melancholy but also hopefulness. If you were wondering about the title, Imperfect Constellations draws its name from a form of alternative therapy called "family constellations." An amazing and really touching project from start to finish, with features from Alfa Mist, Laura & Tom Misch, and Conor Albert.
If you’d like to find out more about the story and Carmody herself, feel free to dive into our podcast episode with her.
FKJ - V I N C E N T
Jun 10th / AWAL
If you’ve managed to get Santana’s attention, you’ve also got ours.
Jokes aside, we’ve been following French Kiwi Juice (FKJ) for 8+ years, absorbing every beautifully relaxing tune he’s getting out. And 2022 marked an exciting milestone - his sophomore album V I N C E N T (also self-titled but in a more mystical way - after his real name).
It blew our minds not only because of the features from Little Dragon, Carlos Santana, Toro y Moi, and ((( O ))) (June Mareezy) but also because of its effortlessness, versatility, and the unique FKJ chill vibe which he took to another level - swinging between neo-soul, jazz & indie electronica.
Oscar Jerome - The Spoon
Sep 23rd / Jeromeo
Another important sophomore album in 2022.
The guitar virtuoso, who also has a distinguished signature voice - Oscar Jerome, dropped a surprising first single this summer and absolutely took us off-guard. “Sweet Isolation” marked a new sonic direction for the UK artist whom we’ve known for his playful and energetic blend of jazz & soul - in a more melancholic, dark, and cinematic way.
The 12-song The Spoon also carries a lot of his signature sound but is a bit more introspective and rich, showing many different and surprising sides of him and exploring themes like mental health, toxic masculinity, and the Pandemic.
We also spoke with him on our Fox Tales podcast, so feel free to dive into the full conversation.
Ezra Collective - Where I'm Meant To Be
Nov 4th / Partisan Records
If there’s one name you should know from the UK's contemporary jazz scene, this is Ezra Collective.
This was also the year for a 2nd full-length album of the 5-piece band and it carries the assuring & strong name Where I’m Meant To Be. With many guest appearances - Sampa The Great, Kojey Radical, Nao, and Emeli Sandé, the record is a feel-good & well-crafted selection of jazz, soul, hip hop, and various world music influences & melodies.
Do yourself a favor and get lost in the 14-song-long uplifting & simultaneously timeless journey.
edbl & Kazuki Isogai - The edbl x Kazuki Sessions
Apr 29th / College Music
UK producer edbl did something outstanding this year and released a couple of collab albums - with Japanese guitarist Kazuki Isogai & James Berkeley. And while the latter is gorgeous, the cross-continent joint effort The edbl x Kazuki Sessions simply made our jaws drop.
The virtuoso neo-soul guitars combined with smooth and raw production intertwined beautifully in the 12-song LP. It swings between utterly chilled lofi pieces, groovy beats, and a few r&b and hip hop gems, thanks to the features of Kieron Boothe, Taura Lamb & Rachel Jane.
And if this isn’t rich enough, “Afrique” (with Otis Ubaka) is the surprising jewel in the crown, that we didn’t know we needed.
Beau Diako - Nylon
Apr 21st
It was a strong year for guitarists out there, and the London-based Beau Diako is yet another solid example of that.
He started teasing his debut album Nylon at the end of 2021 with the mind-blowing 1st single, featuring stars Etta Bond & Bas, and has been dropping fire ever since.
The abundant and alluring 14-tracker drips of smoothness not only because of his signature heart-melting guitars & warm production but also because of the incredible guest artists - emawk, Ego Ella May, Galimatias, Tennyson & many more. You’ll find anything between soul, r&b, hip hop, and enticing instrumental pieces in there.
The Weeknd - Dawn FM
Jan 6th / Republic Records
You are in purgatory. What would you listen to there? We bet on Dawn FM by The Weeknd because he really thinks of you and all your dark corners. We already saw him bruised and bloody in After Hours, and Billboard had been eating it for breakfast for nearly a year. Tesfaye framed Dawn FM as a radio station that would accompany you on your merry way to death.
Definitely, one of the most curious albums of the year, considering that one of the Beach Boys fellas sings in the background, Taylor, the Creator whispers in your ear to sign the prenup, and Jim Carry is our main spooky host. We have no remorse because The Weeknd took our breaths with the stadium tracks that go on tour next year.
Asake - Mr. Money With the Vibe
Sep 7th / YBNL Nation/EMPIRE
We must say that Asake is a musician who knows the power hooks can hold in a track. His album Mr. Money With the Vibe does not miss that aspect as the listener is following the Afropop and South African Amapiano elements in his take on traditional fuji music. We haven’t heard something so powerful and catchy in a long time, and only for that one reason, the Nigerian artist is certainly one of our favorite breakouts for 2022.
In this album, Asake is a risk-taker, a dreamer that wants to be perceived as a party person because at first, that’s what you get. But his Yoruba-rooted music is more than that, and we suggest you take your time and devour this masterpiece in your own way.
SZA - SOS
Dec 9th / Top Dawg Entertainment
One of the freshest albums on this list, SZA dropped her highly anticipated sophomore album SOS last week on December 9th.
The follow-up to her 2017 release CTRL not only solidifies Solána’s place amongst the best contemporary r&b artists of our generation. The album has a few powerful collaborators like Phoebe Bridgers, Don Toliver, Travis Scott, and Ol' Dirty Bastard himself.
SOS's artwork is also very thematic. It depicts SZA, who is a marine biology major, standing on a diving board surrounded by the deep blue ocean.
Stromae - Multitude
Jul 27th / Mosaert Label
Paul Van Haver was never meant to be in the mainstream. But as Stromae, he brings the mainstream to himself with every other album, even when it’s once again peculiar and with a concept we have to sit and actually think about. The Belgian star began this year by presenting “L’enfer” (“Hell”) - a devastating song about suicidal thoughts and where we stand as a society. Before that, we absorbed “Santé” (“Cheers”) - a deep bow to the people caring for us during the pandemic.
Multitude is a bold album with beautiful choir melody parts, slippery synths, and biting lyrics. It’s an adventure hidden in every other track elegantly brought to us with mournful comments but hopeful outlines.
FKA Twigs - CAPRISONGS
Jan 14th / Young Recordings
10 years after she collaborated with artists like Arca, FKA Twigs continues to amaze and inspire with her skills, talents, and creativity. She never wants to be in the same position.
Her astrology-themed mixtape CAPRISONGS combines only the best from dancehall, electronica, and alt-pop, and it shows a new intriguing side of FKA. She opens a part of herself that not even her biggest fans have seen until now. Furthermore, there is something really intimate about a mixtape. The first thing you hear is a cassette clicking into a tape deck, and twigs softly saying: “Hey. I made you a mixtape.”
The mixtape is also full of impressive collabs: The Weeknd, Jorja Smith, Shygirl, and Rema. Without a doubt, CAPRISONGS is her most light, personal, and accessible release.
070 Shake - You Can’t Kill Me
Jun 3rd / Def Jam Recordings
Without further ado, we can definitely say that the album You Can’t Kill Me by New Jersey-born rapper and rnb singer Daniella Balbuena, a.k.a 070 Shake, is perhaps one of the most interesting, multi-layered, and genre-bending albums we’ve heard this year.
With her fireball voice and sharp, yet gentle songwriting over heavy beats, spacious synths, and electronic elements, she uncompromisingly continues to impose her own sound and vision. Shake is a 100% trendsetter in the alternative rnb scene, and her new out-of-the-box album is living proof.
Max Cooper - Unspoken Word
Mar 25th / Mesh
If you are somehow in the electronic music circles, there is no chance you haven’t heard about one particular name - Max Cooper is just a true mastermind in electronic music, and he always delivers out-of-this-world conceptual and meaningful productions. Unspoken Word comes with a visual of 13 different short videos put into one.
Cooper’s sound art pulsates with achingly visceral energy, and with his latest album, he traverses the scope of his influences and inclinations, flowing from near-ambient soundscapes to amorphous and sharp ideations of club and breakbeats.
Nosaj Thing - Continua
Jul 7th / Ninja Tune
Speaking of quality electronica producers that really know their craft. It’s been five years since his last studio album under the Nosaj Thing moniker, and we can imagine how impatient his fans have become during this radio-silent period.
Тhis year is a lucky one for them because Nosaj Thing came back stronger than ever with his immersive album titled Continua with a supporting cast that came along for a surprising and satisfying slab of moody electronica.
Nosaj Thing also brought guests such as Duval Timothy, KAZU, serpentwithfeet, Julianna Barwick, Toro y Moi, and Panda Bear in one of the most cinematic electronic albums of the year and my personal opinion, his most absorbing LP to date.
Moderat - MORE D4TA
Jul 7th / Ninja Tune
Oh boy! With this one, we are entering the League of Electronic Masters. After three critically acclaimed LPs and many astonishing singles, the German Moderat trio returned from a six-year hiatus with their fourth album, MORE D4TA – and it was worth the wait.
MORE D4ATA injects in you a variety of mixed feelings and emotions. The sound in it has a nostalgic touch, but at the same time, it is a thrilling, confident, and challenging musical experience. Most importantly, it shows that the six-year period of silence and absence has done nothing to dull Moderat’s ability to deliver the best music quality, vision, and concept.
Moderat is a trio comprised of Gernot Bronsert and Sebastian Szary of Modeselektor and Apparat’s Sascha Ring. In recent years, Moderat has had to play second fiddle to these projects but rightly, so given that both have been creating some of their most essential work to date.
Central Cee - 23
Feb 25th
With his smash single “Doja” released in the middle of the year, it’s almost as if UK rapper Central Cee became the poster boy for UK Drill overnight. However, his debut album 23 served as a prelude to his ascension.
We’re not only acquainted with emotional moments in this album through tracks like “Lil Bro” and “Ungrateful”, but Central also has a delivery like no other which makes his storytelling all the more poignant. The experience of 23 plays out like a compelling movie as he details the highs and lows of his grind to the top.
His brand of Drill saunters the fine line between underground and commercial, and nobody can do it quite like him. At this point, if you’re talking about UK Drill music, it’d be blasphemy to omit Central Cee from the conversation.
ODESZA - The Last Goodbye
Jul 22nd / Foreign Family Collective & Ninja Tune
ODESZA’s The Last Goodbye was certainly among the most anticipated electronic albums of 2022, especially since we hadn't heard from the duo in 5 years. With their return (and possibly goodbye), ODESZA did what they do best - leaving us utterly speechless.
Just from even looking at the tracklist one is bound to be in awe. The opening and closing tracks feature two iconic composers, Julianna Barwick and Ólafur Arnalds. From the beginning, we are welcomed to a cinematic experience that eventually turns into a bright electronic haze with hard-hitting drums. The title track, The Last Goodbye, blesses the album with a more soulful touch between the electronic embellishments, and this gesture showcases the various sides of their multi-colored sound.
This is honestly the kind of album that intensifies the desire of wanting to see ODESZA live. It’s massive, emotive, and utterly immersive.
Kojey Radical - Reason to Smile
Mar 4th / Warner
The rise of British Ghanian Kwadwo Adu Genfi Amponsah since he first came onto the scene in 2014 has been phenomenal.
On March 4th this year, the world witnessed the birth of his 4th studio album Reason to Smile which definitely lives up to its title expectations. A champion of contemporary rap, Kojey funneled his unique vision, background, and experiences into this record, earning him a nomination for the prestigious Mercury Prize.
The album is loaded with guests and features performances from the likes of Kelis, Lex Amor, Tiana Major9, Masego, Wretch 32, and Ego Ella May.
Joey Bada$$ - 2000
Sep 2nd / Columbia Records
For those who witnessed the ascension of Joey Bada$$ back in 2012 with his debut in 1999' it was clear that the Brooklyn rapper was ahead of his time compared to his contemporaries. Fast-forward to 2022, and with the album 2000, he has picked up where he left off, particularly when it comes to songwriting.
If 1999 was about the grind, 2000 thematically touches on living the dream, and this is elegantly emphasized by Statik Selektah’s ‘dreamy’ production. This is not only one of the best-produced hip-hop albums this year, but we’ve been treated to a lot of WOW moments thanks to Joey’s incredible penmanship. And how could we forget to mention “Show Me"? Indie kids and hip-hop heads were unified through this gem as Joey poured his heart out on a soulful instrumental that featured a snippet from Canadian band Men I Trust.
2000 combines classic braggadocio rap with a range of deep introspective verses, and it’s this back-n-forth that keeps you hooked on Joey’s every word.
Daniel Avery - Ultra Truth
Nov 4th / [PIAS]
Like moths rushing towards searing light (see what I did there), Daniel Avery’s Ultra Truth is bound to attract lovers of the obscure and ethereal.
Daniel Avery’s previous records haven’t been easy to digest, to say the least. Ultra Truth continues to lead that narrative since the UK-based producer seeks to pull listeners into the essence of darkness instead of creating a sense of escapism. Appearances from the iconic Kelly Lee Owens and HAAi accentuate the otherworldly feel here, especially on the turbulent “Chaos Energy”.
Questions like, “where am I?” and “what is this?” will cross your mind throughout this project, and that’s the beauty of his work. It’s as fascinating as it is challenging, to the point where you’re rewarded with a listening experience you’ll never forget.
Tinlicker - In Another Lifetime
Feb 18th / Anjunadeep
Here is a hot take: Melodic House artists make great music but make ‘decent’ albums. Yes, there are a few exceptions and among them is the Dutch duo Tinlicker.
Their albums tend to be conceptual works of art that invite a range of other genres into the mix. That’s what we're offered on In Another Lifetime, and we can tell they’ve matured ten folds in this project. The first half feels grandiose and light, while the second half is darker with rhythms that punch harder.
The two stand-out tracks “Under the Stars” and “You Take My Hand” are both found in the latter section, thus hinting that the pair shine brightest when they welcome us into a more eerie mood.
Toro y Moi - Mahaal
Apr 29th / Dead Oceans
Toro is undeniably one of the most respected artists of our time. His ability to dive into any genre of his choice and absolutely dazzle listeners is unmatched.
On Mahaal, we see him venture into psychedelic-indie-jazz-rock. Sometimes he dives into those genres respectively, and sometimes he throws them all into one bag. That’s how we end up with deep cuts like “Goes By So Fast”. With his run and growth in popularity over the last few years, it almost seemed as if Chaz had lost his experimental touch.
The arrival of the genre-bending Mahaal honestly cemented Toro as one of the greatest. Not because of the album itself but also because of his overall evolution, which has been stunning to watch.
Warpaint - Radiate Like This
May 6th / Heirlooms
The L.A. band decided to take us to space. Radiate Like This is seductive at times and upbeat at others as we can nod our head along “Hips” or sway a bit slower at “Proof."
They created a moody, dreamy album that extended its radius to sleepy melodies between more complex approaches. It takes patience, and it gets more and more under your skin every time you listen to it. It’s a brighter one compared to their previous work, and it definitely requires you to stay up until late and reveal all its secrets. The downtempo undertone draws us in because sometimes it’s good to get the quietness out there - even in the more dancey tracks. This is quite a difficult task to achieve, and mixing all the feelings in a nice bow called Radiate Like This deserves a place on this list.
Gianni Brezzo - Tutto Passa
May 6th / Jakarta Records
Like an overzealous child at a candy store, Gianni Brezzo seamlessly picks out an array of genres to add to their Jazz repertoire on Tutto Passa.
You’re probably wondering to yourself, “who is this?”. Well, this is the band that will rejuvenate your love for nu jazz or even is your gateway. Gianni Brezzo is a jazz studio project headed by Cologne-based producer Marvin Horsch. Their aesthetic ranges from calming, tropical, and even cinematic, and the irony is that even though different styles are explored… the pacing of the project is SO cohesive.
I can guarantee that this is one of those albums you can play in a social setting without worrying about tapping the skip icon.
Isatta Sheriff - Eat The Kiwi Skin
Oct 21st / Melting Pot Music
Smoky jazz and soulful instrumentals produced by Koralle move the rhymes of Isatta Sheriff in 12 flawless songs. The emcee is from London, and the producer comes from Bologna. Still, they join in a smooth union with lyrics related to thoughts about life, Isatta’s personal family story, and what it's like to be a black female rapper.
In her world, she lets the voices of vocalists such as Lex Amor, Shumba Youth, and Mercy’s Cartel, and together they send us a message about poverty, the community, and misogyny. When we heard the level she was at, the easiest thing for Isatta was to make her music focused on the delivery and the lyrics. But instead, Koralle sets the album in a golden hip hop era, making it even more authentic and deep. And this is what we are looking for in music after all.
Fred again.. - Actual Life 3 (January 1 - September 9 2022)
Nov 2nd / Atlantic Records
The name Fred again.. has been echoing louder beyond the electronic sphere in the past few years, and this is no surprise. In the space of 2 years, he has become vital in the resurgence of UK Garage and has certified his status as among the most in-demand producers.
His signature real-world vocal records and emotive atmospheres are plastered across Actual Life 3. Throughout the project, these are underpinned by a hard-hitting house and UK Garage rhythms to bring the tracks to life.
Even though this isn’t the best out of his Actual Life trilogy, the quality that’s brimming here still can’t escape mention in this year's list of best albums.
Arctic Monkeys - The Car
Oct 21st / Domino
I thoroughly believe that a conversation about the best songwriters of our time is incomplete without mentioning Arctic Monkeys’ frontman Alex Turner. This sentiment beautifully shines through on their theatrical new album The Car.
There is something different about this record compared to their previous releases. The vocals are upfront, the mood generally feels dramatic, and Alex's voice sounds like he’s been through a lot. These are the kind of imperfections that enliven a record. Instrumentally the band creates a gorgeous concoction of indie and chamber pop, something that we don’t hear much of these days, and it honestly feels like a breath of fresh air.
We can hear from their arrangement that they’ve matured greatly not only as artists but as individuals too.
CARRTOONS - Homegrown
Apr 20th / Wichita Recordings
Homegrown, CARRTOONS' sophomore album, showcases his versatility and talent as he effortlessly moves between genres such as jazz, soul, R&B, and hip-hop. A true testament to Carr's musical heritage and talent.
Throughout the last few years, Ben collaborated with a number of including Kaelin Ellis, Robert Glasper, Kiefer, and Butcher Brown, and also opened up for Thundercat.
Homegrown is a wonderful gift to anyone who enjoys floating effortlessly between genres. Amongst all the cool features on the album, you can hear Richard Carr - Ben’s dad, a composer, and jazz violist.
Ivy Sole - Candid
Feb 2nd / Les Fleurs
Someone we have followed for years now, Ivy Sole is a US-based hip hop artist who combines poetry with incisive lyrics in her work. She has been featured in Pitchfork, Billboard, NPR, and more.
Ivy's 2022 released album CANDID is the third full-length project of her career, following the release of her mixtape Eden in 2016 and her debut album Overgrown in 2018. She has also released the East + West EPs in 2017 and SOUTHPAW in 2020, which made NPR's Best of 2020 list.
We strongly believe Ivy is on the verge of blowing up not only because of her strong lyricism and flow but because of her sultry vocals. Tracks like “Dangerous” featuring Nigerian-American artist Kingsley Ibeneche and “Talk That Talk” are perfect examples of both.
George FitzGerald - Stellar Drifting
Sep 2nd / Domino
Listening to this body of work by George FitzGerald almost feels like receiving a masterclass in the world of electronic music production. His sound design is one-of-a-kind, and it's matched with arrangements that are jam-packed with surprises.
In Stellar Drifting we see FitzGerald opt out of his more house-centered sound and steer more into UK Garage. His unorthodox rhythms are topped with luminous synths and at times, passionate vocal performances from unexpected guests. Who knew we would’ve heard the crooning of the legendary Panda Panda (Animal Collective) on a George FitzGerald record?!
FitzGerald caters to an experience that appeals to club dance floors and the listener at home seeking a taste of escapism.
FloFilz - Close Distance
Apr 8th / Melting Pot Music
The beat scene’s been on the rise in the past few years, but there are people who have been there since its dawn.
German producer FloFilz delivered his 9th album Close Distance, which showcases him not only in the instrumental hip hop light where he typically shines but also in genres like r&b, hip hop, and soul, all with Flo’s signature jazzhop touch. The 16-tracker features other amazing acts like Alfa Mist, Blue Lab Beats, Jerome Thomas, Summers Sons & more, including K, Le Maestro in the Deluxe version. Definitely one of the smooth and interesting albums of the year.
Little Simz - NO THANK YOU
Dec 12th / Forever Living Originals & AWAL Recordings
After the mind-blowing 2021’s Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, winning her the ‘22 Mercury prize, UK hip hop queen Little Simz put herself among the best female rappers of all time.
Early December, a week before its drop, she teased her 5th album called NO THANK YOU. The 10-piece LP is produced by SAULT‘s Inflo and still carries Simz's newfound in the previous record cinematic and epic sound, but also a lot of that classic soulful hip hop sound. Needless to say, her lyrics and impressive flow are the driving force behind the project, with topics like community, boundaries, emotions & truth.
Sampa The Great - As Above, So Below
Sep 9th / Loma Vista Recordings
The ladies of hip hop had a strong year, too. Zambia-born, Australia-based Sampa The Great is back with her 3rd studio album, the first one in 3 years - after 2019’s The Return.
As Above, So Below has 11 bangers, most of them with stellar guest artists like Denzel Curry, Joey Bada$$, Kojey Radical & more. Still inspired musically by her African roots, the album has rich percussion sections (it was recorded in Zambia in a 2-week session) but is also rich in epic choral harmonies and cinematic sound design.
Denzel Curry - Melt My Eyez See Your Future
Mar 25th / PHL Recordings & Loma Vista Recordings
Certainly one of the most recognizable flow styles out there, Denzel Curry did not disappoint in 2022.
Known for his highly-energetic songs, on his 5th album Melt My Eyez See Your Future Denzel shows a more introspective and vulnerable side of himself. Here, he puts even more focus on his intricate wordplay and deep storytelling. The album features a great number of notable artists - Robert Glasper, 6LACK, slow tail, and T-Pain, among others.
blackwave. - no sleep in LA
Sep 9th
“It’s the album of the year sh*t” - this is how “back on track”, the opening track of blackwave.’s 3rd studio album starts.
Following 2019’s ARE WE STILL DREAMING?, the Belgian hip hop duo goes back to their soulful sampling & jazzy roots found in their debut album Mic Check. no sleep in LA gets its name from an inspiring trip to the Californian city which brought back their desire to create. 11 tracks exploring the ups and downs of the past couple of years, rich in positive vibes & hopefulness, even when talking about the negative aspects of life. “a-okay” with Abhi The Nomad got them on the soundtrack of FIFA’23, too.
Mugs, t-shirts,
hoodies, vinyls & more.
