Favorite Albums of 2022
I know we’re already more than half way through January 2023 but I still wanted to share my favorite albums of last year. I listened to a lot of music last year. And I paid special attention to listening to new music, paying attention to new releases, trying to find artists I’ve never heard of. So, here is a roundup of my favorite albums of 2022, in no particular order.
Dawn FM by The Weeknd
I’ve already written more extensively about this album and the impact it had on me when it came out. And while the record came out early in 2022, it still had a lasting power for me throughout the year.
CAPRISONGS by FKA Twigs
This record by FKA Twigs was another early release and early favorite from 2022. And much like Dawn FM, it continued to hold up for me throughout the rest of the year. As I mentioned in my early review of it, I had never been an FKA Twigs fan. So, this record took me by complete surprise. I hope it takes you by surprise too.
Three Dimensions Deep by Amber Mark
There’s nothing quite like Amber Mark telling you, “most men are garbage.” I’ve been a big fan of Amber Mark for a while so I was excited to hear her first full album. And it definitely did not disappoint.
Laurel Hell by Mitski
I don’t really listen to sad girl music™ anymore. But I will listen to Mitski. I could try to argue that she’s not like other sad girl artists but I’m not sure that I could convince anyone of that. I will say that so far whatever Mitski delivers, I will eat up.
MOTOMAI by Rosalia
Latin music and Spanish lyric albums becoming mainstream? I’m here for it. I’m really interested to see where “pop” music is headed and I see Rosalia (as well as Bad Bunny, who appears later on this list) taking us there.
Wet Leg by Wet Leg
What a fun indie rock album. I sometimes wonder if rock music is being made anymore, but then you get a fun little record like this. If this came out when I was in my early 20s, I’d definitely be in the pit of whatever sweaty venue to jump around to this live.
Bronco by Orville Peck
Do I like country music now? I’d argue no. But this record was also my personal favorite of 2022. I even went to see Orville Peck live by myself in a very last-minute decision. I might actually try to convince you that this doesn’t really count as country music. But instead I’ll just say that you should give it a chance regardless of your feelings (good or bad) about country music.
Expert in a Dying Field by The Beths
I honestly don’t even remember how I stumbled across this album. But I’m so happy that I did. This was perhaps one of the most surprising, accidental finds. It harkens back to my twee college days, but still feels fresh. It’s bubbly, upbeat, and an all-around good time.
The Loneliest Time by Carly Rae Jepson
I am a Carly Rae defender. For those of you who think that she’s just the girl who sang Call Me Maybe, you are missing out, and you should immediately listen to her critically acclaimed album Emotion. Carly Rae Jepson continues to deliver excellent, fun, danceable, sing-along-able pop music.
RENAISSANCE by Beyoncé
We all know that objectively, this was the best album of 2022.
Un Verano Sin Ti by Bad Bunny
Like I said, I’m really excited to see where Bad Bunny (and other artists) are taking mainstream music.
Harry’s House by Harry Styles
I never imagined myself to be a Harry Styles girly, but here we are. I’m a sucker for a groovy, funky beat and Harry’s House is filled with that.
Moody31 by Lydia Persaud
This is another album that I accidentally stumbled upon but am so happy that I did. Incredibly jazzy, R&B vocals for easy listening. Perfect for cozy mornings or chilly fall days.
