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Miscellaneous

Omori: Soundtrack Review

Omori is an astounding visual and listening experience. Released in 2020 after over six years of development, this sweet and dark role-playing video game quickly won the hearts of players.

The game follows the story of a young boy named Sunny and his dreamworld counterpart Omori. Throughout the game it reveals childhood memories between him and his friends, and the dark histories that lead them to the current day.

This game presents its story with elegance and care with a stunning and diverse soundtrack to match.

Game Overview and Themes

The game opens up in the world of whitespace– the divide between Sunny and Omori’s worlds. Blank and isolated, whitespace gives the player a moment of reflection and pause before entering and reentering the story.

The player is then introduced to the world of Omori. Which is bright, colorful and surrounded by loving friends and cute enemies. Throughout this side of the game, Omori faces his greatest fears with his friends by his side.

Omori’s soundtrack is light, airy and playful. It really leans into childhood nostalgia and curiosity.

Meanwhile Sunny’s world is grim, lonely, and lost. In the real world the divide between his friends is great. This side of the game is spent trying to mend the connections between him and his friends before Sunny moves away from his childhood home in three days.

Sunny’s soundtrack is mundane and grey. Both the sound and graphic design in this world captures emotions of uncertainty, fear, and regret unlike any other content I have experienced.

Went growing up, there is often times a wish to go back to the simpler days of childhood. Omori is a game that captures this unspoken emotion beautifully.

The juxtaposition between Sunny in the current world and Omori in a childhood state is the foundation of the game– the soundtrack follows suit with explorative, dynamic contrast.

A Deep Dive into the Soundtrack

Starting off with the opening track “White Space”, this is a simple, clean start to the experience. It gives no clues to the musical themes to come. It takes on a very classic 8-bit videogame sound. I think this track is a great, simple start to such a complex web of themes and experiences in Omori.

Dreamworld Soundtrack

Looking at some of the tracks in Omori’s dream world, some of my favorites include “By Your Side.”, “Three Bar Logos” and “Chaos Assembly”.

“By Your Side.” is a sweet, delicate tune played when interacting with Omori’s sister Mari. Without flare or complexity, this song captures emotions of comfort and security.

It is easy to hear and see how much detail and care went into the production of this game. Each track has a purpose and emotion tied to it. The soundtrack holds such a complex variety of feelings in relatively simple sounds.

Another great example of this is “Three Bar Logos”. This one is played in special combat sequences and really captures feelings of fun and teamwork.

Most of the combat in the game is done in a team of four: Omori and his three friends Hero, Aubrey and Kel.

The player has to utilized each of their unique abilities to juggle between three emotion types: happy, sad and angry. I think all of the combat tracks do a great job of making combat interesting and support the theme of teamwork immensely.

“Chaos Assembly” is another great example of this. It ties in themes of upbeat teamwork with the underlying fear of combat. It pulls background from some of the darker tracks in the album that I will discuss more below.

Real World Soundtrack

Taking a look at some of the tracks in Sunny’s Realm, some of my distinct favorites are “Where We Used to Play”, “I Prefer My Pizza 90% Grease” and “Just Leave Me Alone”.

I am simply in love with “Where We Used to Play”. This track plays when walking around the hometown and childhood park of Sunny.

Although this track is just simple piano and delicate recorder, I think it is one of the best tracks on the soundtrack because it brings innate nostalgia to the listener. Especially in the context of Sunny’s world, this track is perfect.

“I Prefer My Pizza 90% Grease” is a joyful pocket in the midst of Sunny’s world. This track plays in Kel’s favorite pizza restaurant. It is a refreshing upbeat tune in the overarching uncertainty of Sunny’s world.

“Just Leave Me Alone” is one of the must distinct on the album.

I would define this 40 second track as a fusion of metal, hard rock and electronic grunge. It is loud and boisterous. It evokes feelings of unbridled frustration and chaotic fear, which is perfect for the context in the game. I won’t go into the context because it contains a minor spoiler, but this is a moment where the soundtrack truly shines. It makes a great moment in the story into something spectacular.

Alone Soundtrack

There are moments in the game where Omori is completely isolated from his friends, whitespace, dreamworld and real world. These moments are when he is confronting great fears or making a profound discovery.

This is where the soundtrack really shines.

“Acrophobia”, “Arachnophobia” and “Fade” are indescribably eerie. All three use simple sound techniques to build an inescapable atmosphere of isolation and fear.

They are each so distinct from any of the other tracks in the game and they appear at unexcepted moments throughout the experience.

These soundtracks are so desolate and dark that it innately makes the player miss the sounds and sights in both the dreamworld and real world.

Conclusion

Omori is an extraordinary video game experience with thoughtful creation and deliberate soundtrack.

In this blog I only mentioned a handful of the extraordinary work and dedication that went into making this soundtrack– They created a total of 179 unique tracks totally in at 3 hours and 45 minutes of listening.

In this blog I only discussed on tracks in part one of the Omori soundtrack. If you would like to listen to tracks off part two and part three, you can find them here.

Another component I really appreciated is there are many endings the player can have. It gives decisions made in the game gravity and an incentive to replay once completed.

Also, there is a wide variety of side quests within the game that add a lot of body and diversity to the game play. Omori has so much content and enriching character.

If you are interested in playing Omori, it is available for both the Nintendo Switch and desktop via Steam.

Categories
Blog

Dear WKNC listeners

On Feb. 7, 2023 WKNC 88.1 FM HD-1/HD-2 made the decision to discontinue regular DJ shifts by non-NC State students. As part of NC State Student Media, the departmental Academic Progress Policy (PDF) originally adopted in January 2003 and last amended in January 2010, specifically outlines that all paid and volunteer “employees (including, but not limited to, reporter, photographer, designer, DJ, sales staff member) of the Student Media … shall be full-time students at NC State University.” WKNC has been in violation of this policy since it was first enacted, at times allowing 10 or more non-students to DJ for WKNC. Additionally, University Regulation 11.55.07 covering membership in both Registered and Recognized Student Organizations states “membership in Student Organizations is limited to students enrolled for at least one semester hour of credit at NC State. Faculty, staff, alumni and others may participate in the activities and programs of student organizations as guests. Guests may not vote and may not have the same privileges as members.” This regulation was first issued in January 2007 and last revised in October 2021.

As no other Student Media outlet allows for regular contributions by non-NC State students and WKNC receives more than a third of its annual budget from NC State student fees, WKNC has decided to adhere to the departmental policy and University regulation by placing its focus solely on student staff. WKNC will also be discontinuing its informal practice of allowing spring graduates to stay on the air for the subsequent summer semester. With respect for the five current non-student DJs on staff, this change will be effective on May 8, 2023 at the conclusion of the spring 2023 semester.

While this decision may be upsetting to some long-time listeners, WKNC believes it is in the best interest of the radio station to retain a focus on student programming. As a student-run radio station, WKNC is proud to offer educational opportunities for more than 120 NC State students in radio broadcasting, content creation and station operations. WKNC also wants to thank its non-student DJs for their many years of service to the station.

Categories
Band/Artist Profile Miscellaneous

Compelling Composers: Storytelling in Soundtracks

The storytelling ability of movie and video game soundtracks is astonishing.

This goes without saying, but there are so many outstanding stories to be told, and music provides us with a conduit for expressing overwise indescribable emotions.

For folks that have experiences tabletop role playing games, soundtracks extend beyond the story they were originally tailored for. Music becomes a backdrop for new stories to be built and new characters to be born.

I have fallen deeply in love with storytelling through music. Entire worlds, atmospheres and moments are fabricated through thoughtful sound design and music.

This care, consideration, and devotion within musical storytelling is demonstrated beautifully through fantasy composers. To highlight some of my favorite stories and soundtracks, I have compiled favorite tracks from three different composers.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps (Original Soundtrack Recording)” cover art by Gareth Coker

Gareth Coker

Gareth Coker has truly mastered the art of soundscapes. Using mystical strings, woodwinds, piano and vocals he invigorates and redefines video game and fantasy soundtracks.

His music is simply smoothing, pensive and mystical.

Some of his projects include Halo Infinity, ARK Genesis and the Ori series. However, the context of these projects is not necessary to appreciate the peaceful ambiance and atmosphere Gareth Coker creates.

I particularly love his work in the Ori albums. These albums are simply musical bliss.

Moody orchestral lines are the backbone of the project. Combined with angelic vocals by Aeralie Brighton, the soundtrack is dynamic and pensive.

“Ori, Lost In the Storm” is a lovely example of the atmospheres he is able to construct.

“Darkwood (Original Video Game Soundtrack)” cover art by Arthur Kordas

Arthur Kordas

Arthur Kordas is the co-developer and composer of Darkwood, a survival horror video game released in 2020.

Although his discography is limited, his work builds an isolated and eerie world like no other.

His work defined by his command of subtly. The soundtrack creates an ambiance rooted in emotions of loneness and fear, making a perfect backdrop for Darkwood.

A lot of soundtracks attempt to make music that is monumental in sound, however Arthur Kordas recognizes the beauty in ambiance.

“Intro” uses sounds found in nature to bring the listener into the world of Darkwood. The subtle rustling of trees fades into deep rhythmic motions shrouded in an unknown tone. Long, building line are prominent throughout his work.

“Piotrek” and “New Dawn” are an excellent example of the power within stillness. Long orchestral beats bring a sense of caution and fear to the listener. As if scared to make the next move, each line is intentional in the path it takes slowly building to tenser moments.

The stillness, patience and atmosphere heard in Darkwood is unlike the work of any other composer.

“MADE IN ABYSS ORGINAL SOUNDTRACK” cover art by Kevin Penkin

Kevin Penkin

Kevin Pankin is the composer of Made in Abyss series. This is a composer that creates monumental sound with a compelling, abstract approach.

He combines heavy, roaring sounds with delicate lightness. The juxtaposition within his discography is distinct.

He provides the listener with a true experience without the context of Made in Abyss. The personalities and childlike curiosity of the characters are evident within the tracks.

The use of orchestral elements is also very unique in his work. Through thoughtful dynamics, placement and composition, Kevin Penkin turns an orchestral piece into an experiential collage.

“Made in Abyss” and “The First Layer” are excellent introductions to his discography. Light and childlike, these gentle tracks subtlety allude to approaching challenges.

Kevin Penkin loves the use of sudden dynamic leaps. “Encounter the Umbra Hands” makes dynamic movements beautifully. Elegant strings are contrasted by big roaring sounds.

In even bolder tracks Kevin Penkin begins to meld vocals into the composition. “The Rumble of Scienitic Triumph” is characterized by its chant like choral melody with a dynamic, thoughtful backing.

The variety of orchestral movements Kevin Penkin makes is astounding. His work exceeds his genre and becomes a musical collage triumph.

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Full Body 2: Band Profile

Full Body 2 an explorative band from Rochester, N.Y. have found their niche tapping into a bold blend of digital rock, shoegaze, and curated electronic chaos.

Composed of Cassidy Rose Hammond, Dylan Vaisey, and Jack Chaffer, this trio created Full Body 2 in 2020 as a one-off project from their former indie-rock band Full Body.  

Full Body 2 provides us with music that encourages creativity. It is motivating and refreshing. They are defined by their unique use of sound collage and abstract vocal work. Full Body 2 is positive, energetic, and undeniably loud. 

Upon the release of “Demo 01” in 2020, their explosive, curated sound took root and the band quickly shifted gears from Full Body into Full Body 2– the once ephemeral project taking ownership of its permanence.

“EPCOT” cover art by Full Body 2

Just a year later, they released the EP “EPCOT” on Nov. 14 2021. In this release they adopted a new identity in both their sound and in the form of the album art. The cover art on “EPCOT” is confident and chaotic, defined by bright neons, digital collage, and dreamlike visuals. This visual intensity supports the renewed boldness within the music. 

Opening track “Diamond Dallas Page” is fragmented, grungy, and loud– setting the foundation for this unique release. The vocals are distinctly distorted and confident.

Controlled distortion is a true talent of Full Body 2. They have truly mastered the art of collaging sounds without the composition turning muddy. 

This skill is demonstrated remarkably in track two, “ador // ation”. The track is wavelike, morphing back and forth between distant vocals and heavy musical madness. Although chaotic and distinctly loud, this band has complete control over their track composition.

What I love most about this band is they provide listeners with a platform for unbridled creativity.

Their music motivates unlike any other in their genre. When I first heard their newest release “demo 02”, I almost immediately felt an urge to create and draw. Although this motivating energy may not be felt by everyone, it was extremely potent in my scenario. 

“demo 02” cover art by Full Body 2

This energy I showcased best in their newest release, “demo 02”–which succeeds in being a fitting evolution from “Demo 01”. 

Opening track, “2g ether” is a perfect example of their growth from “Demo 01”. There is more confidence behind every component of this piece.

The entire EP is engulfed in radiant positivity. It is easy to tell they love making their music in every song off this track. 

Track two, “mirror spirit” is one of my favorites. I adore their use of vocals. They have evolved from lyrics and carrying the melody to using vocals as a means of building a complex, stunning background to their undeniably strong percussion. The amount of production and layering that went into this entire EP is astounding. 

Full Body 2 is fabricating a musical realm of its own with each and every release.

Especially in “dancer’s theme” off of “demo 02”, they are curating a dreamlike, otherworldly energy that is similar in tone to a video game or movie soundtrack.

They are transforming music from simple songs to a true listening experience.

Categories
New Album Review

“ABSOLUTE HEARTBREAK” by khai dreams Album Review

In my 2010s listening experience— khai dreams has solidified herself as one of the founding fathers of the lofi genre. 

Their discography is filled to the brim with lofi hits including “Sunkissed”, “Lost in You”, and “Through and Through”. Her musical presence, for better or for worse, ignited the worldwide phenomenon of soft voices, relaxed beats, and acoustic ukulele that is the lofi genre.

However, this blog is not about their lofi accomplishments, their newest album “ABSOLUTE HEARTBREAK” dropped Jan. 2023 and is diverging from her past sound with a mix of success and failures.

This album is undeniably a great step for khai dreams. She is finally breaking out of the restraints of one genre and is dipping into a new energy. “ABSOLUTE HEARTBREAK” is refreshing regardless of its faults. Khai dreams is breaking out of the soft-ukulele-lofi energy and is honing a matured, bold, and blended sound.

Every song on the album had good and bad elements. 

Below is a breakdown of each track in the order presented in the album:

“Bugs”

This song is a fun start to the album. It’s high energy and outlines some of the techniques heard throughout the tracks to come.

They have a melancholier approach to their vocal work, which is a nice contrast from the hopeful and loving tone used in her previous releases. This slight transition is a nice change and sets the stage for the bigger musical steps later on.

She is moving away from the lofi energy and moving towards something unique– this song is the departure.

“Rats”

This is one of the darker tracks and provides a little bit of a differnt tone to the album after “Bugs”.

The backing drums are nice but too simple. One gripe I have with this album is some of the backing tracks are too simple to the point they feel additive or excessive. This song is an example of that.

I enjoy the lyricism, but it doesn’t capture the listener due to the weak backing track. I enjoyed the use of different vocal tones in the bridges.

As seen in the next track, I sincerely hope khai dreams lets go of high-pitched vocal harmonies and turns to lower, darker alternatives heard in “Rats”.

“Panic Attack”

I sincerely dislike the high vocals harmonizing throughout the entire track. This song would have been beautiful without that addition.

The addition of the high-pitched vocals turns otherwise elegant lyrics and clean background into something excessive.

When focusing on khai dream’s main vocals, her tone, emotion, and subtle lyrics have so much potential. The addition is trying to be light and fairy-like but just comes off as annoying.

“May”

I want to see more of this energy from khai dreams in the future. The vocals are slightly grungy which is very new in respect to their existing discography.

Looking at the background, the drums could have had more flare but I’m just happy they are as prominent as they are.

“Not Enough”

This track is one of my favorites off the album. Although the lyrics are weaker than other tracks off this album, this song is such an excellent blend of all of khai dream’s past work and moving towards the new.

Thematically, khai has really capitalized on songs about falling in love or being in a great relationship– this song finally breaks away from this unwavering theme and introduces the opposite end of the spectrum: self-doubt, mistrust, and heartbreak.

“No Company”

This song might have been more memorable if it was placed differently in the context of the album.

The low energy in this track really interrupts the overarching composition of the album. It doesn’t take any new steps and is a continuation of “Not Enough” by pushing a sadder theme into their discography.

“Overall”

This track is short and sweet. The sound it achieves is extremely reminiscent of work by fellow heart-broken artist Joji. 

“Flowers”

Released in 2021, this track is not new and does not provide anything compositional to the album. To be honest, it reminded me of a song written and produced by the Disney Channel. It’s high energy but isn’t bold– it’s generic khai dreams with a higher bpm.

“Heartbreaker”

This track saves the end of the album. It is confident, a little grungy, and does not sound like the average khai dreams track. It is refreshing.

This is a great example of what additional vocals can truly add to the overall song. The strained vocals in chorus amplifies the lyrics and provides a bolder energy to the song without sounding extra.

“Heartbreaker” truly holds the name of the album proudly. It is a great staple of the album— overall a nice blend of hurt and happy.

“Good Advice”

This final track is the acoustic version of a 2020 release. Although I think the original version is more successful, I don’t believe this track was intended to give anything new to the listeners.

It is simply a public reflection of what khai dreams used to be and what she is becoming. It’s a reflection of genre, the power of subtly, and the humble beginnings of khai dreams.

“I can’t be myself when everyone is needing me to change”– although written three years ago this line perfectly captures the message of this album and subtly highlights all that has changed in khai dream’s music and personal life. 

Although I wish this album ended with more of a bold stroke, this is an anticipated acoustic transition by khai dreams and a sweet end to this melancholy album.

Categories
Miscellaneous

DMC Woodstock’s Top 50 Albums of 2022

Here it is.

This was the first time I paid close attention to new albums releasing throughout the entire year. Because of this, I can now make this big list with a nice round number at the top.

A frustration that I have when I make these lists, is that when they are posted and published, I have no way of changing them. My listening habits change over time. In retrospect, an album I place several spots higher or lower than another may not deserve to be there. There are also a ton of albums that I didn’t listen to this year. In time, I’ll find more albums from 2022 that deserved to be on this list, but for now, this is all I’ve got.

I chose the rankings for these albums about a month ago, and even in that short time, there are already changes that I’d like to make. I’ve decided to keep the original rankings to preserve how I felt at the end of 2022.

Without further ado, here are my top 50 albums of 2022:

50. Shiruetto – “Era” | Groovy future funk.

49. Govlink – “Weapons” | Breakcore with nutty sampling and sound design.

48. Ho99o9 – “Skin” | Hard hitting digital hardcore.

47. Ada Rook – “Ugly Death No Redemption Angel Curse I Love You” | The 10 stages of aggression.

46. Black Country New Road – “Ants From Up There” | Pretty, introspective head-bobbery.

45. Courting – “Guitar Music” | Post-punk that quickly flies through track after track of multilayered fun.

44. Kai Whiston – “Quiet As Kept, F.O.G.” | Club music with sheen, haze, and keen attention to detail.

43. Tricot – “不出来” | Bright, energetic math rock from Japan.

42. Conway The Machine – “God Don’t Make Mistakes” | Excellent down to earth lyricism coming out of Buffalo NY.

41. Sam Gellaitry – “VF VOL II” | Shiny, well produced pop take on Sam Gellaitry’s production style.

40. Justice – “Planisphere” | Great return for Justice with this incredibly cohesive 20 minute EP.

39. The Garden – “Horses— On Route 66” | Really fun punk rock noise.

38. Druida – “Limnociclo” | Haunting, rich IDM, perfect for late nights.

37. 2Hollis – “White Tiger” | To read more about this album, check out my review of it here.

36. Nanoray – “Toybox” | Fast hardcore electronic bangers mixed with some nice long shifting tracks.

35. Lewis Cole – “Quality Over Opinion” | Light jazz fusion album with some really high highs.

34. Chat Pile – “God’s Country” | Sobering sludge.

33. Lexie Liu – “The Happy Star” | Really fun and intricate pop with a bit of a Rina Sawayama sound.

32. JID – “The Forever Story” | Great storytelling, just an overall pleasant listen

31. Kinoteki – “Human Noise” | Hypnotizing house for late night ventures.

30. Metaroom – “Dog Bus: The Remixes” | Collection of EDM remixes that all manage to bring something new to the table

29. Denzel Curry – “Melt My Eyez See Your Future” | Reflection of Denzel’s career and decisions while being incredibly catchy. The deluxe edition is excellent too.

28. Infinity Knives – “King Cobra” | Bold hip-hop album with plenty of variety and interesting production choices

27. BABii – “Screamer” | Consistently great dance music with clean production complemented with nice vocals

26. Weyes Blood – “And In The Darkness, Hearts Aglow” | Beautiful slow burns

Album cover for "Neon White Soundtrack Part 1" by Machine Girl. It features a girl with purple hair and pale skin in a rabbit mask pointing a gun at the viewer.
Album cover for “Neon White Soundtrack Part 1” by Machine Girl

25. Machine Girl – “Neon White Soundtrack Part 1”

What a way to do a videogame soundtrack. From front to back, the frantic pace of the game is perfectly matched with frantic intricate grooves. Each track has plenty of variety, and nothing overstays its welcome. If you want to get into a flow, this is your best bet.

Cover for "His Happiness Shall Come First Even Though We Are Suffering" by Backxwash - A black and white image of a church being ripped apart and debris flying through the air
Cover for “His Happiness Shall Come First Even Though We Are Suffering” by Backxwash

24. Backxwash – “His Happiness Shall Come First Even Though We Are Suffering”

The third and final album in Backxwash’s trilogy, continuing her reconciliation with religion, race, family, and transness. Every drop of anger oozes out of Backxwash’s vocals, and the instrumentals are crushing. This is an excellent way to conclude the trilogy.

Cover for "This World Is Going To Ruin You" by Vein FM. It features a blurry picture of a decaying house and a skull in the woods.
Album cover for “This World Is Going To Ruin You” by Vein.fm

23. Vein.fm – “This World Is Going To Ruin You”

Admittedly, metal is not my strong suit. However, that didn’t stop me from keeping vein.fm’s new record on blast throughout the year. The breakdowns are heavy, the hooks and chorus’s are rad, and overall, it’s a pretty awesome metalcore record. While I still prefer their 2018 album “Errorzone,” this was a nice exploration into more melodic territory.

Album cover for "You can't kill me" by 070 Shake. It features an oil portrait of a woman whose face has been painted over in white
Album Cover for “You Can’t Kill Me” by 070 Shake.

22. 070 Shake – “You Can’t Kill Me”

The peaks on this album are some of the best musical moments to come out of 2022. The grandiosity throughout this album is really what makes it stand out.

Album cover for "Berdlycore Chapter 0" by Xaev. It features a purple pixelated city skyline from the game Undertale.
Album cover for “Berdlycore Chapter 0” by Xaev

21. Xaev – “Berdlycore Chapter 0”

“Hyperflip”, or as it’s commonly known, “Dariacore,” is my favorite trend in electronic music at the moment. Its mindmelting blend of Hyperpop, EDM, 2000’s pop samples, and Jersey Club is truly something to behold. Xaev brings an incredible level of polish to this genre with the Undertale adjacent brand of Hyperflip, dubbed “Berdlycore.” Alongside the meme-ish sampling and goofy song titles, “Berdlycore Chapter 0” is on the forefront of innovative EDM production.

Cover for "Berdlycore Chapter 2" by Xaev. It features three characters from the video game Deltarune staring out into a city skyline
Cover for “Berdlycore Chapter 2” by Xaev

20. Xaev – “Berdlycore Chapter 2”

Of course, I couldn’t mention “Berdlycore Chapter 0” without also mentioning the other Xaev project from this year, “Berdlycore Chapter 2.” More incredible hyperflip production from Xaev.

Cover for "A Couple of Good Days" by Fennec. It features a picture of a cat on a hardwood floor next to a toy palm tree.
Cover for “A Couple of Good Days” by Fennec

19. Fennec – “A Couple of Good Days”

This album is perfect for relaxing on a beautiful summer day. Its laid back sway is absolutely delightful. I am of the opinion that most house music is best enjoyed at night, but this is a different brand of house music entirely. “A Couple of Good Days” calls to mind sunny beaches, volleyball, and a lovely breeze kissing your skin.

Cover for "Heaven Is Here" by Candy. Features a painting of a large crowded group of masked naked people on a dirty set of stairs. People are climbing over each other and everyone appears to be very grim.
Cover for “Heaven Is Here” by Candy

18. Candy – “Heaven Is Here”

This Candy record is big time heavy. It’s only 30 minutes long but the time flies by with the amount of crushing variety within these tracks. I may be a bit biased towards this album, having seen these guys live in September. I can confirm that Candy lived up to my expectations. Again, I am not well versed in metal, but this album scratched the hardcore itch in my brain.

Album cover for "Harp" by Pendant. It features a shiny reflection of a mans face in water, obscured by shimmers and bubbles.
Album cover for “Harp” by Pendant

17. Pendant – “Harp”

“Harp” covers a lot of ground. You can be listening to this album and it will go from layers upon layers of soft silky Chillwave to angry noise based rap verses. It swings both sides of this pendulum with grace, delivering satisfying track after satisfying track. If you like anything spacey, you will like this album.

Album cover for "Meeting With A Judas Tree" by Duval Timothy. Features a tree with a small bunch of pink flowers growing out of the side of its trunk.
Album cover for “Meeting With A Judas Tree” by Duval Timothy

16. Duval Timothy – “Meeting With A Judas Tree”

Duval Timothy carefully crafts soulful piano melodies all over “Meeting With A Judas Tree.” Every single track on the album is beautiful, and to top it off, there’s an incredible infusion of electronic elements as well.

Album cover for "Renaissance" by Beyonce. Features a nearly nude Beyonce calmly sitting atop a horse made of electricity.
Album cover for “Renaissance” by Beyonce

15. Beyonce – “Renaissance”

Beyonce came out of left field this year with an album full of house bangers. I went into this album thinking, “ok… well I suppose I’ll listen to the new Beyonce album.” I left this album thinking “wow, I can’t believe I just danced for a straight hour.” It’s catchy, confident, and fun. Beyonce went into new territory for this one, and it absolutely paid off.

Album cover for "Every Flower In My Garden" by Lilien Rosarian. Features an abstract pixelated scene that seems to be a collage of extremely low resolution pixel images of plants alongside other squares of bright color.
Album cover for “Every Flower In My Garden” by Lilien Rosarian

14. Lilien Rosarian – “Every Flower In My Garden”

Lilien Rosarian is making some of the most interesting ambient music I’ve ever heard. Each track feels like viewing our world through a bright distorted lens. The sampling work reframes familiar sounds into brand new textures and continually keeping things fresh throughout the whole album. It all comes together on the final track “revery hour” which managed to unlock a brand new emotion I didn’t even know I had.

Album cover for "Elseware OR: Eating The Snack Fantastic" by Halisca. Features a brightly colored psychedelic scene of flowers, vines, hands, and eyes all forming a giant mass. There is a drop of blood in the center that is falling onto a foot protruding from behind the mass. In the middle there is a small heart.
Album cover for “Elseware OR: Eating The Snack Fantastic” by Halisca

13. Halisca – “Elseware OR: Eating The Snack Fantastic”

Lots of genre exploration happening on this Glitchpop album from Halisca. If you’re looking for a Sweet Trip-eque sound with some extra details and doodads thrown in there, this is for you. It’s cheery, playful, and uplifting all the way through. Also, the last song is called “Super Dracula RPG Original Soundtrack.” How can you go wrong with that?

Album cover for "I Love You Jennifer B" by Jockstrap. It is a blank grey cover with nothing but the word Jockstrap on it.
Album cover for “I Love You Jennifer B” by Jockstrap

12. Jockstrap – “I Love You Jennifer B”

This is Jockstrap’s first capital A Album, and they did not disappoint. The unique instrumental-electronic mix on this album makes it stand out entirely on its own. It’s strange, but there are so many facets about this album to appreciate, that it’s still quite approachable.

Cover for "Cometa" by Nick Hakim. Features a dark close up of a man examining his glasses. Two reflections of the man can be seen through the lenses of the glasses.
Cover for “Cometa” by Nick Hakim

11. Nick Hakim – “Cometa”

Nick Hakim blows it out of the park with “Cometa,” an album that retains the psychedelic qualities that Nick Hakim is known for, while also feeling incredibly intimate. The balance between these two elements is what makes this album a consistently enjoyable listen.

Album cover for Darklife by Death's Dynamic Shroud. Depiction of the word "Darklife" in shiny 3D silver letters, as if it is floating in space.
Album cover for “Darklife” by Death’s Dynamic Shroud.

10. Death’s Dynamic Shroud – “Darklife”

With “Darklife,” DDS succeeds at making their music sound cinematic. The sounds and the vocal sampling are super ambitious, and they land. Everything sounds really really big and foreign. DDS is setting another high water mark for themselves with this record.

Album cover for "Dariacore 3...At least I think that's what it's called?" by Leroy. Features a still frame from the show Daria where there is a character sleeping on a couch, a character on the floor using a hammer with a parrot on her shoulder, a character walking in the middle of the room, and another character holding a vase. In the middle of the room, pictures are strung up on a wire.
Album cover for “Dariacore 3…At least I think that’s what it’s called?” by Leroy

9. Leroy – “Dariacore 3…At least I think that’s what it’s called?”

Leroy, AKA Jane Remover, FKA Dltzk, AKA c0ncern, is making huge waves in EDM. They started the Dariacore/Hyperflip movement, and this production style seems to only be getting more and more traction. I’ve already covered some other albums that fall under this category on this list, but Leroy was the one to start it all, and they’re still going strong with Dariacore 3. For my money, this is Leroy’s best work yet, and I’m hyped for the future of LeJaneltzk Remover projects.

Album cover for "Counterfeit" by Fordmastiff. Features a dark image of a parade float with various hard to make out objects covering it at the bottom
Album cover for “Counterfeit” by Fordmastiff

8. Fordmastiff – “Counterfeit”

This album came to me at the perfect time. I listened to this album for the first time on a cold winter night while walking under the streetlights. My surroundings were the perfect canvas for Fordmastiff to paint a landscape. Listening to this, I felt like I was experiencing the memory of being in a lively festival. The details were dull, but the tone was clear as day. This album is lo-fi in a way that I’ve never heard before. I’ll be keeping a close eye on this Brazilian Lo-Fi scene for the foreseeable future.

Album cover for "Dream Desert" by desert sand feels warm at night. Features a pyramid in a desert contained within a larger transparent pyramid that is shooting a beacon into the night sky.
Album cover for “Dream Desert” by desert sand feels warm at night.

7. Desert Sand Feels Warm At Night – “Dream Desert”

Some might say that four hours is too long for an album. To that, I point to “Dream Desert” and say “nonsense.” This music is vaporwave at its most potent. The tracks average around half an hour, making each track an experience of its own. It’s incredibly drawn out, making the magic moments where a beat drops all the more special. This is far and away the most soothing album of this year.

Album cover for "Miracle In Transit" by Naked Flames. Features a shiny marsh landscape with no trees. In the foreground there are two large metallic looking objects that are shaped like logs and tree branches.
Album cover for “Miracle In Transit” by Naked Flames

6. Naked Flames – “Miracle In Transit”

Naked Flames shows us that you don’t have to have the most exotic ingredients to cook up an amazing album. Rather, an amazing album can come from a few simple ingredients used in just the right way. This record layers idea after idea on top of one another in just the right way until they all fit together in an entrancing but dance-able house lasagna. “Miracle In Transit” is a truly gratifying experience.

Album cover for "Gunsmith Tha Mixtape" by Hackle. Features Hackle standing in a forge with a hammer holding an assault rifle over an anvil. Behind him on the wall, are more guns, and on the ground there are bullets scattered all around.
Album cover for “Gunsmith Tha Mixtape” by Hackle

5. Hackle – “Gunsmith Tha Mixtape”

As Witch House/Trap artist Sematary has gained notoriety over the past few years, I’ve found myself just shy of hopping on the Haunted Mound. It turns out the missing ingredient was Hackle. The catchiness and energy that Hackle brings to Sematary’s production makes the sound work perfectly. Out of any album on this list, this one deserves the loudest speakers.

Cover art for "The Last Spa On Earth" by Divino Nino. Features a heart shaped spa floating in the clouds.
Album cover for “Last Spa On Earth” by Divino Niño

4. Divino Niño – “Last Spa On Earth”

Divino Niño put an electronic and reggae spin on their latest dream pop record. It’s fun, fresh, and exciting throughout, and each transition from one idea to the next is satisfying. You can read my full review of this album here.

The album cover for "Number Four" by Culprate. It features a trippy landscape made up of several small shapes and alien textures. There is a cat-like creatures at the top, a pyramid on the left, what appears to be a grassy field on the right, and waterfalls in the bottom left corner.
The album cover for “Number Four” by Culprate.

3. Culprate – “α​ρ​ι​θ​μ​ό​ς τ​έ​σ​σ​ε​ρ​α”

On this record, Culprate attacks Drum and Bass from every angle. It’s a wonderful, all you can eat buffet of musical flavor and texture. You can read my full review of this album here.

Album cover for "Hellfire" by Black Midi. Features an abstract collage of unrecognizable shapes and images over a pink background. The only intelligible figures on the cover are two men sitting down.
Album cover for “Hellfire” by Black Midi

2. Black Midi – “Hellfire

An incredible display of directed chaos. Every musician is putting in 200% to make this explosion of music as powerful as it can be. If anyone ever tells you rock is dead- that progressive, forward thinking, innovative rock is dead- they clearly have never heard this album. “Hellfire” is by far Black Midi’s most accomplished album to date. Every track holds something new and exciting. This is the sound of war, death, insanity, and sin, and good lord it is beautiful.

Album cover for Flood Format by Bird's Eye Batang. It is an abstract painting made of various shades of blue.
Album cover for “Flood Format” by Bird’s Eye Batang

1. Bird’s Eye Batang – “Flood Format

A musical adventure that is both adorable and terrifying. Otherworldly sound design that brings you somewhere entirely new. This album cements the mysterious South Korean producer as one of the best artists working today. You can read my full review of this album here.

Categories
Weekly Charts

Underground Charts 2/7

#ArtistRecordLabel
1LIL YACHTYLet’s Start HereQuality Control/Motown/UMG
2AKAI SOLOSpirit RoamingBackwoodz
3DIZThe way forward is not the way homeall in due time
4GHAIS GUEVARAjobs not finished pack [EP]Self-Released
5THE BLACKHEARTSHorn Of The LambUboy
6070 SHAKEYou Can’t Kill MeG.O.O.D./Def Jam
7SCUBADIVERNation [EP]Self-Released
8TOMMY RICHMANAlligatorBoom
9KENNY MASONRuffsRCA
10JEAN DAWSONCHAOS NOWHandwritten

Underground Adds

#ArtistRecordLabel
1CAMDEN MALIKNobodies [EP]Pastelle
2LIL YACHTYLet’s Start HereQuality Control/Motown/UMG
3RA TAKHARMythical [EP]SKYMVDE
Categories
Weekly Charts

Afterhours Charts 2/7

#ArtistRecordLabel
1PENDANTHarpSaddle Creek
2FORBIDDEN CREMEit’s very hard for me, but i’m learningSelf-Released
3SHYGIRLNymphBecause
4WORKING MEN’S CLUBFear FearHeavenly/PIAS
5HVOBTOODifferent/PIAS
6TIPNeosynthesis [EP]Club Qu
7MAGDALENA BAYMercurial World DeluxeLuminelle
8CLUB ANGEL6AM [EP]Astral People/PIAS
9DEATHS DYNAMIC SHROUDDarklifeSelf-Released
10LYZZAMosquitoBig Dada
Categories
Weekly Charts

Top Charts 2/7

Top 30 Chart Entry for WKNC 88.1 FM

Download CSV

ArtistRecordLabel
1FLY ANAKINFrankLex
2AKAI SOLOSpirit RoamingBackwoodz
3DENZEL CURRYMelt My Eyez See Your FutureLoma Vista/Concord
4DIZUltra.VioletSelf-Released
5LAVA LA RUEHi-Fidelity [EP]Marathon
6SOFIE ROYERHarlequinStones Throw
7THEY HATE CHANGEFinally, NewJagjaguwar/Secretly Group
8070 SHAKEYou Can’t Kill MeG.O.O.D./Def Jam
9PERRY MAYSUNPainting Naked [EP]Self-Released
10SCUBADIVERGodspeed ToSelf-Released
11YOUNG WABOMirage [EP]New College
12ACTION BRONSONCocodrillo TurboLoma Vista/Concord
13ARMAND HAMMERHaramBackwoodz Studioz
14BETCOVERTamago 卵Self-Released
15DARKSOFTBeigeificationLook Up
16KENNY MASONRuffsRCA
17MIKEDisco!10k
18REDVEILlearn 2 swimSelf-Released
19SHY HIGHGoodbye Delicious [EP]Self-Released
20SHYGIRLNymphBecause
21TOMMY RICHMANAlligatorBoom
22DIFFERENT JANERoomsSelf-Released
23GHAIS GUEVARAThere Will Be No Super-SlaveSelf-Released
24MAMALARKYPocket FantasyFire Talk
25MAVILaughing So Hard, It HurtsMavi 4 Mayor
26QUELLE CHRISDEATHFAMEMello
27SAMM HENSHAWUntidy SoulDorm Seven
28AUDREY NUNAa liquid breakfast DELUXEArista
29DELLA ZYR모호함 속의 너 Nebulous YouLonginus
30ERNESTO BIRMINGHAM“MOST TODAY/cold world” [Single]A LONG LIL’ WHILE
Categories
Weekly Charts

Chainsaw Charts 2/7

#ArtistRecordLabel
1DREAMS OF GRAYThe World After [EP]Self-Released
2VISITANT“Dematerialization” [Single]Self-Released
3AND OCEANSAs In Gardens, So In TombsSeason Of Mist
4FORETOKEN“Demon Queller” [Single]Prosthetic
5OBITUARYDying Of EverythingRelapse
6HELLRIPPERWarlock Grim & Withered HagsPeaceville
7WICKED INNOCENCEOpium EmpireBurning Dogma
8DEIQUISITORApotheosisExtremely Rotten
9NIHILIST DEATH CULTDeath To All TyrantsSelf-Released
10JESUS PIECE“An Offering To The Night” [Single]Century Media

Chainsaw Adds

ArtistRecordLabel
1THE HUMAN RACE IS FILTHCognitive DissonanceSelf-Released
2CHILDREN OF THE REPTILEHeavy Is The HeadSelf-Released
3SUMMONING THE LICH“The Forest Feasts” [Single]Prosthetic
4GIF FROM GOD“A Kiss For Every Hornet” [Single]Prosthetic
5JUDICIARY“Engulfed” [Single]Closed Casket Activities