I wish I could spend hours on this writeup as I use to, so I apologize for providing little substance to such substantial albums. I think my top 5 albums are the ones you really need to hear.

I've been raving about SZA's album all year, it's a must listen. Ctrl has so many rhythms and productions and flows that have no peer. This album sounds like no other.

Kendrick's DAMN is an exclamation point to a run of albums that already puts him up at the top of best rappers ever. His quality control and varied sounds has been such a joy to listen to, he's clearly the best rapper of his generation, and we'll see about ever once his career ends.

HIPPO CAMPUS!! The most underrated album of the year, the most underrated band of the year. I LOVE this album, it's like a children's storybook version of Vampire Weekend. I saw these guys live (and they all look like they're 17-18 years old and can't be too much older), and they were so tight and talented, I was blown away. These guys have a lot of potential in them, I can't wait to see where they go.

Alvvays and Paramore made some must-listens as well. The entire course of Alvvays album has a great cadence and rhythm to it, and I love their lead singers voice and lyrics. I was blown away by the rawness and sincerity of Paramore's album, recorded in the aftermath of a lawsuit by a former member. Hayley Williams rocks.