1. Lana Del Rey Norman Fucking Rockwell
Pitchfork said the album “establishes her as one of America’s greatest living songwriters,” which is quite the statement, and I would have to agree. Piano-based ballads are in abundance here, blending pathos and pain, with glimpses of hope. The songs, which are chock-full of references to California and life in America, are both soothing and majestic, and exceptionally produced, allowing all the nuances to shine.
2. FKA Twigs Magdalene
Beautifully ambitious and exploratory, I’d expect nothing less from this innovative artist. It’s Kate Bush meets Björk with some Radiohead thrown in, but still manages to be unique and original.
3. Weyes Blood Titanic Rising
This album is filled with soft rock influences from the ’70s, as she continues to meld influences like Joni Mitchell and The Carpenters. Yearning for simpler times, coping with change, and not only finding, but holding on to love, are common themes throughout the album.
4. Sharon Van Etten Remind Me Tomorrow
“Sitting at the bar, I told you everything. You said, “Holy shit, you almost died” she sings in the opening line to this compelling album. Her songwriting has been elevated to a new level and she mixes things up by introducing electronic sounds on this album, and the results are stunning.
5. Solange When I Get Home
Her last album A Seat At The Table was widely acclaimed, and this album follows in those footsteps. The album is airy, ambient, and experimental and has a jazzy, soulful feel to it. It may take a few listens to sink in, but when it does, you’ll be hooked.
6. Angel Olsen All Mirrors
On her third release, Angel reluctantly embraced the addition of strings to her sound. She made the right choice, as they balance these relatively stark, somber songs, adding just the right amount of lightness and drama.
7. Billie Eilish When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?
Who knew that a 17-year-old goth, pop singer/songwriter could be so wise beyond her years? This album makes excellent use of the contrasts between light and dark. An impressive debut from an artist with a bright (and dim) future.
8. Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds Ghosteen
Nick Cave never disappoints. He stated that this album is the final part of a trilogy that originated with Push The Sky Away & Skeleton Key. On Ghosteen, he deals with the loss of his son, and while the album can seem very bleak, there are moments of resolution, optimism, and beauty.
9. Aldous Harding Designer
The third album from the New Zealand singer-songwriter was produced by frequent PJ Harvey collaborator John Parish. He keeps things pretty simple, choosing to let her individualism and artistry be front and center.
10. J.S. Ondara American Dream
A talented musician, originally from Kenya, who now calls MN home. Bob Dylan was the inspiration behind his move, and he honors him with a collection of songs that tell universal stories of life, love, and location. A fresh new voice with a timeless sound.
11. Big Thief U.F.O.F.
For the first time, two albums from the same artist make the list. This is the one that came out first and is the more subtle of the two. Lead singer Adrianne Lenker’s voice is tender, yet powerful, and her songwriting is stellar. The band reinvents what folk music can be.
12. Lizzo Cuz I Love You
Living in the Twin Cities, Lizzo has been prevalent here for years. I always wondered not if, but when, the rest of the world would take notice. Obviously, 2019 was her year. Turns out, she is 100% that bitch and more.
13. Big Thief Two Hands
Described as the “earth twin” to U.F.O.F., Two Hands came out five months later and is a little rawer, as the songs were recorded live with almost no overdubs. Songs like “Not” and “Forgotten Eyes” show a more aggressive side of the band, which fit nicely between the more delicate moments.
14. Yola Walk Through Fire
The British singer-songwriter teamed with Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys to create a collection of retro ’70s country-soul songs. The result is something familiar and authentic, all highlighted by her arresting voice.
15. Julia Jacklin Crushing
In the current crop of up-and-coming indie female artists, Julia manages to stand out from the crowd. Her songs, which the 29-year-old wrote solely by herself, are reflective, intimate, and spacious. A welcome reminder that your singular voice is a unique voice.
16. The Highwomen The Highwomen
The country supergroup featuring Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris, and Amanda Shires, is a nod to The Highwaymen from the mid-80s, but with a twist. In the face of the #MeToo movement, their voices are a powerful declaration of independence. Redesigning women indeed.
17. Jenny Lewis On The Line
This album reads like a collection of short stories, which features a wide variety of characters and life experiences. Is it fact or fiction? Who cares, when the songs and the storytelling are this good.
18. Fontaines D.C. Dogrel
The post-punk rock band from Dublin, Ireland came out with guns blazing. Their debut album is filled with songs that have a sense of urgency and are catchy as hell. Dogrel was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize and was named Album of the Year by Rough Trade.
19. Tyler, The Creator IGOR
I had mixed feelings about Tyler in the past, specifically his use of gay slurs, but on his last two albums, he has displayed a newfound maturity and thoughtfulness. Case in point, IGOR deals with his own attraction to men and is a narrative about a love triangle where a boy is in love with a boy, who is still in love with a girl.
20. Hozier Wasteland, Baby!
It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since he took us to church. The Irishman follows-up his breakthrough album with a heartfelt blend of rock, blues, and soul music. Standouts include “Nina Cried Power” featuring Mavis Staples and “Movement”.
Honorable Mentions
Ex Hex It’s Real
Brittany Howard Jaime
Madonna Madame X
Sleater-Kinney The Center Won’t Hold
Vampire Weekend Father Of The Bride
Overlooked Album Of 2018
Rosanne Cash She Remembers Everything
Top 10 Live Shows Of 2019
1. Massive Attack - September 10, 2019 / Palace Theatre - St. Paul, MN
2. FKA Twigs - November 14, 2019 / Palace Theatre - St. Paul, MN
3. Electric Light Orchestra - July 25, 2019 / Xcel Energy Center - St. Paul, MN
4. Madonna - October 21, 2019 / Chicago Theatre - Chicago, IL
5. David Byrne - October 30, 2019 / Hudson Theatre - New York, NY
6. Robyn - July 21, 2019 / Pitchfork Music Fest - Union Park, Chicago, IL
7. Aldous Harding - April 15, 2019 / Turf Club - St. Paul, MN
8. Bruce Hornsby - August 9, 2019 / Pantages Theatre - Minneapolis, MN
9. Angel Olsen - November 12, 2019 / First Avenue - Minneapolis, MN
10. Lucinda Williams - April 14, 2019 / The Fitzgerald Theater - St. Paul, MN