The Top 6 Albums of 2023 (So Far)

Published on


Add Smile FM on Google

 

We kiss three months of 2023 goodbye, and look forward to the year ahead. How time flies! Before we forth, let’s appreciate the music and albums that has gotten us this far.

 

Chlöe – In Pieces

album
Chloe’s first solo effort delights fans, In Pieces // SOURCED

In Pieces is the debut solo effort by singer-songwriter Chlöe Bailey. Branching out from her sister act, the 24-year-old reveals her vulnerable and emotional side. Chlöe also surprised fans with her music versatility and writing. Fans stayed for the roller coaster, that is Chlöe’s evolving vision on her debut album.

 

RELATED STORY: 10 Iconic Movie Scores for A Killer Workout Playlist

 

Lana Del Rey – Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd

artist
Special album cover art of Lana Del Ray’s latest album // SOURCED

People love Lana Del Ray. She continues to be a sort of guiding star to the younger generations. In her latest 78-minute wonderpiece, Del Ray melds folk music with dark pop and dour Disney energy to navigate her relationship with faith and family.

 

 

Ed Sheeran – – (Subtract)

album
Ed Sheeran’s – (Subtract) is an album steeped in grief // SOURCED

Sheeren let fans know that the closing album to his mathematics-titled albums would take a deeply, emotional turn. The music is inspired by the heart-breaking events Sheeran faced including multiple lawsuits, his wife’s cancer diagnosis, his children and his friend’s death in February 2022.

 

RELATED STORY: Subtract: Ed Sheeran explores mortality and sorrow

 

Gorillaz — Cracker Island

album
The band proves it knows a thing or too about making great music // SOURCED

This is the group’s first release since their 2020 project Song Machine. This album proves that with over 20 years experience, as a band, they are still innovative (and relevant). The 10-track release features Bad Bunny and Tame Impala. They truly shine when they collab with other artists.

 

 

Yo La Tengo – This Stupid World

Indie rock legends Yo La Tenga returns to the scene with This Stupid World // SOURCED

The first new full-length album from indie rock legends, Yo La Tenga, since 2020, consists of nine tracks and the record’s lead single Fallout. The album stands as a celebration of the trio’s enduring chemistry and industry professionalism.

 

RELATED STORY: OPINION: Is SA a creative arts-black hole?

 

Masego — Masego

Masego reflects in his new second album // PUBLICIST

Masego’s music has been a crowd-pleaser since he stepped on the scene. His self-titled sophomore album includes 14 songs that journey through tropical beats and his jazz and funk roots. This second album is Masego’s talents at its finest.

 

Latest articles

Three seafarers dead, two missing after incident off Mossel Bay coast

 Three seafarers have died, and two remain missing after a rescue boat that was launched from the AMSOL (African Marine Solutions Group) tugboat Umkhuseli...

Roadworks Underway in Samora Machel

 Residents and motorists in Samora Machel are being warned to expect roadworks and possible traffic delays, as the City of Cape Town carries out...

November SASSA Grant Payment Dates Remain Unconfirmed

  The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) payment dates for November 2026 remain unknown, despite earlier confirmations that payouts would run from 3 November...