The Best Albums, From All Genres, Of 2023
Ranked from best to almost the best, but not quite. Although, depending on your subjective preferences, you may prefer a different order, omit some, or even ponder some that are not included. Trust me, I’ve changed the order countless times because determining the best albums often depends on how one feels at any given moment. Either way, let’s simply enjoy the best music from 2023.
1. Kenny Rogers – Life Is Like A Song
While Life Is Like A Song undoubtedly stands as a testament to Kenny Rogers' remarkable career, it also serves as an important reminder of his profound musical legacy. Kenny Rogers' ability to tell stories through his songs and evoke genuine emotions is showcased at its finest on this album and if there is a greater gift to Rogers’ fans, following his death, I know of none.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Life Is Like A Song.
2. Måneskin – RUSH!
If Gene Simmons was right and rock is dead, nobody told Måneskin for RUSH! is a modern rock masterpiece. With a killer rhythm and riffs that are off-the-charts, rock and roll fans will be drawn to this record as RUSH! is tight with a perfect runtime and linear tracking. It is most certainly an album experience and one that should be enjoyed in that context.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of RUSH!.
3. Natalie Merchant – Keep Your Courage
Natalie Merchant's 2023 album Keep Your Courage showcases her introspective lyrics, folk melodies, and unique vocals. It demonstrates her longevity and artistic growth, making it her most poignant and sonically pleasing work to date, solidifying it as the pinnacle of her illustrious career.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Keep Your Courage.
4. Tina Arena – Love Saves
Love Saves, Tina Arena’s thirteenth studio album, is a captivating musical journey that showcases the iconic Australian singer's versatile vocals and heartfelt storytelling. Comprised of a collection of songs that revolve around love, compassion, and resilience, Love Saves is Arena’s greatest musical achievement to date.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Love Saves.
5. The Cold Stares – Voices
The blues with a healthy dose of rock and roll has never sounded so good! Voices, the sixth studio album from the American rock band The Cold Stares will stun those of you who appreciate blues-based rock and roll for the Indiana based rockers have recorded a modern masterpiece.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Voices.
6. Rival Sons – Darkfighter
Darkfighter successfully combines classic rock influences with a modern touch, resulting in a captivating and diverse collection of songs. The musicianship is top-notch, and Jay Buchanan's vocals are as impressive as any of the greatest vocalists from the rock and roll genre. Subsequently, fans of rock music, from any era, will find much to enjoy when listening to this modern classic.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Darkfighter.
7. The 69 Eyes – Death Of Darkness
Death Of Darkness, the thirteenth studio album from The 69 Eyes is a stunning addition to the band's legacy and showcases their signature sound of melodic, haunting, and catchy gothic rock music. Add a touch of country, a little metal, and a dash of punk and The 69 Eyes' Death Of Darkness is just about as compelling as any hard rock album ever hopes to be.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Death Of Darkness.
8. Bruce Cockburn – O Sun O Moon
Bruce Cockburn's O Sun O Moon is a musical masterpiece that effortlessly blends folk and rock elements to deliver a deeply satisfying listening experience. Each track on the album showcases the artist's immense talent and artistic growth, resulting in one of the best albums you're likely to hear in 2023.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of O Sun O Moon.
9. Avatar – Dance Devil Dance
True to its album title, Dance Devil Dance is Avatar’s most rhythmically melodic groove-based metal album to date. Some may lament the shift from the heavier sound heard on their previous albums, but it’s not a difference so far removed that fans will be left out in the cold. It’s complementary, rather than contrasting, thereby making Dance Devil Dance one of the most compelling releases of 2023.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Dance Devil Dance.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS (IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
These are albums from 2023 that I appreciate but don’t feel are the best of the best. However, there’s some killer music to be heard here, so load up your favourite streaming service and give them a listen, for our music tastes are subjective and you may just come across an album that you consider a masterpiece.
