1. "The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me" by Brand New
Through strung out guitar, chilling vocals and a beautifully written set of lyrics, “The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me” is one of my favorite albums. Though some of the songs require some patience, it is most certainly worth the listen you give it. Favourite track: “Degausser.”
2. "Random Access Memories" by Daft Punk
Considered the French duo’s magnum opus, “Random Access Memories” is a departure from the familiar sound of Daft Punk. The duo limits their use of electronic instruments and experiments with an orchestral sound. Favourite track: “Touch (feat. Paul Williams).”
3. "Crystal Castles (II)" by Crystal Castles
Though it may seem like they do nothing but scream, “Crystal Castles (II)” provides a refined sound for the Canadian duo. Featuring Robert Smith on one track, this is my personal favourite by them. Favourite track: “Intimate.”
4. "A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out" by Panic! At The Disco
The Las Vegas-based band did not let anything stop them on their 2005 debut. With a pop punk sound at the beginning being transitioned into a more baroque pop sound at the end, “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out” is a shrine to the music of the mid-2000’s. Favourite track: “Time to Dance."
5. "Depression Cherry" by Beach House
Perhaps one of my favourite albums of 2015, “Depression Cherry” is the Baltimore-based duo’s second newest dive into their vast discography. Smooth synth, guitar and beautifully paired vocals create an almost unforgettable album. Favourite track: “Space Song.”
6. "Pure Heroine" by Lorde
The debut album for the New Zealand, “Pure Heroine” is a collection of bedroom pop and slow-to-medium-paced love songs crafted so carefully. Favourite track: “Buzzcut Season.”
7. "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars" by David Bowie
David Bowie’s career lasted over 50 years. This is considered to be his peak. With jams back to back, there is no wondering why I consider this my favourite Bowie album. Favourite track: “Moonage Daydream."
8. "Observator" by The Raveonettes
With a relaxing pop tone that anyone can ride with, “Observator” is not your typical pop album. With songs like “She Owns the Streets” and “Till the End,” it’s hard to say this one isn’t unique. Favourite track: “Young and Cold.”
9. "Born To Die" by Lana Del Rey
The debut studio album of the New York singer, “Born To Die” is a mastercrafted record which is hard to explain, in my opinion. Give it a listen. Favourite track: “Dark Paradise.”
10. "OK Computer" by Radiohead
Considered by many to be their best album (as well as one of the best of all time), “OK Computer” is an approachable album from start to finish. Favourite track: “Paranoid Android.”
11. "Pull My Hair Back" by Jessy Lanza
“Pull My Hair Back” is a good intro to electronic indie music, being that Jessy Lanza has created an album that tells a story with different approaches. Favourite track: “Keep Moving.”
12. "Studio Killers" by Studio Killers
The only album of the European virtual band, “Studio Killers” provides the listener a well rounded dance pop experience. It features the hit singles Ode to the Bouncer and “Jenny.” Favourite track: “Funky at Heart.”
13. "Goddess" by Banks
Another alternative classic in my eyes, Goddess tells the tale of the unstoppable but easily vulnerable human being. Favourite track: “This Is What It Feels Like.”
14. "Disintegration" by The Cure
Released right before the glorious 80’s were over, “Disintegration” is the perfect love story. Favourite track: “The Same Deep Water As You.”
15. "Demon Days" by Gorillaz
From “Last Living Souls” to “Feel Good Inc.” to “Dare,” this album is not a forced to be reckoned with. Also a part of the mass of endlessly good mid-2000’s albums, “Demon Days” is here to stay. Favourite track: “El Mañana.”
