1 Week, 1 Album

Resolution: Listen to an album each week!

I love listening to music and discovering new songs and sounds, but I feel like I’ve been stuck with the same playlists for a while, and to be honest I don’t really reach out to find new music anymore.

On this note, I’m not sure birthday resolutions are a thing, but for the sake of this article we’re going to pretend that they are. And even though I’m not typically a fan of resolutions (let’s face it, who really sticks to them?), turning 24 feels like the perfect time to embrace a fun new goal: Listen to a new album each week! (Update: I didn’t stick to the one album per week 🥲 but I’m still reviewing records so there’s that 🫠)

Now that we’re done with this small introduction let’s get into it and discuss the Albums! I’ll update the list each Sunday to add the Album I listened to that week with my rating and favorite song (I know I give a lot of 5 stars😅)

#13 À Peu Près by Pomme.

Discovering Pomme only now feels almost unbelievable to me, especially considering the music I usually listen to! This past week I’ve been focusing on her debut album À peu près, and it’s safe to say it was a great discovery.

This review has to start with the obvious: her voice. It’s sweet, soft, and calming in a way that feels almost otherworldly. Listening to her songs felt like floating over a wide meadow on a sunny afternoon, the warmth of the sun on your skin.

On my first listen, I was mainly drawn to the atmosphere of the record. But when I went back and paid attention to the lyrics, I realized just how much more there was to uncover. If you enjoy a touch of poetry mixed with melancholy and nostalgia, then this album will be right up your alley. Her metaphors are delicate, and the imagery in her writing lingers long after the music stops.

I think I connected to her vibe even more because it came at the perfect time in my life. I needed something soothing, something to ease me down, and Pomme delivered exactly that. She excels at creating an atmosphere that makes you feel both comforted and understood, almost as if she is sitting beside you, quietly accompanying your sadness.

« Mais si je meurs maintenant
Je n’aurai jamais 20 ans
Les fleurs ne meurent pas vraiment
Elles renaissent au printemps »

The music itself, paired with her harmonies, gives the album its final magic touches. It’s a record filled with strong writing, an enchanting voice, and beautiful instrumentals. I also appreciated that there’s variety in the beat: while Pomme shines in her slower, haunting songs, I also loved the more upbeat tracks like Même robe qu’hier or Pauline (her own version of Jolene, which I highly recommend).

Another aspect I really enjoyed is how each track feels like a story. We get to follow along her journey, sometimes dipping into sadness, other times leaning toward moments of lightness and hope. That narrative quality makes the whole album feel alive and deeply personal.

My favorite songs, however, arrive at the end of the record: Ceux qui rêvent and On brûlera. These two carry such emotional weight that even if you don’t understand French, you can feel every ounce of emotion in her voice.

« Mes nuits blanches ne sont pas blanches à peine claires
Semées d’étoiles
Petits trous dans la toile étanche
Tristes strass sur le voile »

Overall, with her first big project, Pomme managed to pull listeners into a world entirely her own. She lets each of us experience her music in a deeply personal way, and somehow it feels like she’s singing directly to you. À peu près is intimate, poetic, and a beautiful introduction to an artist I’ll definitely keep listening to.

For me, this album was a gentle reminder of why I love discovering new artists. Maybe Pomme will do the same for you.

Favorite song : Ceux qui rêvent

#12 DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS by Bad Bunny

¡Este álbum es muy bueno!

I knew I had to write about DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS the moment I heard it. But even if I hadn’t planned to, I don’t think I would’ve had a choice—this album was the most recommended by my friends. And after spending the past few weeks fully immersed in it, I get why.

This isn’t just an album; it’s a statement. A sonic experience layered with politics, nostalgia, and raw emotion. It’s reggaeton redefined—not just as a genre for partying but as a medium for storytelling and resistance.

At its core, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS is a love letter to Puerto Rico, but not in a rose-tinted, postcard kind of way. Bad Bunny lays bare the struggles, resilience, and cultural richness of his homeland. To truly grasp the weight of this album, you have to understand Puerto Rico’s complicated relationship with the U.S. : a territory that’s neither fully independent nor truly integrated. The island faces economic struggles, political neglect, and the effects of colonization. Yet, despite everything, Bad Bunny captures its magnificence, too.

And even though I’ve been on Duolingo trying to learn Spanish for almost two years, I still don’t fully understand the language. But the emotions in this album? I felt them. That’s the beauty of music: it doesn’t need translation to hit you where it matters.

Sonically, the album is just as powerful. Bad Bunny blends traditional Puerto Rican sounds with modern reggaeton and hip-hop influences, creating a soundscape that feels both deeply rooted and refreshingly new. The beats are infectious (perfect for dancing) yet layered with enough depth that you feel every note’s weight.

One of the lyrics that stuck with me the most is:
“They want to take my river and my beach too / They want my neighborhood and grandma to leave.”

This line is about forced displacement, about watching the places and people you love change or disappear before your eyes. And with everything happening in the world right now, these words feel even more universal. So many people today are being uprooted, forced to leave home, or witnessing their communities transform beyond recognition.

The album’s title itself : I Should’ve Taken More Photos, is a painful reflection on nostalgia and loss, something many of us who have left home understand too well.

“I should’ve taken more pictures when I had you
I should’ve given you more kisses and hugs whenever I could
Ayy, I hope my people never move away.”

I won’t lie, I shed a tear or two reading the translated lyrics, feeling that gut-punch of realizing you should’ve held on tighter to little moments before they were gone.

In conclusion, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS isn’t just an album: it’s a journey. A reminder that music can be political, personal, and universal all at once. If you haven’t listened yet, I highly recommend giving it a spin. It might just surprise you, and of course don’t forget to look up the lyrics 🌟

Bad Bunny wasn’t on my radar before, but best believe he is here to stay !

Favorite song: NUEVAYoL

#11 Hit Me Hard and Soft by Billie Eilish

This week, I listened to what is probably the best album of the year, and what I would class as a 6-star record because 5 is just not enough. Billie Eilish’s newest album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft”, is what perfection sounds like. From the first note to the last, this record is a pure masterpiece. And this is thanks to the incredible duo that gives us Billie Eilish: Billie herself, and FINNEAS, her brother and producer.

I’m not even sure I can put into words what it felt like listening to this album—it was an out-of-body experience that transcends human emotions. It is a perfect mix of emotions and creativity. Billie’s hauntingly beautiful voice combined with FINNEAS’s genius production creates an experience like no other. You can feel the depth and thought put into each track, and it’s clear that Billie is pouring her heart and soul into her music.

In fact, the album showcases Billie’s vocal range like never before. She’s belting out notes and experimenting with her voice in ways we haven’t heard before. It’s a testament to her growth as an artist and her willingness to push the boundaries of her sound.

I can’t talk about “Hit Me Hard and Soft” without discussing the incredible production of the album. FINNEAS proved to be a real musical genius. His playful and innovative approach elevates each track, blending dancy disco beats with subtle guitar accompaniments and orchestral elements. Billie’s vocals sound better than ever, with a newfound willingness to extend her vocal range and belt out more than she has in the past. This maturity and experimentation make “Hit Me Hard and Soft” a remarkable album that showcases the siblings’ growth as artists.

A standout feature for me was the transitions between songs. This is a no skip album for sure and I would recommend listening to the songs in order! The flow is seamless, sometimes so much that you don’t even realize the song has changed. It feels like one continuous, fluid, and homogeneous journey. There are even moments when a single song can feel like two different tracks, evolving and shifting in ways that keep you on your toes. This dynamic approach makes the listening experience even more engaging and immersive, showcasing Billie and FINNEAS’s ability to blend different sounds and styles effortlessly.

Furthermore, the cohesive storytelling and emotional depth of “Hit Me Hard and Soft” are truly exceptional. Each song tells its own story, making the album a journey through the complexities of love, lust, guilt, healing, and personal growth. There are tracks that make you want to dance, tracks that make you want to cry, and tracks that make you reflect on your own experiences. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, and I found myself getting lost in the stories Billie is telling.

In case it’s not clear yet, I loved this album, and I would even say that since starting this series, it’s my favorite record of the bunch. I’ve had it on repeat all week, and I can confidently say it’s the album of the year. Billie Eilish has set a higher standard for herself, and now I want more!

If you haven’t had the chance to listen to the album, stop what you’re doing and go listen to it now! If you listened to it, what did you think?

Favorite Songs: CHIHIRO

#10 The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess by Chappell Roan

It’s queer, it’s camp, it’s fun, and most importantly, it’s pop! “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” is a testament to the power of pop music at its full potential!

For this week’s (very late) review, I listened to Chappell Roan’s newest album after my friend Corine recommended it a few weeks ago, and I regret not entering Chappell’s special universe sooner! (Thanks, Co!)

Chappell Roan’s remarkable vocals, combined with the amazing production of Dan Nigro (known for his work on Olivia Rodrigo’s “Guts” and “Sour” albums), made this album everything I could’ve asked for and more. From the very first track, the singer draws listeners into a world that’s vibrant, unapologetically bold, and brimming with personality. The infectious energy of her music is impossible to resist, and her powerful voice commands attention, making each song an anthem in its own right. (I would say that this is the perfect listen for a road trip or even a shower concert :p)

One of the standout features of the album is how Chappell Roan masterfully blends upbeat, dance-worthy tracks with more introspective, emotional ballads. This balance of high-energy songs and deeper, more emotional pieces is what made the album so enjoyable. The variety keeps the listener engaged and showcases Chappell’s versatility as an artist.

Another aspect I appreciated is how personal this album feels. Chappell Roan’s music, vocals, and lyrics are self-expression at its finest; her songs are anthems embracing authenticity and individuality. This choice to make her album personal and empowering, yet bold and catchy, proves that pop music can be both fun and profound.

Finally, the biggest reason I loved listening to “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” is because it is so unique and fresh. Chappell Roan’s ability to unite people through her authentic queer self is refreshing in an industry where formulaic approaches are often the standard and safe option. Her individuality and creativity shine through, making her a standout artist.

In conclusion, Chappell Roan’s long journey to stardom is well-deserved, and her future in the music industry is bright. She’s an artist to watch, and I can’t wait to see where she goes from here.

Don’t waste anymore time and go listen to “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” ! Let me know what you think and what your favorite song is !!!

Favorite song: Femininomenon ( I still can’t pronounce it )

#9 The Stranger by Billy Joel

With each passing year I feel like I resonate with the song “Vienna” more and more, but recently, I felt like the song was written especially for me. These past few weeks I’ve been spiraling and going into a small (okay maybe medium) existential crisis, and Billy Joel’s smooth voice and melodies was a big part in helping me stay sane and feeling like maybe it’s not the end of the world anymore. And since I was already listening to Vienna on repeat, I thought it was the perfect occasion to listen to Billy Joel’s famous album “The Stranger”.

It may be presumptuous to say, but I really believe Billy Joel achieved a perfect record, liked (sometimes even loved) by everyone who listens to it! It was without a doubt a no skip album for me, every song is a lyrical and musical masterpiece and the flow of the album is excellent.

What stands out most in my opinion are the lyrics and meanings behind each song, showcasing how talented Billy Joel was, not only as a singer, but especially as a songwriter. The artist evokes various themes in this album, all coming together in a great depiction of life, and what I think the main message from this record is: Change is inevitable, it is scary, it will make us doubt ourselves, it will make us act differently, but we have to go with it, stuck in the middle of it all.

But, an album can’t rely only on it’s lyrics and vocals, in fact, it is the production and music that tie this album together. From whistles to car engine sounds, the artist was not afraid to try some out of the box ideas that were proved to be a great choice as they add value to the songs. Moreover, I liked that some songs are more upbeat while others are slower, giving listeners the chance to explore various emotions. Finally, I can’t talk about “The Stranger” without mentioning the many instruments used to bring Billy Joel’s vision to life, from the guitar, the piano, the saxophone and even the flute, the music is phenomenal!

I usually try to write a bit more for each review, but this album really speaks for itself! Billy Joel put his heart and soul into this album, and gave us an inside to who he is as a person. So if you ever want to feel like you’re not alone, or if you just need to feel reassured, I think this is the perfect album for that.

I would love to hear what your thoughts are on the album!

Favorite Song: Vienna

#8 The Tortured Poets Department by Taylor Swift

This week’s choice is to no one’s surprise Taylor Swift’s newest album: “The Tortured Poets Departement”. As a Swiftie, I was highly anticipating this album! I believe that Taylor is a master in storytelling, and a great lyricist, and this album proves that. But I was left with some critics, so let’s dive into this review.

From the moment the album begins, listeners are drawn into Taylor’s world of emotional complexity. Each track serves as a window into the depths of human emotion, with the singer fearlessly baring her soul for all to see. Whether she’s navigating the pain of heartbreak or celebrating the triumph of self-discovery, Swift’s authenticity shines through in every lyric and melody. However, despite its strengths, “The Tortured Poets Department” is not without its flaws. One of the most glaring issues is the album’s tendency to fall into repetitive patterns, with certain songs sounding remarkably similar to others. This lack of diversity in sound and structure left me wanting more from the album, as I found myself craving a greater sense of innovation and creativity.

Her latest album offers glimpses of brilliance that are hard to ignore. I found myself drawn to the raw emotion and vulnerability she brings to each track. Her ability to craft intricate narratives and evoke genuine emotion through her music is on full display here. But, while her storytelling prowess is evident throughout the album, there are moments where the lyrics feel overly simplistic or even silly. While there are certainly moments of lyrical brilliance, there are also instances where the words feel predictable or uninspired, detracting from the overall impact of the songs.

“The Tortured Poets Department” feels like a journey through the labyrinth of Swift’s psyche, with each song offering a new twist or turn along the way. I believe this album is best understood with the backstory of each song in mind, so if you want my advice, dig deep on TikTok or YouTube and listen to the theories and reviews of hardcore fans!

In conclusion, I liked the album, and despite its flaws, “The Tortured Poets Department” remains a testament to Taylor’s artistry and storytelling ability. While it may not be her strongest work to date in my opinion, it still offers moments of brilliance that are sure to resonate with fans (I really think this album is a gift to Swifties.) Ultimately, while the album may be best suited for die-hard fans, its raw emotion and vulnerability make it a compelling listen for anyone willing to get into Taylor Swift’s world.

Favorite song: Florida!! (I mean it’s with Florence & the Machine so …)

#7 Lungs by Florence & The Machine

Florence & The Machine’s debut album, “Lungs,” is an ethereal journey through themes of love, longing, and self-discovery, all wrapped in the captivating voice of Florence Welch. From the moment you press play, you’re transported into a world where raw emotion meets whimsical melodies, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.

At the heart of “Lungs” is Florence Welch herself, whose powerhouse vocals effortlessly soar above the intricate arrangements. Her voice is a force of nature, capable of conveying a myriad of emotions with every note. I truly believe that one of the most striking aspects of “Lungs” is Welch’s ability to convey a range of emotions with her voice. Whether she’s belting out anthemic choruses or delivering delicate whispers, there’s an undeniable depth and sincerity to her vocals that leaves a lasting impression. Tracks like “Dog Days Are Over” and “Rabbit Heart (Raise It Up)” showcase Welch’s dynamic vocal range, as she effortlessly transitions from soft and introspective to powerful and anthemic.

But it’s not just Welch’s vocals that make “Lungs” such a standout album; it’s also the rich tapestry of sounds and influences woven throughout each track. Drawing inspiration from folk, rock, and art pop, Florence & The Machine create a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary. From the haunting strings of “Cosmic Love” to the infectious rhythms of “Drumming Song,” each song is a testament to the band’s musical versatility and creativity.

Also, at the heart of “Lungs” lies Welch’s poetic lyricism, which paints vivid pictures of love, loss, and everything in between. Her lyrics are often introspective and deeply personal, yet they also possess a universal quality that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Whether she’s exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, or self-discovery, Welch’s words have a way of cutting straight to the core of the human experience.

But perhaps the most compelling aspect of “Lungs” is the sense of catharsis that permeates the album. Through her music, Welch bares her soul, confronting her demons and embracing her vulnerabilities with fearless honesty. It’s this rawness and authenticity that makes “Lungs” such a powerful listening experience, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery alongside the enigmatic Florence Welch.

To end this review I just want to say that I think that “Lungs” is not just an album; it’s a transcendent experience that transports listeners to another world. With its haunting melodies, poetic lyrics, and captivating vocals, Florence & The Machine have crafted a masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences years after its release. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Florence Welch, “Lungs” is an album that demands to be heard.

Favorite Song: Dog Days Are Over

#6 Eternal Sunshine by Ariana Grande

Although I appreciate some of Ariana Grande’s songs and acknowledge her remarkable vocal range, I wouldn’t consider myself her biggest fan. However, if there’s one commonality between us, it’s that I share her admiration for Jim Carrey. When a friend suggested I give “Eternal Sunshine” a listen this week, citing its inspiration from the movie “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” in which Carrey stars, I was intrigued, and had to do it.

It’s been an eventful year for Ariana Grande, marked by media scrutiny and celebrity gossip. Amidst controversies and lukewarm reception to her comeback single “Yes, and?”, she’s faced challenges. But, I think it is safe to say that her latest album may have saved face.

Ariana has been silent for long enough, and with her new album, we finally get her version of the story. With her marriage to Dalton Gomez and subsequent separation, as well as the controversies surrounding her relationship with Ethan Slater, Grande lays bare her innermost thoughts and feelings through the lyrical narratives of “Eternal Sunshine.”

One standout track, “Eternal Sunshine,” cleverly references the film of the same name, weaving a narrative of resilience and growth from past relationships. Grande embraces the memories of her ex-partner, reframing them as valuable lessons rather than regrets—a poignant allusion to the film’s themes of memory and redemption.

Like all of her previous work, Ariana’s vocals steal the show, even as she adds a bit of R&B to the usual pop flairs we are used to. However, I would criticize that this album has some lost potential; I wanted it to be more. The singer gives us a bit of her side of the story, but she shies away sometimes, and to be honest, some tracks feel a bit similar.

In conclusion, “Eternal Sunshine” may not represent a drastic departure from Ariana’s previous work, but it offers a glimpse into the artist’s emotional journey and creative evolution. With its blend of introspective ballads and infectious pop anthems, the album resonates as a cohesive and heartfelt expression of Grande’s artistry.

Favorite song: Supernatural (close second: Eternal Sunshine)

#5 We Don’t Trust You by Metro Boomin and Future

This week, I’m venturing into really unfamiliar territory: Rap and Hip-Hop. These two genres aren’t typically in my playlist rotation, but since starting this series, some friends have been suggesting their favorite albums for me to listen to. The whole point of the series is to discover new music and expand my horizons, so it was only fair to give it a try.

To my surprise, I found myself enjoying the album more than expected, despite it not aligning with my usual preferences. And after some research on the backstory of the album, I liked it even more. The rap scene is vast, and catching up on the drama added a new layer of depth to the lyrics, as well as being entertaining in itself.

The most important point I want to address is how great the production is. While I’m not particularly familiar with Metro Boomin, I can openly admit that I’ve been missing out. The opening of “Like That” is something so unique and it scratches my brain in the best way. The rest of the songs are also well thought out, and you can tell Metro is a master of his craft, from the sample he used to the seamless transition, I was impressed.

Another standout point for me is the featured artists on the album, who complement Future’s vocals well. The familiar voice of The Weeknd adds a nice touch, and collaborations with artists like Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, and Rick Ross contribute to the album’s diversity. However, it’s Kendrick Lamar’s performance in “Like That” that truly steals the spotlight.

That said, I do have some critiques. While the album showcases the talents of both artists (especially Metro), I found it to be somewhat repetitive at times. Future’s delivery can feel monotone, and I believe a more concise track list, perhaps with fewer songs, would have enhanced the listening experience. Additionally, some lyrics could have been more varied to fully exploit the album’s potential.

Overall, I appreciate stepping out of my comfort zone with this album. While certain tracks resonated with me more than others, I can’t deny the overall quality of the record; there are objectively no bad songs. The second part of the collaboration between Future and Metro Boomin comes out on the 12th of this month, and you can be sure I’ll be listening 😊

Thanks for this recommendation, and please feel free to recommend me other albums either on here or on Instagram!

Favorite song: Everyday Hustle (the soul sample was a nice touch)

#4 Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? by The Cranberries

To be completely frank I chose this album based on one song that I already liked, “Dreams”, which to be fair is a really great song. And to nobody’s surprise the rest of the album is as good as expected.

The cranberries have such a special atmosphere that has the ability to transport you into this whimsical and ethereal space, where you directly recognize the unmistakable voice of Dolores O’Riordan as well as the unique sound of the Irish rock band.

Throughout the album, The Cranberries seamlessly weave together elements of alternative rock, pop, and traditional Irish music to create a sound that is both timeless and utterly theirs. From the melodies, poignant lyrics, and captivating vocals, it is safe to say I loved this album 🙂

While I believe this is a no skip album, some songs stood out to me more than others. One of the standout tracks, “Linger,” showcases The Cranberries’ ability to blend infectious pop hooks with introspective lyrics. O’Riordan’s perfectly captures the longing and vulnerability at the heart of the song, making it an instant classic that I believe continues to resonate with audiences till today.

Similarly, “Dreams” is a powerful anthem that bursts with energy and optimism. The song’s chorus is impossible to resist, urging listeners to embrace their dreams and seize the moment with unwavering passion. I can’t help but feel hopeful every time I listen to it, I even started listening to it when I’m feeling a bit down to up my mood!

Overall, “Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?” is a stunning debut that solidified The Cranberries’ place in music history. With its unforgettable melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and O’Riordan’s enchanting vocals, this album remains a timeless classic that no doubt continues to captivate listeners and inspire new generations of music lovers.

Favorite song: Dreams (it’s soooooo good)

#3 ANTI by Rihanna

This week, I decided to embrace a touch of modernity (well, okay, the album is from 2016, 8 years ago, but it feels quite recent in comparison to my previous musical explorations). And, of course, what better way to do so than with a bit of Rihanna 🙂

I’ve always been a big fan of Rihanna, but my usual playlists tend to lean towards her more upbeat and pop-infused tracks. So, I thought it was time to delve into a different side of her discography, one that leans a bit more towards R&B and hip-hop, while retaining that unmistakable pop flair.

This album was such a nice discovery! From the mesmerizing vocals to the album’s pacing, it unveiled a new facet of Rihanna that I hadn’t fully explored before. It felt like a musical journey she crafted for herself before the world, and I savored every moment of it.

The vibes resonating throughout the record were nothing short of immaculate. Choosing this week to immerse myself in “ANTI” felt like the perfect time to do so. I needed the power, strength, and overall fierceness that Rihanna exudes in this album. It’s a testament to her versatility and artistry. I believe she is truly one of the best artists of our time.

While the lyrics stand powerfully on their own, it’s Rihanna’s voice, the music, and the seamless production that truly weave these songs into a cohesive masterpiece. The lyrics are powerful in themselves, but it is in my opinion her voice, the music, and the production that tie these songs together.

Undoubtedly, Rihanna will be remembered as one of the truly comprehensive artists of our time. And now, more than ever, I find myself eagerly anticipating new music from her. Though, between motherhood and being a businesswoman, I can’t help but admire the fullness of her plate!

Favorite songs: Love on the Brain (probably my favorite Rihanna song in general to be honest).

#2 Eye in the Sky by The Alan Parsons Projects

At 14, I borrowed Alan Parsons Project’s Best of Album from my dad’s collection of CDs (Okay I may have borrowed it and never gave it back, so technically it is stealing) and I remembered loving the record and the whole vibe of the band. 10 years later, I decided it was time to dig deeper into their music, which is why I chose them as the second album of this series!

What can I say about the Alan Parsons Project that hasn’t already been said; from the production to the music and even the lyrics, “Eye in the Sky” is a wonderful experience.

Even if I expected perfect production from Alan Parson, I was still so pleasantly surprised by the meticulous attention to detail and while listening I made sure to put on my headphones for the full immersive sonic experience.

The themes of the Albums were also what made me like it so much, from lyrics that explore themes of surveillance and the watchful eye of authority (Eye in the Sky) to more personal themes of wanting to be understood (Silence and I) and being aware of our finite time on earth (Old and Wise) the album left me thinking about it long after I finished listening to it.

I think the band’s sound is unique and can clearly be differentiated compared to other music and artists. And it is this recognition and nostalgia that make listening to their music that much more enjoyable and nice.

I’m not sure if The Alan Parsons Project is underappreciated or not, but I am their biggest advocate and would recommend anyone to listen to their music, starting with this album!

Favorite song: Eye in the Sky (I mean… I tried not to be cliche but this song is just so good)

#1 “Pet Sounds” by The Beach Boys

I wanted to start this series strong, and after listening to “Pet Sounds” (1966) I believe I did. This album is the result of one of the music geniuses we don’t talk about enough: Brian Wilson. I could clearly hear Wilson’s genius throughout the whole album, in terms of songwriting, vocal performance, music complexity and arrangements. I was truly amazed by how much different this record is in comparison to other records of the time.

I believe Wilson’s creative vision and willingness to experiment with new techniques and sounds helped to make “Pet Sounds” a groundbreaking and influential album that is still talked about today!

In this masterpiece we can feel the Beach Boys growing up! Their takes on facing the unknown, losing one’s innocence, growing up, and all of the changes these alterations will have in their relationships was deeply unraveled in this record. For me, what struck most from this album was the different feelings I had while listening, I would go from feeling happiness, to melancholy, and even wonder. Another aspect I really liked was that I could relate to some of the lyrics as well, feeling lost as a young adult is a universal experience and I feel like the album put it in good perspective.

I knew many Beach Boys songs before listening to this album , and while I already loved their music and the joyfulness of it, I had a great time listening to “Pet Sounds” and would recommend it tremendously to anyone who still thinks that The Beach Boys are just this band from California who only sing about girls and the beach.

Let me know what you think! Did you listen to this album before?

Favorite song: Wouldn’t it be nice (what can I say it’s popular for a reason :p)