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It’s already the middle of 2023–what?! Time flies so fast when you’re listening to good tunes. We can’t look over the new music that has been released, though. Especially with larger projects from our favorite artists and world tours starting up, the year is looking bright. Here is a breakdown of some of our top albums and EPs over the last 6 months. 

Rachel’s picks

Never Enough – Daniel Caesar

Three years after the release of Case Study 01, Caesar has done it again with an album full of bangers. Never Enough was highly anticipated by fans, including me, as we were aching for new music. Following the release in April, it was an album I’d play for the entirety of the month on my 45-minute train rides. It reminisces on his earlier work, driving that distinctive Caesar combination of sweet vocals and R&B nods in “Valentina” or “Vince Van Gogh.” I can’t wait to hear these tracks live on his upcoming Superpowers World Tour.

Faves: Valentina, Let Me Go, Disillusioned, Superpowers

0.1 flaws and all – wave to earth

wave to earth’s album release at the end of April fought for its spot on my “train playlist.” Their music is a silky combination of nostalgia-embedded melodies and soothing vocals. Starting just a few years ago in 2019, the band’s production is seamless, and the three members flow together so nicely. In songs like “pink” and “homesick,” I am entranced by their soft harmonies and delicate, yet impactful sound.

Faves: pink, love, homesick

When We Were Younger – grentperez

This year, my taste for grentperez’s music has grown expeditiously. His EP is perfectly seasoned with vocal remedies backed by indie-pop vibes. There are layers of flavor that reflect his bubbly, “artsy boy” personality. From groovy songs like “Stuck On You” to cutesy songs like “Us Without Me,” Grant’s EP is like a delectable little package of good times. It’s difficult to pick my favorites from this seven-track EP, it’s just such an easy listen. I highly recommend giving it a go. 

Faves: Us Without Me, Silver Lining, When We Were Younger

Petals To Thorns – d4vd

I love the mix of genres in this nine-track EP. d4vd is experimental with his sound, strengthening his ballad skills in “This Is How It Feels” while showcasing his alternative rock expertise in “Worthless.” The best part about d4vd is that he doesn’t fall into one specific musical genre; he makes music and great music at that. His vocal range is deadly and has gotten him major success, which he undoubtedly deserves. At only 18 years old, d4vd is on the path to many more captivating songs. 

Faves: Sleep Well, Don’t Forget About Me, WORTHLESS

nina’s picks

Honey – Samia

The sophomore record from Nashville-based songwriter Samia, Honey, seems to capture and expand on the intense musical moments introduced in 2020’s The Baby. Produced by Caleb Wright of The Happy Children, Honey came out less than a month into 2023 and immediately set the bar high for what the best albums of 2023 would be. With songs about watching your friends dance to being drunk to painful, gut-wrenching vulnerability, this record captures the confusing and freeing feelings of being in your 20s.

Faves: Honey, Dream Song, Charm You 

This Is Why – Paramore

Coming off of a five-year hiatus, Paramore burst back into the scene in late 2022 with an album announcement and lead single of the same name, This Is Why. The pop punk veterans delivered an impactful punch, with many songs on the album delivering thoughtful social commentary. 

Faves: Figure 8, Thick Skull, Big Man Little Dignity

To Learn – Leith Ross

After the viral success of “We’ll Never Have Sex,” Leith Ross released their long-awaited full-length debut. A soft queer coming-of-age story on the surface, To Learn includes songs about healing, anger, love, and lust. From the sweet upbeat “(You) On My Arm” to the confessional “Guts,” Ross perfectly explores being a young adult in a perfect 12-song package.

Faves: 5am, (You) On My Arm, Too Much Time In My House Alone

the record – boygenius

Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, and Lucy Dacus are no strangers to the indie rock scene, and their first full-length project following 2018’s boygenius seems to take the best part of each artist’s style and combine it into their long-awaited full-length debut. A mix of folk, indie, pop, and rock, the record highlights both the artists in their own right and the magic when they create together. Fan favorite “Cool About It” splits into three verses sung by each respective member, with the three of them coming together in the chorus. Their voices blend so well that it seems like they were always meant to sing together. 

Faves: $20, Cool About It, Leonard Cohan

honorable mentions from the staff-

laura’s favorite

Make sure to check out the playlist on our Spotify compiled of our faves from each project.