“Sunbather” is one of the year’s definitive masterpieces, a work that brings together shoegaze, metal and post-rock to produce a record that’s truly epic in scope. It’s both a richly textured mood piece and a coming out party for the talented Chicago rapper. The record is meticulously packaged and composed, featuring some of the best line deliveries you’ll hear on any hip-hop record this year. However, Chance the Rapper is barely out of high school he’s got more than enough time to “make it big.” This shows him well on his way. It’s a bold step into the next generation of R&B.Ĭhance the Rapper’s second mixtape was released to deafening acclaim from critics, although it wasn’t quite the crossover success many expected. Knowles’ recent “Losing You” and Sky Ferreira’s “Everything Is Embarrassing,” and Cupid Deluxe continues to explore that palette in intoxicating ways. Tracks like “Chamakay” blend Hynes’ indie Prince vibe with a more expansive funk and jazz sound reminiscent of The Weeknd and Solange. The second release from Dev Hynes, Cupid Deluxe shows the artist in transition to a bigger sound than on previous records. If you’re trying to catch up on your listening before the end of the year, here are 13 albums that deserve some more attention. This included critical favorites and indie debuts from bands trying to make a name for themselves in a crowded marketplace. So many good albums debuted that far too many got lost in the shuffle.

Between the Daft Punk renaissance and a summer dominated by Disclosure and Yeezus, 2013 was a strong year for music.

Haim days are gone underrated album