2023 Album Roundup: February

If you're looking for some new music to spice up your playlist, you'll be happy to know that February 2023 was a fantastic month for album releases. From pop to rock, from hip hop to alternative, there was something for every taste and mood. In this article, we'll give you more details about our favorite albums of the month, and why you should give them a listen.

RAYE - My 21st Century Blues

RAYE's debut album, My 21st Century Blues, is a must-listen for fans of pop music with a twist. The British singer-songwriter has been making waves in the industry for years, writing hits for other artists like Beyoncé and Rihanna. But in 2023 she finally stepped into the spotlight with her own album, and it's nothing short of amazing. Born out of RAYE’s feeling that she was losing herself in writing impersonal, party-loving dance-pop she blended pop, R&B, soul and jazz in a way that showcased her incredible vocal range and emotional depth. The album explores themes of love, loneliness, identity and empowerment in the modern world, with lyrics that are honest, witty and relatable. My 21st Century Blues is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates good music and powerful vocals. RAYE is a star and this album proves it.

Paramore - This is Why

2023 brought us the glorious return of Paramore, and let me tell you, they're back with a slightly different look—fewer piercings and more bomber jackets—but their music is as awesome as ever. Their sixth studio album, 'This Is Why,' takes them to stunning creative peaks as they tap back into their pop-punk roots. Hayley Williams and the crew pour their personal growth and resilience into this album, resulting in their most joyous and angry work yet.

You've got 12 tracks packed with everything from the righteous fury of 'This Is Why' to the hope-filled anthem 'The News.' Paramore knows how to navigate complex emotions with their signature blend of razor-sharp hooks and raw lyrical catharsis. But here's the exciting part—a newfound sense of freedom allows them to experiment and let their creativity shine. Just listen to the groovy yet glitchy vibes of 'Running Out of Time' or the Blondie-inspired gem 'C'est Comme Ça.'

Hayley Williams is an absolute powerhouse, oozing charisma with every word she sings. The tight rhythms and roaring guitars fuel an exhilarating energy that's perfect for their live shows or even just your next cleaning session montage. And here's the thing—even with their sonic maturity, Paramore stays true to their roots. They know how to craft those addictive melodies that burrow deep into your soul and refuse to let go.

'This Is Why' finds Paramore in a reflective yet recalibrated state. They've harnessed a new stage of personal growth and poured it into their most well-rounded and rousing body of work yet. This album reaffirms their status as masters of cathartic rock, with anthems that are built to empower you. So, don't miss out on this musical treat—they're back and better than ever.

Caroline Polachek - Desire, I Want to Turn Into You 

"Desire, I Want to Turn Into You," is an absolute stunner. It's a perfect showcase of her ability to seamlessly blend intimate lyrics with avant-garde pop experimentation. In her second album, Polachek creates a mesmerizing soundscape that invites you into her unique artistic vision. Her airy vocals float delicately above evocative compositions that morph from sensual pop to glitchy experimentalism. Take a listen to "Billions" and you'll be drawn into its hypnotic spell, discovering new layers with each subsequent listen. Tracks like "Hopedrunk Everlasting" and "Welcome To My Island" cast an irresistible allure, striking a balance between sultry melodies and avant-garde production touches. Polachek exudes a captivating sense of controlled chaos throughout the album, never allowing any one sequence to overstay its welcome. She effortlessly transitions from infectious synth-pop hooks to abrupt shifts into abstract soundscapes, keeping listeners on an unpredictable yet pleasurable edge.Her lyrics also playfully tease and resist easy answers. Polachek intimately sings about physical desires while layering metaphysical questioning underneath, leaving room for interpretation and stoking the listener's imagination. The album constantly evolves both sonically and thematically, rewarding multiple listens with new discoveries.

“Desire, I Want to Turn Into You" is like stepping into Caroline Polachek's dreamscape. Each song is a twisting, turning path, leading you deeper into her strange and beautiful world. It's a journey that demands your full attention, but the reward is pure sonic pleasure.

Gracie Abrams - Good Riddance 

With her beautifully raw debut album ‘Good Riddance’, Gracie Abrams invites you deep into her world of intimacy, angst, and self-discovery and she doesn't hold back. With disarming honesty, Gracie lays bare her most vulnerable thoughts and experiences across the album's 16 tracks.

Her hushed vocal delivery creates this feeling like you're eavesdropping on her deepest secrets. It's like she's letting you in on something incredibly personal. And the acoustic compositions? They're deceptively simple but so powerful. The stripped-back instrumentation allows her profound songwriting to shine brightly. What's incredible about 'Good Riddance' is that it manages to be both universal and uniquely Gracie's own. She tackles subjects that are both joyous and painful, but her infectious melodic sense ensures that the album remains a warm and comforting listening experience from start to finish. It's like a cozy musical hug.

Gracie Abrams is a force to be reckoned with. Her raw emotional truth-telling not only invites reflection but also provides comfort. She's an important new voice in the world of raw singer-songwriter storytelling, and her music feels both timely and timeless. 'Good Riddance' marks the arrival of an artist that you definitely want to keep an eye and ear on. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Marlon Craft - Space 2

"Space 2" might just be an EP, but trust me, more people need to give it a listen. It takes you on a sonic journey filled with introspective lyricism and smooth, jazz-infused beats. Marlon Craft, with his laid-back flow and insightful wordplay, creates these vivid pictures that stick with you long after the music fades. But here's the thing—the production on "Space 2" is the secret weapon. Each track has its own unique soundscape that adds to the whole experience. I'm talking about everything from the melancholic violins on "I Still Don't Cry" to trumpets on "Dear Life" The beats provide the perfect canvas for Craft's lyrical artistry to shine. "I Still Don't Cry" is a standout track, it's a perfect example of Craft's ability to blend vulnerability and strength. The melancholic melody weaves seamlessly with his introspective lyrics about healing and moving forward. It's a real gem. "Space 2" is more than just an EP—it's an invitation to dive deep into introspection and self-discovery. It's a testament to Marlon Craft's artistry and his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. Whether you're a seasoned hip-hop head or just looking for something thought-provoking and soulful, "Space 2" is an exploration that shouldn't be missed.

These are just a few of the February releases that have captured our attention and earned a spot on our regular playlist. I'm excited to hear what other albums were the soundtrack for your year. Share your favorites in the comments below, and continue the conversation.

These are just a few of the February releases that have captured our attention and earned a spot on our regular playlist. I'm excited to hear what other albums were the soundtrack for your year. Share your favorites in the comments below, and continue the conversation.