Personal Favorites of 2021

It is my personal opinion that 2021 was a step up from 2020, but the step wasn't super big and there was a lot of slipping and sliding about trying to get back to some sense of "normalcy." What was nice about 2021 was the music - we had a lot of music that was delayed by 2020's quarantine finally make an appearance along with plenty of music that came about naturally during this time. I was a very, very happy musical consumer this year (even though most of my favorite albums were sad in nature), and I'm excited to share what I liked with ya'll from these past twelve months. Here is the traditional list of rules for what to expect from this post:

1. No singles that came out this year just for time’s sake – only full albums and EPs.

2. The songs picked from each album are based on my personal opinions alone. There's no set number for these albums either like there is with a Diva Spotlight, it's just whatever songs grab my attention or punch me in my feelings. I encourage everyone to listen to the full album if you’re interested, because they’re pretty great!

3. I will point out which song is my favorite from each album this year and give honorable mentions to the others that I really enjoyed - this year will NOT contain lyrics because I know it makes these posts even longer.

3. These albums and EPs are in chronological release order, not ordered by my personal preference.

4. I had to listen to and like at least one song off of an album or EP released in 2021 for me to want to write about it, so if an album you loved didn't make it, don't take it personally (i.e. Drake, Lil Nas X, and a handful of others).

Shapeshifter - aeseaes (released 1/16/2021)

-Favorite Song: Chimera (written by a(written by a),

-Honorable Mentions: Carrion Comfort (written by aeseaes), Three Hearts (written by aeseaes), All In Blue (written by aeseaes)

I was introduced to aeseaes (on Twitch as a_couple_streams or ACS) by my husband watching their weekly streams, so I was glad to see their debut album on Apple Music. Travis and Allie are both very talented musicians, and their sound is intriguing and relaxing. Shapeshifter includes 10 songs, runs about 38 minutes in length, and is labeled as an indie rock album by Apple Music.

Move Your Heart EP - Maverick City Music & UPPERROOM (released 1/29/2021)

-Favorite Song: I Thank God ft. Dante Bowe, Aaron Moses, Maryanne J. George, & Chuck Butler (written by A. Moses, C. Butler, D. Bowe, E. Holmes, J. Cline, M. George)

-Honorable Mentions: Rest On Us ft. Brandon Lake & Eniola Abioye (written by B. Lake, E. Smith, H. Parker, J. Jay, R. White, T. Brown), Come and Behold ft. Chandler Moore & Elyssa Smith (written by E. Smith, E. Heideriqui, L. Cortazio, O. Gamboa)

I got to listen to a LOT of Maverick City this year which is always a good time, and they came out of the gate SWINGING in January on this collaboration with UPPERROOM. This EP has incredible energy and is so uplifting and inspiring I couldn't help but love it. Move Your Heart includes 7 songs, runs about 55 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian extended play by Apple Music.

Death by Rock and Roll - The Pretty Reckless (released 2/12/2021)

-Favorite Song: 25 (written by B. Phillips, T. Momsen)

-Honorable Mentions: And So It Went ft. Tom Morello (written by B. Phillips, T. Momsen), My Bones (written by B. Phillips, T. Momsen), Witches Burn (written by B. Phillips, T. Momsen), Turning Gold (written by B. Phillips, T. Momsen)

I've been a casual listener of The Pretty Reckless for a couple of years, and their fourth studio album is admittedly the first album of theirs I've listened to all the way through. I got hooked when I saw the music video for 25 on YouTube, and the rest of the album is just as good and delivers a good rock experience. Death by Rock and Roll includes 12 songs, runs about 50 minutes in length, and is labeled as a hard rock album by Apple Music.

Jubilee - Maverick City Music (released 2/26/2021)

-Favorite Song: God of Israel ft. Naomi Raine & Maryanne J. George (written by A. Jackson, M. George, N. Raine)

-Honorable Mentions: Ruins ft. Joe L. Barnes & Nate Moore (written by B. Cantelon, B. Cowart, D. Leonard, J. Barnes, L. Cortazio, N. Moore), Testify ft. Dante Bowe & Naomi Raine (written by D. Bowe, J. Jay, N. Moore, S. Gretzinger)

Maverick City's second entry on this year's list goes hard in the most awesome way. These worship leaders lead such a raw, honest worship experience that fills my heart to the brim each time I listen to them. Jubilee includes 7 songs, runs about 69 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian album by Apple Music.

NIRATIAS - Chevelle (released 3/5/2021)

-Favorite Song: Sleep the Deep (written by P. Loeffler, S. Loeffler)

-Honorable Mentions: Verruckt (written by P. Loeffler, S. Loeffler), Self Destructor (written by P. Loeffler), Endlessly (written by P. Loeffler)

My husband is a big Chevelle fan, so I gave their ninth studio album a listen and it wasn't half bad. Some of their stuff is a little too hard for my taste, but they're definitely a talented group of guys and the songs that I liked I found I really, really liked. NIRATIAS includes 13 songs, runs about 51 minutes in length, and is labeled as a hard rock album by Apple Music.

Spaceman - Nick Jonas (released 3/12/2021)

-Favorite Song: Spaceman (written by N. Jonas, G. Kurstin, M. McDonald)

-Honorable Mentions: Don't Give Up On Us (written by G. Kurstin, M. McDonald, N. Jonas), 2Drunk (written by G. Kurstin, M. McDonald, N. Jonas), Delicious (written by G. Kurstin, M. McDonald, N. Jonas), Deeper Love (written by G. Kurstin, M. McDonald, N. Jonas)

We unfortunately didn't get a new Jonas Brothers album this year, but Nick Jonas's quarantine project and fourth solo album ended up being really good. The vibe is very chill and the songwriting does a great job of encapsulating many peoples' quarantine experience from start to finish. Spaceman includes 11 songs, runs about 36 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

My Savior - Carrie Underwood (released 3/26/2021)

-Favorite Song: How Great Thou Art (written by C. Boberg, S. Hine)

-Honorable Mentions: Nothing But The Blood Of Jesus (written by R. Lowry), Great Is Thy Faithfulness ft. CeCe Winans (written by D. Yokobian), O How I Love Jesus (written by F. Whitfield), The Old Rugged Cross (written by G. Bernard), Amazing Grace (written by L. Fine, J. Carrell, J. Newton, T. Hahn)

Carrie Underwood's eighth studio album is full of the music her voice is undeniably built for - gospel. You can feel in every note how much Underwood loves this album, and I loved hearing her covers of these classic songs I grew up hearing. My Savior includes 13 songs, runs about 50 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

Fearless (Taylor's Version) - Taylor Swift (released 4/9/2021)

-Favorite Song: That's When (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) ft. Keith Urban [written by B. Warren, B. Warren, T. Swift]

-Honorable Mentions (Original Tracks): Fearless (Taylor's Version) [written by H. Lindsey, L. Rose, T. Swift], Fifteen (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Love Story (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Hey Stephen (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], White Horse (Taylor's Version) [written by L. Rose, T. Swift], You Belong With Me (Taylor's Version) [written by L. Rose, T. Swift], Breathe (Taylor's Version) ft. Colbie Caillat [written by C. Caillat, T. Swift], Tell Me Why (Taylor's Version) [written by L. Rose, T. Swift], You're Not Sorry (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], The Way I Loved You (Taylor's Version) [written by J. Rich, T. Swift], The Best Day (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Jump Then Fall (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Untouchable (Taylor's Version) [written by C. Barlowe, N. Barlowe, T. Swift, T. James], Forever & Always (Piano Version) (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift]

-Honorable Mentions (New Tracks): Today Was A Fairytale (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], You All Over Me (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) ft. Maren Morris [written by S. Carusoe, T. Swift], Mr. Perfectly Fine (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) [written by T. Swift], Don't You (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) [written by T. Swift, T. James]

Taylor's announcement that her first rerecorded album would be of her sophomore album Fearless was incredibly exciting for me because as I've said before, it's one of my favorites of her music still to this day. Hearing her sing these songs as a 31 year old instead of a 19 year old just hits different, and hearing her make more mature vocal choices in her singing is lovely for me to hear as a vocal coach myself. Fearless (Taylor's Version) includes 26 songs, runs about 107 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

The Battle at Garden's Gate - Greta Van Fleet (released 4/16/2021)

-Favorite Song: The Barbarians (written by D. Wagner, J. Kiszka, J. Kiszka)

-Honorable Mentions: Heat Above (written by D. Wagner, J. Kiszka, S. Kiszka), Broken Bells (written by J. Kiszka, J. Kiszka, S. Kiszka, D. Wagner), Tears of Rain (written by D. Wagner, J. Kiszka, J. Kiszka)

I learned about Greta Van Fleet after my brother saw them this year at Austin City Limits, and their sophomore studio album is just as good as promised. I love their sound, and lead singer Josh Kiszka's voice reminds me of a perfect blend of Steve Perry and Axl Rose. The Battle at Garden's Gate includes 12 songs, runs about 64 minutes in length, and is labeled as a rock album by Apple Music.

Old Church Basement - Elevation Worship & Maverick City Music (released 4/30/2021)

-Favorite Song: Before and After ft. Amanda Lindsey Cook (written by A. Cook, J. Ingram, S. Furtick)

-Honorable Mentions: Old Church Basement ft. Dante Bowe (written by B. Lake, C. Moore, D. Bowe, S. Furtick), Jireh ft. Chandler Moore & Naomi Raine (written by C. Moore, C. Brown, N. Raine, S. Furtick), Talking To Jesus ft. Brandon Lake (written by B. Lake, C. Brown, S. Furtick), Mercy ft. Chris Brown (written by C. Brown, D. Bowe, J. Ingram), Build Your Church ft. Naomi Raine & Chris Brown (written by A. Eugene, N. Raine)

So much Maverick City in 2021, now with a collaboration with Elevation Worship which was destined to be amazing from the start. I love both the songs and the lyrical themes on this record; every song feels like a real, relatable experience that any Christ follower could have had at some point in their life. Old Church Basement includes 13 songs and 12 videos, runs about 205 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian album by Apple Music.

The Marfa Tapes - Jack Ingram, Jon Randall, & Miranda Lambert (released 5/7/2021)

-Favorite Song: Geraldene (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert)

-Honorable Mentions: I Don't Like It (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Waxahachie (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Homegrown Tomatoes (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Ghost (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), We'll Always Have the Blues (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Tin Man (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Two-Step Down to Texas (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Anchor (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Tequila Does (written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert), Amazing Grace (West Texas) [written by J. Ingram, J. Randall, M. Lambert]

This collaboration between country stars Jack Ingram, Miranda Lambert, and Jon Randall ended up being a super cool listening experience. Recorded outdoors in Marfa, Texas with two microphones, two acoustic guitars, and three voices, this record gives off a raw feeling that puts you right there around the campfire with these friends. The Marfa Tapes includes 15 songs, runs about 48 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

Vol. 2 - Radio Company (released 5/7/2021)

-Favorite Song: Any Way That You Want Me (written by J. Ackles, S. Carlson)

-Honorable Mentions: Quarter To (written by J. Ackles, S. Carlson), Watching over Me (written by J. Ackles, S. Carlson), Dead to Rights (written by J. Ackles, S. Carlson), City Grown Willow (written by J. Ackles, S. Carlson)

Radio Company's sophomore album didn't wow me in the same way their debut did two years ago, but I still really liked it. Jensen Ackles (yes, Dean Winchester) and Steve Carlson do a great job sharing vocals, and this record overall has a softer edge to it than their first while still maintaining an undeniably rock sound. Vol. 2 includes 9 songs, runs about 35 minutes in length, and is labeled as a rock album by Apple Music.

SOUR - Olivia Rodrigo (released 5/21/2021)

-Favorite Song: favorite crime (written by D. Nigro, O. Rodrigo)

-Honorable Mentions: brutal (written by D. Nigro, O. Rodrigo), traitor (written by D. Nigro, O. Rodrigo), drivers license (written by O. Rodrigo, D. Nigro), 1 step forward, 3 steps back (written by J. Antonoff, O. Rodrigo, T. Swift), deja vu (written by D. Nigro, O. Rodrigo), enough for you (written by O. Rodrigo)

My music students begged me for about 4 months to listen to Rodrigo's debut album before I finally relented, and I'm still so pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed it. She's still very young, and that shows in her lyrical content, but overall this is a really solid record and I'm excited to see how she grows from here. SOUR includes 11 songs, runs about 35 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Scaled and Icy - twenty one pilots (released 5/21/2021)

-Favorite Song: Saturday (written by T. Joseph)

-Honorable Mentions: Good Day (written by T. Joseph), Choker (written by T. Joseph), Never Take It (written by T. Joseph), Formidable (written by T. Joseph)

New twenty one pilots music is always exciting for me, and their sixth studio album has such a different sound from 2018's Trench. It's got a much brighter, poppier vibe to it that's almost like their first album but is still a sound all its own. Scaled and Icy includes 11 songs, runs about 38 minutes in length, and is labeled as an alternative album by Apple Music.

Inside (The Songs) - Bo Burnham (released 6/9/2021)

-Favorite Song: 30 (written by B. Burnham)

-Honorable Mentions: White Woman's Instagram (written by B. Burnham), Bezos I (written by B. Burnham), Sexting (written by B. Burnham), Problematic (written by B. Burnham), Shit (written by B. Burnham), Welcome to the Internet (written by B. Burnham), All Eyes On Me (written by B. Burnham)

Bo Burnham's Emmy-winning fourth Netflix special, filmed during 2020's quarantine with no audience or crew, was one of my favorite things to both watch and listen to in 2021. Burnham is one of my top three comedians, largely because of the music he writes for his acts, and this special was just so real and relatable that I loved every second of it. Inside: The Songs includes 20 songs, runs about 53 minutes in length, and is labeled as a comedy album by Apple Music.

JORDI - Maroon 5 (released 6/11/2021)

-Favorite Song: Echo ft. blackbear (written by A. Levine, H. Walter, J. Torrey, M. Musto, M. Pollack, S. Roman)

-Honorable Mentions: Beautiful Mistakes ft. Megan Thee Stallion (written by A. Levine, A. Goldstein, J. Hindlin, J. Kirkland, M. Musto, M. Pete), Convince Me Otherwise ft. H.E.R. (written by A. Levine, G. Wilson, H. Walter, J. Hindlin, J. Edouard, L. Kloser), Can't Leave You Alone ft. Juice WRLD (written by A. Levine, A. Watt, J. Hindlin, J. Higgins, L. Bell)

Maroon 5's seventh studio album ended up being alright, even though musically I don't think it's anything new to lose your mind over. I did notice after listening that my favorite songs all included collaborators and none of their solo stuff, but it's okay, they just worked with some strong talent on this record and I can appreciate that. JORDI includes 14 songs, runs about 35 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Hymn of Heaven - Phil Wickham (released 6/25/2021)

-Favorite Song: Battle Belongs (written by P. Wickham, B. Johnson)

-Honorable Mentions: House Of the Lord (written by J. Smith, P. Wickham), Where I'm Standing Now ft. Brandon Lake (written by B. Lake, B. Johnson, P. Wickham), His Name Is Jesus (written by B. Lake, B. Johnson, C. Davenport, D. Shahbon, P. Wickham, K. Heiligenthal)

Phil Wickham's eighth studio album is so uplifting, powerful, and overall incredible. Wickham has such a great voice, and the songwriting on this record is something really special. Hymn of Heaven includes 13 songs, runs about 59 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian album by Apple Music.

Pacifico - Surfaces (released 6/25/2021)

-Favorite Song: Time Zones (written by C. Padalecki, F. Frank)

-Honorable Mentions: Hideaway (written by C. Padalecki, C. Hsiang, F. Frank), Yours (written by C. Padalecki, F. Frank), Wave of You (written by C. Padalecki, F. Frank), Let It Ride (written by C. Padalecki, C. Hsiang, F. Frank), Pacifico (written by C. Padalecki, C. Hsiang, F. Frank)

Surfaces was another ACL recommendation for me this year, this time by my mother, so I gave their fourth studio album a shot. This record is incredibly chill, the perfect relaxation album to wind down after a crazy day or to listen to while sitting on a beach or by a pool. Pacifico includes 16 songs, runs about 49 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Sob Rock - John Mayer (released 7/16/2021)

-Favorite Song: New Light (written by J. Mayer, E. Wilson)

-Honorable Mentions: I Guess I Just Feel Like (written by J. Mayer)

I'm to big a Swiftie to like John Mayer too overly much, but a good friend of mine is a big fan of his so I gave his eighth studio album a try. This record is very much the same sound that we're used to from Mayer, but there were a couple of songs I liked. Sob Rock includes 10 songs, runs about 38 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Gold-Diggers Sound - Leon Bridges (released 7/23/2021)

-Favorite Song: Motorbike (written by D. Wilson, E. Frederic, N. Mercereau, P. Strother, T. Bridges)

-Honorable Mentions: Steam (written by A. Katz, A. Boggs, E. Frederic, J. Blackman, J. Tranter, N. Mercereau, T. Bridges, T. Lawrence), Magnolias (written by A. Boggs, E. Frederic, J. Castille, M. Neil, N. Mercereau, S. Wyreman, S. Cheung, T. Bridges), Sho Nuff (written by A. Boggs, A. Jenkins, D. Tashian, E. Frederic, I. Fitchuk, J. Castille, N. Mercereau, S. Wyreman, T. Bridges), Blue Mesas (written by D. Stanfill, E. Frederic, H. Lilly, O. Salas, T. Bridges)

I was introduced to Leon Bridges's music during quarantine last year, so I knew once his third studio album dropped I had to listen to it. I love the vibe of this record - his soulful sound is an incredibly easy listen, and the whole tracklist is great from start to finish. Gold-Diggers Sound includes 11 songs, runs about 37 minutes in length, and is labeled as an R&B/soul album by Apple Music.

Praises, Hymns, And Spiritual Songs, Vol. 1 - Shane & Shane (released 7/23/2021)

-Favorite Song: How Awesome Is Your Love (written by G. Kessenich, S. Barnard)

-Honorable Mentions: Psalm 42 (Loudest Praise) [written by B. Fowler, S. Barnard], Psalm 90 (Satisfy Us with Your Love) [composer unknown], Hallelujah, Christ Will Come Again (written by R. Seay, S. Bernard), Psalm 8 (How Majestic Is Your Name) [written by S. Barnard], Song in the Night (written by A. Westlake, S. Barnard), Psalm 84 (I'm Home) [written by B. Fowler, J. Needham, S. Barnard]

I've been a Shane & Shane fan since I saw them live when I was 13, so this new album was a must listen for me. Like the rest of their Psalms projects, this is an uplifting, beautiful record leaning heavily on straight influences from the Word, and you can't go wrong with that. Praises, Hymns, And Spiritual Songs, Vol. 1 includes 13 songs, runs about 62 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian album by Apple Music.

Happier Than Ever - Billie Eilish (released 7/30/2021)

-Favorite Song: Billie Bossa Nova (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell)

-Honorable Mentions: Getting Older (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell), I Didn't Change My Number (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell), my future (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell), NDA (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell), Therefore I Am (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell), Happier Than Ever (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell), Male Fantasy (written by B. O'Connell, F. O'Connell)

I was so ready for Billie's sophomore album, and thankfully she did not disappoint. It's a very different sound from her debut, but it's still undeniably Billie, and I love that she's showing she's not afraid to try new things musically. Happier Than Ever includes 16 songs, runs about 56 minutes in length, and is labeled as an alternative album by Apple Music.

Reverie - Ben Platt (released 8/13/2021)

-Favorite Song: imagine (written by A. Izquierdo, B. Platt, J. Bellion, J. Johnson, M. Pollack, S. Johnson)

-Honorable Mentions: childhood bedroom (written by B. Platt, J. Michaels, M. Pollock)

I think Ben Platt has an incredible voice, so I wanted to try out his sophomore album. It was pretty good - a few of the songs came off to me a little "big for their britches," but the two that stuck with me I really enjoyed. Reverie includes 13 songs, runs about 40 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Model Citizen - EP - Meet Me @ The Altar (released 8/13/2021)

-Favorite Song: Feel A Thing (written by E. Johnson, T. Campbell)

-Honorable Mentions: Brighter Days (Are Before Us) [written by T. Campbell, A. Juarez, E. Johnson), Never Gonna Change (written by E. Johnson, T. Campbell)

My husband found MMATA at some point this year and shared them with me, and I really, really enjoyed this EP of theirs. An all-female alt/punk rock band is an awesome concept, and vocalist Edith Johnson has a seriously incredible voice that I can't wait to hopefully hear on a full album someday. Model Citizen includes 6 songs, runs about 19 minutes in length, and is labeled as an alternative extended play by Apple Music.

Solar Power - Lorde (released 8/20/2021)

-Favorite Song: Secrets from a Girl (Who's Seen It All) [written by E. Yelich O'Connor, J. Antonoff)

-Honorable Mentions: The Path (written by E. Yelich O'Connor), Solar Power (written by E. Yelich O'Connor, J. Antonoff), Stoned at the Nail Salon (written by E. Yelich O'Connor, J. Antonoff), Dominoes (written by E. Yelich O'Connor, J. Antonoff), Mood Ring (written by J. Antonoff, E. Yelich O'Connor)

The long awaited third Lorde album was both exactly and yet not at all what I expected. Lorde is so good at reinventing her sound on each album while keeping the vibe distinctly her own, and the chillness of this album made it very calming to listen to. Solar Power includes 13 songs, runs about 46 minutes in length, and is labeled as an alternative album by Apple Music.

If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power - Halsey (released 8/27/2021)

-Favorite Song: The Tradition (written by A. Ross, G. Kurstin, A. Frangipane, M. Reznor)

-Honorable Mentions: Bells in Santa Fe (written by A. Frangipane, A. Ross, J. Cunningham, M. Reznor), Lilith (written by A. Ross, A. Frangipane, J. Cunningham, M. Reznor), 1121 (written by A. Ross, A. Frangipane, J. Cunningham, M. Reznor), The Lighthouse (written by A. Frangipane, A. Ross, J. Cunningham, M. Reznor)

As much as I enjoyed Manic last year, Halsey came to play in a whole different genre with her fourth studio album and I was here for it. It has a much grittier, darker, almost rock feel to it as opposed to the more obvious pop sound from her previous record. If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power includes 13 songs, runs about 43 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Wallflowers - Jinjer (released 8/27/2021)

-Favorite Song: Disclosure! (written by E. Abdiukhanov, R. Ibramkhalilov, T. Shmayluk, V. Ulasevich)

-Honorable Mentions: Vortex (written by E. Abdiukhanov, R. Ibramkhalilov, T. Shmayluk, V. Ulasevich), Copycat (written by E. Abdiukhanov, R. Ibramkhalilov, T. Shmayluk, V. Ulasevich), Wallflower (written by E. Abdiukhanov, R. Ibramkhalilov, T. Shmayluk, V. Ulasevich)

Jinjer is one of my husband's favorite bands, so I wanted to try their fourth studio album because he enjoyed it so much. Metalcore is not my favorite genre, but Jinjer's not a bad group to listen to and I think Tatiana Shmayluk is a good vocalist. Wallflowers includes 11 songs, runs about 47 minutes in length, and is labeled as a metal album by Apple Music.

Donda - Kanye West (released 8/29/2021)

-Favorite Song: Hurricane (written by A. Tesfaye, C. Njapa, C. Ruelas, D. Seeff, D. Jones, H. Walter, J. Gwin, J. Mease, K. West, K. Abdul-Rahman, M. Mbogo, M. Williams, M. Dean, R. Cubina, R. Spence, S. Barsh)

-Honorable Mentions: Jail (written by C. Njapa, D. Abernathy, J. Moylett, K. West, M. Williams, M. Dean, R. Cubina, S. Solymar, S. Carter, W. Campbell), Ok Ok (written by D. Charles, K. West, L. Bell, M. Samuels, M. Ryles, M.McCollum, R. East), Moon (written by C. Toliver, E. Mast, J. Gwin, K. West, K. Abdul-Rahman, S. Mescudi), Donda (written by I. De Boni, J. Gwin, K. West, M. Williams, M. Mule, R. Cubina)

I was not going to listen to Kanye's tenth album (like with John Mayer, I love Taylor Swift too much to ever be an actual Kanye supporter) until I was reminded that by writing a music blog I should listen to the big records that come out just to give them a chance, so here we are. I personally feel like Kanye has put out better music - a loyal Kanye fan told me many moments on this album were "glorious" and I just do not agree with that - but there were a few songs on here that I did think were really good. Donda includes 27 songs, runs about 109 minutes in length, and is labeled as a hip hop/rap album by Apple Music.

Mercury - Act 1 - Imagine Dragons (released 9/3/2021)

-Favorite Song: Lonely (written by B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, J. Tranter, M. Larsson, R. Fredriksson, D. Sermon)

-Honorable Mentions: My Life (written by B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, J. Tranter, M. Larsson, R. Fredriksson, D. Sermon), Wrecked (written by B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, D. Sermon), Monday (written by A. Tolman, B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, D. Sermon), It's Ok (written by A. Tolman, B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, D. Sermon), Cutthroat (written by B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, D. Sermon), No Time For Toxic People (written by B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, J. Suwito, D. Sermon)

I know that they have a polarizing effect on people similar to Nickelback, but I like Imagine Dragons and thoroughly enjoyed their fifth studio album. The album message of taking care of yourself fits perfectly with the state of the world over these past two years, and most of the songs are genuine bops. Mercury - Act 1 includes 13 songs, runs about 42 minutes in length, and is labeled as an alternative album by Apple Music.

star-crossed - Kacey Musgraves (released 9/10/2021)

-Favorite Song: justified (written by B. Burton, I. Fitchuk, I. Juber, K. Musgraves)

-Honorable Mentions: star-crossed (written by K. Musgraves, D. Tashian, I. Fitchuk), good wife (written by D. Tashian, I. Fitchuk, K. Musgraves), simple times (written by D. Tashian, I. Fitchuk, K. Musgraves), breadwinner (written by B. Burton, I. Fitchuk, I. Juber, K. Musgraves), hookup scene (written by D. Tashian, I. Fitchuk, K. Musgraves), what doesn't kill me (written by A. Neeley, D. Jones, D. Whitmore, K. Musgraves), there is a light (written by D. Tashian, I. Fitchuk, K. Musgraves), gracias a la vida (written by V. Parra)

The surprise announcement that Kacey was dropping her fourth studio album two weeks after the initial Instagram post made my entire late August, and she hurt me in all the best ways. It's definitely a "divorce" album with a lot of heartbreak, but her songwriting is as good as ever. star-crossed includes 15 songs, runs about 48 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

The Metallica Blacklist - Metallica (released 9/10/2021)

-Favorite Song: Sad But True by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit (written by J. Hetfield, L. Ulrich)

-Honorable Mentions: Enter Sandman by Ghost (written by J. Hetfield, K. Hammett, L. Ulrich), Holier Than Thou by Biffy Clyro (written by J. Hetfield, L. Ulrich), The Unforgiven by Ha-Ash (written by J. Hetfield, K. Hammett, L. Ulrich), Wherever I May Roam by Jon Pardi (written by J. Hetfield, L. Ulrich), Don't Tread On Me by Volbeat (written by J. Hetfield, L. Ulrich), Through the Never by The Hu (written by J. Hetfield, K. Hammett, L. Ulrich), Nothing Else Matters by Phoebe Bridgers (written by J. Hefield, L. Ulrich), Of Wolf and Man by Goodnight, Texas (written by J. Hetfield, K. Hammett, L. Ulrich), The God That Failed by Imelda May (written by J. Hetfield, L. Ulrich), My Friend of Misery by Izia (written by J. Hetfield, J. Newsted, L. Ulrich), The Struggle Within by Rodrigo y Gabriela (written by L. Ulrich, J. Hetfield)

In honor of The Black Album's 30th anniversary, musical acts far and wide came together to cover their favorite songs from Metallica's biggest record. From a Miley Cyrus/YoYo Ma collaboration to Darius Rucker, I had a hard time choosing my favorite entry of each song, but my tops are listed above and I had multiple favorites for a few of them that aren't listed here. The Metallica Blacklist includes 53 songs, runs about 245 minutes in length, and is labeled as a rock album by Apple Music.

Dearly Beloved - Daughtry (released 9/17/2021)

-Favorite Song: Asylum (written by C. Daughtry, J. Cummings, E. Fernandes, S. Stevens, M. Frederiksen)

-Honorable Mentions: Heavy Is The Crown (written by C. Daughtry, E. Fernandes, J. Cummings, M. Frederiksen, S. Stevens), Dearly Beloved (written by C. Daughtry, B. Craddock, M. Holman), Evil (written by C. Daughtry, S. Stevens, M. Frederiksen)

I've been a fan of Chris Daughtry's since his American Idol days, so I try to pay attention when he comes out with new music. This record has a satisfying heavy sound to it that I enjoyed a lot, and Daughtry's vocals are as good as they've ever been. Dearly Beloved includes 13 songs, runs about 50 minutes in length, and is labeled as a rock album by Apple Music.

Homecoming (Live) - Bethel Music (released 9/24/2021)

-Favorite Song: Back To Life ft. Zahriya Zachary (written by B. Fielding, B. Johnson, C. Davenport, P. Wickham, R. Morgan, Z. Zachary)

-Honorable Mentions: Homecoming ft. Cory Asbury & Gabel Price (written by B. Johnson, C. Asbury, G. Price), I Believe ft. Jonathan David Helser & Melissa Helser (written by A. Cook, J. Ingram, J. Helser, M. Helser, S. Gretzinger), Weathered ft. Dante Bowe & The McClures (written by D. Bowe, J. Amundrud, M. Binion, R. Shirley), Send Me ft. Jenn Johnson & Chris Quilala (written by B. Lake, J. Johnson), My King Forever ft. Josh Baldwin (written by B. Johnson, E. Hulse, J. Baldwin), Standing In Miracles ft. Emmy Rose (written by E. Rose, J. Amundrud, S. Reeves), Wherever You Lead ft. Kristene DiMarco (written by D. Smith, E. Hulse, K. DiMarco, M. Wong), Ring and Robe (Welcome Home) ft. Dante Bowe & Naomi Raine (written by A. Chiriboga, B. Benjamin-Korporaal, D. Bowe, J. Amundrud)

Bethel's thirteenth live album definitely lived up to the hype that started when its first single was released. Full of joy and hope and praise, the record is incredible from start to finish. Homecoming (Live) includes 16 songs and 15 videos, runs about 221 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian album by Apple Music.

Love for Sale - Lady Gaga & Tony Bennett (released 10/1/2021)

-Favorite Song: Night And Day (written by C. Porter)

-Honorable Mentions: I've Got You Under My Skin (written by C. Porter), Let's Do It (written by C. Porter)

Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett's second collaborative album was so fun and sweet to listen to. You can just hear in their voices how good of friends these two are, and man oh man was Gaga's voice just built to sing this type of music. Love for Sale includes 12 songs, runs about 44 minutes in length, and is labeled as a jazz album by Apple Music.

Time, Tequila, and Therapy - Old Dominion (released 10/8/2021)

-Favorite Song: Blue Jeans (written by B. Tursi, G. Sprung, M. Ramsey, S. McAnally, T. Rosen, W. Sellers)

-Honorable Mentions: Hawaii (written by B. Tursi, G. Sprung, M. Ramsey, S. McAnally, T. Rosen, W. Sellers), All I Know About Girls (written by B. Tursi, G. Sprung, J. Osborne, M. Ramsey, S. McAnally, T. Rosen, W. Sellers), No Hard Feelings (written by B. Tursi, G. Sprung, M. Ramsey, S. McAnally, T. Rosen, W. Sellers)

Old Dominion is a pretty good group that's come out of this generation of country artists, so I gave their fourth studio album a shot. They have a very fun, laid back quality on this record and the songs would be great to two-step to. Time, Tequila, and Therapy includes 13 songs, runs about 40 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

Optimist - Finneas (released 10/15/2021)

-Favorite Song: Happy Now? (written by F. O'Connell)

-Honorable Mentions: Only a Lifetime (written by F. O'Connell), The 90s (written by F. O'Connell)

Whether you know him as a songwriter/producer or simply as Billie Eilish's big brother, Finneas's debut studio album is definitely worth a listen. He's got a very good voice and is an excellent songwriter, and while a few of the songs were a little too (for lack of a better word) pretentious for me, I was still able to find three that I really enjoyed. Optimist includes 13 songs, runs about 43 minutes in length, and is labeled as an alternative album by Apple Music.

Peso in My Pocket - Toby Keith (released 10/15/2021)

-Favorite Song: Old Me Better (written by J. Parker, K. Moore)

After a six year break from recording, I was interested in Toby's nineteenth studio album but unfortunately I wasn't super impressed. It's just felt like a reworking of all of his tongue-in-cheek, middle-finger-up anthems that he's so famous for, and the album felt a little too short, but I did get a kick out of one of the songs and I'll always have a soft spot in my country music loving heart for him. Peso in My Pocket includes 10 songs, runs about 38 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

The Comeback - Zac Brown Band (released 10/15/2021)

-Favorite Song: Old Love Song (written by B. Simonetti, J. Singleton, L. Combs, Z. Brown)

-Honorable Mentions: Wild Palomino (written by B. Simonetti, J. Singleton, W. Durrette), Same Boat (written by B. Simonetti, J. Singleton, Z. Brown), Fun Having Fun (written by B. Simoneti, K. Habul, K. Thomas, Z. Brown)

Zac Brown's seventh studio album was pretty much exactly what I expected - his same down-to-earth, fun-loving style with great songwriting and Brown's excellent vocals. I really don't know why his return to form bothered me less than Toby Keith's did, except that maybe the songwriting just felt better to me and the album felt less forced, like he made it because he wanted to and not out of obligation. The Comeback includes 15 songs, runs about 54 minutes in length, and is labeled as a country album by Apple Music.

= - Ed Sheeran (released 10/29/2021)

-Favorite Song: Love In Slow Motion (written by E. Sheeran, J. McDaid, N. Hemby)

-Honorable Mentions: Shivers (written by E. Sheeran, J. McDaid, S. McCutcheon, K. Lavelle), Bad Habits (written by E. Sheeran, F. Gibson, J. McDaid)

Ed Sheeran's fourth studio album, pronounced Equals, delivered the same amount of fun as the rest of his music. His albums tend to be a little chaotic to me in the way they're ordered, going from super radio-ready pop to a more acoustic almost soft rock to a power ballad almost on a dime, but he's good at what he does and I like his sound. = includes 14 songs, runs about 48 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Something for Thee Hotties - Megan Thee Stallion (released 10/29/2021)

-Favorite Song: Warning (written by A. Holmes, M. Pete)

This is actually a compilation of YouTube freestyles and previously unreleased material from Megan as a thank you to her fanbase for their love and support of her career. I like Megan when she's featured on projects and wanted to give her solo stuff a try, and while I think she's talented I just don't think this type of hip hop is for me. Something for Thee Hotties includes 21 songs, runs about 45 minutes in length, and is labeled as a hip hop/rap album by Apple Music.

These Same Skies (Live) - Hillsong Worship (released 11/5/2021)

-Favorite Song: Song For His Presence ft. Aodhan King (written by A. King, B. Tan, K. Savage, M. Wagner)

-Honorable Mentions: Resurrender ft. Brooke Ligertwood (written by B. Ligertwood, C. Davenport), Secret Place (written by C. Davenport)

Hillsong's thirty-second album was a little more subdued than I anticipated, but definitely still a great worship album. Focusing on themes like spending time in God's presence and rededicating our lives to him, you definitely shouldn't miss out on this record. These Same Skies (Live) includes 11 songs, runs about 62 minutes in length, and is labeled as a Christian album by Apple Music.

Red (Taylor's Version) - Taylor Swift (released 11/12/2021)

-Favorite Song: I Bet You Think About Me (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) ft. Chris Stapleton [written by L. McKenna, T. Swift]

-Honorable Mentions (Original Tracks): State of Grace (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Red (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Treacherous (Taylor's Version) [written by D. Wilson, T. Swift], I Knew You Were Trouble (Taylor's Version) [written by M. Martin, K. Schuster, T. Swift], All Too Well (Taylor's Version) [written by L. Rose, T. Swift], 22 (Taylor's Version) [written by M. Martin, K. Schuster, T. Swift], I Almost Do (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together (Taylor's Version) [written by M. Martin, K. Schuster, T. Swift], Stay Stay Stay (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], The Last Time (Taylor's Version) ft. Gary Lightbody [written by G. Lightbody, G. Lee, T. Swift], Holy Ground (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Sad Beautiful Tragic (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], The Lucky One (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Everything Has Changed (Taylor's Version) ft. Ed Sheeran [written by E. Sheeran, T. Swift], Starlight (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Begin Again (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift], Come Back...Be Here (Taylor's Version) [written by D. Wilson, T. Swift], Girl At Home (Taylor's Version) [written by T. Swift]

-Honorable Mentions (New Tracks): Ronan (Taylor's Version) [written by M. Thompson, T. Swift], Better Man (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) [written by T. Swift], Nothing New (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) ft. Phoebe Bridgers [written by T. Swift], Babe (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) [written by P. Monahan, T. Swift], Run (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) ft. Ed Sheeran [written by E. Sheeran, T. Swift], All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor's Version) (From The Vault) [written by L. Rose, T. Swift]

Red is a Top 3 Taylor Album for me, so finding out that her second rerecord would be her fourth album full of songwriting gold was an absolute thrill. As amazing as the songs on the original album were when she was 22, their new versions plus the unreleased tracks are unmatched. Red (Taylor's Version) includes 31 songs, runs about 131 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

30 - Adele (released 11/19/2021)

-Favorite Song: Oh My God (written by A. Adkins, G. Kurstin)

-Honorable Mentions: Strangers By Nature (written by A. Adkins, L. Göransson), Easy On Me (written by A. Adkins, G. Kurstin), My Little Love (written by A. Adkins, G. Kurstin), Cry Your Heart Out (written by A. Adkins, G. Kurstin), I Drink Wine (written by A. Adkins, G. Kurstin)

I won't lie, Adele's fourth studio album was definitely my most anticipated release not just of this year, but probably the last two years (since it, you know, got pushed back thanks to COVID). This album is just as powerful as all her other albums but definitely has a heaviness to it, and her heartbreak over the events of her life these last several months just adds a raw realness to it that sets it apart from her other records. 30 includes 12 songs, runs about 58 minutes in length, and is labeled as a pop album by Apple Music.

Arcane League of Legends (Soundtrack from the Animated Series) - Various Artists (released 11/20/2021)

-Favorite Song: Playground by Bea Miller (written by A. Seaver, S. Najand)

-Honorable Mentions: Dirty Little Animals by BONES UK (written by C. Vandenberg, R. Oddie, S. Najand), Enemy by Imagine Dragons ft. J.I.D. (written by B. McKee, D. Reynolds, D. Platzman, D. Route, J. Tranter, M. Larsson, R. Fredriksson, D. Sermon), Guns for Hire by Woodkid (written by A. Seaver), Misfit Toys by Pusha T & Mako (written by A. Seaver, J. Goods, S. Najand, T. Thornton), Dynasties and Dystopia by Denzel Curry, Gizzie & Bren Joy (written by B. Joy, D. Curry, G. Proby), When Everything Went Wrong by Fantastic Negrito (written by X. Dphrepaulezz), What Could Have Been by Sting ft. Ray Chen (written by A. Seaver)

Knowing nothing about League of Legends, I was taken completely aback by how much I loved Arcane. The show was incredible from storyline to voice acting to animation style to, obviously, the soundtrack. Arcane League of Legends includes 11 songs, runs about 37 minutes in length, and is labeled as a soundtrack album by Apple Music.

Keys - Alicia Keys (released 12/10/2021)

-Favorite Song: Daffodils (Originals) (written by A. Keys, M. Williams, N. Hemby)

-Honorable Mentions: Plentiful (Originals) ft. Pusha T (written by A. Keys, D. Grant, G. Nash, K. West, K. Dean), Skydive (Originals) (written by A. Keys, A. Hogan, K. Nix, M. Williams, R. Saadiq), Is It Insane (Originals) (written by A. Keys, A. Hogan, M. Williams), Paper Flowers (Originals) ft. Brandi Carlile (written by A. Keys, B. Carlile), KEYS (written by A. Keys)

I had no idea Alicia Keys was dropping her eighth studio album until the day after she did it. It's broken up onto two discs, disc one (Originals) being more acoustic and disc two (Unlocked) being a lot more technically produced, and I have to say I liked Disc 1 much much more. Keys includes 26 songs, runs about 94 minutes in length, and is labeled as an R&B/soul album by Apple Music.