Kristen's Top 5 Of 2023 So Far
1
Meet Me @ The Altar - Past // Present // Future
Fueled by Ramen
Picture this: You’re re-discovering pop-punk again. Or at least this badass, catchy version that doesn’t care what you think of them and knows exactly who they are. You’re full of emotions, both happy and sad. And yes, these songs are extremely addicting and will get stuck in your head. Listen to this album during your summer roadtrip, when you’re having a shitty day, when you’re dancing in your room alone—through and through, you can’t go wrong here.
2
Boygenius - The Record
Interscope
Picture this: An instant mood booster, summer serotonin. A perfectly harmonized dream of a record. It’s no secret how talented Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, and Lucy Dacus are, but together, their music truly radiates. Hope you brought your shades and sunscreen for this one, you’re gonna need it.
3
Black Belt Eagle Scout - The Land, The Water, The Sky
Saddle Creek
Picture this: A hazy, slightly overcast PNW day. It’s hard for Black Belt Eagle Scout to not scream PNW to me, but given this album was recorded in a converted church in Anacortes, Washington near the Swinomish Reservation where she grew up, you can truly hear the origin roots embedded in these songs. They run wide and deep like the rivers surrounding them, full of life and ethereal transcendence that one often finds naturally in the PNW. For this one, you just need to be outside.
4
Hot Mulligan - Why Would I Watch
Wax Bodega
Picture this: You’re lonely with crippling self-doubt and anxiety, but you still like to have a good time—this record is for you. We all have those days where we just don’t quite feel like ourselves and the self-doubt creeps in, but at the same time we understand it’s weirdly a part of life and we don’t like to take ourselves too seriously. I mean, with song titles about a cock party and John Cena, how could we? You’ll need a kiddy pool, some snacks, and your alcoholic beverage of choice for this one.
5
Real Friends - There’s Nothing Worse Than Too Late
Pure Noise Records
Picture this: A break-up, a bad day, a bummer of a summer—this record has you covered. The album title says it all, truly songs about falling out of love and becoming strangers with someone. We all have regrets, so whether you’re in the midst of a relationship ending or purely reminiscing, this record doesn’t disappoint. Would recommend staying hydrated and a full pint of ice cream for this one.
