Tyler Childers | Rustin’ in the Rain

Tyler Childers’ Rustin' in the Rain may not feature his most popular tracks like “Feathered Indians” or “Lady May”, but it's a hidden gem that deserves just as much attention. Released in 2023, the album showcases Childers' versatility, blending his signature mix of outlaw country and bluegrass folk. While none of the songs may top his streaming charts, tracks like "In Your Love" and "Phone Calls and Emails" highlight his ability to tell stories that resonate with a wide range of listeners on a humanly personal level. This album proves that Childers isn’t just about the hits—it's an album that rewards a deeper listen. (Sophia Morton)

Adele | 25

Few can deny the power of Adele Adkins' vocals and range. She approaches each song from her soul, and the listener can hear it. Adele titles each of her albums by her age when she wrote them, and the tracks are, fittingly, reflections on what that year of life looked like for her. 25 was released in 2015. It won a GRAMMY for Album Of The Year and includes the well-known tracks "Hello" and "When We Were Young." As you listen to Adele's moving cross-over of R&B and pop you may ponder, who was she saying "Hello" to? (Nicole Caringi)

Josh Groban (Self-titled)

At the young age of 20, Josh Groban exhibits his deep and powerful baritone voice in this self-titled album. The album is full of heartfelt love songs and fervent ballads with orchestral accompaniment that animates the music even more. Two of the album’s songs, “You’re Still You” and “To Where You Are,” became top hits on billboards when the album was released in 2001, and they personally remind me of God and His character. Although much of the album is in either Italian, French, or Spanish, the beauty of each language perfectly expresses the emotion and passion behind the music. So sit back and let yourself be swept away by the musical masterpiece of Josh Groban, his voice will leave you longing for more. (Audrey Gronquist)

The Secret of Us | Gracie Abrams

The Secret of Us is Gracie Abrams's second album, released just this year. It's an indie pop album reflecting on the risks of falling in love with someone, and the heartbreak that can often come when those relationships fail. She has a distinctly breathy, graceful voice which is paired with beautifully raw storytelling. This album includes big hits like "I Love You, I'm Sorry", which is a satisfying tribute to her old song "I miss you, I'm sorry" and also gives a not commonly seen perspective of taking blame for things going wrong in a relationship. (Kailey Hwang)

Just Because | Claire Rosinkranz

I was first introduced to Claire’s music back in 2021 when I visited California for the first time. “Just Because” is her first official album which came out back in October 2023. This album is special to me because when I started listening to her music she only had produced a few singles and now getting to have an entire album of her music is such a gift. The album has a cohesive feel with her distinct voice and production style although each song is unique. I appreciate that each song isn’t too long with there being 13 songs lasting about 36 minutes in total. This album is perfect for driving around the Santa Barbara hills or for a relaxing day on the beach. (Carly Haggard)

Politics of Living | Kodaline

The name “Politics of Living” might seem like a “political” album, but that is not necessarily the case. The Irish rock band, Kodaline, presents an indie pop album that explores the many facets of life. There are upbeat songs about pursuing a passion, having a friend you can rely on, and staying strong in the adversities of life. The album also contains more poignant songs about recognizing the people who have supported you and mourning the passing of a teenage fan who suddenly fell ill at one of Kodaline’s big concerts. Life is said to be a rollercoaster of emotions, so listen to the “Politics of Living” to find encouragement and solace on your rollercoaster. (Audrey Gronquist)

folklore | Taylor Swift

The album folklore, by Taylor Swift, was produced during the COVID pandemic as a sister album to evermore. Unlike most of her albums, Taylor Swift’s writing for this album was mostly fiction based. For example, the tracks “cardigan”, “august”, and “betty” were formed around a fictional love triangle between her teenage characters James, Betty, and the rumored name Augustine. Her poetic and fantastical lyrics make the album sound like a telling of Swift’s own folklore. (Nicole Caringi)

The Stranger | Billy Joel

Prepare yourself to be immersed in the full-body experience that is Billy Joel’s masterpiece; The Stranger. This 1977 record illustrates Joel's talent for bringing together the distinct sounds of pop, rock, and jazz into one unforgettable sound. From the popularized tune of “Vienna” to the thoughtful ballad “Just the Way You Are,” each song piece contributes to the writing of a story. A story sharing of complexity, passion, soul-searching, and humanity. Joel’s lyricism, vocal skill, and piano technique culminate in this truly must-listen album. It would be a disservice to oneself to not spend the life-changing 42 minutes and 34 seconds soaking in this provoking musical work of art. (Sophia Morton)

Everything I Know About Love | Laufey

The album "Everything I Know About Love" was Laufey's first ever album. Her music takes inspiration from classical and jazz artists, and also incorporates honest storytelling that frequently expresses wistful or romantic emotions. Through her thoughtful lyrics, she allows the listener to have a glimpse into her mind. In her technique of combining older jazz influences with more current styles of storytelling, Laufey bridges much older artists with a younger Gen Z audience, and has helped our generation to better appreciate jazz music. (Kailey Hwang)

Fern Hill | John Corigliano (Cleveland Chamber Choir)

Maybe it’s a sign of my age – but this poem about youth, innocence and the passing of time gives me shivers of delight and sadness all at the same time. Take the time to read the poem first, and see what you think of Corigliano’s musical setting. In some places I think it interprets in ways I wouldn’t go, but in other places it amplifies Thomas’ poetry powerfully: childlike joy in the world of marvels we find given to us, yet tinged with sorrow and longing as Time steals it away. – Dr. Gee

22, A Million | Bon Iver

Take a break from the acoustic/folk/unplugged/authentic world and try this one on for size! Justin Vernon’s (Bon Iver) sonically exploratory but strikingly expressive album is nostalgic, haunting, beautiful and perplexing. IMHO don’t worry about following the rather opaque lyrics. Consider how Vernon can turn vocal and sonic manipulations into expressive devices (e.g. the sonic “blips” in 22 (OVER Soon) and the vocal processing of 715 (CREEKS)). - Dr. Gee

Zeal | Kings Kaleidoscope

A challenge to persistent (band leader Chad Gardner would probably say “child-like”) faith in a post-Christian deconstructing world. Besides chewing on the metaphors that Gardner uses to describe to describe a post-Christian context faith journey, consider also the role orchestra instruments play and what they might be coded for (vis a vis your typical alternative rock instruments). Finally, I’d be curious to know how you respond to how Gardner ends the album.

Incidentally, framing this album is Chad Gardner and others both participation in and eventual departure from Mark Driscoll’s Mars Hill church. You can listen to a podcast episode about their band here.

For more background, KK did a nice documentary on the making of the album as well.

-Dr. Gee

The Epic | Kamasi Washington

“A generous canvas” according to its Pitchfork review. Yeah, and a little bit more. Not for the faint of heart!

Take the plunge into this triple album of sonic glory, and drink until you’re satisfied. There’ll be plenty left for your next listen.

– Dr. Gee