As a music student and huge lover of music, the Grammys are always on my radar. In the past several years, the Grammys have had their fair share of upsets, with many viewers accusing them of awarding songs for popularity or commercial success over quality. They have also been accused of showing racial bias, often overlooking BIPOC artists in nominations and wins. However, music is subjective by nature, and no winner can be universally accepted as everyone has their preferences.
With the 2023 Grammys airing on February 5th, I wanted to take the time to listen to each of the nominees for Album of the Year. Giving out an award for an album with no specified genre means that the combination of songs and how they interact with each other is as important as the quality of the songs themselves. The best albums are not just a collection of random songs, but a carefully crafted and curated groups of songs that are meant to exist together in the same space.
Obviously, this article is based solely on my own opinions. Some of the things that I look for in a good album include intentional lyrics; musical accompaniment that is still interesting on its own; a thoughtful tracklist that does not cause whiplash between thematic content; and a reasonable playing time to allow for listening in one sitting. Everyone’s criteria will be different when it comes to music, but here is a review of the albums based on some of the elements that I prioritize.
Voyage – ABBA
ABBA has always been known for their distinct sound in terms of production and dance beats, with the lyrics on their new album opting for a more literal storytelling technique over poetic. With decades of experience under the band’s belt, they are able to channel the aspects of life that come with time and experience in their songs, moving past the time for finding a man by midnight or spending a summer traipsing around Europe. Many of these songs sound like they could have been released back in the band’s original heyday.
Would I Listen Again?: Just to some of the songs.
Favourites: “Don’t Shut Me Down”, “No Doubt About It”
30 – Adele
Adele is back, drawing from her divorce she brings a new maturity as well as vulnerability to her songs. This new album has songs that range from her usual belter ballads to more catchy songs with a pop sound. Some of the songs had sprawling verses that seemed to go on forever or minutes-long instrumental interludes. 5 out of 12 tracks were over 6 minutes long, and with most pop hits lasting no longer than 4 minutes in total, I felt a bit of a drag. Not necessarily her best album to me, but nice music to have on and a good tracklist to be played top to bottom.
Would I Listen Again?: Not to the album as a whole, maybe to a few songs.
Favourites: “Strangers by Nature”, “Love Is A Game”
Un Verano Sin Ti – Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny is an immensely popular Latin American rapper, who has been in the Top 2 Spotify most-played artists in the last several years. In this album, he blends hip-hop beats and styles with more traditional Latin and South American sounds. Though I can’t understand his words, the music speaks for itself, and I found it put me in a good mood for the entirety of my listening experience. With a runtime of an hour and 20 minutes, it is a bit too long to fit into just one listening period. I wish that I could have understood the lyrics and the meaning behind each of the songs, but I certainly enjoyed the experience nonetheless.
Would I Listen Again?: Maybe but probably not.
Favourites: “Otra Atardecer”, “Me Fui de Vacaciones”
RENAISSANCE – Beyonce
Queen Bey is back with a new album that is not quite like anything that she has done before. It’s not strictly one genre, many of the songs showcase her songwriting and vocal performing power. The blend of strong music, vocalizations, and themes is honestly jaw-dropping in some moments. The difficulty of the riffs is astounding (see “Plastic on the Sofa”), and her accuracy is truly remarkable. The songs flow seamlessly into one another, and I would sometimes check the tracklist to see that a few songs had gone by without even realizing it. This to me is the mark of a great album, as songs fit so well together, while still somehow being distinct and having their own genres and themes. I have never been a big Beyonce fan but I can definitely see myself listening to this album over and over.
Would I Listen Again?: Yes
Favourites: “Plastic Off The Sofa”, “Virgo’s Groove”
Good Morning Gorgeous (Deluxe) – Mary J Blige
Mary J Blige, one of the biggest and longest-lasting names in RnB, returns after 5 years for her 14th studio album. The songs have great beats, and feature Blige’s distinct and soulful voice, along with the voices with some familiar artists such as Anderson. Paak, Usher, and DJ Khaled among others. This album is full of RnB hits, though I don’t think that it flows like some of the other albums nominated. With some very impressive features, the album feels like a collection of good songs that don’t necessarily mesh well together, they all sound kind of similar and are good individually, but none really stood out to me.
Would I Listen Again?: No
Favourites: “Love Will Never”, “Failing in Love”
In These Silent Days – Brandi Carlile
Brandi Carlile’s album may have been my biggest surprise on this list. I had heard of her influential songwriting but had never really listened to her music before. She blends rock, indie, folk, and country with each song having a unique sound. From the first track, I knew that I was in for a treat, Carlile’s vocals are unreal and vulnerable, and the arrangements supporting her are just wonderful. I think that this album is distinct from the others on this list, and it flows well, with each song having its own sound but overall falling under a similar theme of love, passion, and vulnerability.
Would I Listen Again?: Yes
Favourites: “Right on Time”
Music of the Spheres – Coldplay
Coldplay strikes again with this utterly atmospheric and transcendent album. The individual sounds of each song blend together so well that the album feels like one big song. Some tracks are titled with only emojis and act as musical interludes that bring you from one song to the next. Coldplay features extremely popular artists such as Selena Gomez and BTS, who fit into the texture so well. The arrangements and orchestrations of this album are next level, and it makes me want to see this whole album performed top to bottom in concert. Of all the albums on this list, I think this one is the best overall experience, truly feeling like a 41-minute experience perfect for a hot girl walk.
Would I Listen Again: Yes
Favourites: “Higher Power”, “Biutyful”
Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers – Kendrick Lamar
I am quick to admit that I am not a big rap or hip-hop fan. Kendrick Lamar is considered to be one of the most progressive rappers and hip-hop artists of this generation, having won the Pulitzer Prize for music for his last album, DAMN. This album continues to be a commentary on modern issues, such as racial inequality. I enjoyed the returning motifs throughout this album, as each of the songs felt connected to the one before. The Big Steppers tap dancing throughout the album was an interesting addition as well that brought the album together. His talent as a rapper and creator is undeniable. I commend him for his honesty in his lyrics.
Would I Listen Again?: Probably not
Favourites: “Purple Hearts”, “The Heart Part 5”
Special – Lizzo
Lizzo has risen to fame in the last few years, mostly for how relatable she is and how she doesn’t seem to take herself too seriously. This album is full of songs that pump you up and promote self-love. All of the songs have a positive spin and preach having good friendships among girls, but also a good relationship with yourself. Listening to these songs put me in a good mood instantly and the theme of self-love and self-confidence tie all of the songs together. Truly a girl power kind of album, reminding us that it is more important to love ourselves than to be loved by others.
Would I Listen Again?: Yes
Favourites: “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)”, “Coldplay”
Harry’s House – Harry Styles
I am going to be honest and come out as a One Direction girly, so coming into these reviews Harry had a bit of a leg up. Compared to his previous albums, this one truly had a cohesive pop sound and feel that lasts throughout the entire tracklist. The album transitions from more danceable pop hits to mellow and vulnerable ballads. Harry proves that he can execute different kinds of songs so well, making you jump up and dance and then sit and have a cry. Though the album doesn’t quite have the flow that some of the others do, I think that the songs all give off the same energy and make sense in contrast with each other.
Would I Listen Again?: Yes
Favourites: “Late Night Talking”, “Boyfriends”
Though it took a while to listen to 10 full-length albums, I really enjoyed the experience as I now feel well-informed going into the awards ceremony this year. Overall, my personal favourite albums were In These Silent Days and Music of the Spheres. This was a bit of a surprise to me but I really enjoyed the songs and the albums as a whole. Despite this, my prediction to win is Beyonce’s RENAISSANCE. Tune in Sunday, February 5th to see who takes the trophy!