Honorable Mentions

Deakin – “Sleep Cycle”

This former member of Animal Collective constructs gorgeous soundscapes that blend acoustic guitars with electronics in an extremely interesting manner.

Solange – “A Seat at the Table”

Beyoncé’s younger sister crafts an alternative R&B album that addresses black  womanhood in America.

Bon Iver – “22, A Million”

Bon Iver delivers an experimental and ambitious album that was well worth the wait.

YG – “Still Brazy”

YG shows that gangster rap can still be relevant and interesting in 2016 and delivers the most popular anti-Trump song of the political season.

Kaytranada – “99.9%”

Haitian producer Kaytranada blends house, funk, and rap into a vibrant and upbeat album.

Young Thug – “JEFFREY”

Young Thug proves himself as one of the most interesting and catchy figures in modern hip-hop.

Edward Benner is a News Editor The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.