The 50 Best Albums of 2018
2018, you were a piece of work.
From randoms claiming to be the King of R&B and artists bickering with their fanbases to an endless army of trap clones and the most pointless array of beefs imaginable, it seemed like 2018 was about everything EXCEPT the music.
Well, if no one else will do it, allow me to put it all into perspective.
Over the past 12 months, I’ve listened to nearly 150 albums, many of which were reviewed right on this site. While many high-profile releases have been little more than bloated “playlists” or repetitive trap records, there have been a plethora of artists who have pushed boundaries – either by challenging themselves creatively to elevate their art or using the classic sounds of past generations to influence their own.
Don’t let anyone tell you there weren’t any great albums this year. This list will prove them wrong.
Take a look back at the 50 best LPs and EPs to grace our ears this calendar year.
No hype or fake buzz here, only the best of the best.
Honorable mentions:
Queen Naija, Queen Naija
Skyzoo, In Celebration of Us
Bun B, Return of the Trill
Case, Therapy
Bridget Kelly, Reality Bites
50. Christina Aguilera, Liberation
Why yes, THAT Christina Aguilera. While I’d readily admit that Christina still possesses an incredible instrument, I wasn’t a big fan of the creative direction of her more recent projects – to say the least. But Liberation feels much more true to peak era Christina, a mix of pop tracks and some surprisingly strong R&B records that really put her voice to great use. She’s still got plenty of gas left in the tank.
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49. The Internet, Hive Mind
Life on these here Internets is pretty chaotic – loud, brash, manic and unruly. But don’t expect that brand of fury from the LA band of the same name. These guys are the mellow oasis we need in the midst of daily digital mayhem. Hive Mind is the 2018 equivalent to your mom’s Saturday soul records – it doesn’t have the brazen hilarity of the Facebook meme-of-the-week or the immediacy (and abbreviated life span) of the day’s hottest hashtag. Instead, it has quiet staying power, one that gets better with every revisit.
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48. Nas, Nasir
Remember back in 2016 when Nasir Jones and DJ Khaled proclaimed to the world that “Nas Album Done?” Well, I’m willing to bet that this album, one of five, seven-tracked Kanye West-produced efforts, wasn’t what Esco bragged about back then. Instead, we get an album that, while honestly is near the bottom tier of Nas’ legendary catalog, is still a pretty strong listen. The biggest knock against Nas has been his suspect beat selection – that’s not a problem with Ye behind the boards. And Nas’s flow is pretty effortless, bouncing from social justice to stuntin’ in Paris in less than 30 minutes.
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47. Swizz Beatz, Poison
I like Swizz Beatz the producer. I don’t really care for Swizz Beatz the rapper. So when word dropped that we were getting a sophomore follow up from his 2007 debut, I wasn’t moved. But it only took a couple of tracks from Poison to quickly change my mind. Swizz wisely steps aside and lets his array of guest stars – including Nas, Pusha T, Lil Wayne and more – do the heavy lifting. As you’d expect, the production here is a highlight, with nearly all the guests bringing their A-game. Even Young Thug of all people delivers a good song! That alone makes Poison a miracle.
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46. Blood Orange, Negro Swan
Alt-R&B is all but a dirty world in most R&B circles. It’s seen as a soulless, frail, inferior replica of the full-bodied soul sound that captivated generations. And in some cases, the critics aren’t wrong. But there are times when true artistry shines, as it does on Dev Hynes’ fourth Blood Orange project. Negro Swan is as depressing as it is daunting, a blend of minimalistic pop, hip-hop and hints of R&B. The songwriting and themes really make the tracks stick, outshining so many of its more shallow peers. Negro Swan isn’t for everyone but it’s a journey worth traveling.
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45. Styles P, G-Host
This list is filled with a lot of industry veterans who dared to stick to their guns when their contemporaries decided to get too cute and experimental for their own good. G-Host is EXACTLY how a Styles P album should sound – rough, rugged and raw. P has reigned as one of rap’s preeminent lyricists for decades now and he hasn’t lost a step here, rattling off bars with few missteps. Styles is here to give his fans exactly what they want – and what they need.
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44. Tori Kelly, Hiding Place
Don’t you dare talk to me about vocals if you don’t acknowledge the majesty of Tori Kelly. Arguably the best pure voice in the game today, her vocals are absolutely pristine on Hiding Place, a gospel album sprinkled with R&B and jazz influences. It’s a brief, breezy set that doesn’t overstay its welcome but lingers long enough to make a lasting impression.
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43. Peabo Bryson, Stand for Love
Respect the legends. Peabo’s voice has shined on airwaves for more than four decades, and he slid effortlessly into 2018 proving that great music is timeless. Stand for Love is exactly what it should be – a proclamation of romance in its purest form. And speaking of pure, Peabo’s vocals haven’t aged a day, echoing with the power and maturity of one of the game’s stalwarts. Longevity, thy name is Peabo.
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42. Curren$y, Freddie Gibbs and The Alchemist, Fetti
If more albums were as seamless as Currensy, Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist’s Fetti, my job would be so much easier and my DMs wouldn’t look like a fallout zone. In an age of bloated, overhyped playlists masquerading as albums, Fetti is as streamlined as you can get. Alchemist digs in the crates to drum up the darkest, dustiest samples he can find while Gangsta Gibbs and Spitta cut loose. It’s the simplicity that makes this project so endearing.
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41. Raheem DeVaughn, Decade of a Love King
If you need help setting the mood, call on the Love King. Raheem’s brand of sensuality rarely stumbles, and his hot streak continues with this, his sixth solo release. Bursting with baby-makers, Raheem uses his personal instrument in sync with standout production on Decade of a Love King to effectively stimulate your senses. It’s one of his best releases in recent memory, proving the Love King’s in no danger of losing his crown.
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40. Jay Rock, Redemption
As an original member of the “four headed dragon” known as Black Hippy, Jay Rock has often been overshadowed by his more charismatic compatriots. But the TDE member finally has his chance to shine with Redemption, and make the most of it. Rock is usually known for his more gritty efforts, but he doesn’t shy away from mainstream appeal on this release, and when it works, it works. Change is good. And change has given Jay Rock his best album.
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39. Apathy, The Widow’s Son
Some of 2018’s greatest treasures harken back to a bygone era. Now that doesn’t mean that Apathy’s LP is some sort of outdated relic. Quite the opposite – while Jay Z is celebrated for reinventing “grown man rap,” Apathy proves the adults never left the room. The Widow’s Son is filled with boom bap excellence, from A-list producers to thought-provoking bars that show that substance hasn’t gone out of style.
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38. Chloe X Halle, The Kids Are Alright
The Bailey sisters seemingly have a golden ticket to success – they’re backed by Beyonce of all people so it’s no shock that this album often resonates with those old Destiny’s Child vibes. But give them their due – Chloe X Halle are no mere clones. They’re more socially conscious than you’d expect, with their debut fluctuating between fun R&B and thought provoking pop. They’re just getting started and the future is looking pretty bright.
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37. Kanye West & Kid Cudi, Kids See Ghosts
The less said about Kanye’s solo project the better. But he finds a kindred spirit with Kid Cudi, totally redeeming himself with Kids See Ghosts, a revealing project where two troubled artists sign their shackles off. Mental illness and depression have long been a scourge in our society, and Ye and Cudi use their personal battles to deliver a poignant message of empowerment. With great production and solid lyricism (yes, Kanye is actually in a mood to rap this time) Kids See Ghosts is one of the year’s most pleasant surprises.
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36. Jorja Smith, Lost and Found
At just 20 years old, Jorja Smith sings with the insight of a 15-year veteran on Lost & Found, her long-awaited debut. Soulful and jazzy, Jorja eschews the temptation to travel down the trap route to deliver a more mature sound, one that suits her vocals wonderfully. It’s far from a perfect release – the album kinda gets lost in itself near the end – but there’s tons of potential here. We may have a new star on our hands.
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35. Marsha Ambrosius, Nyla
Don’t tell me R&B is dead when Marsha is still out here making music. Her previous albums stand as two of the THE best R&B releases in the past decade. Nyla doesn’t reach the heights of its predecessors, but still thrives on its throwback sound and Marsha’s willingness to diversify her sound. She’s quickly becoming one of the most reliable voices of the genre.
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34. Evidence, Weather or Not
It’s not uncommon for hip-hop vets to lose themselves chasing trends in 2018, so give Dilated Peoples MC Evidence for sticking to the script. Weather or Not is unbridled boom bap, but thanks to his energy, never feels old or outdated. Tracks with longtime ally Alchemist really stand out, proving that Evidence is only getting better with time.
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33. Anna Moore, Cloud Surfing
The most fun part of being a reviewer is stumbling upon an emerging yet incredible new name. In 2018, that name is Anna Moore. Conjuring memories of Aaliyah in her glory days, Moore’s vocals absolutely glide across her EP, buoyed by solid songwriting and great production. If any new artist deserves a spot on your R&B playlist, it’s Anna Moore. Make room ASAP.
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32. Toni Braxton, Sex and Cigarettes
Now who went and pissed Toni Braxton off? The R&B legend has never been one to hold back on her feelings, but Sex & Cigarettes has her as outspoken as ever. Minimalistic production is the order of business for this brief outing, which gives Toni plenty of space to air her grievances. Sure, the melancholy mood might turn off fans expecting a more uptempo affair but these are her truths. And they sound pretty good.
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31. August Greene, August Greene
2018 is truly the year of the collabo. And when word leaked that hip-hop luminary Common would team with A-list producers Robert Glasper and Karriem Riggins, expectations were high. And they were met. The newly christened August Greene delivers the elegant soundscapes and insightful lyrics you’d expect. The jazzy sound might not resonate with all listeners, but there’s lots of wisdom – and wonder – to keep this project afloat.
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30. Anderson .Paak, Oxnard
It’s pretty apparent that Anderson .Paak aimed for Oxnard to be his magnum opus, an extremely ambitious project that vies for that coveted “hip-hop classic” label by marrying satire with biting social commentary over an array of lush production. It gets a little too ambitious at times but when it works, it works very well. The array of production sounds are a huge plus, with soul, hip-hop, funk and R&B all shining in unison. Oxnard is another creative win for Paak – not quite a classic but well worth your investment.
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29. VanJess, Silk Canvas
For Nigerian-American sisters Ivana and Jessica Nwokike, it’s all about synergy, and that’s why their debut is such a standout. Their voices blend together so seamlessly that it sounds like one person – let’s just call her VanJess – is behind the microphone. Silk Canvas is as smooth as its namesake implies, boasting warm harmonies and brimming confidence. If you’ve been worked that this current generation of singers have lost the element of soul, VanJess will prove you wrong. Together.
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28. Mariah Carey, Caution
DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK! Well, actually you can. In recent years, Mariah’s legacy has been noted more for infamy than the incredible heights of her glory years. Ugh, the less about those New Year’s Eve performances, the better. How wrong we were to ever doubt Mimi. Caution is a refreshing return to form, featuring the hearty, breathy vocals that define all her signature hits. Caution is confident, sassy and alluring – this is the Mariah we loved.
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27. Ghostface Killah, The Lost Tapes
If it ain’t broke, why fix it? That’s been the battle cry of the venerable Ghostface Killah, who for the better part of 25 years has consistently delivered the gritty, speaker-rattling wordplay that revolutionized hip-hop in the mid 90s. And while his peers try to keep up with the teens, GFK sticks to his same gritty script. And that’s why we love him. Producer/blogger extraordinaire Big Ghost puts in work behind the boards, giving Ghost a mix of his classic sounds with a few curveballs thrown in. And Pretty Toney himself continues to prove that his intensity is unmatched in the booth.
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26. Jessie J, R.O.S.E.
Breaking your LP into four tiny EPs released over the course of a week might seem like a weird marketing ploy but hey, it’s 2018, and anything that gets people to pay attention to good R&B is fine with me. And when it comes to good R&B in 2018, Jessie J is near the top of the list. Jessie wears her heart on her sleeve on R.O.S.E., drifting from issues with former management to issues with former boyfriends. But the prevailing message is hope, and thanks to the production of DJ Camper, makes for an enthralling listen.
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25. Lupe Fiasco, Drogas Wave
I’ve criticized a lot of albums this year for needless length – Drake, Meek Mill, Jacquees, and a ton more. And even though Lupe’s seventh LP is yet another massive undertaking, somehow it doesn’t collapse under its own weight. Maybe it’s because he has so much to say. Lupe weaves an ambitious tale of slave ships and revolution and people living underwater (it’s a LOT) but the prevailing narrative of bondage and freedom is what really hits home. When Lupe’s focused, he’s one of the best lyricists on the planet, and he really has his game face on here. It’s not an easy listen but it’s necessary.
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24. Styles P and Dave East, Beloved
David Brewster Jr. and David Styles may be MCs from two separate generations, but they’re cut from the same cloth. Each bring their signature brand of gritty authenticity to Beloved, which boasts a surprising amount of chemistry. Dark, gritty storytelling is what drives this one home, with P and Dave playing their mentor/mentee roles well throughout the journey. But make no mistake – neither plays back seat to the other; both more than carry their weight on this one. In a year filled with collabo albums, this one stands among the best.
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23. Snoop Dogg, Bible of Love
Yes, Snoop Dogg dropped a gospel album. And no matter how much your grandma complains about it, Bible of Love is an authentic, powerful spiritual experience. Snoop wisely steps aside on the majority of these tracks, instead serving as master of ceremonies while nearly every gospel great of the past 30 years stops by to get their praise on. The album is definitely a little long in the tooth, but don’t be run off by the runtime – it’s a throwback to classic gospel tracks of old while bridging the gap to a new generation of listeners. This album probably isn’t what you expected, but it’s definitely what we need.
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22. Jericho Jackson, Khrysis & Elzhi Are Jericho Jackson
Seems like every other year when I write these lists, Elzhi is prominently placed and I say the same thing – he’s the best rapper you’ve never heard. His collaboration with producer Khrysis once again has him in rare form, rapping with the confidence of an industry vet (which he is) backed by stellar production (which he has) and embracing a confident swagger (which he deserved). If you love intricate bars that force you revisit them time and again, this album is made for you. Because that’s the quality Elzhi always gives us.
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21. Logic, YSIV
I’ve been notoriously apathetic to the deafening Internet buzz surrounding Logic in recent years. Can he rap? No question. But his bars rarely connected and his attempts at creating music meant to resonate with listeners felt like misfires at best or pandering at worst. But YSIV is the first time Logic really connected with my ear. Featuring fantastic boom-bap production, Logic goes all out, from enlisting industry vets (like the entire – yes ENTIRE –Wu-Tang Clan) to showcasing his storytelling abilities in fine form. Again, sometimes it sounds like he’s trying a little TOO hard to prove his worth, but I appreciate the hunger. He’s forcing you to feel him.
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20. Nipsey Hussle, Victory Lap
Nipsey’s been floating around the West Coast rap scene so long – well over a decade at this point – that it seems weird that Victory Lap is his debut LP. Good things come to those who wait, as Victory Lap is easily Hussle Man’s best work to date. His aggressive, stream-of-consciousness flow gives him a definite edge over his mumbling, lethargic peers. It’s the type of unapologetic bully rap that made his coast a major player in hip-hop decades ago. He’s bringing that ol’ feeling back.
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19. The Carters, Everything Is Love
There’s nothing like being awaken from a Saturday afternoon nap from frantic texts proclaiming BEYONCE AND JAY Z DROPPED A SURPRISE ALBUM YAAAASS MY LIFE. After two solo releases that detailed the ups and downs of their marriage, Everything is Love completely committed to celebrating their union. And while y’all know most trap songs make me itch, their artisty shines through when lesser artists would have coasted on gimmicks. Yeah, I’d much rather hear Beyonce singing than rapping but hey, the Carters are having fun. We’re just along for the ride.
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18. Lloyd, Tru
Consider this Lloyd’s redemption story. Tru, his fifth LP and his first following a seven-year layoff, is the singer’s most revealing and vulnerable album to date. Essentially an extension of his 2016 EP, Lloyd gives us a deep dive into his personal turmoil, all while remaining authentic to the sound that made him a star. No hackneyed trap tracks on this one. Lloyd truly finds himself as an artist when he strips away the facade of the music industry. Which I guess explains his album cover.
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17. Shawn Stockman, Shawn
Yes, you read that right, THAT Shawn Stockman. For decades, we’ve heard rumors about the Boyz II Men standout’s solo LP and this surprise EP gives us a taste of what could be in store. Delicately balancing between modern production and his hallmark, vintage vocals, these five tracks easily prove that Shawn’s still one of the best voices in R&B.
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16. Benny the Butcher, Tana Talk 3
After stealing the show on nearly every other track on Westside Gunn’s Supreme Blientele (more on that later) my interest was piqued for Benny’s own solo project. And he did not disappoint. Benny rattles off quotables like a semi-auto (“I’m nasty, my flow dirtier than Flint water”) over the grittiest of beats. It’s foolish to write Benny off as merely a “guest verse guy,” as he proves he’s more than capable of crafting engaging narratives all on his own. Benny’s been seen as rap’s best kept secret for way too long – stop sleeping.
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15. Tamia, Passion Like Fire
Passion like Fire was arguably the most anticipated R&B release of 2018, thanks to Tamia’s impeccable track record. And she hasn’t let us down yet. Passion Like Fire feels like a love letter to her fanbase. From the power ballads to the sultry singles to the playful odes to love lost and found, it revisits many of the sounds that build her career. No silly gimmicks here, Tamia just does what she does better than most – sing with fiery passion.
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14. Nick Grant, Dreamin’ Out Loud
If you haven’t been able to tell from this list, lyricism is still alive in 2018. And I’m not just talking about the veterans – the young cats are bringing heat too. Nick Grant’s Dreamin’ Out Loud is filled with tremendous insight on family – fatherhood, motherhood and everything between. And of course, he doesn’t shy away from just cutting loose – his stream of consciousness flow is often the highlight of many tracks here. Dreamin’ Out Loud is proof that Grant has a strong career ahead of him.
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13. Westside Gunn, Supreme Blientele
I love 90s boom bap. I love pro wrestling. So it’s no doubt that Westside Gunn’s tribute to both worlds would resonate with me. But it’s Gunn’s charisma that ultimately will win you over. The album’s no-frills street-oriented lyricism is made even sweeter thanks to A-list producers like 9th Wonder, Alchemist and Pete Rock. Westside Gunn’s authentic, gritty delivery is a breath of fresh air in today’s world of repetitive production and overwhelming autotune.
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12. Phonte, No News Is Good News
It’s pretty hard to believe that in a career that spans well over a decade, this is just Phonte’s second solo album. But y’all know I’ve always pushed for quality over quantity. At 33 minutes, No News Is Good News is an air-tight, albeit abbreviated listen but it’s the addictive melodies and vicious punchlines throughout the set that make this a noteworthy listen. Phonte’s quietly become a multi-tool player, able to convey humor, passion and unbridled lyricism at a moment’s notice. Give the man his props.
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11. Vince Staples, FM!
Remember the days when radio ruled our lives? FM!, the third LP from the Compton-born MC, is an ode to the airwaves, effectively recapturing the spirit of those days when the radio was the soundtrack to our summers. At just 22 minutes, it’s a breezy, digestable listen, easily Vince’s best work since his beloved debut Summertime ’06. I wish today’s radio playlists were this consistently good.
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10. K.L.U.B. Monsta, When Gawd Ready
Alabama-bred MCs K.L.U.B. Monsta turned heads a couple of years back with their critically acclaimed release Separate but Equal but they have topped that one with When Gawd Ready, a sobering examination of life in the South. Feeling like the evolution of Goodie Mob’s classic Soul Food, When Gawd Ready blends insightful wordplay and weighty topics with a frank honesty about the world around them. The South still got something to say.
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9. NAO, Saturn
NAO has long been full of promise – her debut For All We Know was a highlight of 2016. But the London singer really comes into her own with her sophomore release, an examination of love with an astrological backdrop. The sparse, airy brand of R&B that’s all the rage today often feels too lightweight, but NAO wisely adds meat on the bone with very strong songwriting and passionate performances. It’s proof that she’s here to stay.
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8. Royce da 5’9, Book of Ryan
Royce has always been one of hip-hop’s greatest treasures, whether y’all want to admit it or not. And in 2018, he’s looking to make you a believer. One of two stellar project this year (we’ll get to the other soon enough), Royce’s deeply personal Book of Ryan is a conceptual win, serving as an audio analysis of his upbringing and the experiences that defined his manhood. And considering that he’s one of the best lyricists on the planet, that story is told in expert fashion.
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7. Saba, Care for Me
Moody, melancholy but absolutely moving, Chicago rapper Saba channels the grief he experienced after the death of his cousin to create his best project yet. While sing-songy raps and murky production is all the rage these days, Saba stands out with intricate storytelling. He is proof that even the greatest pain can create beautiful art.
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6. Royce da 5’9 and DJ Premier, PRhyme 2
Four years ago, when Royce da 5’9 and DJ Premier teamed for PRhyme, it was a noteworthy effort that seemed to get lost amidst a sea of other releases. But with the sequel, the duo of PRhyme are forcing you to pay attention. Thanks to the samples of Philly producer Antman Wonder, the duo really hit their stride, with Royce holding nothing back over Preemo’s pounding production. It’s proof that chemistry is key to making a masterful project.
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5. Black Thought, Streams of Thought Vol. 1
I’ll be honest – I never thought we’d see a solo Black Thought release. Ever. After spending 25 years serving as the mouthpiece for The Roots, there didn’t seem to be a need for Thought to strike out on his own. But I’m so glad he did. The Streams of Thought EP allows him to stretch his legs and do exactly what made him a hip-hop legend – recklessly spit bar after bar after bar. While the brief running time and hookless verses make this feel more like a lyrical exercise than a full-out album, it’s still proof that few can follow Thought when he’s in the booth.
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4. Masta Ace and Marco Polo, A Breukelen Story
I’ve always said every great album tells a great story, and Ace and Polo’s narrative on A Breukelen Story is downright cinematic. Detailing the story of Polo’s journey from Toronto to Brooklyn to becoming the muse for one rap’s true pioneers, the LP features the sharp lyricism and incredible production to bring that story home. Masta Ace also proves that his flow has been dipped in the fountain of youth – his musing on the evolution of rap make for a very poignant listen. I’d say that this was one of the year’s most unexpected hits but, nah, you should always expect excellence from this pair.
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3. Pusha T, Daytona
Kanye West’s summer experiment of seven-track releases had its ups and downs, but the clear winner is Pusha T, who made the most of the abbreviated real estate to give us his best solo project to date. Of course, he doesn’t reinvent the wheel – is the coke rap you’ve come to expect since 2002 – but what pushes this above the rest is his infectious wordplay and those stellar beats, straight from whatever shed Kanye is hiding in in Wyoming. All hail King Push, the crown is his.
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2. Black Thought, Streams of Thought Vol. 2
Vol. 1 was the body blow. Vol. 2 was the knockout. Thought found a formidable partnership with 9th Wonder on the former, but the chemistry he finds with Salaam Remi on the latter is what really takes this project to the next level. The impeccable wordplay is as sound as ever, but Remi’s soundscapes are what seal the deal. In a year where tight, concise rap releases outshined their bloated peers, this is 2018’s brightest gem.
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1. Janelle Monae, Dirty Computer
While the gossip bloggers fixate on Janelle’s sexuality, the rest of us are more interested in the music. And sonically speaking, there’s not one album in 2018 that comes close to this one. Janelle unloads all the tools in her box – from Prince-inspired pop to sultry R&B to even a bit of hip-hop – to give Dirty Computer a fleshed-out, diverse sound. Never one to shy away from controversy, she honestly speaks her truths about society while delivering an audio experience that’s just downright fun. While your fave is caught in the matrix, Janelle proves she’s the one.
What were your favorites of 2018? Share yours below.
You never disappoint with these lists Ed! Definitely have Janelle and now SHawn Stockman in my playlist.
Dope list but I feel like Mick Jenkins, Earthgang, or JID gotta be on there.
No KOD? Invalid list. And Fetti in the 40s? No way.