This was a strange year, in the sense that without even planning it I ended up listening to more new releases than any past year. I think it was a subconscious thing, being in the middle of a "oh yeah I'll just build my own house and it will go perfectly with no hiccups whatsoever" type of situation. I was looking for something new and perfect to replace the new home which has yet to arrive. Luckily all this listening paid off as there were some really excellent albums this year. It started off slowly, only for some of the best output to come out towards the end. Killer climax, man.
This year I have not put together a playlist, but instead included a song or video for each review as a taste for the rest. And even though these are numbered as you can see, they are not in any order whatsoever. Except for #1 - that one truly rises above all else this year.
ALBUMS OF THE YEAR
2019
11
Keepsake
HATCHIE
If there was ever going to be a poster girl of "dream pop" music, it would be Australia's Harriette Pilbeam. Her sugary, shoegaze pop confections, so brilliantly displayed on her 2018 debut EP, 'Sugar & Spice,' continues on this, her debut album. Her knack for melodies, harmonies, all drowned in this sweetness and light, while still packing a punch when it needs it, makes this a rewarding listen again and again. Like all great records, this one took a while to reveal itself, after her first flawless EP, as the gorgeous high school crush wrapped up into a beautiful little album that it is. Sink your teeth into this sucker and you're bound to get a few cavities. HA!
Tracklist
Not That Kind
Without A Blush
Her Own Heart
Obsessed
Unwanted Guest
Secret
Kiss The Stars
Stay With Me
When I Get Out
Keep
Label
Double Double Whammy
Released
21 June 2019
Running time
45:16