The debut studio album by the UK-based singer is a candid assemblage of self-confidence and insecurity, both at once.

Ocean’s debut mixtape shook the parameters of R&B music and gave him room to create his subsequent, much-adored records

Melodically beautiful, lyrically poetic, thematically macabre—Phoebe Bridgers’s ghoulish debut LP sees the singer plunge into her psyche with terrorizing calm.

Sawayama’s sophomore album is a suitable soundtrack to unravel inner traumas at a party for one.

There is an overflow of talent and technique on Black Country, New Road’s impeccable sophomore record.

Musgraves’ fourth LP is a hard-to-resist country record with pop aspirations and disco influences—forty-six minutes of unavoidable ear-lending.

Rosalía’s colorful collage of clashing elements works against all odds, thanks to her sensibility as a respectful global curator.

Beyoncé’s sixth LP is a jaw-dropping parade of intrepidity led by an artist serenading her roots, her family, and herself.

On her third LP, Lorde channels a beach vibe while not doing anything ambitious.

Falling in and out of love under the stroboscope and the vibrating booms. That’s what Lorde’s second LP is about.

ANTI’s slyly psychedelic narrative initially divided critics and listeners, but ultimately, the album became the pinnacle of Rihanna’s career.

Jacklin’s third album stands out as her most sonically versatile.

On his debut studio album, Apollo transposes from seriousness into playfulness in seconds.

Zefanya’s euphonious voice is made hostage on an LP plagued by stuffy songwriting.

Gen Z is revamping jazz and blowing life and accessibility into a genre undergoing decreasing exposure.

The sophomore album by the Brooklyn-based artist is introspective but grand on its own terms.

Beyoncé’s seventh album is a celebration of club music and emancipation.