Reader's Choice: The Top 17 Albums of 2017 So Far
The people have spoken.
As if it were a calculated and concerted rebuke, 2017 has matched the hot air of president 45 with a torrent of new sounds, ranging from the overtly political to the explicitly (or conveniently) not that. Releases have taken on many shapes and forms; a 22-track "playlist," a 6-cut song series and other more conventionally sculpted and diseminated projects. But who'da thought six months into 2017 we'd already be looking at some of 2017's best outings?
But who'da thought six months into 2017 we'd already be looking at some of year's best outings? With over 120 releases from marquee names and buzzing brands alike, 2017 showed up to give us many somethings to score the global mental health crisis incited by perpetual presidential disappointment, starting on Day 1. And maybe that's giving 45 too much credit. Maybe we would have heard just as many stellar sounds under another regime. Maybe this, like the very seat he holds, is an unearned crown. Nonetheless, here we are with more new music than free time in the day to actually absorb it. Which is why we've enlisted you, dear readers, to help us take on the blissful burden of wading through the torrent of heat that's flooded our ears and hearts in 2017.
After seven long days of voting in our Reader's Poll, and nearly 1,000 ballots submitted, the numbers are in and the people have spoken. And this time around, your votes really do count. So without further adieu, we present to you the only poll conducted for the people, by the people. Here are the best albums of 2017, according to you. We'll see if the count holds up.
Reader’s Choice – Best Albums of 2017 So Far:
1. Kendrick Lamar - DAMN. - 405
2. Thundercat - Drunk - 252
3. Sampha - Process - 182
4. Jonwayne - Rap Album Two -176
5. Joey Badass - AABA -173
6. SZA - CTRL -165
7. Oddisee - The Iceberg -123
8. Syd - Fin -113
9. Steve Lacy - Steve Lacy’s Demos-85
10. GoldLink - At What Cost - 84
11. Freddie Gibbs - You Only Live 2wice - 83
12. Karriem Riggins - Headnod Suite - 81
13. Mac DeMarco - This Old Dog - 79
14. BROCKHAMPTON - SATURATION - 77
15. Gabriel Garzon-Montano - Jardin - 75
16. Drake - More Life - 71
17. Gorillaz - Humanz - 65
