“Painted Shut” by Hop Along (Saddle Creek Records)
Frances Quinlan’s fiery, unique voice and frantic, emotive songwriting were the best part of 2015.
“Summertime ‘06” by Vince Staples (Def Jam)
Staples’ dark observations and reflections, buoyed by producers No I.D and Clams Casino, make his debut double-album a masterpiece.
“O.K.” by Eskimeaux (Double Double Whammy)
Gabrielle Smith’s DIY indie-pop and folk songs are as intimate as they are unforgettable.
“Depression Cherry” by Beach House (Sub Pop)
The dream-pop duo goes back to basics showcasing Victoria Legrand’s haunting vocal melodies and signature keyboard drone.
“You’re Better Than This” by Pile (Exploding in Sound)
Boston’s indie-grunge-punk pioneers are in a constant state of captivating flux and innovation.
“Non-Person” by Vacation (Don Giovanni)
A sleeper hit. Perfectly written vintage garage-punk jams that make the most of pop hooks and anthems.
“The Most Lamentable Tragedy” by Titus Andronicus (Merge)
On their mammoth 93-minute punk opera, the blistering 12-song “first act” is itself a far better record than most out there.
“I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside” by Earl Sweatshirt (Tan Cressida/Columbia)
Earl’s brooding, exigent introspections and eccentrically meandering self-produced beats are his most seasoned yet.
“The Things We Do To Find People Who Feel Like Us” by Beach Slang (Polyvinyl)
A mature, sharp-witted, pop-punk narrative from 40-year-old James Alex.
“Ivy Tripp” by Waxahatchee (Merge)
With a bigger palette to work with, Katie Crutchfield’s proves her songwriting is always top 10.
Honorable mentions: “King Push – Darkest Before Dawn: The Prelude” by Pusha T; “Foil Deer” by Speedy Ortiz; “Demo” by G.L.O.S.S.; “New Bermuda” by Deafheaven; “Sprained Ankle” by Julien Baker.