Top Albums of 2015

2015 has been an exciting year for new music, resulting in an eclectic mix of albums from both new and old artists emerging onto the scene. Here are my own personal top five albums from the previous year.

Drenge - Undertow 

After their immense self titled debut Drenge had a lot to live up to, but as 2 became 3 Undertow released 11 angst filled tracks with an uncompromising sound. Energetic drumming, distorted riffs, dark and melodic lyrics all mixed together in genius songwriting makes this album a perfect masterpiece for any alternative rock/grunge fans. Yet, in the words of 6 Music presenter Shaun Keaveny, "it's not just noise." The band create a tight and clever sound which requires a lot of skill, and impressively manage to pull it off live; the songs on this album take on a whole new level when performed live and it still astounds me the sheer volume those boys make. The album embodies a story throughout as it deals with the different types of love and relationships, alluding to a eerily sinister sound. 

Top 3 Tracks: 

• Running Wild 
• Side By Side 
• Standing In The Cold 

Blur - The Magic Whip 

The much awaited return of the britpop legends, Blur unleashed their bewildering and colourful album The Magic Whip after their 12 year hibernation. In that time Damon Albarn has released his own outstanding Mercury nominated album, been the brains behind the Gorillaz and explored the music of Africa. Yet the band returned with bursts of new inspiration and familiar guitar tones (just listen to the opening track Lonesome Street to hear the undoubtable britpop guitar twangs.) The Magic Whip captures the quintessential Blur sound but in a mature and charming manner while often dealing with diverse topics within the lyrics. Surprisingly ambient at times, this album brings something new with every listen and subsequently featured heavily throughout my year.  

Top 3 Tracks: 

• I Broadcast 
• There Are Too Many Of Us 
• Ong Ong

Nadine Shah - Fast Food

This beautifully intense album stopped me in my tracks. Nadine's cutting edge alto voice resonates over dirty guitar mixes and limber bass lines in a distinctive and chilling manner. The album takes on the challenge of rejection stating that there's no point waiting around for "the one," coupled with the frustration of the tug of love Nadine captures the betrayal felt in a raw and stunning way. Fast Food demands to be recognised, and rightly so as nothing else compares. 

Top 3 Tracks: 

• Fool 
• Stealing Cars 
• Living 

(but listen to all of it, seriously.) 

Slaves - Are You Satisfied? 

Adrenalin filled, fast, furious, punky. I am most definitely satisfied. The duo's second album is overflowing with driving rhythms and poignant messages. By revitalising punk attitude, Slaves have created music with feeling in punchy under three minute songs which are bursting with untamed energy. As their major label debut, Are You Satisfied? Has jolted the likely pair from the sidelines resulting in a much deserved Mercury nomination and sold out tour. The album challenges complacency, sparks inspiration and gets you moving. Arguably the most energetic album of 2015, I have a lot of love for this creation. 

Top 3 Tracks: 

• The Hunter 
• Sockets 
• Sugar Coated Bitter Truth 

Wolf Alice - My Love Is Cool 

Undoubtedly, My Love Is Cool is one of my top five albums of 2015. The perfect Wolf Alice debut with a mix of stunning vocals, smooth bass lines, clever riffs and unexpected licks and tricks to create a captivating and incredible album. Wolf Alice are one of my all time favourite bands and I've done a full breakdown of this masterpiece here. 

Top 3 Tracks: 

• You're A Germ 
• Swallowtail 
• Fluffy 

I've loved each of these albums throughout the year and picking just three songs from each has proved extremely difficult; I would highly recommend listening through each album in its entirety. I'd love to hear what your top albums of 2015 have been in the comments below. 

Laura