This article presents the top 10 albums of the week as voted by the music critics of DN, a Swedish newspaper. The list comprises albums released within the past two months and doesn’t necessarily reflect albums reviewed by the newspaper. Each album is briefly described, highlighting its strengths and unique qualities.
Kendrick Lamar’s surprise album ”GNX” holds the top spot, praised for its tight production and consistently high quality. This release from one of the most talked-about rappers of the year has clearly made a strong impression. The Cure’s ”Songs of a Lost World” comes in second, marking an unexpected and powerful return for the band, some 40 years into their career. Critics consider it their strongest work since the iconic ”Disintegration.” 070 Shake’s ”Petrichor” takes the third spot, fulfilling the artist’s previously untapped potential with a playful, experimental, and darkly contemporary sound.
Earning a new entry at number four is Ebban Kcch’s ”Domus (Holmön 2014-2022).” This album offers an original and charming take on life working in a grocery store, as seen through the eyes of Swedish artist Jorik Otterbjörk. Tyler, the Creator’s ”Chromakopia” stays strong at number five, navigating themes of boasting, paranoia, and self-doubt through a varied soundscape that ranges from smooth soul-funk to edgy electronica. Charli XCX’s ”Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat” climbs to number six, elevating the remix album to new heights with star-studded collaborations and extensive reworkings.
Mulatu Astatke and the Hoodna Orchestra’s ”Tension” holds the seventh position, a delightful collaboration between the giant of Ethiopian jazz and an Israeli orchestra specializing in Afrofunk. Klara Goliger’s ”Piano Hymns” drops to number eight, but continues to impress with its blend of piano hymns, jazz influences, and sunny, sixties-inspired pop. Critics draw comparisons to Joni Mitchell and Björk, while also acknowledging Goliger’s unique artistic voice. Thåström’s ”Somliga av oss” remains at number nine, showcasing the artist’s ongoing creative energy and evolution in both music and lyrics.
Rounding out the top ten is Erik Lundin’s ”Alla va nån innan dom blev nån,” a new entry marking the artist’s return after a five-year hiatus. Lundin continues to deliver sharply accurate portrayals of contemporary life, solidifying his reputation as a keen social observer. The list provides a snapshot of the current musical landscape, highlighting diverse genres ranging from hip-hop and rock to pop and jazz, with established artists alongside rising stars making their mark.
The DN music critics’ top 10 list serves as a valuable resource for music enthusiasts, offering insights into the most captivating albums of recent weeks. The concise descriptions accompanying each entry provide a glimpse into each album’s distinct character, enabling readers to explore the diverse sounds and artistic visions represented. The inclusion of both established and emerging artists reflects the dynamism of the music scene, where established names continue to innovate while newcomers carve their own unique paths.
The list demonstrates a clear appreciation for both artistic innovation and the enduring power of established musical traditions. Kendrick Lamar’s experimental hip-hop sits comfortably alongside The Cure’s veteran rock, showcasing the breadth of talent celebrated by the critics. Similarly, the inclusion of genres from across the globe, including Ethiopian jazz and Swedish hip-hop, highlights a global perspective on musical excellence.
The ranking also acknowledges the impact of remix culture, with Charli XCX’s album receiving recognition for its innovative approach to reworking existing material. This signifies a growing acceptance of remixes as a legitimate form of artistic expression, further blurring the lines between original creation and reinterpretation. The blend of introspective and socially conscious themes explored by artists like Tyler, the Creator and Erik Lundin underscores the power of music to reflect and comment on the complexities of human experience.
The presence of both familiar names like The Cure and Thåström, and relative newcomers like Ebban Kcch and Klara Goliger, speaks to a dynamic interplay between established artistry and emerging talent. The list underscores the power of music to transcend boundaries, both geographical and stylistic, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and perspectives.
The selections made by the DN critics suggest a deep appreciation for artists who push creative boundaries, while also acknowledging the enduring appeal of artists who continue to refine their craft within established genres. The inclusion of artists like Kendrick Lamar, known for his experimental approach to hip-hop, and The Cure, who continue to evolve their sound decades into their career, highlights a respect for both innovation and longevity.
The diversity of genres represented in the list, including hip-hop, rock, pop, jazz, and electronic music, points to a broad and inclusive approach to musical appreciation. This eclectic mix underscores the idea that musical excellence can be found across a wide range of styles and traditions. The top 10 list serves as a testament to the enduring power of music to captivate, challenge, and inspire. It provides a valuable guide for music lovers seeking to explore new sounds and discover artists who are pushing the boundaries of creative expression.
