10. AT.LONG.LAST.A$AP - A$AP ROCKY

A$AP Rocky's At Long Last A$AP holds a special place in my music collection, not just as my favorite A$AP Rocky album, but as his definitive classic. It’s dominated my playlist throughout the years, providing a rich, introspective counterpart to Rocky’s ethos thus far in his career.

This album marked a pivotal shift in Rocky’s career. Moving away from the braggadocios, fashion-forward themes of his earlier works, At Long Last A$AP delves deeper, reflecting on his rise from humble beginnings and the complexities of fame. What sets this album apart is Rocky's hands-on approach to the production. He spent a year learning to make beats, which allowed him to integrate his lyrical vision with the music more seamlessly, making the entire album feel more cohesive and expressive.

Rocky’s involvement in production didn't just enhance the album's sound—it deepened the emotional gravity of his lyrics. He explores themes of personal struggle and success with a newfound maturity, backed by lush, compelling beats that underscore his narratives.

The features on this album are another highlight, with standout verses that complement Rocky's style perfectly. One of my favorite moments is Pimp C’s verse on the album cut “Wavybone”. Rocky's ability to choose collaborators who complement his sound is a testament to his ear for music and his understanding of how different elements come together to create something special.

At Long Last A$AP is underrated, both as a piece of Rocky’s discography and within the hip-hop community at large. It showcases Rocky not just as a rapper with impeccable flow and style, but as an artist capable of deep reflection and impressive musical craftsmanship. This album proves that Rocky's talents extend far beyond his ability to create hits; he can also create coherent, meaningful, and lasting art.

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9. Rodeo - Travis Scott

Travis Scott's debut album Rodeo marks a monumental moment in the 2010s trap scene—it’s the first classic trap album of that decade for me. While some might lean towards Future's DS2 as a contender, and rightfully so, Rodeo stands out for its sheer artistry and innovation in the genre.

Travis didn't just make a trap album; he elevated it into art. The production is a meticulous curation of sounds and producers, blending trap’s raw energy with high fashion and a distinct Southern Texas flair. This album isn't just about heavy beats; it's about setting a mood, painting a vivid, almost psychedelic picture of Travis's world through daunting, drug-laced escapades .

Rodeo showcases Travis's deep appreciation for music, shaped by his experiences working closely with Kanye West and touching up productions like Jay-Z's Magna Carta Holy Grail. These influences are evident as he melds minimalist drums with complex melodies, particularly in tracks where he collaborates with Quavo. The result is an album that's not just trap, but a broader exploration of sound that stretches into epic five to six-minute anthems.

The album also channels a rebellious punk rock energy, especially evident in tracks like "Piss On Your Grave," featuring a raw and intense verse from Kanye West. Travis’s music carries a bold, confrontational tone that's both polarizing and highly engaging.

While Rodeo may be lengthy, it's compelling with very few skips. The album's strength lies in its sonics more than its lyrical depth, which is fitting for Travis's style. He's not about delivering profound lyrical messages; he's about crafting an atmosphere, a vibe that’s distinctly his own.

Travis Scott’s Rodeo is a statement. It’s him showing the world the heights that trap music can reach when infused with creativity, and a bold, unconventional approach. The melodies are infectious, the production is top-notch, and Travis’s unique taste and style shine through, making Rodeo a defining album of its genre.

Will you survive the Rodeo?

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8. House of Balloons - The Weeknd

When The Weeknd dropped House of Balloons in March 2011, he was a mystery. Was he a solo artist, a band, a persona? Nobody knew, but one thing became clear: he had a new vision for R&B. Up until then, R&B had been mostly sweet and romantic, sometimes veering into raunchiness. But House of Balloons was different—it felt like a twisted mix of Paul Thomas Anderson and Darren Aronofsky, blending dark themes with sex, drugs, and nonstop partying.

The sound of this album was unlike anything else at the time. I remember explaining it to an older employee at HMV who was curious about The Weeknd's appeal. I remember telling him, "Imagine if Michael Jackson was a drug addict nymphomaniac.” That's the raw, unfiltered vibe of House of Balloons. The tracks are unconventional, some running over six minutes with strange breaks and expansive instrumental bridges.

What's remarkable about this album, similar to Nas' Illmatic, is its conciseness. The original release, with just eight or nine tracks, cuts right to the chase—no filler. Each song is essential, making House of Balloons a lean, compelling late night listen.

Though the themes might require a certain mood to fully appreciate, there's no denying the album's impact. It's a sonic journey that I recommend everyone take at least once, with an open mind and ready ears. Over the past 15 years, it has proven to be a true gem, shaping and influencing the R&B genre with its unique, dark twist. House of Balloons served as the perfect introduction to the artist we know as The Weeknd.

Listening to this album, trust me, you wanna be high for this.

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7. Graduation - Kanye West

Kanye West's Graduation is a vivid departure from his first two albums. Released at a time when Kanye was soaking up the limelight, Graduation reflects his embrace of stardom and a bold venture into what he dubbed "stadium music." Inspired by live performances from icons like Daft Punk and U2, Kanye aspired to create sounds that could fill arenas, and he undoubtedly succeeded.

The album features my personal favourite Kanye record, "Flashing Lights." This song is just unorthodox for hip hop; its production strays so far from traditional hip-hop. The string/synth section as the intro, the steady kick drum throughout, with lyrics reminiscing about a woman of yesterday, trips to Florida, books from your favourite author, all resonate and hit home on a personal level.

Graduation is grandiose, a celebration of success and the lavish lifestyle that comes with it. Yet, it's also brimming with Kanye's trademark introspective, humour filled lyricism, offering a nuanced look at fame before it completely consumed him. The opening track, "Good Morning," is possibly the best intro Kanye has ever made, paired with a music video filled with nods to Back to the Future, Nike, and more, showcasing his intuition for blending pop culture with music.

Despite the fame and the glitz, Kanye’s focus on the music remains evident throughout Graduation. It’s a testament to his dedication to his craft, resulting in what many argue is his third consecutive classic album—a recognition that spans the most of hip-hop lore.

Graduation isn’t just an album; it's a milestone that marks a significant evolution in Kanye West's artistic journey. With this album he finally graduated from being a “producer-rapper” to Hip Hop royalty.

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6. Thriller - Michael Jackson

When you think of the 80s, it’s impossible not to think of Michael Jackson's Thriller. This album isn't just a collection of songs; it's a cultural phenomenon. I’ve often heard it referred to as many people's favorite Michael Jackson album, and honestly, it's hard to argue against that sentiment. From iconic tracks like "Beat It" to "Billie Jean," Michael Jackson, with the legendary Quincy Jones at the helm, created something extraordinary.

Thriller represents Michael Jackson at the zenith of his creativity. The album isn't just about the music; it’s also about the groundbreaking music videos that accompanied hits like "Thriller" and "Billie Jean," which transformed music television and set a new standard for the industry. This was a perfect storm of talent, timing, and innovation, making Thriller a generational milestone.

To this day, Thriller holds the title of the best-selling album of all time selling 66 Million copies worldwide. It's in a league of its own, with little to no competition close to its record. Michael Jackson didn’t just break Grammy records with this album; he shattered expectations and set new benchmarks for what an album could mean culturally and artistically.

It’s tough to find someone who doesn’t like at least one Michael Jackson song, and Thriller is usually at the heart of their playlists. If humanity ever decided to create a time capsule that encapsulates the pinnacle of cultural achievements, Thriller would undoubtedly be included. This album isn’t just music; it’s a piece of human history.

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5. I Want You - Marvin Gaye

Marvin Gaye's I Want You is one of those albums that really grows on you. The older I get, the more it speaks to me, resonating on a deeper level each time I listen. It's a beautiful album, perfect for sharing with someone special. There’s a purity and romance in Marvin’s voice that makes you feel the love without it ever feeling crude—everything sounds sweet, sincere, and deeply romantic.

What makes this album stand out is Marvin’s mastery over the lush arrangement of instruments and production, which I’d argue is some of the best of his era. As you listen, you can’t help but recognize snippets and samples that have found their way into modern hip-hop, showcasing his profound influence on generations of artists.

This album, hailing from the '70s, still holds a magical appeal today. Despite being born long after its release, I find myself completely captivated by Marvin Gaye and Leon Ware’s musical genius. They had an incredible ability to tap into human emotions, making his music universally accessible and eternally relevant.

I Want You is wonderfully versatile. It’s not just an album for late nights or quiet moments; it fits any part of the day, any mood. While I usually lean towards hip-hop with heavy sub bass, the bright sonics of this album offer a refreshing change.

This isn’t just music; it’s a celebration of love, crafted by a true maestro. Marvin Gaye’s work on this album is not only a gift to his listeners but a masterclass in musical expression. Whether you're looking for something to set a romantic tone or simply enjoy exquisite melodies, I Want You is a must-listen, sure to uplift and inspire. It’s music for the soul.

If you haven’t heard of this album before, there’s a chance you might recognize the cover, designed by Ernie Barnes.

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4. 2001 - Dr. Dre

The Chronic 2001 by Dr. Dre is, without a doubt, the best-produced and best-sounding hip-hop record I've ever experienced. The sonics, the meticulous attention to detail, the mixing—it all comes together in a way that sets the standard for what a hip-hop album SHOULD sound like. Each element in the mix plays its part perfectly, contributing to the audio experience.

Dr. Dre is a true craftsman, obsessively perfecting every detail, and it shows—some times to his detriment though. The influence of top-tier talents like Eminem, whose unhinged lyrics shines on "Forgot About Dre," and Jay-Z, who penned the iconic "Still D.R.E.," speaks volumes about Dre's ability to bring out the best in others while crafting his vision.

Another fascinating aspect about this album is its cinematic quality. Dre's music isn't just something you listen to—it's something you feel. From the sound of a helicopter in the intro of “Big Egos” to the chilling zip of a body bag on “The Watcher”, every detail enriches the narrative at hand. These sounds create a vivid, almost tangible atmosphere that pulls you straight into the middle of Dre's narratives.

The production itself is a tapestry of carefully chosen samples and masterful drum breaks. Dre's ear for music is unparalleled. He knows exactly how to blend these elements to craft tracks that are not only memorable but also defined an era, once again.

Every time I listen to this album, I'm reminded of its timelessness. The layers of sound, the seamless transitions, the explosive verses from Eminem, and Snoop's smooth choruses—everything about it confirms that Dre isn’t just a producer, but a visionary. His intuitive grasp of sound and rhythm has created something truly spectacular, making Chronic 2001 an undeniable album.

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3. Illmatic - NaS

I have to kick this off by stating a simple truth about Nas' Illmatic: this album has ZERO skips. Absolutely none. Nas rhymes in a way that's downright mesmerizing. His penmanship is dense and sharp, painting pictures so vivid you feel like you're right there in Queens Bridge, New York in 90s.

Released in '94, Illmatic was like the Avengers lineup for hip-hop producers at the time. You had heavy hitters like DJ Premier, L.E.S., Q-Tip, Large Professor, and Pete Rock, each bringing their A-game. This was a big deal at the time when most hip-hop albums were usually produced by just one producer. Nas broke the mold, combining multiple top-tier talents to create a rich, diverse sound.

What's incredible about Nas, especially as a young artist, was his attention to detail. His lyrics didn't just rhyme; they told stories. He made you feel the grit and grind of New York through his eyes—a 19-year-old from Queens who turned everyday scenes and conversations into poetry. Whether he's rapping letters to a friend in prison or the characters he meets on the streets, Nas' words make you feel like you're there next to him, experiencing the griminess of '90s New York.

The production on Illmatic is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. The tracks are built on beautifully looped samples and breaks that aren't overly complex—maybe five or six layers deep, if that—but they're exactly enough to keep you hooked, nodding along to the beat. Nas' voice and stories are the real centrepiece, in perfect harmony with the production.

By the time I got around to this album—way after its initial release, it still felt fresh. Nas made it all seem effortless, like he was just having a conversation through his lyrics, but every line was filled with meaning.

Time is Illmatic, keep static like wool fabric.

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2. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West

When I was 17, the release of Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy had me skipping fourth period to grab the album, along with two girls. We stormed HMV (RIP), grabbed the CD, and then I bolted back home, door slammed shut, to immerse myself in what would be the soundtrack to the rest of that year. I pressed play and let the album play out loud on loop, analyzing every beat and lyric in pure solitude.

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy wasn’t just an album; it was a maximalist symphony that stood out even in Kanye's bold discography. There’s allllmost not a single skip here. The production was layered, rich, and meticulous—traits we had seen glimpses of in Late Registration, but nothing to this magnitude.

This is Kanye pouring everything—every headline, every personal and internal problem—into his music. I also can’t help but think that the MTV Awards fiasco with Taylor Swift probably cost him a Grammy nod in 2012 (Album of the year for MBDTF and Watch the Throne).

Kanye used his personal trials as fuel, channeling his experiences into a career defining expression of artistic energy and output. Ironically, the same antics that arguably cost him a nod for Album of the Year at the Grammys also fed into the fervor that made this album resonate so deeply. It was Kanye at his most focused—almost entirely absorbed by his craft, as evidenced not only here but in his work on Watch the Throne, which was released less than a year after MBDTF.

The man is a machine.

This album alone received almost universal and critical acclaim instantly. The rollout was nuts too.

Look into it, I insist.

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1. Blonde - Frank Ocean

Frank Ocean’s Blonde feels like one of those rare albums that only comes around once in a generation. With just a couple of official releases to his name—not counting his breakout mixtape Nostalgia, Ultra—Frank has carved out a space for himself as an enigmatic figure whose mastery over words creates layers upon layers of meaning.

Blonde is a masterclass in minimalism and impact. Every sound, every note feels necessary, potent, and full of intention. As for Frank's lyricism? He doesn’t just write songs; he lets you peek into his life, tying you to the very essence of his experiences with life, love, uncertainty, and excitement. His writing connects on a human level, making you feel every emotion as if it were your own.

What’s interesting about Frank is how his personal interests seep into his music. His affinity for Japanese culture, from cars, aesthetics to fashion and lifestyle, all blend into his work, lending a simplicity and a depth that’s hard to miss. The production on Blonde mirrors this too—simple yet profound. Nothing feels unintentional.

“Nights” stands out as a THE moment on the album, arguably the greatest song he’s ever made. It encapsulates everything Frank Ocean stands for as an artist: deep personal reflection translated into music. This might explain why we don’t get new music from him too often. Creating music this personal isn’t just an act of artistic expression—it’s an emotional excavation, demanding a piece of his soul every time.

Ultimately to me, Frank Ocean is unmatched, standing shoulder to shoulder with legends like Kanye. In the ranks of today’s artists, deciding who leads the pack is tough, but it’s clear Frank is right up there contending for the top.

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