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Top Albums Of 2011

There were a lot of albums that came out this year that made waves – these are a few of the albums released that made an impression on me and are ones that I think you should check out (if you haven’t already)!

These are loosely based on sales numbers and Billboard rankings (though not really) and mostly based on how often I’ve heard these on the radio (and if I’ve yet to get sick of them).

Adele – 21

Yeah, I’ll say it. Adele has pipes. There is no if’s, and’s, or but’s about it. The girl can sing! And for someone so young, she certainly is an old soul who knows how to sing about love, loss and heartbreak.

The album debuted at the top of the Billboard 100, and at it’s peak, was #1 in 24 countries. Worldwide sales have surpassed 13 million copies, and Adele is up for a Grammy for Song and Record of the Year, for “Rolling in the Deep” and 21, respectively.

The confessional-style sophomore album of Adele bears the influence of her extended stay in the United States with a touch of country and hip hop in her song structure and beats, though the bluesy elements that she was known for in her debut album, 19, remain intact. (If you’ve been living under a rock for the past year, take a listen to “Rolling in the Deep” and you’ll hear the blues.)

Adele’s voice is always impressive, and 21 brought both her song writing and composition forward leaps and bounds.

Lady Gaga – Born This Way

Appropriately, many have said that Adele is the “anti-Gaga” in her lack of theatrics and hype. Surprisingly or not, 2011 was a benchmark year for both ladies.

Her second studio album, “Born This Way” runs the gamut from country (You + I) to disco. Gaga’s powerful voice and crazy antics only fuel the fire of whatever train this girl is on. And who knows what she is on – just take a look at one of her videos and ask yourself that question with every scene. And when you actually listen to the lyrics, take it all with a grain of salt – Lady Gaga is an artist with a sense of humor. Laugh a little!

But, all due respect to the artist, Gaga definitely has matured with this album…take a listen sometime! (And not just the singles, either).

Bon Iver – Bon Iver

Yet another second full length album, the self-titled Bon Iver brought this indie-folk band to the forefront of the US charts. It is often described as an “ambitious musical departure” from the band’s debut album.

If you haven’t head of Bon Iver, take a listen to their self-titled and much acclaimed second album. If nothing else, it’s likely to make you sit and listen to the lyrics for a few minutes.

Honorable Mentions

Yes, we’ve heard of Lady Gaga and Adele, but for those of you with more obscure leanings, here are a few other albums of 2011 that you should check out:

Jay-Z + Kanye West – Watch the Throne
Fleet Foxes – Helplessness Blues
Nerves Junior – As Bright as Your Night Light
Panda Bear – Tomboy
The Weekend – House of Balloons
EMA – Past Life Martyred Saints
Beastie Boys – Hot Sauce Committee

Enjoy your lyrical adventure back into 2011!

Megan is a music buff who never has the time to sit down and arrange playlists – and while not everyone should go see Kenny Chesney in concert, it’s always best to stretch and broaden your horizons, whatever your interests are!

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