Five albums that have been on heavy rotation as I’ve kicked off 2026.
Either/Or — Elliott Smith
Elliott Smith’s 1997 masterpiece. The iconic bathroom mirror cover photo captures the album perfectly — intimate, raw, and unflinching. Tracks like “Between the Bars”, “Angeles”, and “Say Yes” are some of the most beautifully devastating songs ever written.
This album sits at the bridge between his lo-fi early work and the more polished production of XO and Figure 8. It’s the sweet spot.
Manning Fireworks — MJ Lenderman
The Asheville singer-songwriter’s fourth album, released September 2024. MJ Lenderman has been on an incredible run between his solo stuff and his work with Wednesday.
The album is loaded with witty observations and memorable characters. “She’s Leaving You” and “Wristwatch” are standouts. There’s something about his songwriting that makes the mundane feel extraordinary.
Mt. Joy — Mt. Joy
The self-titled debut from the Philadelphia indie rock band. “Silver Lining” and “Astrovan” are the obvious highlights, but the whole album flows beautifully. It’s got that warm, nostalgic Americana sound with enough edge to keep it interesting.
This Is Happening — LCD Soundsystem
James Murphy’s supposed farewell album (before the reunion). “Dance Yrself Clean” is one of the greatest album openers ever — that build and drop never gets old. “All I Want” and “I Can Change” show the emotional depth beneath the dance-punk exterior.
The album captures that specific feeling of getting older while still wanting to dance. Peak LCD.
Ants From Up There — Black Country, New Road
The London band’s second album, released February 2022 just days before lead singer Isaac Wood’s departure. It’s become one of those “what could have been” albums, but it stands on its own as something special.
“Chaos Space Marine”, “Concorde”, and “Basketball Shoes” — particularly that 12-minute closer — are devastating. Chamber pop meets post-rock meets raw emotion.