The 2010s are the first decade in which streaming has become the primary way listeners consume music, making it more accessible than ever.
But with accessibility comes difficulties for artists who are not well known to the masses, and as the decade comes to a close, it is essential to highlight some hidden gems of the era.
Not every album sells half a million copies in its first week like those of Drake or Taylor Swift.
But some very well crafted albums have a hard time attracting an audience and as a result are either ignored or forgotten by the public. So here are three of the most underrated albums of the 2010s you need to know about.
99.9% by Kaytranada (2016)
If this album proved anything, it was that Canadian producer Kaytranada could blend many genres to make them his own. Kaytranada’s style never seemed derivative like most house artists, and it showed on this project.
Considering his Candian and Hiatian upbringing, he implemented his diverse musical taste to perfection.
Recruiting r&b, hip-hop, electronic, pop, and house artists to help bring his vision to life. The tracks are smooth but multilayered with mesmerizing percussion and intricate sampling techniques.
All the featured artists contribute to Kaytranada’s eclectic dimension without straying from its purpose- getting people to experience the vibrations of his music.
Passion, Pain & Demon Slayin’ by Kid Cudi (2016)
PP&DS was released shortly after Kid Cudi was released from rehab due to having suicidal urges.
At the time of its release, Cudi’s popularity waned dramatically. It had been six years since Cudi released a favorable project among critics and fans. After its release, PP&DS was seen by many as a return to form for Cudi.
The project saw the flashes of the old Cudi fans loved and a new Cudi fans were excited for. The production had an idiosyncratic aesthetic as it was comprised by an array of instruments and sounds.
But in terms of performance, Kid Cudi lyrics sounded more focused than ever before.
His imperfect singing and hums captured the dread and anguish he was going through. Along with having a sense of hope for his future.
Preacher’s Son by YGTUT(2015)
YGTUT’s debut effort was a testimony of a man trying to find himself.
The album cover itself can be perceived as a paradox – a preacher’s son smoking a blunt in addition to having a plethora of face tattoos.
TUT addresses the systemic issues plaguing his hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, without sounding preachy or self-righteous.
He is caught in the middle between being a product of his environment, while having the preacher’s son label bestowed upon him.
TUT’s insightful lyrics give you a balance of street awareness mixed with emotional honesty.
by Kendall Davis
CougarBuzz 