Kyle Florence’s ‘Best Of 2013’ In Music

December 16th, 2013

Kyle Florence

When I first sat down earlier in the week and began compiling my favorite albums of 2013, I had grand aspirations. I intended to compose a poignant piece of literature; a perfectly concise, beautifully cultured work of art. Yes, through the power of the written word, I would illustrate the life-altering potential of each of my favorite releases, and readers would be so overwhelmed with emotion that tears of joy would rain down from all directions.

Jump ahead four days, nine pots of coffee, and six annoyingly narcissistic drafts; I had still produced nothing, and I was growing quite irritated with the entire process. It wasn’t that I didn’t have enough to say. In fact, it was quite the opposite. Over the past twelve months, each of these albums had grown far beyond catchy hooks, witty lyrics, and masterful songwriting. In many regards, they were my year. These tracks had become some of my fondest memories, most precious learning experiences, and vibrant reflections of my own personal beliefs. They were my summer nights spent with friends, and the anthem to my ongoing search for purpose. They fueled introspective drives home, an unfortunate amount of all-nighters, and despite consistent playback, never hesitated to hit me with some mad feels upon each and every listen through. How was I possibly expected to convey the deep personal relationship I had built with these musicians and their artwork? Frankly, I wasn’t sure if my writing abilities were up to the challenge.

But then I realized, even if my journalistic prowess fails me, that’s more than alright. Actually, it’s for the better. Because I could sit here and tell you why I think these albums are great, and how they connected with me, and how they’ve influenced my life, but at the end of the day, they will only have as much meaning as you choose to apply to them. What I think doesn’t matter; it’s how you choose to relate these tunes to your own life that will inevitably make them great. You may love some, or you might violently despise them all, but really, isn’t that the best part about music anyway?

So, without further ado, the following are what I consider to be “the top ten albums of 2013.” I suggest you give all of them a listen, and if you like what you hear, support said act religiously.

1.) The Wonder Years – The Greatest Generation