In 2018, politics hit hard, pop culture clamored and us radio DJs kept our heads afloat. One factor connected it all: music. And in 2018, music was good.

This year’s albums were filled with beautiful storytelling and innovative production, and we celebrated both breakout and veteran stars. When it comes to contemporary language, though, some artists stood out. Here are KCOU’s top ten albums of the year, and here’s to even more music in 2019.

10. Boygenius – boygenius

9. Mitski – Be the Cowboy

8. MGMT – Little Dark Age

7. Janelle Monae – Dirty Computer

6. Beach House – 7

5. Blood Orange – Black Swan

4. Pusha T – DAYTONA

3. U.S Girls – In a Poem Unlimited

2. Saba – CARE FOR ME

1. JPEGMAFIA – Veteran

There were more than ten good artists in 2018, and they definitely deserve credit too. Our playlist includes even more favorites. Happy New Year!

https://open.spotify.com/user/kcou/playlist/38grBSirR35aMZq2WfKkWA?si=UxHCgeZ0QTuPa540xg9ZBw

Compiled by the KCOU music staff

Written by Elena K. Cruz