Chicago hardcore band Buggin released their debut LP Concrete Cowboys on Flatspot Records this year, and it’s one of the year’s best records of its kind. We were wondering what their favorite records of this year were, and vocalist Bryanna Bennett made us a list that includes Hotline TNT, Amaarae, Mitski, Kelela, MIKE, the Collateral demo, and more, with commentary on each pick. Read on for what they had to say.
Buggin have a couple shows coming up: a hometown gig in Chicago on 1/18 and Disturbin’ The Peace in Baltimore shortly after that.
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Bryanna Bennett’s 10 Favorite Albums of 2023
Cartwheel by Hotline TNT
My favorite release of the year and I can’t stop going back to it. I think I’ve listened to it at least once a day since it’s come out. Every track is a masterpiece which makes it hard to choose just a couple of favorites.
Fav Tracks: Protocol, Beauty Filter, I Know You, BMX
Fountain Baby by Amaarae
This one is such fun and sexy music I can’t help but dance to every time I hear it. It’s an incredible sophomore followup to The Angel You Don’t Know with equally as many, if not more, bangers on it. I love all of the production on this one so much.
Fav Tracks: Counterfeit, Reckless & Sweet, and Princess Going Digital
The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We by Mitski
I used to avoid listening to Mitski because the music is pretty sad, but I think there’s something really beautiful and important in sitting with your sadness. There are some really powerful lyrics throughout the album that have allowed me to appreciate sitting with mine.
fav tracks: I’m Your Man, I Don’t Like My Mind, My Love Is Mine All Mine, Heaven
Demo by Collateral
A perfect hardcore release that’s short and sweet just how I like it and encompasses all of my favorite elements of hc.
Fav Tracks: The Act, Dead Wrong
Spirit World Tour by Sword II
I feel like I’m mad late to getting hip to this band, but better late than never. shoutout to trav and certain. I’m very excited to see them get their flowers.
Fav Tracks: First Rule of the Bug, Mirror, 9-12
Raven by Kelela
A super long awaited release for me. It feels like she picked up right where she left off with Take Me Apart six years later. It’s sensual and thought provoking and I feel blessed to live in a world where Kelela still makes music.
Fav Tracks: On the Run, Closure, Bruises
Jonny by The Drums
This album is so raw and gorgeous the way it explores such painful subject matter. It feels like an intimate experience to listen to someone bare their soul in such a tender way.
Fav Tracks: Teach My Body, Dying
Discography by Result of Choice
I’m not sure if this one really counts since it’s a reissue of their older stuff with a couple new ones, but I think this band is one of the more important modern hardcore bands and forever one of my favorites. I will definitely miss them!
Fav Tracks: Result of Choice, Digital Age, and Greenwashed
Infinity Signature by Full Body 2
Everything about this is so ethereal and massive sounding it makes me feel like I’m in a celestial forest in an alternate dimension.
Fav Tracks: wonder limit, self:heal, moonworld
Burning Desire by MIKE
Another one I keep finding myself constantly drawn back to. It’s perfect walking around music with really great features on it all across the board.
Fav Tracks: U Think Maybe?, Burning Desire, Real Love, and Mussel Beach
