It was another busy year for Ethan McCarthy, whose band Primitive Man released a great collaborative album with Full of Hell, and who also released a new album by his noise project Spiritual Poison and contributed to one of The Acacia Strain’s two new albums (and also spent plenty of time on the road and probably did other stuff that we’re forgetting). With 2023 winding down, we asked Ethan what his favorite albums of the year were.
He made us a list of 12 that includes Khanate, Tim Hecker, Slowdive, B. Cool-Aid, Maxo, Body Void, and more, with commentary on each pick. Read on for what he had to say…
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Ethan McCarthy’s 12 Favorite Albums of 2023
Khanate – To Be Cruel
The best. So happy to have a new record. A triumphant return to form and the largest surprise for 2023.
Corrupted – Mushikeras
Also the best. Unreal year for fucked up doom. Another insane surprise for 2023.
Lawrence English and Loscil – Colours of Air
Beautiful and oppressive at times. Everything LE is connected to is always top notch.
Tim Hecker – No Highs
More soundscapes from the master. Thrilled to have a new one from him. Like stepping into a wet pool of otherworldliness.
Blonde Redhead – Sit Down for Dinner
I think that they’re always going to be a hit for me because I love their whole output and live they’re incredible but this one feels particularly special and i’m not sure if that’s because of the break between records or what but this one feels magical like Misery Is A Butterfly did to me when it came out.
Slowdive – Everything Is Alive
Crazy shift in sound but it works wonderfully. Can’t wait for the next one.
B. Cool-Aid (Pink Siifu & Ahwlee) – Leather Blvd.
Beautiful concepts, cool guests, cool lyrics, just smooth as hell.
Maxo – Debbie’s Son
Maxo is just pouring his heart out once again and I respect the hell out of that. I was a big fan of Little Big man so I was happy that this one was just as good.
Body Void – Atrocity Machine
As I said. A great year for fucked up doom. They really leveled up for this one. If you didn’t like them before, try this one.
Rome Streetz – Noise Kandy 5
HARD. What else can I say.
Drab Majesty – An Object In Motion
The last record did not hit for me but I fell in love with them again after this release. Stellar soundwriting, a slight shift in sound but still familiar, great guitar work, just a masterpiece. I could have taken another 30 minutes of this.
BLK Odyssy – Diamonds & Freaks
Sexy and sad sounding aka my favorite sonic mix. D’Angelo but on some new shit.
