As we rapidly approach the end of 2023, the DMNW team is taking a step back to reflect on our favorite albums released this year. It was once again a challenging feat to pick just one with so much quality music out this year. Whether you’re hanging at home in PNW or have long travel days ahead of you for the holidays, cozy up and lend an ear to the DMNW top 2023 album picks.
Ryley Campbell, Marketing: CamelPhat, Spiritual Milk
The album has so many intricacies from beginning to end. I’ve listened to it front to back probably a dozen times now and I find something I missed every time I listen to it. It is the perfect mix between chill and uptempo. There is a song for every type of listener on it. We’re still hoping to see some PNW tour dates for Spiritual Milk in 2024!
Amanda Pearl, Editor: Chase & Status, 2 RUFF, Vol. 1
Rippling with industrial sounds, the duo expertly fuse their gritty, grimy basslines with high octane vocals, the result is a powerhouse of drum and bass that you can’t help but dance to.
Maddie Welch, Editor: Kx5, Kx5
It was so fun to see an album come out of a duo side project. The songs are perfect for any kind of listener whether a die-hard EDM fan or someone who just likes something nice to listen to. The album is upbeat and fun, and it’s so cool to see a more veteran artist with someone newer on the scene. They make an awesome pair!
Michael-John Aprahamian, Staff Writer: Skrillex, Quest for Fire
Seeing the godfather of American Dubstep release his first original piece music for the first time in eight years was a shock to the EDM community. Skrillex returned to the spotlight with a highly evolved sound and matured aesthetic to match. This prodigal return was a gift for those of us who grew up listening to him in 2015.
Many of the songs on this album have become instant classics like RATATA, Rumble, and my personal favorite, Supersonic (my existence). Countless artists have already remixed and edited these songs over the year, proving their popularity and instant longevity. The sound design and mix-downs on these songs are are a testament to Skrillex’s skill, consistency, and growth throughout these years.
Trishla Jain, Staff Writer: ZHU, Days Before Grace
It’s such a unique and eerie electronic music EP and has some revolutionary collaborations. The pounding basslines paired with ZHU’s own melodic vocals make it perfect for every party or car jam sesh.
Amanda Robinson, Staff Writer: Westwood Recordings, Westwood Recordings Remixed – A Decade of Remixes
The album boasts an impressively massive collection of 30 tracks. This exceptional compilation not only breathes new life into a decade’s worth of iconic tunes but also showcases a diverse blend of electronic, funk, and hip-hop remixes. The artists’ creativity and skill shine through, honoring the originals while injecting fresh and contemporary vibes. The album, a testament to Westwood Recordings’ commitment to pushing musical boundaries, takes listeners on a captivating sonic journey that defines the evolving landscape of music.
Alan Shoemake, Staff Writer: ILLENIUM, ILLENIUM
Illenium continues to put out great music cementing his place as EDM’s master songwriter. This album mixed in more alternative/pop-punk sounds and was accompanied with his live tour that was truly amazing to see at the Gorge. Can’t wait for new music, and his 2024 show at the Gorge!
Important things happen in Pacific Northwest nightlife, and DMNW will send you alerts!
