As 2013 draws to its end, it comes the time to look back the music albums that enjoyed the highest popularity over the last twelve months. Nielsen’s 2013 Music report ranked the best-selling Top 10 albums of the year. Surprises are not many. Now much new names managed to sneak in there. Still, there are a few fresh additions to the music scene.
Justin Timberlake – 20/20 Experience – This is the third solo album of Timberlake. After the singer took a break from music for about 6 years, he successfully released two albums in one year. They were generally criticized for the long length of the songs (which often reach up to 7-8 minutes). In addition, many critics thought that Mirrors singer has not evolved over his time off music. Despite that, Justin did receive recognition for the expertly written and composed songs on the album.
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis – The Heist – The debut album for rapper Macklemore and producer Ryan Lewis took the industry by surprise. It was honest, emotional and fun all at the same time. The duo successfully turns rap lyrics into modern-day poetry and give a deep insight into the human condition.
Bruno Mars – Unorthodox Jukebox – This is the second full-length music album by Mars. Like his first release, Unorthodox Jukebox showcased the unique talent of the singer. Nevertheless, critics shared that they expected more after Bruno’s loud debut.
Imagine Dragons – Night Visions – Night Visions is the very first album of Vegas alternative rock band Imagine Dragons. Although a rock production, the album stood out with its mainstream sound. It has some dramatic and big sounds and it received a great support from leading music producers. No wonder, we see it this far in the ranking.
P!nk – Truth About Love – Pink’s sixth studio album features names like Eminem and Fun.’s Nate Ruess. Even though it has the label pop on it, this album is busting with real emotions and quality tracks. Fans, however, found it hard to enjoy P!nk’s slow ballads which took a great part of the production. It seems that the wild and crazy lady with the pink hair has finally grown up.
Rihanna – Unapologetic – This is Rihanna’s most emotional and Taylor Swift – Red – With Red, Swift shows a that she has become more mature and daring. Like in her previous works, she has added a few brakeup songs, just to stir the rumours and the music charts.
Mumford & Sons – Babel – The band’s second album proved to be generally better than the first one. They have finally mastered all the aspects of their unique style and are ready to offer something even more exploding.
Blake Shelton – Based on a True Story – Although this definitely is not Shelton’s best album, it is easy on the ear and not really compelling for both him and the listeners. That is probably why, it enjoyed such popularity.
Florida Georgia Line – Here’s to the Good Times– This release receive mainly favorable reviews by critics. Even though it is not revolutionary it can impress fans easily and it certainly offers some good times to listeners.
After we have recapped the Top 10 music albums of 2013, it is time for a sneak peek into 2014. Among the big releases next year will be the albums from Bruce Springsteen, Sophie Elis-Bextor, Of Mice and Men, Limp Bizkit, Ed Sheeran Lilly Allen Sia Furler and many other exciting artists!
