My Record Collection: A Look Back at 2023

2023 was an incredible year for music releases, and my record collection has expanded significantly as a result. From discovering new artists to getting new music from my favorites, it’s safe to say that I’ve had a great year in terms of music.

A Different Approach to Year-End Lists

I’ve always found year-end lists to be a bit daunting, as they usually only include albums released in that specific year. But sometimes, there are reissues or new discoveries that deserve recognition too. That’s why I’ve decided to take a different approach and create a list of the records I purchased in 2023.

Fall Out Boy – So Much For Stardust

One of the highlights of my year was discovering Fall Out Boy’s album “So Much For Stardust.” After not being a fan of their last two albums, this release caught my attention with its lead single, “Love From The Other Side.” The album perfectly balances the band’s catchy hooks and melodic guitars, with a touch of synth. While I could do without the spoken word tracks, the rest of the album is truly enjoyable.

Favorite tracks: “The Kintsugi Kid (Ten Years)” and “What A Time To Be Alive”

In This Moment – GODMODE

Another album that caught my attention this year was In This Moment’s “GODMODE.” I usually don’t pre-order albums unless I’ve heard a few singles from them, and this one didn’t disappoint. With Maria Brink’s distinctive voice, the witchy aesthetic, and the robotic beats, this album took me on a journey into a horror movie, and I loved every second of it.

Favorite tracks: “The Purge” and “Damaged” feat Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills

 Matchbox Twenty – Where The Light Goes

After an 11-year hiatus, Matchbox Twenty surprised everyone with the announcement of their album “Where The Light Goes.” It was refreshing to see them go back to their pop roots while delivering catchy tracks that could easily be radio hits.

Favorite tracks: “Wild Dogs (Running in a Slow Dream)”, “Where The Light Goes”, and “Don’t Get Me Wrong”

Beartooth – The Surface

Beartooth’s album “The Surface” was a pleasant surprise for me. It’s different from what I’m used to hearing from the band, leaning more towards the pop side. However, it still showcases their excellent guitar work and accomplishes what A Day To Remember was aiming for with their latest release.

Favorite track: “What Are You Waiting For”

Lauren Spencer Smith – Mirror

Lauren Spencer Smith was one of my new discoveries this year. Her relatable lyrics and powerful vocals have quickly gained her recognition in the pop world. Unfortunately, I missed her show in Toronto, but her album “Mirror” has become a favorite of mine.

Favorite tracks: “That Part”, “Best Friend Breakup”, and “Flowers”

Valley – Lost In Translation

Toronto-based band Valley was another exciting discovery for me this year. Their song “Throwback Tears” immediately captured my attention, and I eagerly awaited the release of their album “Lost In Translation.” They have a unique ability to blend sad lyrics with an infectious beat, creating an enjoyable listening experience.

Favorite tracks: “Throwback Tears” and “Either Way, I’m Going Your Way”

MisterWives – Nosebleeds

Although I had seen MisterWives perform live before, I only recently delved deeper into their music. Their album “Nosebleeds” is a fun and catchy collection of songs that I find myself singing along to in the car.

Favorite track: “All The Same”

Olivia Rodrigo – GUTS

As a fan of Olivia Rodrigo, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Hot Topic Exclusive version of her album “GUTS.” The bright blue vinyl adds a pop of color to my collection, and it holds a special memory from my vacation in California.

Favorite track: “bad idea right?”

Freaky Friday Soundtrack

I couldn’t resist adding the Urban Outfitters Exclusive pressing of the “Freaky Friday” soundtrack to my collection. Urban Outfitters has been bringing back nostalgic albums, and this one is a gem. The album takes me back to the 90s and early 2000s, and the exclusive pressing makes it even more special.

Favorite track: “Ultimate”

The Summer Set – Blossom

The Summer Set surprised fans with their reunion and the release of the EP “Blossom.” This album is filled with catchy tracks that transport me back to my teenage years. I was fortunate to get a signed copy during their tour with Boys Like Girls.

Favorite tracks: “Street Lightning”, “Teenagers”, and “Back Together”

Katy Perry – Prism (10th Anniversary Webstore Exclusive)

After a decade, I finally added Katy Perry’s “Prism” to my collection. This 10th Anniversary Webstore Exclusive features a beautiful splatter design that complements the original cover art. It also includes three bonus tracks and the original foil cover, making it a must-have for any Katy Perry fan.

Favorite tracks: “Birthday”, “International Smile”, and “It Takes Two”

Magnolia Park – Baku’s Revenge

Although I initially hesitated due to the price, I couldn’t resist picking up Magnolia Park’s album “Baku’s Revenge” when it went on clearance. The album’s bouncy beats and catchy lyrics take me back to the Warped Tour days, and I can’t wait to see them live.

Favorite tracks: “Feel Something” feat Derek Sanders of State Champs and “Addison Rae”

Good Charlotte – The Chronicles of Life and Death (Urban Outfitters Exclusive : Metallic Gold)

Urban Outfitters once again impressed with their pressing of Good Charlotte’s album “The Chronicles of Life and Death” in metallic gold. This album holds a special place in my heart, as it was one of the first albums I purchased as a teenager. The metallic gold color adds depth to the vinyl, making it a standout piece in my collection.

Favorite tracks: “Predictable” and “We Believe”