2017: A year marked by aural exploration that tore down genre boundaries and birthed a unique, uncharted soundscape. We bore witness to artists' narratives, potent in their conviction and transformative in their delivery. From Kendrick Lamar's introspective masterpiece 'DAMN.', to the energetic dance-punk revival in LCD Soundsystem's 'American Dream', and the emotive, raw ardor encapsulated in The War on Drugs' 'A Deeper Understanding' - music, once again, reminded us of its astounding ability to alter perceptions. We’ve carefully curated a selection of 10 standout vinyl records from the year that was 2017 below. Read below to revisit these artistically ground-breaking and momentous records, and let us know what you like or what you’d add to your own list in the comments.

DAMN. - A gaze into Kendrick's soul, a testament to his unapologetic storytelling.

Kendrick Lamar - DAMN.

DAMN., Kendrick Lamar's fourth studio album, is an introspective dive into the complexities of modern life, spotlighting the grit and grind of Lamar's world. It's a tour de force of his lyrical prowess and innovative beats, with each track feeling like a standalone story woven into the greater narrative. It's a raw, unfiltered look into the mind of an artist wrestling with fame, identity, love, and societal pressures.

Kendrick’s sharp, powerful wordplay, coupled with hard-hitting, diverse beats, cemented DAMN. as a pivotal hip-hop album of 2017. Standout tracks like 'DNA.' and 'HUMBLE.' have a relentless energy that resonates on vinyl, adding a deeper richness to the record's vibrant soundscape. Whether you’re a long-time Kendrick fan or a vinyl enthusiast seeking a transformative listening experience, DAMN. is a worthy addition to any collection.

LCD Soundsystem's 'American Dream' Vinyl, a Journey into Modern Retrospection

LCD Soundsystem - American Dream

In a triumphant return from a 5-year hiatus, LCD Soundsystem presented us with 'American Dream' in 2017. The album is a shining testament to frontman James Murphy’s abilities as a musical maverick. The vinyl release is nothing short of an aural delight, preserving the group's distinctive style, blending danceable rhythms with profound lyricism.

From the pulsating opener, "Oh Baby," to the towering 12-minute odyssey, "How Do You Sleep?" this album traverses the depth and breadth of human emotions. The essence of the album lies in its ability to articulate our shared anxieties and desires, painting an unflinchingly honest picture of the modern American dream.

Every spin of this record provides an immersive journey into a soundscape filled with tantalizing synths, driving beats, and Murphy's signature plaintive vocals. The band's dedication to sonic integrity ensures that the vinyl edition of 'American Dream' is a must-have addition to any collection, offering an intimate engagement with the music that's sure to satisfy die-hard fans and new listeners alike.

The Hypnotic Allure of The National's 'Sleep Well Beast' on Vinyl, a Poignant Exploration of Fragility and Resilience

The National - Sleep Well Beast

'The National' shifted gears with 'Sleep Well Beast,' a record that found beauty in emotional chaos and the sublime in sorrow. The band's seventh album delicately balanced their signature melancholic indie rock with surprising electronic flourishes, pushing the boundaries of their sound. Berninger’s introspective lyrics touch on the human condition, offering an intimate glance at the complexities of relationships and the inexorable passage of time. The album’s austere aesthetic is beautifully reflected in the vinyl pressing, with its artful cover symbolizing the emotional terrain within. Play this on your turntable, let the sonics envelop your space, and watch as 'Sleep Well Beast' emerges not just as an album, but as a cathartic emotional journey.

SZA's 'Ctrl', a Bold and Captivating Coming-of-Age Story, Painting Life's Highs and Lows with Soulful Strokes

SZA - Ctrl

'SZA’s 'Ctrl' is a journey through the trials and tribulations of love, self-discovery, and vulnerability. This groundbreaking debut album serves as a millennial woman’s manifesto, touching on topics such as self-esteem, sexuality, and the perils of modern dating. SZA’s distinct blend of neo-soul, R&B, and a touch of pop makes 'Ctrl' a sonic feast. The album's artful lyrics, with SZA’s unfiltered commentary on her life experiences, resonate deeply with listeners, making it a timeless piece in any music collection. The vinyl pressing is a must-have; it's not just about listening to the music, it's about feeling the weight of the record and the grooves where her voice lies. In its totality, 'Ctrl' stands as a beacon of self-realization and empowerment.

Tyler, the Creator's 'Flower Boy', a Vibrant and Poetic Expression of Growth, Identity, and Emotional Introspection

Tyler, The Creator - Flower Boy

With 'Flower Boy,' Tyler, The Creator presented us with his most personal, introspective work yet. The record represented a turning point in his career, marked by a profound exploration of self, maturity, and identity. It was a clear departure from the confrontational themes of his earlier work, replaced by a deep dive into vulnerability and self-exploration. Tyler’s rich narratives and introspective lyrics, coupled with a vibrant palette of jazzy, funky instrumentals, made 'Flower Boy' a truly unique auditory experience. The vinyl release was not just an aural treat, but a physical one as well - the artwork and packaging of 'Flower Boy' made it a must-have collector's item. 'Flower Boy' invites you into a beautiful garden of sonic delight, and trust me, it's worth every second spent within.

St. Vincent's 'Masseduction', a Daring and Electrifying Journey into the Complexities of Desire, Power, and Self-Discovery

St. Vincent - Masseduction

'Masseduction,' the audacious fifth album from St. Vincent, presented a whirlwind of emotions, dressed in a glamorous, pop-art style garb. Musically, St. Vincent continued to straddle the line between the avant-garde and the accessible, pairing her distinct guitar work with synth-heavy arrangements, while her lyrical prowess took center stage as she painted vivid pictures of love, power, and melancholy. The record's eclectic mix of pop, rock, and electronic elements set a remarkable sonic landscape that was both intimate and grandiose. The vinyl edition of 'Masseduction' added an additional layer of aesthetic pleasure, enhancing the listening experience with its bold, eye-catching cover art and colored vinyl. In essence, 'Masseduction' isn't just a musical experience; it's an invitation into the world of St. Vincent.

Run the Jewels - RTJ3

Run the Jewels 3, is a tour de force of politically charged and musically dynamic hip-hop. The third studio album from this powerhouse duo showcases the potency of El-P's inventive beats intertwined with Killer Mike's profound lyricism. Together, they craft a resounding critique of societal issues that defined the atmosphere of 2017. With tracks like "Talk to Me" and "2100," biting commentary comes wrapped in irresistible, bass-heavy grooves. Even in its most hard-hitting moments, the album maintains a depth and cohesiveness that's hard to resist. A testament to hip-hop's potential for societal critique, "Run the Jewels 3" stands tall in the genre's history, delivering an auditory experience that sticks with you long after the last track fades.

The War on Drugs - A Deeper Understanding

The War on Drugs' "A Deeper Understanding" is nothing short of a modern-day classic, an audacious claim substantiated by its exquisite sonic tableau. As if effortlessly, the band fuses the familiar with the innovative, achieving a grandeur that, quite simply, outstrips contemporary music norms. The swirling synths, expansive guitar solos, and Adam Granduciel's Dylan-esque vocals coalesce into an evocative journey of lush rock landscapes. Tracks like "Pain" and "Thinking of a Place" invite listeners into a near-epic exploration of human emotion and experience. It's not just an album; it's a monumental testament to The War on Drugs' musicianship and their uncanny ability to craft narratives that resonate on a profound level. Quite possibly, this could be one of the greatest rock albums of the decade.

Transcendental Folk Chronicles: Big Thief's 'Capacity', a Tender Tapestry of Raw Emotion and Poetic Revelations

Big Thief - Capacity

"Capacity" by Big Thief is an astounding exploration of folk-rock intimacy. The record is remarkable, guided by the unique perspective of frontwoman Adrianne Lenker. Her storytelling skills are masterful; every note, every lyric is imbued with a palpable sense of emotion that breathes life into the band's narratives. Songs such as "Mythological Beauty" and "Mary" are gut-wrenchingly personal, yet universally relatable. The warm and organic sounds make for a listening experience that is both haunting and beautiful on vinyl. "Capacity" is an undeniably transformative album that solidifies Big Thief's status as essential figures within the indie folk scene. This vinyl is a must-have for fans and new listeners alike, offering a deep dive into the heart of what makes Big Thief truly special.

Fleet Foxes - Crack-Up

Fleet Foxes' "Crack-Up" is a consistently introspective journey that remains true to the band's core sound, making it an essential listen for fans. The band's signature blend of folk and rock is showcased brilliantly across the album's intricate soundscapes, allowing Robin Pecknold's thoughtful lyricism to take centre stage. While songs like "Third of May / Ōdaigahara" and "Fool's Errand" display a richness and complexity, the record as a whole doesn't scream for attention. Instead, it gracefully unfolds with each listen, revealing hidden depths and subtleties. It's a testament to the band's ability to create thought-provoking, beautiful music time and again.

Okay, we've shared our top vinyl picks from 2017. Agree? Disagree? Couldn't care less? Let us know in the comments below. Tell us about the records you think we missed or why some of these are your personal favorites.

Top 10 Vinyl Albums of 2017