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Nik writesCIHRP Radio’s Best of 2023: Nik Hunder
Throughout December, CHIRP Radio presents its volunteers’ top albums of 2023. Our next list is from Substitute DJ Nik Hunder.
Ranking the best albums at the end of year is always aa tough task because it forces you to omit all of the other great albums not from 2023 one has discovered across the year. All of these are absolute gems to listen to on vinyl.
The Window by Ratboys (Topshelf Records)
Inject this straight into my veins. By far the best record release this year and its the only one I'm ranking because it truly deserves to be number. The music Chicago's Ratboys makes is nearly impossible to disagree with and is full of Kentucky blues inflections that Julia (Vocals/Songwriting) grew up with. They're absolutely flourishing as a quartet
Miracle Level by Deerhoof (Joyful Noise)
Deerhoof's technical abilities are unmatched as they lock into riffs that others would bail out on after a half-minute.
Rabbit Rabbit by Speedy Ortiz (Wax Nine)
Morally, this is the best band to support with your money. It's a quirky art rock record full of layers to ping pong around in.
Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die by Jaimie Branch (International Anthem)
Rip Breezy. You can tell where she was going over the Fly or Die suite but it's a joy to hear what she's presented with Lester St. Louis, Jason Ajemian, and Chad Taylor.
Lucky for You by Bully (Sub Pop)
Bully had a drop off in fans after 2015's her 90s-sounding record *Feels Like* but over the past eight years (with this being the pinnacle), Bully has made a really well developed record that has some deeply emotional cuts.
Protect Your Light by Irreversible Entanglements (Verve)
If you find yourself with an opportunity to see IE live, take it up. It's a spiritual journey with Moor Mother's story telling.
Breaking the Balls of History by Quasi (Sub Pop)
For two people (Sam Coomes and Janet Weiss) who expressed repeated uncertainty about performing this record, they don't miss.
Lightning Dreamers by Exploding Star Orchestra (International Anthem)
There is no better groove creator than Marfa, Texas' Rob Mazurek.
Isn't it Now? by Animal Collective (Domino)
It's hard to believe these were the leftovers from 2022's *Time Skiffs*. A very pleasing and approachable Animal Collective record.
I Killed Your Dog by L'Rain (Mexican Summer)
A 4-minute L'Rain song can tell a story in what others take an entire A side to accomplish.
Honorable Mentions
Ask by Altin Gün, Family by Gard Nilssen's Supersonic Orchestra, Yarn the Hours Away by Foyer Red, Undercover (Live at the Village Vanguard) by Kurt Rosenwinkel, Closet Botanist by Rudy de Anda
Next entry: CHIRP Radio’s Best of 2023: DJ Drew
Previous entry: CHIRP Radio Weekly Voyages (Dec 11 - Dec 17)