Mallie Altmann

6) Zach Bryan - Zach Bryan This year’s release of Zach Bryan’s self-titled, sophomore album continues the singer-songwriter’s reign as a generational sensation– one that extends far beyond the realm of the country music world. I don’t consider myself a country music “fan” by any means, but I find myself constantly revisiting this album. Though it definitely boasts plenty of Americana classics, the genre of this album can feel oddly ambiguous at times.

Destroy Boys - Shadow (I'm Breaking Down) The Destroy Boys, an alternative punk rock group, released their single, "Shadow (I’m Breaking Down)," on November 20th. Alongside this song, the group released a sped up and a slowed version allowing two completely new vibes. The sped-up version's drums and background music sounds like most of the group's other songs but the vocals have obviously been played with.

Empty Country - Empty Country II Beginning his musical career as a founding member and front man of indie-emo outfit Cymbals Eat Guitars, Joseph D'Agostino has traveled a long and winding road leading to this point. Capitalizing on microfame achieved through MySpace music nerd discussion boards and a surprise review from Pitchfork of their debut record, the band had a illustrious 10 year career, slowly accumulating attention by touring with notable acts such as Wilco and the Flaming Lips.