2015 was a monumental year for the electronic music album. We saw comebacks from legendary acts such as The Chemical Brothers and The Prodigy, fantastic debuts from Claptone, Galantis, Alesso and Madeon as well as some great efforts from familiar faces such as Zedd, Armin van Buuren, Nero, Avicii and many more. This is already a long list of artists, which is why it is crazy to think that none of these names made it into our top 5. There were too many good releases to choose from this year, but will still managed to narrow it down.
In order to determine the best of the best, we (the editors) decided to create a Facebook poll and ask our staff members what they think the best album of 2015 was. This was the fairest way to compile the list and while many of you might not agree with the selections, we feel that we were pretty accurate. After calculating the results from the highly-debated survey, we can now present our list of the ‘Top 5 Albums of 2015’.
5. Steve Angello – Wild Youth (Part 1) | Purchase
It feels like we’ve been waiting for Steve Angello’s debut album for an eternity. After deciding to go the independent route with this release, the former Swedish House Mafia member’s album is finally here and it is full of some progressive house gems.
4. Lane 8 – Rise | Purchase
For many of you, this might be your first time hearing the name ‘Lane 8’. With that in mind, we promise you this won’t be your last. The Anjunadeep star’s debut album is fantastic from start to finish and we think it belongs on every year-end list.
3. Jack Ü – Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack Ü | Purchase
When two superstars join forces, magic is bound to happen. This was definitely the case for Skrillex and Diplo, as their debut collaborative effort took the electronic music community by storm. “Where Are Ü Now” was one of the hottest songs of the summer and thanks to this album, the guys have been nominated for a couple Grammys.
2. Disclosure – Caracal | Purchase
For many electronic music fans, Disclosure’s sophomore album did not live up to the hype. Yes, this particular LP was not as good as Settle, but that doesn’t mean Caracal was terrible. The guys managed to bridge the gap between pop and dance music, creating a sound that both the mainstream and underground can respect. We’re fans of this album and if you give it a closer listen, you probably will be too.
1. Above & Beyond – We Are All We Need | Purchase
Just like fine wine, Above & Beyond gets better with age. It seems like skeptics are always anticipating a disappointing album, but the guys find a way to deliver every single time. We Are All We Need is jam-packed with hits that fans will be singing along to for years to come.
Honorable mentions:
Jamie xx – In Color
Major Lazer – Peace Is The Mission
Did we miss anything? Let us know what your favorite album of 2015 was in the comments. Also, be sure to check out our list of the ‘Top 10 Remixes Of 2015’.
