As we wrap up the year, we’re sharing some of our staff members’ favorite albums of the year. Here’s Frank Ruokolainen’s list.

5. Ecco2k – PXE

vulnerable and beautiful. ecco2k can not miss.

4. Injury Reserve – By the Time I Get to Phoenix

heart wrenching and chaotic. excellent experimental hip hop album.

3. dltzk – frailty

an indietronica/noise pop/glitch pop roller coaster that’ll have you coming back for more over and over. favorite song – kodak moment.

2. Magdalena Bay – Mercurial World

it’s simply a perfect pop album. awe-inspiring production all the way through. you lose! soty.

1. Lil Ugly Mane – Volcanic Bird Enemy and the Voiced Concern

instrumentals are varied and interesting throughout the track list. ugly mane really pours his heart out over the course of the album with lyrics that i find very relatable. definitely #1 aoty.

You can listen to Frank’s entire Top 5 Albums of 2021 playlist below.