After a couple of years during the pandemic where musicians were just trying to survive, it was so nice to have an entire year that felt vibrant and full of new releases. One thing that I noticed coming out of COVID is that a lot of people have reverted to enjoying things they used to before the pressures of society sucked the joy out of it. A lot of artists that I have talked with said they went back to their musical roots. They were able to tap into their childhood sense of self and produce things that felt more natural, and more reflective of themselves.
At first, when I started compiling this list of the best Pacific Northwest albums of 2022, I was concerned because I couldn’t recall many albums from this year off of the top of my head. Once I started to get deep into the process, I became overwhelmed. A lot of these albums I had cast out of my brain because they were released towards the beginning of the year. I don’t know about y’all, but 2022 felt like an eternity for me. Yet simultaneously, this year went by so quickly that my concept of time has gone overboard and settled deep down in the bottom of the Puget Sound never to be found again. So, some of these albums honestly feel like they’ve been in my library for YEARS.
With that said, I’ve spent a lot of time with these albums over the past year. Even some of the more recent releases have gotten a lot of plays since they dropped. As usual, I couldn’t even begin to rank these, as they’re all standouts in their own ways. I’ve shuffle tested all of these albums together and the playlist is FIRE. Without further ado, here are 22 of my favorite albums of 2022 from around the Pacific Northwest.
22 of the Best Albums of 2022 from the Pacific Northwest
Chosen by Respect My Region’s Editor, Taylor Hart, and are in no particular order.
LIVt, Pink and Orange
LIV is a force to be reckoned with. Not only does she have a beautiful voice and a strong pen game, but she also has a unique artistic vision that she’s determined to share with the world. I’ve spent a lot of time within the past year standing in the crowd while LIV performs. Most recently, watching her headline for the popular Emmy award winning video series Sessions In Place.
Usually, each album has a couple of standout tracks for me, but honestly each of these songs are standouts in their own rights. LIV navigates through upbeat dance songs like the infectious “Sweat,” sultry R&B croons like the romantic “Rotation,” and spitting some confident rhymes straight from the chest like in “Pink Slip.” The community made it loud and clear that we’re rocking with her, naming her as the #3 album of the year according to the Seattle Times Critics Poll. Aside from music, LIV is an avid filmmaker. She collaborates with videographers to help direct her own music videos, as well as working with CUT on their viral videos.
BlkSknn, we are the moon
There’s not a corny bar on BlkSknn’s album we are the moon, not a single one. The EP plays through quickly but lingers in your ears long after it’s finished. Tonally, BlkSknn has a voice like a weighted blanket; it’s warm and cozy but you can tell that there is a solid purpose behind the delivery that is comforting and soothing throughout the album.
The featured artists match this vibe and add in their own flavor to the mix- my personal favorite being the song “Peach Faygo” featuring the charismatic Charlie Cash. Overall, I feel like BlkSknn knocked this one out of the park. The runtime of the album is the perfect length to make a statement without muddying up the message; in this case the message being, “we are the moon, we control the wave.”
Noah Coinflip, God is Love
Last year, I had Noah Coinflip’s album Peaks in my 2021 albums of the year list as it was an astounding body of work. His newest album, God is Love is no different. There’s just something about Noah’s brain that is indescribable, but it allows him to produce some of the most soul-provoking music. Did I mention the entirety of the instrumentation and production on this album was all done exclusively by Noah?
Throughout GIL he explores the transformative power that compassion, and community can have on someone. Noah taps into the bigger energy surrounding us and utilizes that sonic power to invoke a deep emotional connection through his instruments. Even if you’re not religious or believe in some sort of higher power in any sense, listening to this album can still be a life-changing experience.
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Blake Anthony & Soufend Music, The Neon Rose
There’s never a moment where Blake Anthony isn’t on my playlist. Since I met him, I’ve been a fan. Every year that I’ve been a music critic for Respect My Region, Blake Anthony has made my end of the year list (even when he was still Scribemecca– iykyk). One of my favorite things about Blake and his music is how unapologetically himself he is. All of his music leading up to this point has been him rhyming about real experiences and delivering those bars through his rawest emotions.
His newest album, The Neon Rose also gives me true-to-self Blake but in a much different light. While previous projects have felt more grounded and tactile, this album is floaty and impalpable. I feel as if Soufend Music guided Blake Anthony like a shaman would through an ayahuasca journey to portray an avant-garde version of himself, an alter-ego living in a daydream state. It’s equal parts catchy and melodic, humorous, and above all, smooth jazzy rapity-rap-rap.
HeZza FeZza, Nomadic Nebula
If you’ve ever met HeZza FeZza in person, she radiates this infectious energy that is full of genuine appreciation for life. There’s a cosmic, almost ethereal quality to HeZza and that’s reflected in her vocals throughout the album. You want to talk range? Step aside Mariah Carey, HeZza is hitting these whistle notes and making it sound easy. Not only is she technically proficient, but each track is thoroughly drenched in the emotions that she pours out from the deepest parts of her soul.
These qualities attract equally talented individuals, and Nomadic Nebula boasts an insane roster of Northwest talent including Erik Blood on production, 10.4 ROG on keys, Marquetta Miller with additional vocals, Alex Westcoat on drums, and Mary Riles on cello. Adam Straney mastered the album for a release on vinyl and every time I spin the Nomadic Nebula record, I get chills throughout my entire body. HeZza FeZza is, without a doubt, a powerhouse vocalist and inspiring artist. Nomadic Nebula is a must-have for your audio library.
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Rell Be Free, Sow What? (Phase 3)
When Rell Be Free released his album Sow What? (Phase 3), I was listening to it and every song I was like, “Oh, I for sure have to add this to my playlist.” It’s one of those albums where every song made me react in some way. Both the production and lyrical deliveries keep you on your toes from start to finish. One of the things I love about Rell is he always keeps me guessing with so many different sounds and flows. Also, Rell loves to collaborate with his squad and this album has them featured all throughout the project.
Back in 2021, I named Rell Be Free’s project, Sow What? (Phase 2) as one of my top 20 albums of the year. So, I guess it’s really no surprise that his follow up album would land in my end of year list again. Sow What? (Phase 3), to me, is perfect from start to finish. There are no skips on the project, and it has this attitude about it that amps me up when I hear it. Rell rides every beat, weaving in between being serious and putting a lot of power behind his words to being completely lighthearted and playful. All of that energy translates into his live performance too, making for an incredible show that I HIGHLY recommend checking out.
Scarlet Parke, Dreamgirl
In 2021, I was able to interview Scarlet Parke during the pandemic for the Seattle World Tour’s Music with a Message campaign. In that discussion, she spoke with me about how restrictions forced her to grow as an artist and start producing for herself since she couldn’t easily collaborate with others at the time. Since learning how to produce, Scarlet has truly found herself as an artist and has become her own Dreamgirl.
Scarlet’s 2022 album, Dreamgirl, was her first foray into producing for herself with the opening track “Milk & Honey” being an original production. Executive producer, P. Kruise helped hone in her sound and gave Scarlet the foundation to really flourish as authentically as possible throughout the project.
Seemingly a cathartic process, the songs talk about her transition from pre-covid life in a serious relationship to learning how to grow on her own. It’s an empowering album for the independent people out there who need a reminder every now and then that you are absolutely enough and don’t need to settle for any reason.
Anthony Danza, New Jack Danza
Anthony Danza actually put out two notable albums this year, New Jack Danza, as well as another absolutely BANGING album with All Hail Y.T., titled All Hail Danza. I fought with myself on which album I was going to highlight on this list- whoops did I just mention and highlight both of them? Both projects are incredible in their own right. Ultimately, I had to go with New Jack Danza because it literally spent the entire year on my playlist. The combination of catchy bars and dynamite hooks, mixed with a groovy, dance-centric beat selection inspired by the New Jack Swing sound just hit my soul so right.
Anthony Danza has proved year after year, project after project, that he is a consistent artist who is determined to carve out his own lane with his own unique sound – and it doesn’t look like he’s slowing down anytime soon.
UMI, Forest in the City
UMI is an artist who worked their way into my eardrums because of the Spotify algorithm. Wild that she didn’t pop up on my radar as a Seattlite, but considering she’s been based in LA for a while I’ll give myself the benefit of the doubt. However, now that I’m aware of her, I am head over heels in love with her neo-soul R&B music. Her debut album, Forest in the City, has been in constant rotation on my playlist since its release. I’m not the only one who feels this way, you can find many UMI songs on various editorial playlists on Spotify.
She went on tour this year to promote her album, but instead of just your typical show up and watch the artist perform, UMI turned the concert experience into a spiritual experience that included yoga and meditation. If we want to talk about an artist who captures the spirit of the here and now, I truly believe UMI is one of those artists holding it down for the sound of music at this moment in time.
AJ Suede, Oil on Canvas
AJ Suede is the kind of artist where once you dip your toes into their universe, you fall in deep real quick. He’s built up enough momentum to be able to release projects almost seasonally. This year, he released four different albums that are all truly great works of art. However, one album stood above the rest for me- Oil on Canvas. I wasn’t the only one to think so either; the 2022 critics poll for the Seattle Times unanimously concluded that Oil on Canvas was his chef d’oeuvre of the year, landing him in the #2 spot on the list of the Top 20 Albums from Washington State.
Released in August, Oil on Canvas was his third project of the year but the first of two self-produced albums. I think that’s partly why I chose this album over the others, because I’m a sucker for a well-rounded artist who produces for themselves; there’s this connection and level of cohesiveness between the beat and the lyrical delivery that is hard to compete with, you know what I mean? All four of his albums are worth listening to, but if anything, dip your toes in Suede’s universe by listening to “Growing Diamonds,” “Marathon Mile,” and “Praying For Rain” off of Oil on Canvas. I promise that those three tracks will make you want to dive into the deep end of AJ Suede’s discography.
Jaywop, Corduroy
Jaywop has a straight up sexy tone of voice. Pair that with a smooth delivery of witty lyrics and it makes for a swoon-worthy artist for me. His album Corduroy has been in my playlist since its release back in March. Songs like “B Roll” and “Candlewax and Cadillacs” (featuring Chris Patrick) are sweet and sultry, while tracks like “Rounds” and “Red Water” (featuring Mick Jenkins and Donte Thomas) pack more of a lyrical punch.
As part of Day One Entertainment, Jaywop has made huge strides in his career this year. Not only did he release Corduroy, but he also released another critically acclaimed album, Sew It Seems– which is a bit more serious and reflective compared to the playful Corduroy. It’s clear that Jaywop is just starting to make waves in the music industry pool, and it won’t be long until he’s a major player in the rap game.
Claudine Magbag, Better Luck Next Time
I love watching artists grow into their own. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Claudine Magbag grow and develop over the years, and I feel like I’m witnessing the point in her journey where the confidence is starting to sink in and it’s reflected in the sound of her new EP, Better Luck Next Time. The tone of Claudine’s voice is warm and soothing, yet her delivery is light and airy. Those qualities combine with emotional lyrics to make a super relatable listening experience.
Better Luck Next Time sounds like how a hug from your best friend feels when you need a pick me up. Her dreamy bedroom pop vibes create an atmosphere that allows you as the listener to feel vulnerable and really relate to the heartbreak and existential turmoil that Claudine sings about. Her songwriting makes those emotions cut even deeper, with lyrics like, “I hate my own living room after everything you put me through,” on the track “Right Now.” The title track ends the album on such a hopeful note with an inspiring blend of acoustic melodies and rolling drums that reinforce the theme of learning from the past and hoping for the best in the future.
Milc & Andy Savoie, Windbreaker
Back in February, I went to Vermillion to celebrate Greg Cypher’s birthday and check out an insanely stacked lineup of artists. When I walked in the show was just starting and the first act up was Milc. I had no idea who he was, but my man walked out and destroyed that stage. Now, I ask everybody, “Yo, you heard Milc, though?” Safe to say, I’m obsessed.
In March, he dropped his album Windbreaker which was a collab with Seattle-based producer Andy Savoie. The two made magic- not an understatement either. From the summery, “Coastin’” featuring Blu and C’est La, to the hard-hitting “Stackhouse,” both Andy and Milc gave us range on this project. They even released Windbreaker XL which added on five more tracks, and still not one skippable track on the album. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Milc has made huge strides to get where he is. I have a feeling that in 2023 we’re going to see him stop running and start soaring towards the charts.
Grynch, Born in ‘86
Grynch has the title as the reigning king of Ballard, and his album Born in ‘86 encapsulates that vibe entirely. If you’ve ever walked along the Burke-Gilman by the Locks and smelled the salty air, you probably know what this album sounds like. If you’ve ever watched the sunset at Golden Gardens, you know what this album sounds like. Now, if you can recall the sweet smell of stale beer and whiskey at Goofy’s, then you know exactly what this album sounds like.
I think the track “That Ol’ MC Shit,” featuring Boom Bap Project and Vitamin D, sums up the album well. It has a catchy hook, a dope beat (produced by Illmind), and classic boom bap rhyme schemes. Other Seattle legends like Sir Mix-A-Lot, Blake Lewis, and Prometheus Brown are all featured on the album, among others. Also, the track, “Didn’t Mind,” is a new staple for any summer in Seattle playlist. From start to finish, Grynch takes you on a journey through his life, reflecting on the different chapters that have brought him here from 1986 to 2022.
Vitamin D & Libretto, Rusty Bladez
At one point, not too long ago, Libretto was known as one of the hottest rappers in Portland. After doing a bid in prison, things have since changed, and that title has moved on. However, Libretto is back with a new album to show that although time has passed, his lyrical finesse hasn’t wavered. Often, we hear rappers talking about their past lifestyles and the events that led them down that path, but not too often do we hear a producer match that energy to create a cinematic sound. Vitamin D’s talents shine through Rusty Bladez giving Libretto the polished stage and bright spotlight to elevate his lyrics. Artists like the late Gift of Gab, GRISELDA’s Keisha Plum, Planet Asia, and even Roc Marciano lend their voices to Rusty Bladez and give it that little extra oomph into best albums of 2022 status.
BrandonLee Cierley, Camaraderie
I first found BrandonLee Cierley when he was featured on the album, Peaks, by Noah Coinflip. His work on the sax got my attention and made me seek out his own personal work. His album, Camaraderie, is one of the more classical jazz ensembles on my list. Really straight forward, masterful instrumentation, with the slight swagger of the upcoming generation. What I love most is how familiar the album feels while still leaving you on the edge of your seat wondering where the notes will go next.
Although his technical skills are already exceptional, I feel like he has so much more to explore with his own personal sound. I’m excited to watch him grow and develop that “je ne sais quoi” with his music that says, this is a BrandonLee Cierley joint.
Bocha & Donte Thomas, Neck of the Woods
Bocha and Donte Thomas are a dream team from Portland, OR. Their individual talents both shine separately on this year’s album Neck of the Woods, yet also pair together to create a unique listening experience. Previously, their album Buds landed on my end of the year list in 2021. If my reader’s learned anything then, these guys are best enjoyed after consumption. Although this album is not cannabis focused like their last album was, it still feels just as smoked out. However, I feel like both Bocha and Donte explored more sides of their vocals throughout this album, giving us more melodies to balance out the heavy bars. Some of my favorite tracks are the breezy opener, “Flower Power,” the beautiful, “Stories,” and the demanding “PYHU.”
High Pulp, Pursuit of Ends
High Pulp is full of texture and drama that fuels a journey through instrumentation. What sets them apart from the other jazz ensembles on this list is their cosmic influence. They are known for producing galactic soundscapes with scattering drum patterns that are truly out of this world. Earlier in the year High Pulp was featured on the Rain City Relief vinyl compilation with their electric track, “Nikola.”
Since then, they’ve released the album Pursuit of Ends which has now become one of my favorite soundtracks for playing Mario Party. Complete with an opening “Ceremony,” a “Window to a Shimmering World,” and the secret ingredient, “Chemical X,” High Pulp’s album Pursuit of Ends is satisfying throughout.
OG Mambo, Hybrid Sessions
OG Mambo got more stage presence than Steve Harvey. I’ve seen him perform live many times and I think his newest album Hybrid Session captures that vibe in a record. Like the title suggests, for optimal listening pleasure you should roll up your favorite hybrid strain and smoke to relax your mind and get right. Stand out tracks like “Right Now,” which leads seamlessly into “Elevated” featuring D. Mikey, and “Hot Commodity” often get stuck in my head for days.
I spoke with Mambo numerous times on my podcast, Blunt Talk with Taylor Hart, and he gave me a ton of insight into his creative mindset, his performers mindset, and we even brainstormed some killer ideas that we’re looking to pitch to some investors.
Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, Cold as Weiss
I’m not religious in a traditional sense, but Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio is gospel to me. DLO3 is led by organist Delvon Lamarr and guitarist Jimmy James, with different drummers coming and going. Their feel-good music is a staple in anybody’s audio library. At the top of the year, they released their album Cold as Weiss with drummer Dan Weiss who has since left the group. Although there are no vocals on this album, the way they made their instruments speak to one another is mesmerizing.
I went to see them perform at Jazz Alley after eating some shrooms and to be quite honest I don’t think I’ve come down since. Something magical happened that night and this album will forever hold such a special place in my heart because of it. They’ll be back in March, by the way, in case any of y’all want to go with me and have a transcendental experiencing watching their live performance.
Khingz, Over the World
I’ve been a fan of Khingz since the early Abyssinian Creole days with Gabriel Teodros. He’s always held it down with his original and outspoken viewpoint. Khingz reflects on the world around him and seeks to find understanding through his rhymes. Although he often takes a conscious approach, his delivery and beat selection offset the heaviness of the lyrics and make his album, Over the World, have more of a plush feeling.
In an era where music is reverting back to simple formulas that praise catchy repetitive sounds over diverse and intelligent lyricism, it’s nice to hear a release from Khingz that shows how deep messages can come across in a sonic breeze too. Conscious doesn’t have to mean boring or dense and Over the World is a great example of that.
Dave B., It’s Not That Deep
Over the years, Dave B. has proven to me that musically he can do no wrong. When I see he has an upcoming release, I don’t question whether I’m going to like it or not. I actually didn’t even know It’s Not That Deep had been released when I first heard some of the songs. His lead single, “Beep” featuring Jaywop has made its way onto some editorial playlists on Spotify, currently still in rotation on The Skate Shop playlist. “Odds” originally popped up in one of my Daily Mixes and just pops into my head randomly now while I’m going about my day. I don’t know how Da-P and Dave B. linked up, but this is truly a match made in heaven. Every single second of this 4-track EP is appetizing, and I can’t get enough of it.
Bonus Entry: Rain City Relief Compilation
At the top of the year, the Seattle World Tour Foundation released a vinyl compilation in partnership with The Reef with the goal of raising money for the artists within the Seattle music community. 100% of proceeds from the record sales go directly to the musicians involved, as well as a relief fund that gets dispersed to independent artists across Washington state. Throughout the year, record sales raised $40,000 for musicians affected by the pandemic.
The compilation album features a wide range of artists including Ariana Deboo, The Black Tones, Parisalexa, Smokey Brights, Chong the Nomad, Beverly Crusher, Perry Porter, Shaina Shepherd, High Pulp, and SWTF co-founders, All Star Opera. When good music combines with good intentions and deeds, it turns into a truly irresistible combination. This limited-edition record won’t be available forever, so, I suggest tracking it down and adding it into your collection before it’s too late.
