2016 was a disappointing year for many, but with all the negativity surrounding political and social issues, music prevailed. There were many alternative albums in 2016 that greatly impacted many people globally and resonated with them deeply.

• A Moon Shaped Pool – Radiohead

Radiohead has countlessly delivered iconic albums and singles throughout their music career while simultaneously making their music meaningful to many. A Moon Shaped Pool features songs such as Burn the Witch, Daydreaming, and Glass Eyes. This album proved to be one of the most gorgeously produced albums of 2016 with its eccentric style and beautiful instrumentals. Thom Yorke’s vocals exceeded expectations, and each song has its own powerful message. Burn the Witch was one of the most popular songs in the alternative realm upon its release and fans were more than excited for the release of the album after hearing the single. A Moon Shaped Pool significantly changed the game for alternative music and influenced many artists to continue to create music, because Radiohead is such a driving force in the music industry.

• Death of a Bachelor – Panic! At the Disco

Panic! At the Disco’s Brendon Urie blew the music industry out of the water with this album as far as composition and vocals. The band’s dedicated fan base waited a long three years for the album to be released, and it did not disappoint. With singles Victorious, Emperor’s New Clothes, Hallelujah, and Death of a Bachelor Urie’s vocals proved powerful and moving as he attempted to put his own spin on the pop-rock genre. Each song in the album has its own style, sound, and meaning as they take the listener on a journey of emotions and appreciation for Urie’s immense talent. Some fans have speculated that Urie predicted the outcome of 2016 with the song Impossible Year, because it was included in the album that was released in February. Whether or not the theory is crazy or somewhat true, the album proved to be an anchor for many fans struggling with the unfortunate events of 2016.

• I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It – The 1975

The 1975 never fails to deliver new and eccentric music with unique instrumentals that mimic indie/alternative/pop vibes while simultaneously failing to fit in any genre. The band’s individual style only makes them more appealing, and after their first, self-titled album, the fans were left guessing what the upcoming album would sound like. Songs like Loving Someone and Love Me preached more meaningful messages of equality and acceptance while A Change of Heart and The Ballad of Me And My Brain had more satirical and mocking undertones. The album in itself has many different aspects in which it becomes unique. With sentimental, hard-hitting songs such as She Lays Down and Nana, lead singer Matty Healy touched the hearts of many fans. The album represents a significant divergence from their original sound, because they experimented with more sounds, and it produced an influential self-reflection for the listener.