Although 2022 may be behind us, it would be a travesty to leave behind the year’s best releases so quickly. Whether your personal year was good, bad or somewhere in between, I believe we can all agree that, musically, this year was unmatched. 

While I may only be able to scratch the surface with this five-song playlist of 2022 certified bangers, I invite you to enjoy my favorites from the past year.

Kill Bill – SZA 

“SOS” was my most anticipated album this year, and boy, did it not disappoint. Despite not being able to care more about Quentin Tarantino, “Kill Bill” offers something I could listen to all day: SZA’s homicidal fantasies. What can I say? I love female rage. While I don’t think I will ever get around to watching any of the “Kill Bill” movies, if the films are anything like this song, I might have to pirate them illegally. 

American Teenager – Ethel Cain

You may ask what I have in common with the 44th President of the United States Barack Obama. Well, we’re both fans of Tallahassee native Ethel Cain. However, I have not yet pinpointed what aspect of this anti-war, anti-patriotism pop song Obama could relate to. Good for him, I guess. 

Heat Lightning – Mitski 

If there is one album that was unjustly slept on this year, it’s “Laurel Hell” by Mitski. This dreamlike melody encompasses a softer side of insomnia while simultaneously leaving listeners both haunted and galvanized. Although it’s debatable if the title “Heat Lightning” refers to actual lightning or acts as a metaphor, I believe it can work fluidly as both. But maybe I’m biased because I love the imagery of heat lightning on a summer night. 

Running with the Hurricane – Camp Cope 

This title track of Camp Cope’s most recent album is one of the band’s most substantial. Maybe I just love songs with a twinge of country combined with strong vocals, but let me tell you, this song is simply unmatched. Narrating a journey of overcoming self-doubt and introspection, this certified banger secures strength in vulnerability.

gimme all ur luv – Hemlocke Springs

Angelic, fun and dreamy are the first words that come to mind when listening to any Hemlocke Springs song. I swear one of the only good things to come out of Tik Tok has been the North Carolina native’s music. This song can cure even the worst of your moods or brighten your most tedious errands. Needless to say, I cannot wait to see the future of Hemlocke Springs.