00s 

 

1. Aaliyah by Aaliyah

The last album by icon Aaliyah is arguably her best work. For this albums, she worked alongside producers Timbaland (who she'd worked with for her prior album too), Bud'da and Eric Seats. The lyrics, based around lust, heartache and conflict were largely written by the late great singer-songwriter Static Major. Also known as "the Red Album," is showed Aaliyah maturing as an artist. It incorporates a plethora of different music styles and genres including R&B, dance-pop, electronica, hip-hop and alternative rock. This album would help to pave the way for the future of pop music in terms of its writing and production style. Unfortunately, Aaliyah would die only a month after the album's release in a plane crash. Aaliyah will never be forgotten and recognized as a prominent artist who helped to progress R&B and pop music.

 

  (Buy the Album here)

 

2. Siempre Es Hoy by Gustavo Cerati

Following the critical and commercial success of Bocanada (my personal favorite album of all time), Gustavo Cerati released an electronic-based soundtrack (+Bien) and also an album with classical arrangements of his songs from Soda Stereo and his solo career (11 Episodios Sinfonicos). He would then release an album that contrasted with these two: Siempre Es Hoy. While the album still includes of electronic influences, it is not a repeat of his prior work. The album includes of genres such as pop rock, electronic, alternative rock, folklore, alternative dance and R&B. What amazes me about Cerati and his ability to incorporate different genres is he seems to do so in a seamless, unique way. This has made me view him as a one-of-a-kind artist because of his ability to do so. Cerati also delivers poetic, reflective lyrics based around heartbreak (he was going through a divorce around the time of recording the album), optimism, sensuality and self-identity.

 

  (Buy the Album here)