Dry Cleaning
Like a lot of music geeks, I compile my list of new favorite albums by the end of June each year.
At midyear 2026, I’m excited to say that I’m discovering great music by a number of bands that are new to me.
Beck Zegans is a good example of a cool new find. A songwriter and guitarist who has backed up Palehound made an experimental rock album that sounds great no matter how many times I play it.
Robber Robber, Remember Sports, Station Model Violence and Weird Nightmare are also new rock, post-punk and pop discoveries, while Cola, Dry Cleaning and Sault are old favorites putting out strong releases this year.
Chicago’s own Ratboys made the band’s best album yet, while the veteran German band the Notwist delivered a record that hooked me after just a couple of listens.
Sault stands out among my mostly rock selections this year as a truly enjoyable soulful release.
Here are the top 10 best albums of 2026 at the middle of the year listed alphabetically by artist.
Cola – Cost of Living Adjustment
The Notwist – News from Planet Zombie
Ratboys – Singin’ to an Empty Chair
Remember Sports – The Refrigerator
Robber Robber – Two Wheels Move the Soul
Station Model Violence – Station Model Violence
Beck Zegans – Engraving of Armor
Here are a few more albums I like:
Courtney Barnett – Creature of Habit
King Tuff – Moo
Check out more songs on my Spotify playlist featuring this year’s songs.
All the Young Punks 