In the dynamic soundscape of 2023, pop-rock trio senses—comprised of frontwoman Madison Taylor, guitarist Josh Bissell, and drummer Nick Sampson—has emerged as a powerhouse on stage in 2023. As we bid farewell to this year, senses invite us into their vibrant sonic universe, unveiling their carefully curated list of the top 10 albums that have left an indelible mark on their musical journey.
This thoughtfully crafted selection offers a window into the diverse influences shaping the creative minds of the trio. Standout picks include Pierce The Veil‘s transcendent masterpiece, The Jaws Of Life, a raw and emotionally charged exploration that defies genres; Paramore‘s This Is Why, blending infectious melodies with poignant lyrics; and Olivia Rodrigo‘s sophomore release, GUTS, a soul-stirring revelation.
As the grand crescendo of their year, senses recently concluded The Speaking Our Language tour alongside Boys Like Girls. Their powerful pop-rock anthem, “playing dead,” serves as the exclamation point of their year, sonically. Join senses as they unravel the soundtrack of their 2023—a composition bursting with passion, inspiration, emotion, and the heartbeat of transformation.
Pierce The Veil — The Jaws Of Life
I think the first time I heard “Emergency Contact,” I listened to it 5 times back to back. First of all, [Vic Fuentes’] voice just really cuts through and is so unique. I love the tone, and musically, this album just has so many dynamics that it really keeps me intrigued the whole time. There’s this sort of hopefulness I get when listening.
Olivia Rodrigo — GUTS
I think everyone can find something to relate to in this album. I’m always so inspired by Olivia Rodrigo’s songwriting and how she really keeps an edge and rawness to her songs. There’s something so nostalgic yet completely fresh at the same time.
boygenius — the record
boygenius has had such an incredible year. Honestly, just their attitudes and the way they open up their dynamic to the world, I think, is so cool. This album is truly an expression of art and talent, and you can tell in every song they just love what they’re doing. That really comes through.
WILLOW — <COPINGMECHANISM>
I know this album was released last year, but I honestly still can feel so much from it. The uniqueness and edge just never get old. The guitars absolutely rip which just really can help drive a song forward, and the production just has so much attitude. I love how completely emotional and fresh it is, and I think the guitars really drew me in from the start. Not to mention WILLOW’s voice.
Paramore — This Is Why
I am constantly in awe of how Paramore is so unapologetically themselves. They truly do not write or make music based on what their audience might want or be expecting, but rather stick to what they are feeling and what’s true to them. I think so often I get caught up wondering what everyone else wants that the music can sometimes come off as not very genuine. Paramore has time and time, proved they are true artists and absolutely put their hearts and souls into their music. Hayley Williams’ writing has always inspired me endlessly, and this album is no exception.
Paramore — Re: This Is Why
I know this might sound redundant, but the remix album is nothing like the original. What an absolutely iconic idea to have artists you love and respect add their own twist to your music. What a cool thing to open your songs up to. This is such a range of genres and emotions it is such a fun way to reintroduce your music to the world with a twist.
Waterparks — INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
These guys are just doing something different in the best way. When I listen to Waterparks’ music, it makes me want to open my mind up wide and dig into writing. To me, Awsten Knight seems just so free in what he says, and it really shows through in every song. The production is futuristic and pushes the boundaries, yet has elements that seem so familiar. It just is fun and feisty in all the right ways.
MUNA — MUNA
I know this is also a 2022 release, but we honestly have MUNA in constant rotation. A lot of times, it’s our pump-up music and makes us wanna dance. Their attitude and the way they also open up their dynamic to the world is just infectious. Their songwriting is incredible, and their way of incorporating this ‘80s vibe with new-age pop sounds we just can’t get enough of.
P!nk — TRUSTFALL
I don’t think I can say more about P!nk’s talent. She is a force to be reckoned with, and I look up to her immensely. The way her music has evolved over the years is inspiring, and I really think her talent is somehow underrated. The things she does on stage and still sounds as powerful as she does is just out of this world. And this album really highlights the best parts of P!nk—she’s the definition of a badass.
Kelly Clarkson — chemistry
Need I even say anything at all? A voice that just seems to have absolutely no limits and an attitude that is strong and can brighten anyone’s day. Truly, Kelly Clarkson is a woman to admire, and chemistry is an album that is vulnerable and emotional and makes me wanna just work as hard as I possibly can to be the best I can be.
