The 20 Best Albums of 2023 So Far

by Jason Dietz, Metacritic Features Editor – July 6, 2023

Which albums impressed critics during the first half of the year? In the gallery on this page we rank the highest-scoring LPs released between January 1, 2023 and June 30, 2023. Albums are ranked by their Metascores as of July 3, 2023 and must have at least 7 reviews from professional critics to be eligible. Resissues, EPs, live albums, and compilations are excluded.

4 of 21 photo by RCA

86But Here We Are by Foo Fighters

(#17) The Dave Grohl-led rock band's 11th studio album is their first since the death of drummer Taylor Hawkins. Grohl himself filled in on drums for the Greg Kurstin-produced set, and the result is Foo Fighters' highest-scoring 21st century album.

“It’s a bit of cruel irony that in the face of so much adversity, the band has somehow managed to helm their most creative and compelling album in over 20 years. It may be hard for the band to recognize it, but believe it or not, Foo Fighters are learning to live again.” —Consequence

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