Readers’ Poll Results: The 10 Best Albums Released In 2014, As Chosen By Your Votes

Robbie Daw | December 17, 2014 8:09 am

4. Ariana Grande, My Everything (3,383 votes)

lalo del kastillo raved, “simply amazing, ariana second effort is brilliant. “My everything” is completely solid from head to toe, different types of rythm and the lyrics very mature ;D she definitely is the next diva :D”

3. Azealia Banks, Broke With Expensive Taste (4,222 votes)

Azealia Banks Broke With Expensive Taste

CKD noted, “Azealia Banks Broke With Expensive Taste is truly diverse. The lyrics flow so smooth and everything just fits. Also she sings and raps in Spanish! All er songs on the album stand for something whether it be a movement or a break up. its a must buy!” ASD added, “Broke With Expensive Taste is the most innovative/original release from a Female Rapper since Missy.” Josh said, “Azealia Banks Broke With Expensive Taste is an amazing body of work. Azealia is very talented.”

2. Mariah Carey, Me. I Am Mariah… The Elusive Chanteuse (15,112 votes)

Mariah Carey Me I Am Mariah The Elusive Chanteuse cover artowrk

Jahric Lago opined, “Me. I Am Mariah… The Elusive Chanteuse is the best album this year. Why? Because of the mix music that Mariah produced on this album. Mariah will take you from the 90’s feel with songs like The Art of Letting Go and big ballads like Cry. and Camouflage will make you swoon. Also, a very modern dance club sound was provided with songs like Thirsty and You Don’t Know What To Do. Plus, soulful gospel-inspired music on her songs, One More Try and Heavenly (No Ways Tired / Can’t Give Up Now). The album is a jam-packed of juiciness, power and veracity that all generations from Mariah’s 90’s fans to her newer fans can relate to. I just really wished that there were more singles they released and the promotion of the album should’ve been elevated because I bet it could gain better audience and sales with the album’s great quality. Mariah proved on this album how relevant and spectacular she still is. Kudos to Team MC!” Michael added, “Mariah Carey isn’t one to follow trends. Mariah’s album stands out because it’s different, it has a nostalgic vibe with a mix of modernity. She showcases her full five octave range in this one, as well as her incomparable ability to harmonize with herself in octave unity…not to mention killer melismas and not to mention her signature whistle register. The album is fresh, a blend of 90s and modern Mariah. People should listen to it in all it’s entirety, it’s a great album.” Justin Alamillo said, “MARIAH CAREY WINS. This album was so dynamic in the sense that she experimented with many different types of music. And her vocals are superb, all 5 octaves are put on full display for all to hear.” Jiaxi Dong also noted, “I think Me. I am Mariah definitely is the best of 2014. It trumps others in its listenability, it’s versatility of genres within the album and most importantly musicality. There is a careful and delicate balance maintained in the album between Mariah being modern and up-to-date and also the Mariah of the past we’ve loved.” Jenero pointed out the following: “To start, I like to say that sales does not always constitute good music or a well put together album. Mariah, is always trying to please every fan; and with this album She gave a little bit for everyone. From using more of her lower register to some hip-hop and pop tracks to MIMI just living her truth with the whistle register. This is one of the best consistent albums of her 25 plus years. Yes Mariah may have hit and misses here and there But the most truthful things we all can say about her is that Mariah is a fighter, a creator, a lover to her fans and a legend. I hope she has many more years of music and doing what she wants. (MIMI has paid her dues.)”