The best albums of 2026 so far

The Guardian published its list of the best albums released in the first six months of 2026 on June 9, 2026. The compilation highlights a diverse range of musical artists and genres, featuring Thundercat's funk collaborations and Kacey Musgraves' introspective tracks. The selection aims to cover various facets of the pop music spectrum, showcasing notable releases that have defined the year's musical landscape up to this point. A Spotify playlist compiling all the featured albums is available for listeners. This curated list provides an overview of significant musical achievements and emerging trends in the first half of 2026, offering a snapshot of the contemporary music scene.