It’s hard to believe 2013 is already half over, and as summer wanes, it’s a fine time to talk about the best albums so far. It’s been a year full of musical inspiration, and it looks to only get better!

The Five Albums You Shouldn’t Miss From Early 2013

Pop\Rock: Paramore – Paramore

Paramore came into their own in 2013 with their fourth album, following a big lineup change that left them a trio. That’s all for the better, as the result is an album that’s more tightly focused than their past work, and yet brimming with new ideas. Those who’ve previously dismissed them should give this a listen. They’ve matured, they’ve broadened, and they rock.

Hip-Hop: Run The Jewels – EL-P+Killer Mike

While many are likely to point at Jay-Z or Kanye’s new albums, for my money, Run The Jewels still has yet to be beat. Its beats are hot, its lyrics smooth, and the Miami-influenced retro electronica elements blend it together into an anthemic hiphop masterpiece. Forget the overhyped A-listers. This is the real stuff.

Electronica: Random Access Memories – Daft Punk

Despite coming out in January, it’s unlikely this tour-de-force from dance pioneers Daft Punk will be topped any time this year, with the same musical inspiration that drove Discovery. Their blend of neo-disco has never sounded more fresh or relevant, and adding Chic’s Nile Rodgers is the icing on the retro cake.

Metal: Sunbather – Deafheaven

Deafheaven has taken their odd blend of doom metal, shoegaze, and postrock and created Sunbather, an album that makes one realize that heavy metal may not be perpetually trapped in the 80s after all. Veering wildly between ear-splitting walls of guitar and moments of lyrical beauty, metal fans from all eras should take note.

Jazz: Woman – Rhye

Woman is an album that’s easily overlooked because it defies easy categorization. Whatever it is, it’s one of the smoothest, sensual, and most romantic albums released in any year. Perfect for listening to with chilled wine by the fire, it’s an auditory treat with lush arrangements and Robin Hannibal’s enticing vocals.