Every decade brings us amazing music that shapes our culture. While some albums get massive attention and become classics, others fly under the radar, despite their quality and influence. These underrated albums often offer fresh sounds, honest lyrics, and unique styles that deserve more recognition. Here are five albums from the last ten years that you should 
check out.
Ctrl by SZA (2017)
SZA’s Ctrl blends R&B, soul, and alternative sounds with deeply personal lyrics. The album explores themes like love, insecurity, and self-worth in a raw and relatable way. Despite critical praise, it didn’t receive the mainstream success it deserved right away. Tracks like “Love Galore” and “The Weekend” showcase her unique voice and emotional depth. If you haven’t listened yet, Ctrl is a soulful journey worth taking.
Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers (2020)
Phoebe Bridgers’ Punisher is a beautifully haunting indie-folk album. It mixes gentle guitar melodies with dark, introspective lyrics about loss, mental health, and relationships. The album’s subtle arrangements highlight Bridgers’ delicate voice and storytelling skills. Although she gained a devoted fanbase, Punisher didn’t dominate mainstream charts. Its emotional honesty and artistry make it a hidden gem of the decade.
LP1 by FKA twigs (2014)
FKA twigs’ debut album LP1 is a bold mix of electronic, R&B, and experimental sounds. Her ethereal voice pairs with cutting-edge production to create an otherworldly listening experience. The album pushed boundaries with its creativity but remained somewhat niche. Songs like “Two Weeks” and “Video Girl” reveal her unique style and strong artistic vision. LP1 remains a must-listen for fans of innovative music.
Bloom by Beach House (2012)
Bloom is a dreamy, atmospheric album that captures the essence of dream pop. Beach House’s soft vocals and lush instrumentation create a relaxing, immersive soundscape. The album’s mood and texture are deeply emotional yet understated. While it has a loyal following, Bloom never reached wide commercial success. It’s perfect for anyone who loves music that feels like a gentle escape.
Shields by Real Estate (2014)
Real Estate’s Shields is a calm, melodic indie rock album full of jangly guitars and smooth harmonies. The songs feel nostalgic, capturing small moments of life and friendship. Despite positive reviews, it didn’t make a big splash in mainstream media. If you enjoy thoughtful, easy-going music that’s both catchy and chill, Shields deserves a spot in your playlist.
Why These Albums Matter
These underrated albums show that great music doesn’t always get the spotlight right away. They offer fresh perspectives, emotional depth, and innovative sounds that influence other artists and fans. Exploring lesser-known albums helps expand your musical taste and supports artists who deserve more attention.
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Final Thoughts
The decade has been full of incredible music beyond the big hits and chart-toppers. Albums like Ctrl, Punisher, LP1, Bloom, and Shields prove that quality can be found in unexpected places. If you’re looking to discover something new, dive into these underrated gems—you might find your next favorite album.