Anderson Paak, Malibu — Had Kendrick Lamar waited another year before releasing the universally acclaimed To Pimp A Butterfly, Anderson Paak's Malibu might have become the new standard in West Coast hip hop. Malibu is not just for hip-hop fans, with its textures of neo soul, jazz and funk. Amazon

Sturgill Simpson, A Sailor's Guide To Earth — It's a country album for people who don't like country. Sturgill Simpson has pushed the boundaries of outlaw country with a collection of songs that blend twangy ballads with psychedelic rock. Amazon

Frank Ocean, Blonde — Frank Ocean's second album of 2016 is the culmination of his journey from Odd Future to a solo career that has defined the new sound of R&B. Amazon

David Bowie, Blackstar — It's not just the final album from one of the 20th century's most important artists, it's Bowie's parting gift to his fans. Amazon

Margo Price, Midwest Farmer's Daughter — There's no shortage of emerging artists embracing the traditional sounds of classic country, but Margo Price channels Tammy Wynette and Loretta Lynn unlike any of her contemporaries. Amazon

Bon Iver, 22, A Million — Bon Iver's third studio album is the gift that keeps giving. 22, A Million has sonic layers you'll only discover after multiple listens. This is the perfect album for your friends who overpaid for that pair of headphones. Amazon

Car Seat Headrest, Teens of Denial — Feeling the generational divide with someone on your holiday list? Car Seat Headrest bridges the gap this year as Will Toledo makes lo-fi smart rock fashionable again. Amazon

A Tribe Called Quest, We got it from Here… Thank You 4 Your service — ATCQ's final album arrives after the unexpected passing of Phife Dawg. However, there's no nostalgia factor on We Got it from Here, as the group recaptures the same energy that inspired countless rappers who picked up the mic in the new millennium. Amazon

Oasis, Be Here Now — This reissue via Big Brother Recordings is a worthy mantelpiece item for any anglophile nostalgic for the golden era of alternative music. Amazon

Joseph, I'm Alone, No You're Not — Joseph's sophomore release is one of the year's indie success stories. The Portland sister trio took their songs to Mike Mogis to create an album that has launched them into the national spotlight. Amazon