1) Opus – Eric Prydz
Eric Prydz’s output reigned supreme in 2016, with the Swedish DJ delivering significant offerings from each of his three monikers, including under his own name, Cirez D and Pryda. Most notably, the legendary producer at long last dropped his debut album, the rightly named Opus.
A truly massive undertaking, Opus came loaded with nineteen meticulously crafted techno compositions, including the breathtaking title track that has been hailed as the modern equivalent of deadmau5’s classic “Strobe.” Throughout the album, Prydz works his melodic magic on a number of his finest outings, delivering deeply layered soundscapes that take on a life of their own.
Eric Prydz is truly one of the best producers of our time, and his inaugural album goes to great lengths to make this abundantly clear. The synth work and drum programming are impeccably executed, while a number of vocal additions like “Moody Monday” and “Generate” strengthen the collection of songs present. Eric Prydz delivers music that is emotive, impactful, driving, kinetic and thoughtful all at the same time, executed with a masterful level of precision paralleled by few. For that reason, Opus ranks as our pick for best album of 2016.