Josh, Customer Success Manager & VMP DJ-in-Residence Picks:

The Velvet Undergound: Velvet Underground & Nico 50th Anniversary

I can remember the first time I heard "Venus In Furs" during Tom Penny's part in the Flip Skateboard video "Sorry" like it was yesterday. It opened my eyes to a variety of music that I had never heard before. Every time this album kicks up, I find myself locked in memory trying to do kickflips in my drive way.

*An earlier version of this article recommended a Sun Ra album. It's delayed till next month, so Josh picked this one instead.

Portugal the Man: Woodstock

I love the heavy introduction of synths and the progression of their sound over the years. Talented musicians and clever with their delivery. I think this record will grow on people sonically and internally.

Lukas Nelson & The Promise Of The Real: S/T

Lukas has a solid vocal range, clever lyricism and amazing presence in this album. His guitar skills are solid and I dig the contemporary groove, yet the formidable foundation of his roots. Top 3 on my 2017 list for sure. Can't thank my girlfriend enough for the introduction to Lukas. I didn't even have to mention his dad.

Lydia, Software Developer Picks:

Baby Driver Soundtrack

First off I love soundtracks in general, but this little fella peaked my interest in particular, as the entire film was based around the music. It has been described as a "music nerd’s dream." Sold.

King Geedorah: Take Me to Your Leader

Being an enthusiast for the weird, the interesting and the well done, this sci-fi themed jazz-laced hip-hop album is right up my ally. If the piano, brass, beatboxing and the linguistic symbolism in this record don't win you over, the Godzilla references have to.

The Districts: Popular Manipulations

My favorite Districts song is “Funeral Beds,” and it’s never been in such danger of being dethroned as right now, thanks to this album. Popular Manipulations is everything I already loved about the Districts polished and honed to perfection. Rob Grote’s voice = fire emoji.

David, Head Of Operations Picks

War On Drugs: A Deeper Understanding

The War on Drugs are the kings of father tunes. If you’ve heard the three released singles off of A Deeper Understanding you’ll know that this record is worth purchasing for those alone.

Grizzly Bear: Painted Ruins

Grizzly Bear is the best. Ed Droste is the best. Daniel Rossen is additionally the best. You need this record. ‘Mourning Sound’ is the best song of 2017. Thank you.

Aldous Harding: Party

Aldous Harding puts on an enthralling live performance that will captivate the attention of even the diviest venue. In March of this year we were able to catch her at Denver’s favourite armpit of a venue; I’ve never seen that room as silent, focused and hanging on every moment as that night. Her sophomore release ‘Party’ is the perfect studio translation of that experience and a can’t miss record for 2017.

Alex, A&R and New Music Lead Picks

Dent May: Across The Multiverse

His music is whimsical, full of life and reminds me of Elton John in 2017 if he was constantly micro dosing. I have been a fan of his for a while and fell in love with this album when I first heard it in the spring. Also, the vinyl is fucking gorgeous.