Well folks, we're over three quarters of the way through the year already and my word, has it been a superb year for music. A tonne of fantastic albums have released already with even more to come before the year end.

With my position here, I'm exposed to all sorts of music and have been experimenting with all manner of genres outside the realms of what I would typically listen to. Doing this, I've discovered some excellent albums that would normally not have been on my radar at all. I thought I'd let you guys know what my favourite albums so far this year have been.

Without further ado, here are my top 5 albums (in no particular order) of 2014 so far!

1.Royal Blood: Self Titled – I have to admit, I went into this album with no expectations and was absolutely blown away. I still struggle coming to terms with the fact that this band of only two men produces a sound that would rival most five man rock bands. The album is chock full of rock anthems with so much intensity, it's impossible to not get your groove on.

My top tracks – Careless, Figure it Out & Come on Over.

2.Conor Oberst: Upside Down Mountain – I've been a Bright Eyes fan for quite some time now and consider them one of my top bands of all time. This said, you can imagine my excitement for this project. This album is packed to the brim with some of the smartest lyrics in recent memory and see's Oberst channeling much happier vibes than in his previous work. This album grabs you by the heart and does not let go for its entirety . Words honestly cannot describe how much I love this album.

My top tracks – Common Knowledge, Night At Lake Unknown & Desert Island Questionnaire

3.FKA Twigs: LP1 – There's no denying that FKA Twigs is one of the hottest female vocalists right now. Her superb vocal melodies work perfectly with the incredible production and beats throughout the album. Taking the listener on an enthralling musical journey. Every song on this album feels meaningful and establishes FKA Twigs as a vocal force to be reckoned with.

My top tracks – Two Weeks, Pendulum & Give Up.

4.Shihad: FVEY – If you're even remotely interested in Rock, Shihad's latest albums is perfect. Serving up some of the bands best work in years with hard hitting tracks bursting from the seams. The boys have crafted a fantastic album that is unafraid to question the atrocities being committed everyday.

My top tracks – Cheap As, Grey Area & Think You're So Free.

5.Pup: Self Titled – Named one of Stereogum’s Bands To Watch for 2014, PUP is an undeniably infectious band with reckless, visceral energy oozing from their every pore. I love every single track on this album and honestly cannot reccomend it high;ly enough to any fans of slightly heavier music.

My top tracks – Yukon, Lionheart & Guilt Trip

Well there you have it, these are my top 5 albums of the year so far!

What are your favourite albums so far? What do you think of my choices?

Let us know in the comments below!

From The Music Gorilla