Best Vietnamese Albums of 2013
Female singers dominated my list this year. Only Tùng Dương made it to the 10th spot and not even with his newest Đọc Đạo, which I thought would be on my number one spot. It didn’t turn out that way. Congratulations to the ladies.
- Tân Nhàn – Yếm Đào Xuống Phố: With the support of Trần Mạnh Hùng and talented musicians, Tân Nhàn reinvigorates chèo with jazz.
- Đỗ Bảo – Cánh Cung 3: Trần Thu Hà managed to bring together Đỗ Bảo’s colorful compositions into a cohesive listening experience. It’s a daunting task that only she can accomplish.
- Hiền Thục – Tằm Tháng Năm: Hiền Thục did nothing but brought good taste and elegant to traditional folk songs. It works like a charm.
- Hồng Mơ – Khi Tình 30: Hồng Mơ moves beyond the pop bubbles and explores jazz territory. The result is refreshing.
- Phương Linh – Tiếng Hót Từ Bụi Mận Gai: Seven years after winning “Sao Mai Điểm Hẹn 2006,” Phương Linh releases her sophomore album with intricacy, maturity and confidence.
- Ánh Tuyết – Duyên Kiếp: Duyên Kiếp breathes new air into over-sentimental ballads such as “Tình Bơ Vơ” and “Mưa Chiều Kỷ Niệm.”
- Y Phương – Tình Vẫn Thiết Tha: In many ways, this album could be a tribute to the late great Ngọc Lan, but she also held her own.
- Thu Phương – Biển, Nỗi Nhớ và… Em: Thu Phương is apparently very conceptual. This album weaves together eleven songs about the sea to create a storytelling experience.
- 5 Dòng Kẻ – Yêu: Even though Yêu is not as successful and coherent as the group’s previous works, it is still an impressive record that’s filled with original compositions.
- Tùng Dương Hát Tình Ca: This album showcases the soother side of Tùng Dương.