TOPS Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

Diving into the discography of TOPS always feels like uncovering a hidden gem, even for longtime fans.

Their blend of soft rock, dream pop, and effortless cool has built a dedicated following. But which of their albums resonates the most?

To find out, we're exploring TOPS albums ranked according to the fans. This gives us a unique look into what the community considers the best TOPS album, followed by a quick glance at how popularity data stacks up.

Ranking TOPS's albums: The fan favorites

Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.

We're starting with the most beloved.

1. Sugar at the Gate (2017)

For their third studio album, TOPS temporarily relocated to Los Angeles.

The band wanted the music to capture the feeling of a "teenage fantasy" in the city. They recorded the album in a Glendale mansion, adding to its distinct atmosphere.

The result was a sound influenced by 1990s R&B, with floating synths and featherlike drum beats that reward repeat listens.

Key tracks:

• Petals
• Dayglow Bimbo

Taking the top spot, Sugar at the Gate is clearly a special record for the TOPS fanbase. Its sun-drenched, sophisticated sound represents a peak in their songwriting for many listeners.

The album's blend of memorable hooks and subtle complexity is often why fans point to it as a perfect entry point and a crowning achievement.

---

2. Picture You Staring (2014)

Released in 2014, Picture You Staring is the second studio album from the Canadian group.

The album was a critical darling upon its release. It earned high placements on several year-end best-of lists from publications like Gorilla vs. Bear, Dummy magazine, and Stereogum.

This record helped solidify the band's signature sound, building upon the foundation of their debut with more confidence and polish.

Key tracks:

• Way to be Loved
• Outside

For a huge portion of the fanbase, Picture You Staring is the quintessential TOPS album. It's the record that defined their sound and proved their debut was no fluke.

Its consistent quality and timeless feel make it a close contender for the top spot, and many longtime fans will always defend it as the band's true masterpiece.

---

3. I Feel Alive (2020)

I Feel Alive is the band's fourth studio album, released in the spring of 2020.

The album was produced by vocalist Jane Penny and guitarist David Carriere, with mixing handled by the acclaimed Chris Coady.

Its title track gained wider recognition after being featured in the 2025 film Eddington.

Key tracks:

• I Feel Alive
• Colder & Closer

This album feels direct, confident, and incredibly polished. Fans appreciate I Feel Alive for its bright energy and crisp production.

It's an accessible and uplifting record that doesn't sacrifice the band's core identity, earning it a solid and respected place in their catalog.

---

4. Tender Opposites (2012)

The band's debut album, Tender Opposites, was released in early 2012.

It was formed by members Jane Penny and David Carriere following the disbandment of their previous synthpop group, Silly Kissers.

The album received positive reviews for its nostalgic yet fresh take on pop music and was praised by outlets like Gorilla vs. Bear as one of the best albums of the year.

Key tracks:

• Evening
• Turn Your Love Around

The one that started it all. Tender Opposites holds a cherished place for long-time followers.

While it may sound less polished than their later work, its raw charm and foundational songwriting are what make it an essential part of the TOPS journey for dedicated listeners.

---

5. Bury the Key (2025)

Bury the Key is the band's fifth studio album and their first release on the Ghostly International label.

Described as having a darker, "sinister disco" edge, the album explores themes of intimacy, self-destruction, and apocalyptic dread.

During its creation, the band jokingly referred to their new, moodier direction as "evil TOPS," signaling a conscious effort to channel the world around them.

Key tracks:

• Wheels at Night
• Stars Come After You

As the newest addition to the discography, Bury the Key is still finding its long-term place among fans.

Its darker, more experimental tone is an exciting evolution. While it might take time to climb the rankings, its bold direction shows the band is still pushing their creative boundaries.

---

Picked your top TOPS classic? Check out TOPS's discography on their Roll The Record Artist hub.

---

TOPS albums: A look at popularity data

While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.

This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.

Below is a ranking of TOPS's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.

Popularity Rank	Album Title	Release Year
1	Sugar at the Gate	2017
2	Picture You Staring	2014
3	Bury the Key	2025
4	I Feel Alive	2020
5	Tender Opposites	2012

Quick FAQs about TOPS's albums

Q: What was the concept behind TOPS's album Sugar at the Gate?

A: The band moved to Los Angeles specifically to write and record the album. Their goal was to have the music reflect the experience of a "teenage fantasy" in the city.

Q: How was Sugar at the Gate received by critics?

A: It was very well-received. Critics praised its songwriting and unique sound, with some publications like NARC Magazine claiming it was the band's best album.

---

So there you have it – a tour through the TOPS albums ranked by the people who know them best.

Fan sentiment and popularity data both offer valuable perspectives, but they are just starting points for discussion.

The "best" TOPS album is the one that connects with you personally. Each record offers a different mood and a unique snapshot of the band's journey.

What does your ranking look like?