It is never too early to start appreciating what made a year great. In no particular order, here are 15 of this year's new music releases that you should be listening to:
Vertigo by Mini Mansions ft. Alex Turner
The Los Angeles-based trio are joined by the Arctic Monkeys frontman on this song from their most recent album, The Great Pretenders. Vertigo was dubbed "sexy, gangster cool" by NME and is a good sampling of the mournful whimsy present throughout the album.
Dreams by Beck
Dreams is the first single off the anticipated follow-up to Beck's Morning Phase, which won the 2014 Album of the Year Grammy. Although the song is a complete 180 from his last release, Beck owns the disco-funk beat and smooth vocals.
If You Ever Want To Be In Love by James Bay
James Bay put out his first full length album this year, and this song captures the soft blues-rock style that defines the singer-songwriter.
Compound Fracture by My Morning Jacket
Known for their trippy sound, My Morning Jacket did not disappoint on their newest album. Compound Fracture is free flowing and mellow all while maintaining danceability.
10 Bands by Drake
Drake surprise-dropped his most recent mixtape "If You're Reading This It's Too Late" in February. 10 Bands is best listened to when running through the six with your woes.
Blood Stutter by Handsome Ghost
Handsome Ghost are an electro-folk act from Boston currently trying to make a name for themselves by opening up for acts like X Renegades and BORNS. This song layers sorrowful lyrics over synth beats to create a cool, unique vibe.
Fool For Love by Lord Huron
SPIN Magazine called Lord Huron's album Strange Trails "enchanting from start to finish." Fool For Love's catchy blend of folk sounds and pop beats is no exception.
How Could You Babe by Tobias Jesso Jr.
Although slow-moving, Jesso builds tension that reaches a peak with his pleading vocals.
Lonely Town by Brandon Flowers
The Killers frontman just released his second solo album, and it sounds like a more relaxed version of '80s synth pop. On Lonely Town, you get a taste of his signature big vocals and laid back attitude.
Bros by Wolf Alice
My Love is Cool is Wolf Alice's first album and is a confident statement that borrows from 90s post-grunge and, according to The Guardian, "captures the sadness of growing up."
Cassy O' by George Ezra
Ezra uses his deep voice and guitar heavy sound to blend R&B, indie-rock, and folk on his album Wanted on Voyage. Cassy O' turns introspective and thoughtful lyrics into a catchy and melodic hit.
Madonna Can't Save Me Now by Will Butler
This year Will Butler took time away from playing with Arcade Fire to release his debut solo album Policy. Here, he breaks from the often overly complex sounds of his band and delivers his own brand of euphoric sincerity.
California Nights by Best Coast
Best Coast are known for their beachy anthems, and California Nights reads like a love letter to the state the band calls home.
King Kunta by Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick's most recent album features what Rolling Stone dubbed "mutant funk and neo-soul psychedelia." In King Kunta, he blends 70s era beats with his 90s, in-your-face rapping.
Chateau Lobby #4 by Father John Misty
Misty's February release, I Love You, Honeybear
showcases his voice that is equal parts sensitive and earnest. His lyrics are
bizarre but openhearted, and he often buries his sincerity in cynical
jokes. Chateau Lobby #4 offers a good taste of the album with its soft
folk and lyrical heaviness.





















