Every now and then, I show up a bit late to the new music scene. Usually, I'm either discovering artists way before they make it big or years after they've made 5 incredible albums. Recently, I've been listening to albums released 1 to 5 years ago—all pretty new, but not brand new. I find myself thinking, how am I just now hearing this? If you're stuck in an old music funk or just want to hear something new, check out these albums.
Currents, Tame Impala (2015)
This album is a newer release but has already received a lot of praise. Their alternative style is one that a lot of people find themselves developing a taste for, meaning the unique sound and feel of the band is something you love more deeply with every listen. Currents is somewhat of a breakup album, with sweetly sad lyrics that flow smoothly with each melody. This album is especially pleasing because each song has its own vibe, making the listening experience very alive. A few favorites from the album: "Let It Happen," "Past Life," "'Cause I'm a Man," and "New Person, Same Old Mistakes."
Melophobia, Cage the Elephant (2013)
Alternative can mean so many different styles of music, and Cage the Elephant definitely falls more on the rock side of the spectrum. It takes a certain mood for me to listen to this album all the way through, but its electric guitar feel and lots and lots of drums makes the album crazy fun. There are softer tracks, too, so Melophobia is balanced brilliantly. This album has been out since 2013, but the group is definitely worth a listen if you haven't heard them yet. Songs from this album to check out: "Cigarette Daydream," "Black Widow," and "Halo."
Skin, Flume (2016)
An electronic album is usually the last thing on my suggestions list, but the authentic uniqueness of Flume makes this album vibrant. Some tracks are purely the sound of the musician, who is known for his upbeat remixes, but others feature alternative artists such as Kai, Tove Lo, AlunaGeorge, and Beck. This album is good getting-ready music. Some of my favorites: "Never Be Like You (feat. Kai)," "Innocence (feat. AlunaGeorge)," and "When Everything Was New."
Zaba, Glass Animals (2014)
One of my favorite groups (and amazing live performers), Glass Animals has a style completely their own. Zaba is like listening to the rainforest if the rainforest could sing and dance. Their soundboard of animal noises keeps things interesting, and each song is strong and powerful. You may be familiar with "Gooey," one of their most popular tracks, but there are so many more on this album that make it worth listening to. Check out: "Black Mambo," "Hazey," and "Toes."
The Life of Pablo, Kanye West (2016)
Before you scroll past this review with a chuckle, give it a chance. So many people are anti-Kanye because he's a bit, um, full of himself, but that doesn't mean his music isn't worth a listen. Trust me, I didn't think I'd like it either, but I've never heard a rap album flow as smoothly as his. It's one I'd recommend listening to from start to finish for the full effect, but here are a few favorites: "Ultralight Beam," "Highlights," "Waves," and "Real Friends."
I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it, The 1975 (2016)
The title of this album should be a good enough reason to listen. From start to finish, each track is poetry—even the songs without lyrics. This alternative group has created a soundtrack to your life, so to speak. From upbeat, fun songs to deeply meaningful slower tunes, there is a 1975 song for every moment. Some tracks to listen to: "UGH!," "If I Believe You," "Somebody Else," and "Loving Someone."
Vessel, twenty one pilots (2013)
This album isn't their most recent release, but it's a classic for any twenty one pilots fan and a must-hear if you like their big hits. You can't just repetitively listen to "Stressed Out" on the radio when the duo has 2 incredible albums to check out. Vessel is like a little treasure chest for me with all the hype Blurryface is getting. Check out these songs: "Holding On To You," "The Run and Go," and "Trees."
