Although some of the most influential music was released well before their time, Millennials are proving to give their parents a run for their money. Along with the ability to share songs faster than ever before, music has become easily accessible and universally transformed. For example, many of today's artists don't fit into any one category, just as their listener's aren't dedicated to any one genre. As a result, the industry has become dynamic and diverse—changing every few months.
Here are simply a few artists who have released remarkable albums within the last year:
1. "Kicker" by Zella Day
This Arizona native is slowly making her way into the spotlight with the release of her third album, Kicker. Even though she'll be performing in the Lollapalooza Music Festival next to Sam Smith, Charli XCX, and Alesso in August, it will be hard to overshadow her phenomenal talent. Also be sure to listen to "Cynics vs Dreamers," Day's first album released in 2012.
2. "Indigo Child" by Raury
With his first album, "Indigo Child" (specifically named after the Millennial generation), Raury Tullis is relatively new to the industry; however, his unique mix of rap, funk, and soul have proven to be nothing less than exceptional as he transcends the boundaries of genres and creates his own.
3. "Noise vs. Beauty" by Bassnectar
Lorin Ashton, better known as the American DJ "Bassnectar," has not only performed at Red Rocks five years in a row, but has also made an appearance at the 2015 Bonnaroo Music Festival (along with Kendrick Lamar, Tove Lo, and G-Eazy). Although he is well-known for "Bass Head" and his remix of Ellie Goulding's "Lights," he has 15 equally incredible songs on his EDM album,"Noise vs. Beauty."
4. "Wanted on Voyage" by George Ezra
He has opened for Sam Smith, toured with Hozier, and reached the top 10 in music charts in 20 countries for his song "Budapest." George Ezra, winner of the 2015 YouTube Music Awards, may become the next legend to emerge from England, and it's not hard to see why: Ezra's bass-baritone voice is extraordinary in "Barcelona," "Listen to the Man," and nine other tracks from "Wanted on Voyage."
5. "Strange Trails" by Lord Huron
This indie folk group originated in Michigan, moved to Los Angeles, and has since toured the country several times over. Its members (Ben Schneider, Mark Barry, Miguel Briseño, and Tom Renaud) are all Michigan natives, but you can catch them live in Colorado on Aug. 5 at the Fox Theatre or Aug. 6 at the Mishawaka.
6. "Z" by SZA
Solana Rowe, or SZA, is a contemporary R&B artist whose subject matter ranges from nostalgia to abandonment and sexuality to religion. Within the last year, SZA has performed at the SXSW Music Festival in Austin, announced an international tour, and started recording her fourth EP entitled "A."
7. "Living Asleep" by Fierce Bad Rabbit
Fierce Bad Rabbit is a local, indie folk group that originated from Fort Collins circa 2009 and has become increasingly popular throughout the years. The four members currently reside in Boston, but they often return to their beloved hometown for a warm-welcomed performance.
"Although the band has gained international recognition, they use their roots as a source of inspiration and motivation to do the next big thing." - Lianna Salva
Be sure to check out their previous albums, "Spools of Thread," "Live and Learn," and the "Maestro and the Elephant."
Which artist(s) would you add to this list? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!




















