The Spring Semester is back in full swing, and because the festivities of the new year are over, music releases are on the rise. From the announcement of release dates for future Vampire Weekend music to not one, but two Fyre Music Festival documentaries, music is in the news –– and dare I say, thriving. So to celebrate the start of the semester, here are some of the latest releases to listen to on your stroll to class:
James Blake is his same adventurous self
Following up his hauntingly beautiful 2016 album The Colour In Anything, London-based James Blake has released his fourth studio album. Assume Form blends maximalist beats Blake is known for with an array of R&B and hip-hop feature artists. Stand outs include the title track, as well as “Where’s The Catch?,” which features Outkast’s André 3000. Blake isn’t afraid to take chances with his music, and that can be seen through all of his albums as well as his other work. Blake is arguably one of music’s most adventurous producers at the moment, and it would be a shame not to listen to his latest release.
Ariana Grande doesn’t need a man
Ariana Grande is the queen of the charts as of lately, and she’s not slowing down anytime soon. Releasing the female-empowering “7 Rings,” Grande basks in the single-life and shows the people exactly why she doesn’t need a man. With the verses masking the tune of “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music and Grande blending in a bit of hip-hop with her traditional pop sound, “7 Rings” is a ride and one you should consider taking.
The U.S. is a mess — and The Killers are here to remind you
Diving straight into the disarray that is the U.S. at the moment, alternative-rock pioneers The Killers tackle the problems the country is facing at the moment. Touching on topics such as gun control, immigration and racial tensions, lead singer Brandon Flowers examines massive societal issues in “Land Of The Free.” With a video directed by renowned director Spike Lee containing stark imagery and the bleak reality of America, the song is made even more heart-wrenching. In tandem with a release from blues-guitarist Gary Clark Jr., the artists are poignant and bold in their lyrics. To supplement the song, Flowers took to Twitter:
Maren Morris shows just what she can do
Solidifying herself as someone who can successful sing both pop and country music, Maren Morris is definitely a chameleon in the music industry. Whether it’s country hits such as “I Could Use a Love Song” and “My Church” or her feature on Zedd’s massive “The Middle,” Morris has shown she’s a key player at the moment. In her latest release, “GIRL,” Morris shows of her multi-talented voice. On the surface, “GIRL” seems like a simple pop-country song, but it has layers to it. With a subtle rock-oriented guitar riff opening the song and aspects of gospel within Morris’ voice, the song is jam packed. It’s an anthem, and the perfect song for Morris to release.
