For the past few years, I’ve done my best to try to keep on top of as many new album releases as I can, trying to give each new album at least one listen all the way through. We’re only in April, but there’s already been some pretty important and impressive new records. So, if you’re looking for some new music, I’ve got you covered.
The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess by Chappell Roan
Okay so this album actually came out in 2023, and despite at least two people around me highly recommending it, I didn’t actually start listening to it until this year. But I haven’t been able to get enough of this record since my first listen. This is upbeat, borderline hyperpop, totally bonkers, and dancey. Chappell Roan is having a bit of a moment right now, and for good reason. I suggest you get in on the moment now.
Cowboy Carter by Beyonce
If you haven’t listened to Cowboy Carter yet, I’m not sure what you’ve been doing. This is undoubtedly the most important record that will come out this year. Beyonce has delivered many powerful records in the past few years, but this is her most impressive yet. From top to bottom, every song is a hit. This record has been described as Beyonce’s country album, but it’s more than that because Beyonce is beyond genre. Beyonce has only continued to evolve and transcend from her debut in the early 2000s and it’s so clear, there’s so much more to come.
Only God Was Above Us by Vampire Weekend
People love to hate on Vampire Weekend. But I will defend them to the end! If Vampire Weekend has a million fans, I am one of them. If Vampire Weekend has one fan, I am that fan. If Vampire Weekend has no fans, then I am dead. Truly, if you think Vampire Weekend is just cutesy songs about universities and horchata, then you haven’t listened to their music in at least 10 years.
To me, Vampire Weekend is at their best when they’re dealing with issues of god, religious experiences, and existence. These themes combined with the band’s use of baroque pianos and 80s influences is really what gives them their unique sound. Only God Was Above Us add something more, an almost hazy filter reminiscent of Pet Sounds.
More in-depths thoughts on this record to come, I think.
Deeper Well by Kacey Musgraves
Deeper Well is a lovely little folk album about growing up, moving on from the past, and developing hope for the future. I have a lot of thoughts about how Golden Hour, Star-Crossed, and Deeper Well all fit together to tell a complete story of growing up, but I’ll save that for another day.
For now, you should enjoy these enchanting and often deeply emotional songs. I have nearly cried to Giver/Taker too many times this past week.
Orquideas by Kali Uchis
Latin music, in particular reggaeton, has risen to become not only part of the mainstream, but really dominated mainstream popular music in the United States. In Orquideas Kali Uchis uses this moment to deliver a tour of Latin music, highlighting the breadth and depth of the history of Latin music. This is Uchis’s second Spanish language album and one where she really gets to show her love for her culture and musical influences.
Bonus content: I listened to a really excellent episode of Switched on Pop that dives into these topics even further and would highly recommend checking it out.
The Past Is Still Alive by Hurray for The Riff Raff
I’ve been listening to Hurray for the Riff Raff casually for the past few years, but this record really brought everything together for me. While the band is based in New Orleans, something about this record just makes me feel like driving through the Southwest in the summer. This record is short and driven, and will keep you coming back for more.
What albums have you been listening to this year? Send them my way! I’d love to know what you’ve been listening to nonstop.