So classes are about to start up and so is the craving for new music for our daily commute to campus. What do we do? We go to the iTunes top singles list or type in that same band name we’ve been listening to since 2010. Not that there’s a problem with this, but it’s time for a change and our devices are begging us to download something new.
As students, we sometimes take the easy route when trying to find music and who can blame us? Searching for new music can be hard when the library consumes our souls one textbook at a time and Spotify already provides you with a recommended playlist.
This summer, I’ve been searching for some of the music industry’s freshest faces and newest releases to break this pattern. Whatever genre you favor, these five bands are sure to please your music addiction and make your walk to that early morning class just a little easier.
Band 1: We the Wild – This alt-pop duo out of London just released their second EP, Vol. 2, and it has been on replay in my car since I found it. Seriously everyone, this album is the best purchase I’ve made this summer. Releasing their sophomore efforts in July, songs like “Paper Plane” and “Mercury” make for great rainy-day songs. So if you find yourself putting the raincoat on this semester, crank these songs on the way to class. However, if it’s a sunny day on the horseshoe and you’re studying for that first exam, play a song like “You Lost My Mind” from their first EP, Vol. 1.
Songs you have to hear: “Trampoline,” “Body Electric (Blue),” and “Float.”
Band 2: The Maine – Forever Halloween is the name of this band’s latest release and the heavy, dark undertones really speak for the title. Being a pure rock and roll album, this collection of songs really strays away from the bands early pop-rock beginnings. Even though the album is different, it is different in a good way. Lead singer, John O’Callaghan, explores a wildly diverse selection of topics. From songs about poor decisions to tunes about hating Los Angeles, this album won’t disappoint.
Songs you have to hear: “Love & Drugs,” “Run,” and “Kennedy Curse.”
Band 3: Twin Forks – It seems that Dashboard Confessional and Further Seems Forever vocalist, Chris Carrabbara, has been listening to a lot of Mumford and Sons, Of Monsters and Men, and The Lumineers. While I don’t personally listen to a lot of folk music, this band caught my attention through their originality and fast-paced songs. Releasing their self-titled album in February, Carrabbara and company produced 12 tracks that are just pure, simple, upbeat songs. Grab your iPhone, press play, go for a walk through campus in the fall, and tell me your day isn’t any better.
Songs you have to hear: “Back To You,” “Cross My Mind,” and “Can’t Be Broken.”
Band 4: Bad Suns – With the recent rise of “indie” bands through the iTunes and Billboard charts, it’s no surprise that this four-piece received positive reactions from their June release of Language and Perspective. The 11 tracks on the new album are all innovative, yet somehow have that same distinct sound the band has stapled. In an interview with Billboard, lead singer, Christo Bowman said: “We wanted to create a listening experience that feels consistent, yet as if each song is better than the one that precedes it.” In all honesty, when you put your headphones on, you’ll most likely think they are just a mellow, Californian version of The 1975. But if you give them a chance, I guarantee you’ll be replaying a couple of songs over and over again.
Songs you have to hear: “Matthew James,” “Transpose.” and “We Move Like An Ocean.”
Band 5: Driver Friendly – OK, so let’s talk about a high-energy rock band from Austin, Texas. I first purchased their EP, Peaks and Valleys, last year and it was like listening to a grand mixture of pop-punk bands from the Vans Warped Tour. But here is the catch; they aren’t your simple rock band. Shortly after you start playing the song, “Messidona,” you’ll notice a trumpet in the mix. The use of the trumpet is surprisingly refreshing and gives the bands music an extra push. Be sure to check out their newest album, Under Bridges, which was released in July. It’s worth your while too.
Songs you have to hear: “Messidona,” “Ghosts,” and “Stand So Tall.”
