Another month and another amazing 30 days of music has come and gone. Not only has the industry been buzzing with new music, but also DU’s own community. From Icelandic folk group Of Monsters & Men to DU’s own The Northern Empty, here is my rundown of some jams you should be listening to.

Coming off a very successful first single, a promise was made that The Northern Empty would be releasing some new music. Holding tight to their word, we finally got another taste of their indie folk sound. After a long one day recording session, they created “Run Home,” their first EP. Although tiny, “Run Home” is a strong continuation from the first single. This EP features two songs, “Just Run,” the upbeat, more pop folk song that features a lot of new member Erik Fellenstein’s extraordinary mandolin playing, and then there is the contrasting “Go Home,” a slow, swelling piece that builds throughout.

Of course I wish there were more than two songs, but then I realize that these talented artists are already making music of such a high caliber, while also being regular college students. Despite their busy schedules, they’re even doing some live shows around DU. Be sure to check out their Facebook page to get all the news on upcoming performances and, hopefully, new music. They’re performing their first headlining show at the Mercury Cafe on May 28 and I’m for sure going to be there.

Active Child has announced a new album and a couple songs. If you don’t know who Active Child is, he is an American artist that creates unique, ambient music with his soulful, whispering voice floating softly over mysterious melodies. His music is very experimental; one of his newest singles “Never Far Away,” has irregular beats and a symphony of different sounds and noises that end up creating a truly beautiful melody. There is also “1999,” which is slowly becoming my favorite song of his due to the stripped-down nature of it. All he needs is his voice, a piano, a beat and a guitar, and he creates a beautiful ballad.

On a different note, Janelle Monáe and Jidenna collaborated to create an anthem and ode to the beauty and power of yoga. Their song, titled “Yoga,” is a bumpin’ club hit that is actually quite empowering and comical. Lyrics like, “you cannot police me/so get off my areola,” and “I’m my own private dancer,” define this song as a strong and inspiring jam, without taking itself too seriously. It’s even partnered with a dance heavy video, which just ends up looking like Janelle having a good time and feeling confident.

There are a couple other songs to note. “Foolish” by Alpine—one of my favorite groups from Australia—is a huge step ahead for this group. Their first album fell flat, but this new single gives me hope that they really honed their sound and are prepared to take the music scene by storm.

Also, Of Monsters & Men is about to drop their second full-length album and have released two songs, “Crystals” and “I Of The Storm,” which in comparison to their first record aren’t amazing, but they are worth a listen.

Here’s to a great month of music and hopefully a wonderful and musical May. With Milky Chance performing this month for May Days and hopefully more word on big artists’ new albums, I’m positive it will be full of some rad tunes.

https://open.spotify.com/user/dutastyjams/playlist/3b2z9hid3h6324jfGZNm6W