0 Shares
James Blake is one of many artists to release a new album this May. Photo courtesy of residentadvisor.com.
James Blake is one of many artists to release a new album this May. Photo courtesy of residentadvisor.com.

Now that school is coming to a close, it’s time to look back at the last month’s music. Many big names released albums, but there were also some old musicians who came out of the woodwork. Chance the Rapper released his highly anticipated mixtape, “Coloring Book” and returnee D.D Dumbo released a surprise single “Satan.” It was definitely a big month for music.

Probably the strongest album of the month, and one of the best albums of the year, is James Blake’s “The Colour In Anything.” Full disclosure, this is a very sad album but every song is so powerful and unique. “I Need A Forest Fire,” his feature with Bon Iver, is ethereal with sparkling drones and beautiful falsettos. Another strong song is “Two Men Down,” a soulful yet somber ode. I could probably do a whole post on this album, so be sure to check out this 17-track masterpiece.

"Dangerous Woman"  showed maturity from Ariana Grande. Photo courtesy of spin.com.
“Dangerous Woman” showed maturity from Ariana Grande. Photo courtesy of spin.com.

Another record that came out this month was Ariana Grande’s “Dangerous Woman.” This is the most mature release from Grande and although it’s not a perfect album, it definitely has some hits. “Greedy,” is a funky jam about getting what you want and Grande’s vocals take flight throughout this song. There’s also the jazzy “Leave Me Lonely,” which features Macy Gray, with Grande’s vulnerable yet strong voice. “Dangerous Woman” is definitely a solid album.

This month also gave way to many new singles from some of my favorite artists. First being “Life Itself” by Glass Animals, a thumping step up from their previous music. It still has the Glass Animals swag, but this time with a more mature setting. The other single is “Satan” by D.D Dumbo. This Australian creates unique and driving alternative rock songs and “Satan” takes it up a notch with a stronger composition and a plucky chorus.

The next two singles are less rock and more dance. Producer and singer MNEK released “At Night (I Think About You),” a song of longing that builds as it reaches the dance heavy drop.

There’s also ’s new single “Final Song.” This song has more of a mainstream style than I’m used to from MØ’s solo music, but I can’t deny the catchy tune. It’s sure to be blaring out of everyone’s radio this summer.

May was a solid month for music, but as we move into summer, I feel like the song of the summer has yet to be discovered. I’m sure we’ll get plenty of pop hits that will drown us this summer, but I’ll be sure to keep you updated all summer on the music I find.

0 Shares