FOLIO
May 3
Dua Lipa
Pop princess Dua Lipa is releasing her third studio album, “Radical Optimism” this month! Best known for her hit songs such as, “Houdini”, “Physical” and “Levitating,” the singer is adding to her catalog with her latest 11-track project.
“Houdini” is listed as a featured song on the album, along with the early release of her single, “Ilusion.”
Charlotte Day Wilson
The criminally underrated Canadian singer and songwriter Charlotte Day Wilson has announced her new album “Cyan Blue.” My discovery of her was through many collaborations with some of my favorite artists including Kaytranada, Daniel Caesar, Snoh Aalegra and Syd. Her song, “Work” also holds a space in my heart from days in my former dance studio, a hauntingly beautiful piece that shadows a personal tale.
I expect nothing but greatness from Wilson’s newest project.
Willow
While her name simply holds weight just by being the daughter of actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith, Willow has truly been able to create a name associated with much more than her last name. With her producing such unparalleled music, I’m always surprised when I don’t hear her name mentioned more in the conversation of eminent artists in the alternative music scene.
Billed as a musical compilation, her new album “empathogen” is expected to encompass Willow in every facet of her numerous talents and abilities.
Sia
The “Chandelier ”singer, known for concealing her face with theatrical wigs and hats, will be unmasking her latest album, “Reasonable Woman,” this spring with appearances by artists such as Labrinth, Tierra Whack, Kaliii, Paris Hilton and the iconic Chaka Khan. While Sia is a powerhouse in her own right, the features alone have me enticed to give this project a listen.
May 10
Kings of Leon
This band had the 2000s in a chokehold with banger after banger after banger including “Use Somebody,” “Sex on Fire” and “Manhattan.” Now they’re back with a new album, “Can We Please Have Fun,” accompanied with a tour featuring Phantogram and The Vaccines. I have already mourned the fact that they’re not coming to Florida, but I’m still so excited to listen to the new album in the comfort of my bed.
Knocked Loose
For my metal-core fans out there, Knocked Loose will be releasing their latest project, “You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed to” this month. With a dedicated fan base and a notoriety within the realm of rock and metal, Knocked Loose fans are amped up to hear what the Kentucky natives have in store with their newest project.
Rainbow Kitten Surprise
Following their hit song, “It’s Called: Freefall —an ongoing anthem for me — the group Rainbow Kitten Surprise releases their latest body of work “Love Hate Music Box.” They will also hit the road in support of the new album starting in May.
May 17
Billie Eilish
Singer and songwriter Billie Eilish releases “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” her newest album composed of 10 tracks with the help of her brother and producer Finneas. Eilish has amassed a devoted following with flowing support, and fans are excited to hear what the 22-year-old artist has created.
Cage the Elephant
I AM SO EXCITED (yes, I’m yelling this for emphasis) for this drop! Cage the Elephant has never let me down … ever … with their 2013 album “Melophobia” is quite literally still on repeat to this day. With the early release of three singles from their latest album “Neon Pill,” the band has given listeners a taste for what to expect — but at the same time, this is Cage the Elephant so nothing is ever truly expected. They blow my mind every time they create a project, and I don’t foresee this time to be any different. A tour beginning in June will also accompany their newest project.
Zayn
To all my One Direction stans, it’s your time to rise up. Zayn’s fifth solo album, “Room Under the Stairs,” will feature 15 tracks of him pouring his heart and soul into his sound. I’m actually intrigued by his single alone, “Alienated” which really illuminates this raspy, blues-inspired sound that I didn’t know the British artist possessed.
May 24
Wallows
Wallows have announced the release of their new album, “Model.” I’m a longtime supporter of this indie trio — and an even bigger fan of Dylan Minnette (hey … if you happen to read this) — and this groovy, alternative collective, always makes the best music to dance to, vibe to, sing really loudly in your car to (when no one is around of course), and they just consistently make really great music that makes you feel good! I can’t wait to add this album to my summer playlist!
Lenny Kravitz
The 59-year-old artist and four-time Grammy winner will be releasing his 12th studio album this May titled, “Blue Electric Light.” With fluidity, Kravitz continues to transcend boxes regarding genre and expectations. And with his range, we could really hear anything on this new album. This alone makes him one of the greats and I’m excited to hear what Kravitz produces.
May 31
Willie Nelson
“The Border” is legendary country singer Willie Nelson’s 75th solo studio album (75th!). The 90-year-old icon has influenced and paved the way for so many artists, not to mention creating a sound that’s uniquely his.
Coming on the heels of his recent feature on Beyonce’s latest album, “Cowboy Carter,” his latest album should continue to showcase his tales and his passion.
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