Quarantunes: New Releases
Loneliness has been quite a theme in life for the past few months as we deal with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Along with school cancellations and rising unemployment rates, this situation brings the cancellation of tours and festivals and postponements of album releases. But, many artists are continuing to release music amid the pandemic in order to entertain fans in quarantine.
Dua Lipa - Future Nostalgia
Released on March 27, Dua Lipa’s sophomore album certainly brought the Future Nostalgia, as the name suggests. The album gives off major early 2010’s vibes, similar to early Katy Perry albums. She had a few hits on the record, including viral hits, Don’t Start Now and Physical. But, some of the more dynamic songs include Pretty Please and the title track, Future Nostalgia.
My favorites: Pretty Please and Hallucinate
Phoebe Bridgers - Kyoto
Fans of Phoebe Bridgers have been waiting for a new solo album from the singer since the release of her 2018 debut, Stranger in the Alps. Bridgers released her first original since 2018 in March with Garden Song, and has returned again with the release of Kyoto on April 9. This single came along with the announcement of her sophomore album, Punisher, set to release in June. Kyoto is nothing we’ve heard before from Bridgers, more of an upbeat tune compared to her usual slow, soft songs, but it’s undoubtedly Phoebe Bridgers.
The Strokes - The New Abnormal
The Strokes released their first full length album in 7 years on April 10 and fans have already taken a liking. The album borrows from the music of the 1980s, while still having that touch that seems to come only from Julian Casablancas. The New Abnormal comes to fans after months of waiting, and it’s safe to say that it was well worth it.
My favorites: Brooklyn Bridge to Chorus and Bad Decisions
The 1975 - Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America
Though they’ve been teasing their new album, Notes on a Conditional Form, for months now, fans are still having to wait a little while longer. But, The 1975 have been releasing new music pretty consistently during this album cycle. Though I can’t say that this song is my favorite of all the music that the band has released over the years, the pairing of lead singer Matty Healy’s voice with that of Phoebe Bridgers is very satisfying to the ear.
I’m sure that during the rest of quarantine there will be plenty of new music released to keep us entertained while we’re trapped inside the house. But, in the meantime, take a listen to these releases and let me know what you think. Stay safe and stay inside.