February 12, 2021
Favorite New Releases
Here are just a few of the albums that are keeping us dancing while we stay at home.
Nobody is Listening
by Zayn
Nothing starts the new year off right better than new music, and Zayn’s latest album did not disappoint. Released on January 15, 2021, Nobody Is Listening is the former boy-bander’s third studio album and is quite different than his previous projects, which have been more R&B based. With only 11 songs, it’s relatively shorter than his earlier works. Nobody Is Listening opens with a spoken-word rap (“Calamity”), ends with a guitar-driven ballad (“River Road”), and hits every stop in between. You’ll cry, feel unstoppable, fall in love, and wonder “is anybody listening?” all within the span of 35 minutes. Singer Syd and British rapper Devlin are also featured on two tracks. If you’re looking to explore a new style of music, I can’t recommend this album enough!
Favorite tracks: “Tightrope” and “Sweat”
—Olivia Meyer
Future Nostalgia by Dua Lipa is the bubblegum pop that we’ve all been needing throughout this pandemic. Beginning with her big hit “New Rules,” Lipa has set herself up as a true-blue pop star who brings a disco flair to this record. Every track is pure sugar and honey; her unique vocals bring power and coyness in the best kind of way. Be sure to check this one out for good vibes and the most unique pop this year has to offer.Favorite Track: “Levitating”
by Taylor Swift
Everybody knows Taylor Swift for her kitschy pop-country sound, her big blonde curls, and her debut role as an actress in Cats. In July of 2020, she surprised her fans with her secret album, Folklore. Having loved her music since I was about eight years old, I stayed up all night to listen to the album. It has been one of my favorites since. Her old sound was quite youthful and straightforward. She was young, so this makes sense. Folklore is mature and has a certain depth that she touched on briefly in her 2012 album, Red. Taylor showcases her ability to write not only for herself, but for others. Bon Iver is featured in “Exile,” one of the more popular songs on the album. Folkore is classic. It’s timeless, and Swifties can attest, it is a seriously killer album.Favorite Track: “Exile” featuring Bon Iver