As the seasons change, leaving the chilly winter behind, spring can offer a rebirth in many ways – this year, it seems the rebirth comes especially in the form of fantastic music. With a plethora of new songs set to fill playlists and musicians long out of the spotlight preparing for a grand return, listeners should get ready to kick back by the pool and jam until summertime rolls around (books optional).
“Free The Universe”
Major Lazer
Secretly Canadian
April 15
Major Lazer will drop a new album filled with pulsing hip-hop and electro beats later this month. Legendary DJ Diplo is the man behind the project, famed for hits like “Get Free” and “Original Don.” Diplo has described his next album as an extension of his live show, and fans of Major Lazer will recognize the fusion of reggae and techno that permeates the music.
“Indicud”
Kid Cudi
Republic Records
April 23
After taking a hiatus with his rock side project WZRD, Kid Cudi returns with his most ambitious album yet. He proclaims that “Indicud” will be his answer to Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic 2001.” Singles “Just What I Am” and “Immortal” have already been released, giving fans a taste of the music sure to reverberate through their speakers long into the year. The album will feature collaborations with his usual partners Kanye West, King Chip and Ratatat but also Kendrick Lamar and Jaden Smith.
“To Be Loved”
Michael Bublé
Reprise Records
April 23
Canadian crooner Michael Bublé’s eighth studio album offers up more of what fans have come to expect, bringing a fresh energy to classic hits. Bublé covers several songs on the record, like “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Who’s Lovin You.” In addition, he collaborated with Reese Witherspoon on the track “Something Stupid,” originally made famous by Frank Sinatra and his wife Nancy. Bublé also includes a few original tunes, co-written by himself.
“Bankrupt!”
Phoenix
Glassnote Records
April 23
After the 2009 hit album “Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix,” fans of the French alternative rock band have been awaiting the next project from the group. As a headliner for this year’s Coachella Festival, expectations are undoubtedly high. The first single from the album, “Entertainment,” delivers on its titular promise, with a powerful tempo and groovy electronics to please fans. The band has described the album as experimental and said it has incorporated orchestral elements.
“Modern Vampires Of The City”
Vampire Weekend
XL Recordings
May 14
Since 2010’s “Contra,” members of the indie pop-rock band Vampire Weekend have been busy. Bassist Chris Baio has dabbled in performing DJ sets, while lead vocalist Ezra Koenig did some work with Major Lazer. Koenig explained that the next record is inspired by America, specifically New York City. Beyond that tidbit, the band has been tight-lipped in revealing more about the album. If the first single, “Diane Young/Step,” is any indication, the band has far from lost its step.
“Random Access Memories”
Daft Punk
Columbia Records
May 21
The reclusive Daft Punk will make its return with one of the most hotly anticipated house music albums of all time. This will be the group’s’ first studio album since 2005’s “Human After All.” The band has only released two fifteen-second clips from the record, leaving much to the imagination. The influence of working together with CHIC frontman Nile Rodgers is clear. Fans can expect the classic disco-dance melodies they have come to idolize from the French duo. Daft Punk has recently debunked rumors of playing at this year’s Coachella, but signs point to a return to the stage in 2014.