Seven Albums to Listen to in May 2021

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Many musicians haven’t let the pandemic and its lack of touring stop them from releasing new music. In fact, there are still so many new releases that it’s understandable to feel like you can’t keep up with the latest albums. To help you sort through the chaos, below is a list of seven new albums to listen to in May 2021.

1. St. Vincent: Daddy’s Home

(May 14, Loma Vista Recordings)

Annie Clark, also known as St. Vincent, releases her sixth album today. Her album’s title, Daddy’s Home, references how she was affected by her father’s 10-year prison sentence for stock fraud and subsequent release. The album has a 1970’s vibe and is filled with synthesized sitar commonly heard in that era. Some have described the album as having eerie and mocking undertones yet remaining a striking listen.

2. Weezer: Van Weezer

(May 7, Atlantic Records)

Weezer released their fifteenth album on May 7. Van Weezer is inspired by 1980’s metal, though it retains Weezer’s catchy power-pop sound. The album is a tribute to Eddie Van Halen, Metallica, and Ozzy Ozbourne. Additionally, Weezer fans can enjoy some charming, vulnerable moments in a few ballads.

3. The Black Keys: Delta Kream

(May 14, Nonesuch Records)

The blues-rock duo The Black Keys releases its tenth album today. Delta Kream is a tribute to the North Mississippi country blues scene. Its songs were entirely unrehearsed upon recording and feature howling, gritty riffs that contrast a laid-back sound.

4. Jorja Smith: Be Right Back

(May 14, Famm)

Jorja Smith‘s sophomore album Be Right Back shows off the singer’s vocal range with jazzy trip-hop beats. The British musician’s album explores tried and true pop music topics such as love and unrequited feelings.

5. Twenty One Pilots: Scaled and Icy

(May 21, Fueled by Ramen)

Twenty One Pilots will release their sixth album Scaled and Icy on May 21, and it’s their first studio album in three years. One of the album’s singles, “Choker,” was released last month, and its music video has gotten fans excited to hear the full album.

6. Olivia Rodrigo: SOUR

(May 21, Geffen Records)

Olivia Rodrigo will release her debut album, SOUR, on May 21. Last month, Rodrigo shared her album’s title, artwork, and tracklist, which includes her popular hits “driver’s license” and the recently-released single “deja vu.” Rodrigo was previously best known for her role on Disney+‘s High School Musical series, but after her release of “driver’s license,” she and her music are getting a nearly unparalleled amount of attention.

7. black midi: Cavalcade

(May 28, Rough Trade Records)

The British rock band black midi will release their second album, Cavalcade, later this month. Part of the record was written by individual members at home and the recordings were brought to the table in rehearsal. This is a departure from their acclaimed debut album Schlagenheim, which was jam-based.

What new albums are you excited about this month? Share your faves in the comments!

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