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Everybody thinks of Memorial Day weekend as the kick-off to summer. It’s a l0ng-weekend filled with barbecues, fireworks, outdoor family time, and nice warm weather, AND it’s a great chance to fill your playlist with fresh tunes. In honor of the long weekend and all the fun we’re likely to have, we give you this guide to all the exciting new music set to be released this summer…
The Temper Trap – The Temper Trap (June 5)
Song: “Need Your Love”
The Aussie band that brought us the massive hits “Sweet Disposition” and “Fader” will attempt to re-create their past success on their upcoming self-titled album, out June 5th. The album’s lead single ‘Need Your Love’ showcases lead singer Dougy Mandagi’s signature falsetto vocals and lyricism—a welcome familiarity for Temper Trap fans.
Usher – Looking 4 Myself (June 12)
Song: “Scream“
Two years after his last release Raymond v. Raymond, Usher is back but still struggling with internal conflict with Looking 4 Myself. Of course, the struggle isn’t so heavy that he doesn’t have time to dance, in fact, his second single from the album, “Scream” is already blowing up the pop charts. This album will appeal to dance-happy Usher fans and may even rope some R&B purists with the unique first single “Climax.”
Justin Bieber – Believe (June 19)
Song: “Boyfriend”
Everyone’s favorite teen idol has come a long way in a few short years, transforming from the kid with the swoopy haircut to a self-proclaimed “swaggy adult.” Believe will be a watershed moment for Justin. Will his fans embrace his more grown up sound and subject matter? Lead single “Boyfriend” gave us all a taste, but we’ll wait for June 19th to render a final verdict.
Linkin Park – Living Things (June 26)
Song: “Burn It Down”
Linkin Park will drop their fifth studio album this June, which the band calls their “most personal album to date.” This time around, the band’s signature electro rock sound will be accompanied by songwriting inspired by “personal relationships.” Living Things could be the band’s most engaging material in years.
Passion Pit – Gossamer (July 24)
Song: “Take A Walk”
It’s been three years since Passion Pit last released an album, so it should go without saying that the expectations surrounding Gossamer are monumentally high. Lead singer/songwriter Michael Angelakos has said that the album will have a darker lyrical tone showcasing more honest songwriting. The album’s lead single “Walk” is an electro-pop gem, cementing Gossamer’s place on our summer must-hear list.
Gaslight Anthem – Handwritten (July 24)
Song: “45”
Following up 2010 album American Slang, New Jersey rockers The Gaslight Anthem return this summer with their new album Handwritten. Lead single ‘45’ is a driving punk-rock inspired track that maintains the band’s familiar Americana vibe, complete with nostalgic lyrics about cars, girls, and heartbreak.
Earlier this month, lead singer/songwriter Brian Fallon stopped by our Last.fm studio for an exclusive acoustic session, which you can watch here.
Rick Ross – God Forgives, I Don’t (July 31)
Song: “Touch ‘N You” feat Usher
The moment’s biggest Rap star—literally and figuratively—will release the follow up to 2010’s Teflon Don this July. There’s no doubt that The Boss’s sublime ear for beats and brash, in-your-face rhymes will be on full display, making this one of Hip-Hop’s most anticipated albums of the summer.
Alanis Morissette – Havoc and Bright Lights (August 28)
Song: “guardian“
After a four-year hiatus, during which she became a new mom, Alanis Morissette is back with an album that touches on themes of motherhood, politics, and spirituality. So far she’s only released the first single “guardian” (which, as you may remember, we had the chance to premiere on our blog) but it encompasses what fans love about Alanis: insightful lyrics, rocking guitars, and her signature strong voice.
Which summer albums are you most excited about? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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