By Anjali Nayak
The new year always brings plenty with it: new laws taking effect, resolutions in hopes of improving ourselves, the fear of COVID-19 destroying plans for a third consecutive year, and of course, new albums to anticipate.
Once Twice Melody (February 18) – Beach House
Similar artists – Cocteau Twins, Tame Impala, Slowdive
Slowly building anticipation through releasing segments of the album in EPs, the legendary dream pop duo has created quite the buzz for their next release. The chapters already released have featured the signature aspects of Beach House’s music, the hazy instrumental along with the infectious melodies and hooks.
Crash (March 18) – Charli XCX
Similar artists – Rina Sawayana, Lorde, MARINA
Following up the Mercury-nominated lockdown classic How I’m Feeling Now, the hyperpop diva sets out to expand the XCX universe even further. This time, embracing more mainstream, 80s pop aesthetics and sounds. The two singles already released “Good Ones” and “New Shapes” have the same personal touch as her two previous works. Nonetheless, they still feature the large, enthusiastic production, as well as Charli’s hypnotizing vocal delivery.
Happiness Not Included (March 11) – Soft Cell
Similar artists – Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, Gary Newman
Best known for releasing the era defining Tainted Love, Soft Cell’s music has always had a dark side to it. Hopefully, Happiness Not Included will be better fleshed out in its concept and delivery. Their last album being released 20 years ago, I hope for this project to not be a feeble attempt at recreating the pop music of today, but a nostalgic turn to new wave.
Chloe and the Next 20th Century (April 8) – Father John Misty
Similar artists – Phoebe Bridgers, Fleet Foxes, Elliot Smith
Lyrical genius and Pitchfork playboy, Father John Misty is the face of introspective, thought provoking folk music. Releasing various cryptic teasers on social media, Misty plans to release his newest album since 2018’s God’s Favorite Customer. Father John Misty’s music is best represented by his 2017 critical hit, Pure Comedy, an album dedicated to the strangeness of human nature, and the comedy of how people think and act.