By Nadia Paschal
The music industry saw a total explosion this summer and musicians have been out in full force this summer, more specifically within the pop genre. The Grammy awards are still some time away, but artists are still clamoring for their respective awards.
Several pop artists released a new album this season, and there has been a wide array of songs and sounds for their fans to listen to.
First I want to talk about the album that’s having the biggest moment right now: “Brat” by Charli xcx. This album has been a huge success, and is taking social media and pop culture by storm.
From dances on social media to marketing campaigns and even politics, almost everyone is talking about this album. It was the perfect theme for a fun, messy summer and is all about embracing that lifestyle.
Next was the sleeper hit album: “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” by Chappell Roan. Originally released in 2023, this album didn’t gain traction until the beginning of May, after she put out a new single as well as opening for Olivia Rodrigo.
It has the perfect blend of upbeat summer themes, as well as slower, more melodic and heartfelt songs, which perfectly encapsulates the name of the track list. Roan’s career seemingly skyrocketed overnight, despite this not being her first album.
If you’re looking for something for a more melancholy summer, there was “Hit Me Hard and Soft” by Billie Eilish. Personally, I haven’t listened to this album yet, but I have been listening to “Birds of a Feather” on repeat.
Eilish has had consistent success, with each album pushing her further and further into a sort of “it girl” status, but this newest release has bumped her into being the number one artist on Spotify.
Staying with the theme of slower summer anthems, Taylor Swift put out The Tortured Poets Department. With 32 songs on the whole album, Swift seemed to lean into a more lyricalist style that deviated from her other albums.
However, I thought many of the songs seemed to fall flat. I still have yet to be able to finish the whole album and feel slightly disappointed from what I’ve heard so far. The metaphors she used seem cliche and childish, but there were a few songs I did really enjoy.
Swift continues to try to hype the album up by releasing multiple variations of certain songs. This album would have been better to release during the fall or winter, as it fits that melancholic theme much more.
Summer is quickly approaching its end, but that didn’t stop Sabrina Carpenter from releasing “Short n’ Sweet” on Aug. 26th. This album was phenomenal.
I did not see much promotion for it, but from what I saw and after listening to it in one drive, it certainly exceeded my expectations. The first song, “Taste,” was a great opener and Carpenter picked wisely when she released her singles to tease it.
The fun doesn’t have to stop just because it’s getting colder. With all of the talent, creativity and passion these artists put into their work, these albums have great relistening potential throughout the whole year, and will hopefully bring you back to those warmer, easier days.
