Throughout the summer, many artists of different genres ranging from rock to rap have released albums that stood out as defining works of art. While some, like Logic, set release dates for their albums and satisfied their fans, others, like Frank Ocean, have made fans wait a release for several years. What all these artists share in common, however, is that their albums have become part of contemporary culture and have been widely discussed by critics and listeners.
After dropping a mysterious livestream on his website and causing much anticipation, Ocean released Endless and subsequently Blonde on Apple Music on August 19th, creating a wave of hysteria over this rare event; his last album release was over four years ago. Although the album release was overinflated, the album was a masterpiece. While Endless utilizes synthetic instrumentals in contrast to the organic sound of Blonde, both are somber and minimal in contrast to his last album Channel Orange. Ocean extends his vocal range and uses an experimental, avant-garde style in some songs such as “Siegfried” and “Godspeed” which work well and provide a nice alternative to his pop-oriented songs such as “Ivy” and “Nights”.
Talent in other genres has bloomed this summer as well. Rapper Logic released the mixtape Bobby Tarantino early this summer. Even though there was far less frenzy behind it than behind Endless or Blonde, it was still widely listened to and became popular among rap audiences. While the tracks may be thought to be lyrically drab and repetitive at times, “It’s another day, another book”-Flexicution, and “It’s another day, another flight”-Super Mario World), Logic’s flow is creative on this tape and glides seamlessly with the instrumentals provided by producer 6ix.
Most of you may know DJ Snake’s “Middle (ft. Bipolar Sunshine)”, as it was a major hit throughout this year. The track was in fact one of the singles that preceded the release of his album, Encore, on August 5th, 2016. After making successful collaborations that propelled him to stardom, this would be his first album that would be received by worldwide audiences; due to this high standards from diverse listeners awaited the album. On tracks like “Let Me Love You (ft. Justin Bieber)”, DJ Snake’s signature percussion, vocal chopping, and pluck synth shine and deliver new hit songs that are as beautifully produced as they are catchy.
Blink 182 has been a long-lasting force in the rock music industry, since their release of the album Enema of the State that captivated their rock listeners. They make sure to continue their success with their new album “California”, which includes new member Matt Skiba on the guitar and backup vocals. They continue to stick to their rock roots, but their voices and playing show maturity that refines the album.
Ariana Grande’s new album Dangerous Woman dangerously experiments with several different genres, like reggae with “Side to Side (ft. Nicki Minaj)” and hip-hop with “Everyday (ft. Future)” and “Let Me Love You (ft. Lil Wayne)”. This experimentation proved to be successful and makes her soprano voice shine in different, unforeseen ways. Her use of features from various singers adds to the diverse flavor this album has and makes it stand out from her previous albums.
Ariana Grande, Blink 182, DJ Snake, Logic, and Frank Ocean may make different styles of music, but their excellence makes them all have a special place in the heart of listeners, whether it be EDM fans, pop fans, or all-around listeners. They will surely continue to be listened to for ages and shape the sound of other aspiring artists.