Arcade’s favorites: Top albums of the summer

Haley Soares, Arcade Editor

Hanson Dai | Art Director

Immunity by Clairo- August 2nd, 2019

This debut album by indie dream pop artist Claire Cottrill, better known as Clairo, signifies an important shift in the career of the young musician. Previously, Clairo was known for her lo-fi bedroom pop hits. In this album, she stays true to her iconic gentle vocals while incorporating more of a soft indie rock sound into her tunes — accompanied by the drumming of Danielle Haim. Songs from the album such as the upbeat “Sofia” set the perfect soundtrack to the beginning of the school year, making this album one of our top picks of the summer.

Angel’s Pulse by Blood Orange- July 12, 2019

The latest album from English rhythm and blues artist Blood Orange has been one of the musical highlights of summer, featuring collaborations with other artists such as Toro y Moi Tinashe and Porches. The smooth melodies and grooving rhythms on this project have made it one of the most bangin’ album releases of the past few months. Listen to this album on your way to class, lounging on the quad, or while getting ready to go out for the night.

Let’s Rock by the Black Keys- June 28, 2019

Five years after the release of their album “Turn Blue,” the Black Keys have returned as a band to the musical scene with their latest release “Let’s Rock.” In this album, the band appears to be returning to its earlier style of music, while also incorporating some stylistic elements of the solo work of guitarist Dan Auerbach — his essence shining through in the song “Sit Around and Miss You.” If you are looking for some early 2010’s nostalgia, this album is perfect for you.

Anima by Thom Yorke- June 27, 2019

This solo album from Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke was a landmark of the summer, notable for the release of an accompanying short film directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. Yorke has worked on the soundtrack for several films, including 2018’s “Suspiria,” so it only makes sense that this album was released with its own film. If you have a few minutes to spare between classes, take a look at the short on Netflix — starring Yorke himself.

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