The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

The independent newspaper of the University of Iowa community since 1868

The Daily Iowan

Music for the stressless lane

Via Twitter @Beyonce
Via Twitter @Beyonce

It has been a long time coming, but finals have done their worst, and students can breathe a sigh of relief: The Battle for Grades is over.

Though most will need zero help figuring out what to do with their newfound freedom, whether internships, jobs, trips, or relaxation beckon, some may be left with a bit of wayward energy. For some creative inspiration, what better outlet to turn to than music? Although I won’t tell you how to toast the end of another school year, here are my recommendations for albums to help you celebrate.

The Chainsmokers

The Chainsmokers has a way of twisting an ordinary dance into an extraordinarily good time, as anyone who has graced an Iowa City dance floor this year knows. The group does not have an album yet, but its multitude of singles, especially “Don’t Let Me Down” and “Until You Were Gone,” would be a wise choice for anyone looking to feel the vibrations of summer.

Lemonade (Beyoncé)

This is important. Beyoncé’s visual album transcends far more than a celebration of summertime. If you haven’t listened to the Queen’s newest, go bless your ears now. A recount/bashing of Jay-Z’s affair(s) does not sound like fun, but will give you life (just as she preaches in “Don’t Hurt Yourself”). “Hold Up” is a definite summer jam with its reggae undertones enveloped by Bey’s empowerment.

Feel Good Indie Rock (on Spotify)

Not a specific album (obviously), but that’s OK. The collection is too eclectic and upbeat to leave out. For those who have burned themselves out on the radios’ over-played top 50, this is for you. It has invigorating new sounds and brilliant tracks for any mood. Somehow, it manages to make me smile no matter what. Bonus: it’s a Spotify-run playlist, so it will keep changing, providing fresh songs for the rest of the summer.

Life of Pablo (Kanye West)

Regardless of reservations about Kanye as a person, he puts out some damn good music. His newest album, Life of Pablo, is no exception. There is so much happening in the 19 tracks, from “Famous,” featuring Rihanna, to “No More Parties in LA,” featuring Kendrick Lamar, it could be dizzying but manages to feel refreshing instead. Much like summer.

Sound & Color (Alabama Shakes)

This album feels like a road trip. Alabama Shakes provides a beautiful blend of guitar riffs and catchy yet powerful vocals. The beat of the drums and dream-like tunes tends to make it feel like the end of an indie movie, especially in the album’s namesake track “Sound & Color,” which, as an aside, is a great feeling to experience while on a road trip.

Beauty Behind The Madness (The Weeknd)

More to Discover