Wrap Music: Years and Years, Vince Staples and The Chemical Brothers

Another month, another set of albums to wrap up.

The music scene has been pretty insane these past few weeks. One Direction dropped a new single (sans Zayn); the VMAs released their nominations (go Nicki Minaj!); Robin Thicke is coming back (why Nicki Minaj?); Tame Impala busted onto the American charts with their new album Currents; and Demi Lovato dropped what might be the hit for the summer (it’s pretty cool).

The world of pop has been tearing it up, but what about the other music worlds? Here are four new albums for you to sink your teeth into. (And yes, they’re available on Spotify.)

Communion by Years & Years, that British electronica band that swept in and had us instantly worshiping them. Olly Alexander’s vocals are definitely the main factor in that worshiping. His voice just coaxes you in and the synth that accompanies him only brings you closer (just listen to Foundation; you’ll know what I mean). The trio has been ripping up the charts over the past few months and with Communion they’re going to keep doing so.

Key Track: "Desire"

The very word "Desire" basically sums up my feeling towards the whole album.

Pageant Material by Kacey Musgraves, an American country singer from Mineola, Texas. Gotta admit, I am not a fan of country. But Musgraves has something endearing about her. Pageant Material will have you tapping your toe, feeling indifferent about country, and smiling over some really cute lines.

Key Track: "Late To The Party"

The line “who needs confetti, we’re already falling into the groove” won me over.

Summertime ’06 by Vince Staples, the 22-year-old rapper who’s seen some stuff. Summertime ’06 is his two-disc debut album. Not as impressive as other debut albums go, but he’s collaborated with some gorgeous vocalists (Daley in Birds & Bees and Kilo Kish in Dopeman & Surf).

Key Track: "Norf Norf"

The only track that’ll probably get radio play off the album. (*Language warning.*)

Born In The Echoes by The Chemical Brothers, the legendary British electronic dance music duo (who I didn’t know I knew, but actually do know because of “Galvanize”). They’re back with a new album that will make you dance. Imagine a trippy club that doesn’t have sticky floors, and you’ve got Born In The Echoes.

Key Track: "Go"

It’s going to repeat the success of “Galvanize” whilst making you jump out of your seat and boogie.

Caitlin Moore is one of Student Edge’s student contributors. Learn more about our contributors program.