Something To Believe In

Young the Giant

Alternative Pop

Related to: Neon Trees, Atlas Genius

We all know morning classes are the absolute worst if you’re not a morning person, and while getting up before dawn is an acquired taste, pump-up playlists are definitely not. Having a hype session while driving to campus and walking to class always helps me feel more awake and ready to get started on the day. I’m constantly adding to my playlists, and you know when Young the Giant releases a new track after two years it’s going to be an instant addition – and “Something to Believe In” doubtlessly delivers. With a head-bobbing beat and catchy lyrics, it’s an immersive experience that leaves me wanting to blast it while driving with all the windows down after the semester is finished. If finals are overwhelming you, summer is something to believe in, and this song will get you halfway there. -Beth

Stephanie Says

The Velvet Underground

Rock

Related to: The Stooges, The Kinks

Every few weeks I fall even more in love with Lou Reed. His soft, velvety voice flows out of my headphones like a dense fog. I cannot see, but I can hear, and his voice will lead me to a warm spring where I can dip my toes and lay in the tall wildflowers. Needless to say, this is my favorite song by the Velvet Underground. The subtle guitar riff leads you into the song so gracefully, so gently, and his buttery words of a girl name Stephanie makes you wish he was singing about you. He’s clearly fond of her, whomever she may be. But he is also aware of her complications as a human being, and is admiring her as a whole. You can see this in the lyrics: “But she’s not afraid to die / The people all call her Alaska / Between worlds so the people ask her / Cause it’s all in her mind / It’s all in her mind.” The song is pure and good and one you can listen to seven times on repeat like I did in my car yesterday. If you like it, I suggest getting it on vinyl, because the soft cracks will always make Lou Reed’s voice sound even deeper and richer than you ever thought possible. Try not to fall in love, I dare you. -Miranda

Bored To Death

blink-182

Alternative Rock

Related to: Green Day

Part of this suggestion is because I genuinely like the song but also the simple fact it’s blink-182. It’s the first single released from their upcoming album, “California,” and with its release came the announcement of a tour this summer. I was 14 when they last released music and was so thankful they didn’t completely lose their angsty-whine sound. This time around is no different. “Bored to Death” starts, and immediately you can recognize it’s blink’s sound. The single could even fit into their “Neighborhoods” album; when it began it actually sounded like a morphed “Dammit.” Maybe an ode to the past as they move forward? Maybe they’re just consistent with their sound? The song is filled with incredibly strong drumming from Travis Barker that will get any blink fan air drumming. It’s good to have the boys back. -Caroline

Holding Roses

Twin Peaks

Genre: Alternative Rock

Related to: The Orwells

I’m a sucker for anything by the DePaul alum just because of their perfect grunge-rock demeanor. Twin Peaks is the epitome of a garage rock band. They aren’t trying too seriously to be anything, but what they produce ends up being incredible anyway. Their songs sound the right amount of disheveled, proving their capabilities as a true rock group, but never sound unorganized enough to give an apprentice impression. “Holding Roses” is one of the band’s newest singles, and one of my favorites so far. The track provides a break from heavy instrumentals and supports a happier tune, rather than a hard rock edge. It has quickly become their most played on Spotify, and while the band is well-known in the rock world, they have yet to blow up. If “Holding Roses” is any indication, their rise to fame is bound to happen any day. Tune in before the madness. – Kelly

Emerge from Smoke

Shlohmo

Genre: Electro

Related to: Nosaj Thing

I was first turned onto Shlohmo by the Courier’s Sports Editor Quin, who has deep admiration for the artist’s album Dark Red. I first listened to the album in its entirety while writing my articles a few weeks ago, and while I can’t say this is similar to anything I’ve heard before, I can say the album changed my perspective on Electro music. The selection I chose from the album is the one I always catch banging my head to solemnly while I do any task. It’s sort of a cure to my anxiety. While the entire album keeps my mind in focus, this song gives me the shot of adrenaline, and I fall into a state of productivity I don’t normally see from myself. -Lucas