This month gave music enthusiasts surprise after surprise with the returns of some of music’s most beloved artists of this generation. Here are just a handful of those delights that April had to offer.

Albums:

Strength of a Woman by Mary J. Blige:

This soulful R&B superstar returns to the music scene once again after experiencing major changes to her life including her crumbling marriage that occurred this year. This turning point in her life resulted in her creating powerful songs that make you feel what she depicts in each song. She experiences with other genres, such as house, with the incorporation of KATRYANDA, yet Mary J. Blige stays true to her 90’s R&B roots with songs like “U + Me”. This album is truly a worthy success for her to be proud of despite her current circumstances.

Humanz by Gorillaz:

April is the month of returns apparently as seen with the return of this nostalgic band. They left the scene for a total of six years, making this album even more special to long-term fans of their music. Gorillaz undergoes a modern change, incorporating many genres of music, as seen with songs like “Strobelight”, a personal favorite of mine, and “She’s My Collar”. There’s many collaborations within this album, allowing for more fans to come to this historic band of our generation.

SHINE by Wale:

Another artist who took a break from music has returned again – Wale. With his release of the hot track, “My PYT”, he proved his lyrical dominance once again. Some songs are forgettable, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing when it comes to albums with multiple songs, Wale still manages to attract with the masses, shining his positive vibes on all who listen to this album.

Apricot Princess by Rex Orange County:

This is an album that makes you genuinely feel nostalgic to a time you’re not sure you’ve ever experienced. The instrumentals and true vocals that make up every song on this album makes it a musical masterpiece. The sound is truly indescribable, but if you were to describe it, Apricot Princess is energetic.

Songs:

“I’m The One” by DJ Khaled ft. Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper:

DJ Khaled is always a music producer whose songs top the charts seconds after release, and this track isn’t exempted from this. This song doesn’t, however, make you feel energized, but it does make you feel relaxed. The constant repetition of the title in the song makes the track catchy, yet it’s almost as if it’s too repetitive with no climax. The all star cast of this song made it seem that this was going to be the song of 2017, but with its lackluster beat, “I’m The One” is easily forgettable.

“Bon Appetit” by Katy Perry ft. Migos:

This song receives a lot of negative reviews under its name, but it’s due to it being Katy Perry. If this dance track was produced by another mainstream artist that wasn’t her then it would’ve been a hit. However, it’s undeniable that this song is completely opposite of what we’ve known Katy Perry to be. She truly has left behind her bubblegum pop sound and leaving it for a much more grittier sound.

“No Vacancy” by OneRepublic:

Taking a hiatus for six months after the release of their song “Oh My My”, OneRepublic is back. Member Ryan Tedder goes to Instagram to explain why they’ve been absent from the music scene, revealing that the band almost broke up due to him having major anxiety and mental health issues. With this in mind, “No Vacancy” becomes a more heartwarming song despite the band taking a poppier sound in comparison to their original sound.

“Apricot Princess” by Rex Orange County:

Although this song is classified to be under the pop genre, its orchestral elements make it unique. It’s a much needed break from the enticing dance tracks, making the listener feel mellow and fuzzy on the inside even when the beat starts to pick up. Although the album with the same name has been reviewed above, this is such a talented yet underrated artist that needs more recognition than he is gaining.

“It’s All Good” by Superorganism:

When deciding on songs to review, it’s much needed to keep an open mind to all genres of music. From the known to the unknown, music shouldn’t be limited to the constraints of your comfort zone. With this song, I stepped out of my comfort zone and was immediately caught off guard. This alternative track is, for lack of a better word, weird, yet that’s the aspect that makes you want to listen to it more.

“Get You” by Daniel Caesar ft. Kali Uchis:

Daniel Caesar’s voice makes you want to fall in love. It’s as if he’s singing to you with his velvety vocals above a smooth backtrack. This is another artist that deserves more recognition than what he receives, along with Kali Uchis, who featured on the Gorillaz’s newest album. In the end, this song isn’t far from perfect in terms of slow, love songs.

“First Time” by Kygo and Ellie Goulding:

Kygo has produced several dance tracks this year, and it’s no surprise that he has teamed up with Ellie Goulding. Her unique vocals on top of his impeccable music productions make this song a good one, yet it doesn’t make it unique in comparison to what is mainstream nowadays.

April, like any other month, gave its best to the music industry. With many artists making comebacks, this was a month of nostalgia and excitement. With the stress of finals coming up, this was a much needed feeling that many of us needed. In conclusion, from songs to albums, April had us covered.