Migos – Culture II (January 26)

 

The Migos released Culture II recently, the highly anticipated follow up to their successful release from last year. I consider this to be one of if not the first major album drop of the year, and it inspired me to make this list of some other albums coming out this year. Since it’s already out maybe it shouldn’t be included here but it’s new enough that I’m giving it a pass.

Car Seat Headrest – Twin Fantasy (Face to Face) (February 16)

 

 

 

Will Toledo self-released the album Twin Fantasy on Bandcamp in 2011, earning himself a cult following and eventually a record deal. This new album is a complete reworking and rerecording of the old one, which Toledo says “was never a finished work.” While the original version will eventually be released as well with the new title Twin Fantasy (Mirror to Mirror), the reimagining of his breakout work with upgraded equipment (the first release was recorded on a laptop) should be very exciting.

The Voidz – Virtue (March 30)

 

 

The Voidz is Julian Casablancas’ post-Strokes project and provides an outlet for all of his electronic and experimental tendencies. The Strokes supposedly have an album in the works, but members say it’s only in the very first stages. In the meantime, The Voidz will satisfy your lo-fi rock needs.

Courtney Barnett – TBA

There’s no date or even title for Barnett’s second album, but it’s been three years since her debut and she has stated it’s close to finished. Her collaboration with Kurt Vile last year sounded more influenced by his work with The War On Drugs (he left after their first album) than her own grungey style showcased on Sometimes I Sit and Think, and Sometimes I Just Sit, so I’m very excited to hear what she has in store.

Arctic Monkeys – TBA

Bands that are successful for more than a decade are smaller in number than you might think, and often critical reception wanes earlier than that. However, AM saw the band revitalize their popularity so the next album will be a significant test of their longevity. No release date has been set yet, but festival dates have been which is usually a good signal for an upcoming release from a band.