Smithereens- Joji

Youtube star turned popular musician, Joji, plans to release his third studio album, “Smithereens,” Nov. 4, 2022. In 2020, Joji released his sophomore album, “Nectar,” showcasing his ability to make dreamy yet unfinished-sounding songs. However, his recent single, “Glimpse of Us,” is promising material for his new album, and has already reached fame on TikTok. The song highlights Joji’s ability to make a lovesick ballad, but his electronic beats are replaced with grand piano. It may be basic, but his vocals cut straight to the heart. The less popular “YUKON (INTERLUDE),” which is his second single, uses the same piano alongside a more standard Joji beat. Considering what Joji has published so far, “Smithereens” shows a shift to acoustics in Joji’s production, but little increase in quality. Regardless, Joji will be sure to restock your supply of breakup anthems this winter.

Midnights- Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s 10th studio album, “Midnights,” came out Oct. 21, 2022. According to Swift’s Instagram, the album is composed of “stories of 13 sleepless nights scattered throughout my life.” While she may be known for her distinct eras per album, with each album representing a different theme, Swift may lose this for “Midnights,” as the production of the album spans along her lifetime. Swift also announced that popular singer Lana Del Rey will appear on the song “Snow On the Beach.” While “Midnights” may be a record of outtakes and personal projects, tears will certainly be shed to it at midnight. 

Cracker Island- Gorillaz

Even after 25 years, Gorillaz is still going strong. The animated band (literally animated, the members are cartoons) will release their eighth studio album “Cracker Island” Feb. 24, 2023. The album’s pre-release singles are some of their strongest songs yet. They continue their trend of star-studded tracklists, with “New Gold” featuring Tame Impala and Pharcyde member, Bootie Brown, and “Cracker Island” featuring bass guitar legend Thundercat. “Cracker Island” also appears to have a much more focused theme than Gorillaz’s previous work, with all of its art, videos and lyrics being about the occult. Even with its distant release date, this is one of the most anticipated releases of the winter.