Who: Depeche Mode
What: “Sounds of the Universe”
When: April 21
This British electronica band has been around since the ’80s and will headline at Lollapalooza this year in Chicago. As the need to escape from popular music mounts, cravings for alternative music increases. This album has the potential to bring audiences back to the musical trends of the ’80s.

Who: Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band
What: “Outer South”
When: May 5
Bright Eyes frontman Oberst will release his fifth album as a solo artist and feature his Mystic Valley Band. The powerful indie artist has proved that he has remarkable songwriting abilities, and his latest work is sure to be promising.


Who: Eminem
What: “Relapse”
When: May 19
Eminem has been around for a decade but has laid low for a few years. His unique rap appeals to a large audience, as evident with his massive record sales. “Relapse” will mark the fifth album in his shady, albeit amusing career. This will be his first album in nearly five years.

Who: Sonic Youth
What: “The Eternal”
When: June 9
Fans of older alternative rock will rejoice when Sonic Youth releases its first album in three years. This band, which provided inspiration for bands such as Nirvana, has over 15 albums to its name. Such a band that has experimented with so many different rock and punk sounds deserves all the recognition it can get.

Who: Third Eye Blind
What: “Ursa Major”
When: June 23
Most of us remember listening to songs such as “Semi-Charmed Life” and “Jumper” in the ’90s from these San Francisco natives. Now, this band who is identified from its catchy alternative-pop hooks is trying to make a comeback on its fourth album together. An EP, “Ursa Minor” will follow with B-sides and outtakes.

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