2021 has certainly been off to a good start.

The music scene is hopping. February’s Grammy award show was far more engaging than usual. And it was so much fun to see an actual live audience at Billboard’s televised awards show last week. 

Best of all?

As COVID restrictions lift, artists are starting to announce summer and fall concert dates.

To help get you ready for new albums and the concert scene, here’s just a few new releases we’re loving.

Crowded House – “To The Island”

If you’re a Crowded House fan you already know the band is from Australia and has won several awards, including International Group of the Year at the BRIT Awards.

Their rollicking new “To the Island” comes from the band’s first new album in a decade. It’s on our playlist!

You’ll love their mellow, psychedelic pop-rock. Have a listen:

As you can see, the music video is equally engaging, depicting band members heading cross-country to a secret island.

Crowded House’s new “Dreamers Are Waiting” album is set to release June 4.

Modest Mouse – “We Are Between”

“We Are Between” comes from the band’s new “The Golden Casket,” expected June 25. Recorded in Portland and Los Angeles, it’s their first new album in six years.

This fun, polished track boasts the Seattle rock band’s signature colorful sound and vibe.

Modest Mouse is touring this summer and plays Lollapalooza in July.

Let’s dance!

Arlo Parks – “Hope”

Don’t miss “Hope,” by talented singer-songwriter Arlo Parks, based in London.

In a recent interview, Parks said the soothing song is about “knowing you’re not the only one on the planet feeling low.” 

It’s a great jazzy pop arrangement with an uplifting chorus. Sample lyrics: “We all have scars / I know it’s hard / You’re not alone.”

“Hope” comes from Parks’ exceptional and intimate debut studio album, “Collapsed in Sunbeams.” Don’t miss it!

Ariel Posen – “Heart By Heart”

Also on our playlist these days is Ariel Posen’s new “Heart by Heart.” From Canada, Posen’s been nominated for “Breakout Artist of the Year.”

“Heart by Heart” is a fantastic roots rock arrangement about having someone to rely on. And it’s loaded with ace slide guitar! Check it out:

“Heart By Heart” comes from Posen’s new “Headway” release. He’s an artist to watch!

Lord Huron – “Mine Forever”

Creating the best alt-country of any band right now is Lord Huron via their just-released album “Long Lost.”

New single “Mine Forever” is a haunting and meticulously crafted track sure to be a summer favorite:

Lord Huron play Troutdale’s Edgefield in September.

See you there!

Mat Kearney – “Pontiac”

Singer-songwriter Mat Kearney (that’s just one “t” in Mat), hails from Eugene, but is now based in Nashville!

You’re sure to enjoy his nostalgic new single “Pontiac” from his upcoming “January Flower” release.

It’s rich, uplifting pop at its finest.

Take a listen:

In a recent interview with Substream magazine, Kearney was quoted as saying the new album is about “digging down and finding the innocence that comes with wanting to make music solely for the love and passion of doing it.” 

We’ll toast to that, Mat!

That’s a wrap

Thanks for supporting listener-powered radio at KRVM!