What Could Be This Year's Soundtrack to Your Summer?

Being a student, in my eyes the summer is a time for relaxing, partying and road trips. But it's not quite complete until you have the perfect soundtrack to your adventures. Even if you work every day, there's still time to rock out on your journeys and dance around the kitchen as you cook your dinner at night. You'd be surprised how much a fabulous soundtrack can improve your mood.

So who are this year's contenders?

Obviously, March 13th brought us the world conquering band One Direction's debut album 'Up All Night' and whilst it's been almost two months since it's release, it's still one of the hottest records at the moment. A lot of girls my age (19) may consider One Direction a 'guilty pleasure' but I am not lying when I say am I not the slightest bit guilty to be a fan of this band. I may not be a brainwashed, mobbing fangirl but I truly think these boys have talent. The album is a fantastic pop piece with songs written by the likes of Ed Sheeran ('Moments') and McFly's Tom Fletcher ('I Want') giving a range of songs but all with catchy choruses and impressive vocals from boys of such a young age. There is no doubt that this album will take up at least a portion of my summer because it just does not get old.

A couple of weeks later, on March 26th The All-American Rejects released their fourth studio album, 'Kids In The Street'. This record is packed with rock tunes combining Tyson's voice with impressive instrumental talent, creating a pure feel good record. I can definitely imagine chilling out in the sun, a beer or cocktail (whichever floats your boat) in my hand with my speakers blasting this into the sunshine. Others may enjoy something which is overall more mellow for a spot of sunbathing but this album is truly great and could accompany both a session by the pool or a full blown beach party.

One of the most popular current females is without a doubt the unique Nicki Minaj, and her second studio album 'Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded' released on April 3rd will surely be providing company in a lot of summers this year. With her different approach with rap, singing and electric vibes (and unforgettable outfits), she has won over a lot of hearts nation wide. This record is quirky, catchy and although it may not be up everyone's street, it's 19 song length (22 on the deluxe edition) will have any fan's summer sorted. But remember to blast this one, it shouldn't be allowed to be played quietly. So dress up in your best summer clothes and "LET'S GO TO THE BEACH -EACH, LET'S GO GET AWAY".

April 17th saw the release of of 'Walk the Talk', the debut EP from former lead vocalist of The Academy Is..., William Beckett. As a massive TAI fan, I must say I was nervous, but as soon as I started to listen to it, I was sold. William's vocal talent is undoubted and the EP is catchy and has a ridiculous feel good nature. It's one of those rare records that you could lie upside down on your bed with your eyes closed and just enjoy but could also blast out and bust a move. I'm sure everyone was sad to see the end of TAI, but William's done himself proud. Obviously with only four tracks, it can't quite fill your summer, but it could easily be put on repeat a good few times without you getting bored.

As well as these releases, two day's time (7th May) will give us Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly's new 10 tracked album entitled 'Maps'. Having heard this album a few days in advance, I can tell you that it is a serious contender. Sam Duckworth and his band have shown their growth and the influence of Sam’s range of musical interest is clear, but without him straying too far from his comfort zone and what he is known for. The versatility of the band is also highlighted and all the songs create a classic indie-pop, catchy, toe-tapping album. I have had it on repeat several times and I definitely recommend going out and buying it. 

Of course this is a tiny teeny section of what albums have been released this year, let alone what else is to come. Other releases also feature The Used's 'Vulnerable', Lostprophets' 'Weapons', Jason Mraz's 'Love is a Four Letter Word' and Marina and the Diamonds' 'Electra Heart'. 

As well as these, May will also feature new albums from the almighty John Mayer (inward squeal), Architects and Paloma Faith and June will bring the hugely anticipated Believe from Justin Bieber as well as new music from Usher, Nelly Furtado, The Smashing Pumpkins and Linkin Park.

So many massive artists are releasing albums this year and the options for the soundtrack to your summer could not have more range, versatility or talent.

So choose your music, make a playlist and turn up the volume. Mix your cocktail or open your beer and get out in that sunshine with a drive for spontaneous adventures.

Because this summer is going to be good and the music you choose will be sparking these memories for years to come.