Modern music throwback

WHILE a lot of artists these days focus on taking music to the future, some go the opposite direction and look to the past instead. Taking notes from genres like disco and soul, these artists attempt to incorporate their voices and hope to make something uniquely theirs, beautifully blending the old and new.

If you like music that takes you back to eras of music’s yesteryears but with a fresh perspective, here are four albums by young talented artists to listen to:

Future Nostalgia | Dua Lipa

As the name of the album already suggests, the 24-year-old singer’s latest body of work is an impressively cohesive and well thought of record that juxtaposes modern pop with ‘70s disco, resulting in a sound that’s both very “now” but also nostalgic. Singles include “Don’t Start Now,” “Physical,” “Break My Heart” and “Hallucinate” which are all chart-topping bops—with equally colorful and psychedelic music videos.

After Hours | The Weeknd

For his fourth studio album, The Weeknd explores new styles, both musically and aesthetically. Songs like “Heartless,” “Blinding Lights,” “Save Your Tears” and the titular track show influences of dream pop and new wave. The overall look and concept of the album is also inspired by a lot of ‘90s flicks. Taking on a heavily stylized course, this could be his most creative and ambitious project yet. Prior to the album’s release last March, a short film was released as well.

Fine Line | Harry Styles

Two years after the release of his debut solo album, the English singer reinvents himself with a new sound. In “Fine Line,” Styles gets experimental and adventurous (as also reflected in his fashion choices the past year), blending rock and pop with elements of other genres like folk and funk. The album has a good mix of fun and upbeat tracks like “Lights Up,” “Adore You” and “Watermelon Sugar,” and slow ballads like “Falling.”

What’s Your Pleasure? | Jessie Ware

From the poignant tone of her previous 2017 album, Ware switches gears to a more lively and energetic vibe with her newest release. This time, the songstress takes her smooth, velvety vocals into songs heavily inspired by electronic and dance music like disco and house. With numbers like “Spotlight,” “Soul Control” and “What’s Your Pleasure?,” the 12-track album emulates a spirit reminiscent of retro groove that compels one to just move.