October brought along some amazing new albums. Check out what we think of them below.

By Kaitlyn Tom

Daya: Sit Still, Look Pretty
Ever since last year, this 18-year-old-singer/songwriter has slowly gained popularity and a large fan base. “Sit Still, Look Pretty” is Daya’s second album, which really showcases her versatility as an artist.

Recommendation: “We Are”
This song is the perfect song to end her album with; a strong beat and a simple melody make it instantly catchy.

Colbie Caillat: The Malibu Sessions
As the album name implies, this album is interlaced with beach sounds (seagulls, waves crashing, people hanging at the beach), which provides for a nice break from the monotony of school and reminds you of better times, like summer. Despite the overall good vibe of the album, the songs tend to sound the same–the same beat and guitar chords are repeated over and over again.

Recommendation: “In Love Again”
This song stands out from the rest of the album, being the only song with the addition of a piano background. Because the piano melody is so simple, it really allows Caillat’s vocals to stand out.

One Republic: Oh my my
One Republic, throughout all these years, has consistently produced great music. This album finds the perfect mix between staying true to their sound and experimenting with some riskier elements.

Recommendation: “Born”
The slightly muffled sound of the vocals in the verses are reminiscent of the iconic “I am the Walrus” Beatles’ song, which already sets this song up for success. More upbeat than most of the other songs, the chord progression of the guitar right before the song enters the bridge into the chorus is so artfully placed that it truly makes the song incredible.

Jojo: Mad Love
It’s been 10 years since we’ve gotten an album from Jojo, and this album proves that she’s been putting hard work into writing her songs.

Recommendation: “Mad Love.”
The title song really shines in this album: the occasional trumpet, the slightly swing beat, and her airy high notes combined with her lower belt tones makes for a unique song.

Tove Lo: Ladywood
Out of all the albums from this month, this album was definitely the most boring. The individual songs are quite interesting, but all the songs sound the same, which show that Tove Lo lacks the originality to come up with new beats, melodies, or meaningful lyrics.

Recommendation: “Don’t Talk About It”
This song is better than the rest of the other songs in the album, primarily due to the futuristic drums backing up her vocals. The chorus, while repetitive, is catchy, especially with the cowbell in the background.

Lady Gaga: Joanne
From the very beginning of the album, it’s clear that Lady Gaga is making the shift from avant-garde entertainer to talented artist. Gaga’s sound has made a 180 turn, but her voice and songwriting skills are so strong that instead of the album coming off as her trying too hard, it comes off has an introduction to a new era of Gaga.

Recommendation: “Diamond Heart”
Maybe it’s just the initial shock of hearing Gaga’s new style, but this song instantly catches a listener off guard in a good way. Gaga’s belt, that was absent in her earlier songs, is showcased in this song. The more toned down beat and melody in between verses allows for the exciting chorus to shine even more.