It’s safe to say 2018 was quite an exciting year for music. Many artists—like Arctic Monkeys—came out of hiding while others—like Billie Eilish—broke out and dominated the charts. It may seem like a hard act to follow, but 2019’s roster of releases so far proves to be just as good, if not better.

The 1975

Although “A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships” dropped on Nov. 30, The 1975 are already working on their next project. “Notes on a Conditional Form,” set to drop in May, will further the group’s exploration of modernity and the human experience. The emphasis on societal issues will undoubtedly be prominent themes to continue the dialogue that the group created with their last release.

American Football

Almost as classic as the sport itself, Urbana-based rock band American Football is back for a third album. The sound will probably stay the same, but the group is spicing up creative aspects—opting out of using the 704 W. High St. house for cover art—but making it self-titled for the third time in a row.

Avril Lavigne

Aside from a brief 2017 collaboration with One Ok Rock, French-Canadian rocker Avril Lavigne has been absent from the music scene since 2015. But Lavigne’s newest release might just be her most vulnerable yet. Even though the project doesn’t have a set release date, Lavigne’s newest single “Head Above Water” reflects this vulnerability and new sound.

Backstreet Boys

Backstreet’s back, alright—this time with a new album on Jan. 25. “DNA” will transport fans to the ‘90’s, a.k.a. the group’s prime. Plus, they’ll be taking this album around the world while performing their own nostalgic hits.

Florida Georgia Line

Get ready to roll your windows down and cruise with “Can’t Say I Ain’t Country.” With a new album scheduled for release on Feb. 15, the Nashville-based duo will fast forward fans to summer with their feel-good tunes.

Ariana Grande

Just months after releasing “Sweetener,” Ariana Grande is back at it again. Hot off her split from Pete Davidson, Grande ended the year with one of the hottest singles—and music videos—of 2018. There’s no telling what she has up her sleeve with this release, as she’s pushing herself musically and emotionally into uncharted territory.

Bring Me The Horizon

Do you want to start a cult with Bring Me The Horizon? If so, Jan. 25 is the date to remember as it marks the release of the British rockers’ sixth studio album. “amo” may have started with months of cryptic promos but will end with 13 new tracks and a world tour.

Vampire Weekend

Fans of Vampire Weekend have been awaiting the group’s fourth album since 2013, and it seems like 2019 is the year their dreams will come true. Frontman Ezra Koenig confirmed that the project is finished but hasn’t announced a release date.

The Cure

Following their 2018 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, The Cure are back in 2019 with a new album. It’s been 11 years since the world has heard any new releases from the English-rock group, but social media is buzzing with ecstatic fans waiting for their return. Plus, they’ll be taking this new album on the road, having already announced several dates across Europe.

Bastille

Third time’s the charm, at least when Bastille is concerned. After two successful albums and a brief hiatus they’re back for more. “Doom Days” is officially upon us, but not soon enough since the band hasn’t announced an official release date yet.

Lana Del Rey

Even though “Norman Fucking Rockwell” hasn’t graced the ears of the public yet, it’s already being heralded as the “most Lana Del Rey album of all time.” These claims may be bold, but the three released singles so far, produced with Jack Antonoff, prove that this album will be one to remember for fans and critics alike.

The Weeknd

The alternative R&B star played with his usually dark sound with “Starboy” but returned to his roots with “My Dear Melancholy” in 2018. The Weeknd himself confirmed that his newest album, “Chapter 6”, is set to drop “soon.” The element of surprise surrounding this project’s makes it even more exciting.

Wicca Phase Springs Eternal

GothBoiClique founder—and former co-frontman of TigerJaw—Adam McIlwee’s newest project titled “Suffer On” is set to drop on Feb. 15. His collaborations with Lil Peep took him to the next level, but he hasn’t released an album in three years. This new release will continue to revolutionize the genres he toys with, as he’s been proclaimed as “the future of emo.”

Sky Ferreria

It’s been five years since the world has heard any new music from synth-pop star Sky Ferreria. Just because Ferreria has been absent from the music scene in 2013 doesn’t mean she hasn’t been making quite the name for herself elsewhere, having landed countless roles in television and film. Ferreria has teased new music on Instagram, but no word on a release date yet.

Weezer

“The Black Album” marks a sharp change in direction for Weezer. The two singles released so far have the classic Weezer vibe, but the lyrics and accompanying music videos have tones that are much darker than in the group’s previous releases. The album will arrive on March 1 and will be taken on the road this spring.