This week, some of the top artists in country, pop and alternative music released albums. Toby Keith released his classic American anthems, Selena Gomez’s album is sultrier and further from her Disney roots than ever, and Mayday Parade released another radical alt-rock album. 

“35 mph Town” by Toby Keith

Released: Oct. 9

Genre: Country

Starting off the album with “Drunk Americans,” Toby Keith sings about his love for America and small town life, which most Kansans can appreciate. Keith shows how life has changed over the years with the song “35 mph Town.” The song really makes you think about generational differences. Keith also has fun songs such as “Rum is the Reason.” As someone who is not necessarily a fan of country music, I can appreciate this album and Keith’s meaningful lyrics about how times have changed. 

Download: “35 mph Town”

“Revival” by Selena Gomez

Released: Oct. 9

Genre: Pop

With the hit single “Good for You,” Selena Gomez shows her fans she is no longer the same young Disney star. Although she has been trying to prove that point since she quit working for Disney, this album officially shows she is a changed woman. Even with the lyrical changes, Gomez still brings the upbeat dance music fans enjoy, which can be heard in songs such as “Kill ‘Em With Kindness.” Although Gomez is trying to grow up, her voice still has the same young sound, which doesn’t seem to fit with some of her lyrics (“Body Heat”). Overall, the album sounds like the majority of pop radio and will not stick around for long. 

Download: “Kill ‘Em With Kindness”

“Black Lines” by Mayday Parade

Released: Oct. 9

Genre: Alternative Rock

Starting off the album strong with “One of Them Will Destroy the Other,” the raspy vocals of Dan Lambton immediately makes you want to jump up and head-bang along to the music. Mayday Parade has always had a strong presence in the alternative world, and it just keeps getting stronger. As one of the top pop-punk bands, they were sure to deliver yet another rad album. Toning down the album with the quiet and delicate “Narrow,” listeners hear the raw lyrics with minimal distraction that leads to the heavy pick-up of the instrumentals. They also deliver the usual classic, alternative songs that they are known for, like “All On Me,” that will keep people wanting more. 

Download: “One of Them Will Destroy the Other”