Here’s the albums that will rock 2022

ILLUSTRATON BY OLIVIA JUENGER 6 albums expected to dominate 2022

GRACE KOENNECKE

FOR THE POST

After a lackluster start to the new year, music is possibly the only thing that can lift one’s spirits during the gloomy and gray season. Luckily, 2022 is projected to have exciting albums on the horizon.

From alternative to electronic-pop to R&B, here are some of the most anticipated releases of the year:

Apocalypse Whenever by Bad Suns - Jan. 28

If there’s anything to know about Bad Suns, it’s that its albums are always upbeat and infectious in nature. This time around on Apocalypse Whenever, the alternative group is inspired by the vibrant and loud wailing guitar sounds of the ‘80s and ‘90s, heavily apparent on its pre-released tracks, such as “Heaven Is a Place in My Head” and “Baby Blue Shades.” Seemingly, frontman Christo Bowman is vocally at his strongest, and his quirky lyricism and Danny Zuko-like persona are the perfect combination for the fourth studio album, which will be out on the music scene Friday.

Laurel Hell by Mitski - Feb. 4

After the 2018 release of Be the Cowboy, Mitski had an epiphany: love is all about making mistakes. In a recent statement with Genius about the upcoming release of her fourth album, Laurel Hell, the singer saix she “needed love songs about real relationships that are not power struggles to be won or lost.” Mitski also hints this album is all about fnding comfort within herself and forgiving herself — as well as others — for past mistakes. As an act of rediscovery and refection, this album’s leading singles “Working for the Knife” and “The Only Heartbreaker” have already left fans craving more, indicating that this drop may be one of Mitski’s most profound as a growing fgure of alternative music.

Heterosexuality by Shamir - Feb. 11

This indie-rock newcomer is by far one of the most daring and compelling artists currently in the genre. These characteristics are clearly evident in the titles of Shamir’s leading singles for his upcoming release, with “Cisgender” and “Gay Agenda” acting as the unapologetic and thought-provoking predecessors that give insight to what the rest of the tracklist may entail. The album will center around trauma, particularly with Shamir struggling with others’ perceptions of his sexuality. As a Black, gay man, Shamir’s Heterosexuality will be a noteworthy release, with its themes and concepts told through the perspective of one of the most controversial social groups of the past and present.

CRASH by Charli XCX - March 18

Acting as her fnal project with Asylum Records UK, the singer’s label for over 10 years, Charli XCX is ready to return to the pop music scene with her own set of rules. CRASH seems to be the pop album that has been demanded of XCX since her smash-hit “Boom Clap,” yet is expected to be an ironic take on the genre itself. With a stacked list of collaborators like Christine and the Queens, Caroline Polachek and Rina Sawayama, the singer’s ffth album has already alluded to a futuristic, whimsical and highly sensual theme throughout. With songs like “Good Ones” and “New Shapes ft. Christine and the Queens and Caroline Polachek,” it is sure to dazzle listeners everywhere.

Chloe and the Next 20th Century by Father John Misty - April 8

Three and a half years later, Father John Misty has fnally announced his ffth album Chloe and the Next 20th Century. Unlike his past music, this new release has already seen the implementation of a live orchestra and jazz-like trumpets on the leading single, “Funny Girl,” with a familiar country twang that is evident through the singer’s repertoire. With a more dark and lonesome tone, this new project may be the perfect heartbreak album to be released in 2022. Fans everywhere are anxious to hear more of the singer’s crooning vocals and this release is expected to resonate with audiences near and far.

SZA - TBA

With her captivating 2017 release of Ctrl in the rearview, SZA has been hinting at new music since the end of 2020. First releasing the rhythmic and contemporary vibe of “Hit Different ft. The Neptunes, Pharrell Williams and Ty Dolla $ign” and then the mellow warmth of “Good Days” and lastly, the burning scold of “I Hate U,” it seems like the R&B singer is ready to enter a new era. Unfortunately, there is still no release date or album title in sight. This is all due to the singer being involved in an ongoing battle with her label, Top Dawg Entertainment, who she says delayed her upcoming album’s release on purpose. What may signal new music from SZA is if her label partners, rappers Kendrick Lamar and Schoolboy Q, choose to drop music this year, so hopefully we see the return of SZA in 2022.

@GRACE_KOE

GK011320@OHIO.EDU

the weekender

Athens Library grants OU Music faculty showcase opportunity

ALYSSA CRUZ FOR THE POST

The Athens Public Library, 30 Home St., is hosting the Ohio University Piano Trio on Saturday. The Trio consists of OU faculty, featuring Emely Phelps on the piano, Jose Rocha on the cello and Christine Li on the violin.

This concert is the frst offcial performance the group will do together. Phelps said this is something that has been in the making for a while, but fnding a place to play proved to be diffcult.

“As a pianist, it’s hard to fnd places that have good pianos that are far enough away (from the university) that they could potentially draw a slightly different audience,” Phelps said.

The library presented her with the perfect opportunity, she said.

Todd Bastin, Athens Art in the Library coordinator, reached out to Phelps this past October to notify her the library had received an anonymous donation of a vintage baby grand piano. The instrument was built in Cincinnati in the mid 1920s and was manufactured by the Baldwin Piano Company.

“We’re so thrilled to have an instrument of that caliber, and we’re hoping that it can be a centerpiece that attracts talent to perform here now,” Bastin said. “I think it symbolizes how serious we are about bringing music of this quality to the general public.”

The library is excited for what is to come by transitioning to more of an emphasis on music and the arts, especially in regards to utilizing the resources in faculty OU has to offer.

“I’m hoping that not only can people enjoy our space as a cultural space to experience good music but also realize that this kind of stuff goes on at OU,” Bastin said. “It will strengthen a connection between the university and the community.”

Phelps shares Bastin’s excitement when it comes to sharing music with the Athens community.

“Performing is such a great way of building empathy and connecting,” Phelps said. “We have got such a wonderful group of people who come to our School of Music concerts, but I know there are a lot of people that we’re missing.”

The chamber concert will last nearly an hour and consist of some notable classical music pieces, including Beethoven’s “Piano Trio No. 1” and Robert Schumann’s “Violin Sonata.”

Phelps is an accomplished pianist due to her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in piano performance from The Juilliard School as well as her doctorate in the same focus from the State University of New York at Stony Brook.

Additionally, she devoted eight years to playing in the Trio Cleonice, the Graduate Piano Trio-in-Residence at the New England Conservatory from 2008 to 2016. The absence of chair music performances in Phelps’s life fueled her desire to rejoin a trio.

“I really missed that serious exploration as part of my musical life,” Phelps said. “It’s really wonderful that we’re

Itty Bitty Print Exchange art exhibit at Arts West on Jan. 18, 2021. (LIZ PARTSCH | FOR THE POST)

A musician plays the new baby grand piano that was gifted by a donor and is now inside the Athens Public Library on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2022. (RYAN GRZYBOWSKI | FOR THE POST)

able to do this together. We’ve been having a blast rehearsing these past few weeks.”

Phelps is optimistic when it comes to the future of library and OU Music relations.

“I envision that this is the soft launch of what I hope will be a more regular chamber music series at the library featuring OU faculty down the road,” Phelps said.

Dom O’Korn, a junior studying music education, said he has had a great experience with the School of Music and is excited to see the faculty showcased at the concert.

“Most professors know everybody on a frst-name basis and they actively care about how we’re doing and it’s a supportive environment,” O’Korn said. “They truly want to see all of us succeed and do everything in their power to make sure we do so.”

The concert is free and is targeted toward all those who wish to grow their music appreciation, including students and other members of the Athens Community.

“I’m really interested in reaching people authentically,” Phelps said. “Getting to connect with people in that way, I’m really excited about.”

@ALYSSADANCCRUZ AC974320@OHIO.EDU

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Chamber Music Concert: Ohio University Piano Trio

WHERE: Athens Public Library, 30 Home St.

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 29, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

WHAT’S GOING ON?

Enjoy an Elvis tribute artist, learn to track animals

KATIE MILLARD FOR THE POST

FRIDAY, JAN. 28

Virtual New Jersey Film Festival will feature an animated fi lm by Lindsay Martin, an Athens local. Online tickets give viewers a 24-hour on-demand download for the entirety of Friday, Jan. 28, but don’t miss it, because it’s only available for one day. Support the local fi lmmaker by watching her funny, dark short focused on family folklore, mental health, health care and social mobility issues. Admission: $15

Randy Gleason is performing at 7 p.m. at Doug’s Vault, 40526 Salem School Lot Road. The 26-year-old performer specializes in acoustic rock favorites from the ‘70s to now. Come enjoy some drinks and hot food while you watch this Ohio musician perform. Admission: Free

The Classical Cabaret: Ladies Night Out

will take place at 8 p.m. this Friday at Glidden Recital Hall. Presented by the Ohio University Voice Division, the students of OU Opera Theater will complete an evening of exciting songs by female composers. The event can also be live streamed via the School of Music’s YouTube channel. Admission: Free

SATURDAY, JAN. 29

Uncover Animal Mysteries at the Hock-

hocking Adena Bikeway from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. This animal tracking workshop will meet on the Beaumont-Salina Trailhead of the bikeway, where participants will be led by expert animal tracker Joe Brehm. Dress warm for a winter adventure to learn about local animals, and enjoy some warm local refreshments. Admission: $20

A Chamber Music Concert will take place from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the Athens Public Library, 30 Home St. Performed by the Ohio University Piano Trio, the concert will feature a piano trio by Beethoven and a violin sonata by Robert Schumann. With Christine Li on violin, Jose Rocha on cello and Emely Phelps on piano, it’s sure to be a harmonious event. Admission: Free

Velvet Green is returning to The Union, 18 W. Union St., at 8 p.m. Doors will open at 7 p.m. for the locally beloved band. Come support these performers and enjoy the fun concert. Admission: $8 for 21+, $10 for under 21

Dwight Icenhower is performing at Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, at 7 p.m. This revered Elvis impersonator has traveled the world giving live Elvis tribute performances. Icenhower has mastered the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s Elvis eras and is sure to leave you “All Shook Up.” Admission: $33 in advance and $38 at the door for reserved seats, $38 in advance and $43 at the door for box seats, plus an additional facility fee

SUNDAY, JAN. 30

Enjoy some winter birding at Lake

Hope State Park, 27331 State Route 278, McArthur, from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Learn which Ohio birds have stayed for the winter and sharpen your bird identifying skills on the half-mile hike. To participate, bring your binoculars and meet at the Nature Center. Admission: Free

Wheel of the year painting party will be held at 3 p.m. at Mama Renie’s Pizza, 23 Public Square in Nelsonville. The twohour class led by artist Sharon Dean and hosted by Gaia’s Realms will lead you in painting your own wheel of the year, representative of time as a cycle. All materials are provided, and participants can enjoy food and drinks as they paint. Admission: Free

Learn to knit fi ngerless mitts at Chosen Pathways Spiritual Emporium, 400 E. State St., from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. Hosted by Nadine and Nancy’s knitting class, the course will teach participants how to use double point needles and the Magic Loop method, where one knits in the round. Come knit your own fi ngerless gloves. Admission: $30 Various locations BLOOD DRIVE

The need is constant, the need is urgent, sign up and give today.

visit the Red Cross online. Enter your zip code to search for an available drive. Times availble each week

DJ B-Funk will be playing music from 1950 to early 2000’s for your enjoyment. There will be food provided by Lacey Rogers, fellow book club Facilitator and community organizer, a full cash-bar, and Sharrell Wise Photography will be on hand to snap photos of all of you having fun. The event will be streamed online for those who can’t make it. ALL PROCEEDS beneft the anti-racism book club.

scan to schedule your donation

The Market on State ATHENS FARMERS & ART MARKET

Locally grown and raised meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, prepared foods, , traditional and specialty bread, coffee, wine and cider, shelf stable canned goods, sweets, plants and seeds. Plus locally made artistic goods Find us in the front parking lot and inside the Market on State Mall Saturdays 9 am - Noon

Arts West • 132 W State St ITTY BITTY PRINT EXCHANGE: ANOTHER WORLD IS POSSIBLE

This exchange consists of seventy-seven artists from fve countries. The artists in the exchange created prints utilizing a wide range of analog print media—screenprinting, relief printing, intaglio, lithography, letterpress, risograph, printing on glass, and more. What’s beautiful about this exchange is not only its vastness, but also the varying imagery and perspective in response to the prompt “Another World Is Possible.” on view through January 28th

@ittybittyprintexchange

FRIDAY NIGHT: BILL FOLEY

The perfect place to gather ANY NIGHT OF THE WEEK! we have 32 Beers on Tap & Don’t Miss

Bill Foley every friday in January at 6pm.

Tuesday night trivia.

@EclipseBeerHall

Open to All

Alden Library • 4th foor NEVERTHELESS, SHE PERSISTED THROUGH TIME

Exhibit of items entirely selected and described by students in the Margaret Boyd Scholars Program Freshman Seminar, delayed since spring 2020. This student-curated exhibit features materials from various collections in the Mahn Center for Archives and Special Collections, and that address questions and issues of relevance to all students around gender, sexuality, societal expectations, rights, and so on. on view through February 10th

Free & Open to the Public

Dairy Barn Arts Center 8000 Dairy Lane OH+5

CONTEMPORARY ART OF OUR REGION

This exhibition features artwork from 62 artists living in Ohio and the fve surrounding states. Visitors will enjoy a variety of artworks including sculpture, painting, photography, fber art and mixed-media art. Jan 15th - Mar 13th

$7 general admission $5 student/seniors • members FREE

dairybarn.org

Stuarts Opera House LATE 20TH CENTURY DANCE PARTY WITH DJ BFUNK

EVENT DATE HAS ▼▼CHANGED▼▼

Friday, MAR 11th 7 pm- 11 pm

TICKETS & DONATION HERE: linktr.ee/djbfunk

$15 Donation and proof of vaccination required to attend

promote YOUR NEXT EVENT HERE

because it’s an affordable (cheap) way to expose art, music, theater, flms, exhibitions, and non-proft events and happenings TO THOUSANDS OF READERS

for as low as $15 per week!

send us an email postadvertising@ohio.edu Semester pricing and discounts are available. Space is limited

For more Music, Arts, and Events

scan