2016 has become a year filled with great music, the passing of many great musicians, and the revival of interest in many bands and musical endeavors. Here are five albums that I have enjoyed listening to so far this year. Part one of hopefully many.

1. Aaron West and the Roaring Twenties – Bittersweet

Dan “Soup” Campbell is back with a follow-up EP to “We Don’t Have Each Other”. This new EP follows the story from where it left off. Three new songs that showcase Dan’s Aaron West persona, as well as his songwriting abilities.

2. Arrows in Her – It Tired Me All the Same

Arrows in Her’s “leaving.” became an underground classic among the scene. Back with a new set of songs, “It Tired Me All the Same” picks up right where the last release left off. Filled with emotional songs that pull the listener in. Look for this band’s style and sound to start gaining traction in the next few years.

3. Grayscale – What We’re Missing

Grayscale from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania could just be the next big thing in pop-punk. This album hits home lyrically, and the unique melodies and rhythms showcase a lot of talent. This is definitely an album to not sleep on.

4. David Bowie – Blackstar

It is such a shame to see the passing of a music icon and to learn that we will not be able to listen to any newer recordings from David Bowie. However, Blackstar has become his going away present to the world. It is an absolute masterpiece, and any music fan should enjoy at least some of David Bowie’s work.

5. Danimal Cannon – Lunaria

Shredding guitarist, chiptune extraordinaire. Danimal is back in his latest release and is sure to sonically fill your ears with unique sounds that only he could provide. An underground hit in the chiptune scene, Danimal Cannon has been a major player for years and this album showcases all his talent.

A wide array of genres and influences. These are some albums that have become the soundtrack to my year. It might just be a feeling, but 2016 seems to be a resurgence in a variety of ways. A slow blossoming of an incredibly beautiful renaissance in creative works might be on the horizon.