Whether you’re packing your bags to head home for the summer, a summer abroad in Italy or you’ve graduated and heading off into the real world, the 2013-2014 school year is over. Thankfully, there have been some pretty memorable album releases to remember this school year by.

Beyoncé – Beyoncé

When the Queen secretly released her music video-filled album, the world rejoiced. ’Yoncé didn’t need any publicity to reach the top of the charts, and fans are still amazed that none of the featured artists — such as Drake, Frank Ocean and her husband Jay Z — spilled the beans.
Lorde – Pure Heroine

Lorde was only 16 when she released Pure Heroine, and it left us truly amazed. The lyrics carefully threaded between each chord change and backed by an orchestra of voices were a sign of true musicianship. Many of her concerts have been sold out since the release, and deservingly so.

Miley Cyrus – Bangerz

Nothing could better explain the 2013-2014 school year than Miley Cyrus sporting a white tank top while riding a wrecking ball. While pushing through this school year, it was a nice break to watch some Miley videos and think, “I might be failing that class, but at least I didn’t hump a giant foam finger on a stage being watched my millions.”

Beck – Morning Phase

Beck is an active musician in the alternative genre, and his new album broke him out even further. Morning Phase places itself as one of the most memorable albums of this school year.

The Pretty Reckless – Going to Hell

Taylor Momsen turned out to be a far cry from her character Jenny from “Gossip Girl.” She is the lead singer of The Pretty Reckless, and her hard-rock view on life has separated her from her acting career and propelled her into a career as a musician. Going to Hell has the band’s hit song “Heaven Knows,” with over 5 million views on YouTube.

St. Vincent – St. Vincent

St. Vincent’s new self-titled album is unique, creative and adored by her alternative fan base with songs as big as her hair. St. Vincent has created some waves in the music world, and it is unforgettable for alternative fans everywhere.

Of Mice and Men – Restoring Force

Of Mice and Men took a leap and created an album heavier than anything it had released thus far, and the risk paid off. Restoring Force is an album that left rock fans reeling and ready for another.

Cage the Elephant – Melophobia

Rock fans rejoiced as Cage the Elephant killed its show at the Rialto Theatre this school year with its new album Melophobia. The band surprised its audiences with this high-energy album, which is sure to be remembered long after the 2014 graduates are gone.

Arcade Fire – Reflektor

Arcade Fire’s album Reflektor is undoubtedly the coolest indie-rock album of 2013-2014, and is made even more exciting by its high-aiming, easy-to-dance-to feel.

SoMo – SoMo

Since Justin Timberlake and Trey Songz didn’t release any albums this year, SoMo has taken the lead in the R&B genre. His self-titled album is arguably the sexiest album of the school year.