Five new albums from older artists in 2023

Many iconic artists, like Paramore and One Direction’s Niall Horan, have returned to the music industry after months of hiatuses. With so many albums releasing in 2023, these performers each bring something unique to the table.

“This is Why” – Paramore

After a five year hiatus, Paramore came back in a big way with their sixth studio album, “This is Why” on Feb. 10. The pop-punk band dominated the music scene in 2013.

The band’s identity is tied to nostalgia, yet they never let it overpower their music. In fact, on “This Is Why,” they get angrier, pricklier and funkier, while also integrating the band’s past and future, floating well beyond their legendary reputation to doing something totally new.

“Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd” – Lana Del Rey

Rock legends aside, the princess of indie pop returns on March 24. Lana Del Rey’s ninth full-length album, “Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd,” covers her whole artistic career and is arguably one of her most awaited works. Del Rey released the title track “A&W” as a preview of the album to get fans excited and give them a taste of her new work.

“Memento Mori” – Depeche Mode

For the dad music lovers, Depeche Mode doesn’t “Enjoy the Silence” anymore. The band’s 15th studio album, ‘’Memento Mori,’’ releases on March 24, and will be supported by a massive international tour.

The lead single for the album “Ghosts Again” was released on Feb. 9. The song has a melancholic melody, reflecting on the death of Andy Fletcher, former musician of Depeche Mode. The “Memento Mori” album looks to be a moving tribute to Fletcher’s and the band’s legacy.

“Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts” – The Smashing Pumpkins

The Smashing Pumpkins came back with their 12th studio album, “Atum: A Rock Opera in Three Acts.” The first two installments of Billy Corgan’s three-part rock opera are now available to stream, with the third part releasing on April 21. “Atum: Act Three” continues the story from The Smashing Pumpkins’ last two concept albums, “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” and “Machina/The Machines of God.” The protagonist Zero, who is now called Shiny, travels throughout the distant future, accompanied by guitar riffs and epic drum beats.

“The Show” – Niall Horan

Perhaps One Direction’s 18-month break was a total lie, but Niall Horan has recently announced that he will return to release his third studio album “The Show” on June 9. Horan released his first single in three years, “Heaven,” on Feb. 17, giving fans a glimpse of what they can expect from the artist’s new era.