With snowstorms blanketing the landscape and a sharp chill attacking people everywhere, there’s often no better feeling than curling up with some hot chocolate and your iPod, freshly updated with all the latest bands and songs. Whether you’re into the alternative rock style of the hit band Fall Out Boy or the lively beat of new artist Meghan Trainor, warm up this winter by listening to the hottest artists and albums.

Fall Out Boy: Since this band’s beginnings in 2003 with their album Take This to Your Grave, they’ve released one hit after the next. With their newest collection, American Beauty / American Psycho, Fall Out Boy does not disappoint, leaving fans relieved all over again that the band decided to regroup after a short hiatus in 2009. Their sixth album has already converted music lovers into massive devotees, packed with their signature alt-rock style and influence from pop, indie rock, and a hip-hop beat. Songs like “Centuries” and “Immortals” leave you craving more. Even at Ridge, they have a large fan base.

Caroline Carr ’16 is no stranger to the alternative music scene, as she comments, “I’ve gotten really into bands like Fall Out Boy, Panic! At the Disco, and My Chemical Romance.”  If you haven’t started listening to Fall Out Boy yet, now is definitely the time to start.

Meghan Trainor: As one of the newest pop icons of 2015, singer Meghan Trainor has already worked her way into the spotlight. Her first album, Title, which was released on January 9 proved to be a such a success that it found its way to iTunes’ top selling list. Some notable songs include “All About that Bass” and “Dear Future Husband,” songs that allow you to rock out to a classic 1950s beat, while others such as “Walkashame” and “Mr. Almost” contain a lively fusion of R&B and hip-hop. Be sure to check out this new superstar!

Imagine Dragons: Imagine Dragons has one of the greatest success stories of this decade, with their first album, Night Visions, which took the world by storm in 2012. Their new album, Smoke and Mirrors, is sure to be a perfect follow up to their debut. Expected to be released February 17, the band decided to stay true to their blend of alt-rock energy and pop hooks for this album, but mixed it up enough to create a recipe to guarantee success. The hit “I Bet My Life” blends hip-hop with guitar riffs and “Gold” adds a bit of Latin influence to the album. You’ll be missing out if you don’t start listening to the lively tunes of Imagine Dragons.

At Ridge, there certainly is a different taste of music and genres, but alternative seems to be standing out. Hunter Kieran ’15 also hopped onto the alternative bandwagon, remarking, “Yeah, my favorite band is Arctic Monkeys.” However, it doesn’t matter if you enjoy pop, rap, alternative, or any other genre – just remember to enjoy your favorite music to the fullest these cold winter months.