Although the New Year has barely been ushered in, there have already been many prominent new musicians appearing in 2013. Artists such as the Lumineers, Mod Sun, and Frank Ocean are successfully gaining fans, each having a unique sound that excites listeners.

“Frank Ocean has the voice of an angel. His lyrics really speak to me,” junior Tony Edwards said.

Ocean released his third album, Channel Orange, in July 2012 but is only recently gaining widespread success. His most popular song, Novacane, stands out against the bland and uncreative lyrics that are a favorite among most popular hip hop artists, so naturally he has been nominated for the Grammy of Best New Artist.

Ocean, formerly Christopher Breaux, is making waves with his soulful lyrics and distinctive song structure. Similarly, the Lumineers, with their ecstatic melodies and folk sound, are garnering extensive praise.

“The Lumineers are likeable because they’re different. I can’t compare their sound to any other band” freshman Sarah Searle said.

One can hardly turn the radio dial without hearing Ho Hey, an intensely popular Lumineers song. It comes as no surprise that they are nominated for two Grammy’s, Best Americana Album and Best New Artist.

Chosen as Rolling Stone’s #1 out of sixteen best unsigned artists, rapper Mod Sun (formerly Dylan Smith) has been turning heads since he was seventeen years old and touring with the band Four Letter Lie. Since then, Mod Sun has chosen to pursue a career as a rapper, spreading happiness and positivity through his verses.

Describing his sound as an audible smile, Mod Sun is continuing to release free mixtapes as well as offering meet and greets for fans attending concerts. His Road Trippin’ Tour alongside Cisco Adler has garnered extensive admiration for its fun energy.

Ocean, Smith, and the Lumineers exemplify the youthful, fresh spirit of the music of 2013.