A FLOWERING OF BIG RELEASES (UPDATED)

Sure, April has already given us unseasonable snowfall and withering heatwaves. But in the music world, spring has sprung—as evidenced by a very fruitful schedule of upcoming releases by superstar acts.

Here's what we know so far: The flowering begins with Freebandz/Epic's Future, whose latest offering came out Friday (4/29). Then comes a 5/6 drop by Jack Harlow (currently dominating the top of the DSP charts thanks to the Range-repped breakout’s “First Class”), with Kendrick Lamar’s TDE/Interscope set Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers due to arrive on 5/13. The mighty Harry Styles, fresh off his Coachella triumph, will deliver Harry’s House (Columbia) on 5/20. Post Malone will drop his fourth LP and first with a Mercury logo on 6/3. K-pop giant BTS (via Geffen) has an album slated for 6/10. And country supernova Luke Combs’ third album, Growin’ Up, will be released on 6/24 via River House/Columbia Nashville.

There has also been intense speculation about releases from Republic's Nicki Minaj.

This spring efflorescence all but guarantees a very hot summer. Which of these releases will generate the most heat? What other major acts will join the fray? Stay tuned.

Floral portrait by Paul Myers, Instagram