Over the past two weeks, a plethora of songs have hit the music scene, some from well-known artists, others from unknown artists. But regardless of who is singing, the stars seem to have aligned just in time for a hectic week of midterms, offering new releases chock-full of motivational, mood improving tunes. As an added bonus, many of these hits have a summery optimistic vibe, in keeping with the lovely weather St. Louis has been having (thank you, climate change). But without further ado, here are the three top picks from the past two weeks of new music releases. Love them, hate them, let me know. I’d love to hear your thoughts and make this column more democratic to make up for our ever-deteriorating political system.

“Believer”—Imagine Dragons

Though Imagine Dragons wavers in and out of the spotlight, the band doesn’t disappoint when it does decide to release a hit. The band’s newest single, “Believer,” is no exception. This song begins with a simple, yet strong, drum solo that emanates the feel of March. As Dan Reynolds, head vocalist for the band, begins to sing, he opens up about the sense of control he has over himself and the opportunities he has taken advantage of in life. He emphasizes that the pain of his earlier years has built him into the motivated “believer” he is today. Imagine Dragons has pretty much built the perfect song to go along with your hell week. Though new to the rap game, Imagine Dragons tries its best and isn’t too shabby at incorporating a rap-infused chorus. The transitions from this rapid-paced rap component back to the resonating drum march gives the song an inflection that keeps listeners interested as to the next tonal turn it plans to take. With lines like, “I’m the one at the sail, the master of my sea,” this song can serve as your motto to make you feel just a bit better about being shackled to that Olin Library cubicle for several hours at a time.

“Don’t Kill My Vibe”—Sigrid

If you were to juxtapose the first and second halves of this piece, there is a good chance you’d have a hard time identifying them as the same. With an ebb and flow like a wave, this song begins with a quiet calm before building into a full-on electronic dance tune. Incorporating sounds of the synthesizer, Sigrid’s newest single is sure to shake you out of your humdrum daily routine and provide you with an inextinguishable good vibe. The unique rasp of Sigrid’s voice also seems to have this magical power, comparable to that of artists like Tove Lo and Halsey who get you on your feet.

“Carry On”—Young Rising Sons

This alternative pop song compiles strong and steady percussion and a subtle clapping effect that makes you feel as though a well-tuned support team is rooting you on. Beginning with a simple chord progression, the song immediately unveils its touching refrain, involving a lover’s promise to help their partner “Carry On” through the emotional tumult life may evoke. If you’re not a lover of sentimentality, here’s a warning warning: This song might not be for you. The warmth of lead singer Andy Tongren’s voice wraps you up in an embrace that will keep you keeping on. Sometimes, we all need that reassuring hug that tells us everything is going to be OK, and this song does just that.