As the new school year begins, the hustle and bustle of preparing for classes can seem overwhelming. Noisy footsteps through the halls, cash registers ringing up fresh textbooks and a group of students chatting over a cup of hot coffee contribute to the soundtrack of going back to school.

To relieve the stress of college life, some students create a mix of their own. Listening to new music from the hottest artists can help to soothe restless spirits.

According to Walmart.com, the latest releases in rock music include “The Sound of Madness” by Shinedown, “Rock and Roll Jesus” by Kid Rock, “Revelation,” the newest from Journey and Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida.”

Country lovers have Sugarland’s “Love on the Inside” and Tim McGraw’s “Greatest Hits” to look forward to.

Pop stars Leona Lewis and the Jonas Brothers released their new albums “Spirit” and “A Little Bit Longer,” respectively.

In hip-hop, “The Carter III” by Lil’ Wayne and “The Definition of Real” by Plies can be picked up in most music stores.

Always an option, tickets are available for upcoming live shows in and around New Orleans if simply listening don’t wash the school worries away.

Peter Frampton relaxes the mood at the House of Blues Sept. 2. Three Doors Down pumps it up in the Cajundome with Hinder and Finger Eleven Sept. 23.

Grab a new CD at the checkout counter to make that monstrous stack of books seem a little more bearable. Download the latest and greatest on iTunes and take a relaxing stroll through the quad between classes. Don’t get smothered by the stress of schoolwork. Listen to a few new tunes and have fun with it.