New Music Monday #31

eat me alive by alessi rose

A song embodying the burning feeling of having a crush. The metaphors embedded in the track brilliantly bring it to life with a contagious melody. Alessi’s vocals are demanding yet soothing while being layered during the chorus breaks. Intense drums further bring out the passion behind the song's meaning. A perfect pop track to scream along to if you also struggle with obsessive tendencies…, “I'd leave me for dеad if you ever said that you'd wanna be minе.”

Letting Things Go by Vulfmon and Evangeline

A soft track to play while getting ready in the morning to remind you that letting go is okay! Soulful sounds infuse the song with captivating keys and Evangeline’s relaxing vocals beautifully deliver lines of high self-regard. A steady beat keeps the song flowing with calming hums throughout, “So if you love me then let it show / Cause I’ve been getting good at letting things go.”

Maktub by Gary Clark Jr.

Genre-bending artists continue to capture my interest and Gary Clark Jr. is just the one to talk about. ”Maktub” contains a multitude of musical elements and instruments which go to make this song so special. An invigorating electric guitar strum begins the track strong with Jr.’s commanding voice. The production and songwriting further show his prowess in the musical world and how he continues to break boundaries, “You can't stop the message / Life's for sale, pay attention.”

See you soon by Wisp

A dreamy melody and airy vocals blended with devotional lyricism capture the feelings of one-sided love. Eerie guitar strums start and as the thundering drums enter, so does the whispered singing. Her lyrics are deeply vulnerable as she begs for more time with her specific person. As the tension of the song builds there is a breakdown of instrumentals that summons a plethora of emotions as she finishes the song with, “To fall so fast for someone who may never last.” 

One Night/All Night by Justice & Tame Impala

A collaboration where both artists’ musical expertise is unmistakably present. With Justice bringing in more of the funky techno elements, Tame Impala’s kaleidoscopic disco/pop dexterity creates a groovy musical blend. Basslines that feel perfectly overpowering are paired with bright synths making a psychedelic experience (on par with Tame Impala’s usual sound). It’s not entirely definable by one artists’ genre, which makes it more enjoyable.

HISS by Megan Thee Stallion

One thing about Megan is she does not GAF. Her lyricism is bold and proves her confidence, while also showcasing her songwriting talent. The track starts with just Megan rapping on top of an ominous piano key, but then the beat gradually speeds up, and so does her flow. In “HISS”, she is talking directly to all those who have been talking down on her name, and she seems to do it with ease. While the beat stays consistent, Megan switches up her flow and tempo throughout to keep up on our toes, “Every chance you get, bet your weak ass won't address me / Bitches swear they G, but the G must stand for goofy.”

Tightrope by Quarters of Change

Provocative electric guitars and roaring drums start the song off strong alongside clever lyricism. The songwriting is honest and delves into the situation of having to be okay with all the complexities of a relationship not working out. As the chorus builds the drums, guitar, and bass become more powerful further amplifying the passion. The last chorus with frontman, Ben Roter’s, captivating vocals and just the guitar riff complete the rock song in its entirety, “Resolute now to ignore / I stand there, ask that question / "What was it all for?"

New Music Monday #30

Neon Pill by Cage The Elephant

A classic song for Cage The Elephant to return to the music scene with. With a continuous drum beat, stunning guitar riffs, and a layered production, “Neon Pill” is the alternative track fans have anticipated. Its melody is nostalgic to their previous work, but still leaves room for musical expansion. With metaphors hiding behind the song's true meaning, the lyricism is intriguing and catchy, “Stitched, patched up and sewed in / I'll probably see you again.”

Wish You Were Dead by Lola Young

Bold lyricism and captivating vocals, Lola Young has released the ultimate anger/revenge track. A myriad of instrumentals blend together beautifully to create this angsty, powerful energy. An electrifying guitar, a deep bass, and crashing drums further amplify all of the feelings Young expresses in the song, “I’ll forget all of the awful things you’ve ever said / And, oh, we can pretend that we’re in love.”

Effortlessly by Aqyila

Truly enticing vocals feel effortless when sung by Aqyila. Her lyricism shows optimism and faith for all the good that is to come in life. This song is full of uplifting affirmations and beautiful harmonies, creating a serene atmosphere. A guitar strum, sick drums, and light horns in the back create a worthwhile listen, “I choose my thoughts like I'm choosing my clothes / Everything that's meant to be will just flow / I am like water, I float through the growth.”

Diosa by Kali Uchis

A song that acts as a morning mantra to those to love affirmations. Kali Uchis has shown her musical expertise with her new album ORQUÍDEAS which contains songs of varying genres. With a continuous beat, and a hidden inclusion of horns, her songwriting is uplifting and powerful to those listening, “It's what I deserve, soy un beneficio a tu salud / Cuando estoy feliz, that's why you'll do whatever for me.”

we don’t move by BADMIND

Musically captivating, “we don’t move” contains interesting elements in its production that make this track special. With two supporting vocalists, the chorus has a continuous catchy beat and rhythm that slows down as it transitions to the next singer. The songwriting depicts the feeling of the unknown after the end of a relationship, “I don’t know if I should call / I forgot about it all.”

INFATUATION by I DONT KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME

A groovy beat with remarkable instrumentals to make you get up and dance. The beginning is smooth with rising vocals, steady drums, dazzling keys, and horns that reel the listener in. The exciting melody and alluring harmonies only elevate the desire shown in the lyricism, “You’re my latest sick obsession (need you now).”

Over You by Vacations

A simple yet lovely classic indie track with a hint of lo-fi pop. With chill drums, a funky guitar riff, and distinct vocals, the song embraces the obsession of being in love. The lyrics are clever and show true devotion to one, “Swing like a pendulum / Every breath with you is adrenaline.”

New Music Monday #29

yes, and? by Ariana Grande

Our deeply missed pop princess has returned to music with a completely new sound compared to her last album release back in 2020. Something exciting about this drop is the electro-pop/house beat Grande has implemented. The uplifting melody along with her lyrics warding off any critics, makes this song THE empowering anthem we’ve been anxiously waiting for. Bright synths, a groovy beat, and dazzling keys, “yes, and?” is the perfect comeback song, “Your business is yours and mine is mine / Why do you care so much whose d*** I ride?”

Sun/Son by Jhené Aiko

With beautiful harmonies and angelic keys, Aiko’s new release is dedicated to her son. Her lyricism has always been nothing short of profound, however, in this track the lyricism is a beautiful metaphor depicting her love and appreciation for her baby boy. Soulful vocals deliver the heavenly lines connecting the actual sun to her son, “Face to the clouds like a ray of love / No doubt about it, you charge me up.”

Dead Butterflies by Kid Bloom

A soft guitar strum, steady beat, and glittery synths carry the relaxed vocals throughout the track, taking the listener on a psychedelic trip. The song has a groovy feel while simultaneously delivering metaphoric lyrics that show the chaotic emotions felt after going back to an ex. Kid Bloom's vocals are gently sung alongside the mix of instrumentals that make the song as transformative as it is, “I bit the bullet but it bit me back (I guess I deserve that).”

Hang Me Out to Dry by Kyle Dion

Songwriting filled with truth, Kyle Dion’s lyrical prowess in being vulnerable is highlighted on this track. Soulful elements make up what the song is with a rich percussion lightly heard, soft guitar chords, and gentle drums. This paired with Dion's vocals sung in a higher register creates a catchy song, “Waiting all day in the sun for you / I hope it don’t rain in my point of view.”

Turn out the Light by Flamingos in the Tree

Indie rock band, Flamingos in the Tree, have released their title track EP, a track which makes me feel nostalgic for something I’ve never even experienced. “Turn out the Light” is a soft rock song about yearning for someone after the relationship has already ended. An electric guitar and thundering drums finish out the song, leaving a finality to its story, “Longing to be here with you / Only see shades of blue without you.”

if you didnt want me by Sipper

A hectic beat with pulsating synths, “if you didnt want me” is the frenzy techno song of the week. Beneath the chaos of the song, the lyrics delve into the theme of unrequited love while having the beat drop on hard-hitting lyrics. The contrast between the fast-paced rhythm and the dispirited songwriting creates an interesting vibe of an upbeat yet sad track, “Always letting you down / Never letting you go.”

Half of forever by Henrik

The message of dedication within the borders of love is greater than anything else. Lyrically and vocally powerful, artist Henrik has created a folk track that has booming drums and a strong guitar carried throughout. While the energy of devotion is understood through the lyrics, it is also felt through the melody and moving vocals, “Wherever you go / I’d give up half of forever (x2).”