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As we near the end of the first month of 2024, I’ve been pleased with the tunes that I’ve heard so far - Let’s see what the last weekend in January brings us. Let’s dive in and see what you might like:
Charley Crockett - “$10 Cowboy”
Texas singer-songwriter Crockett is a classic throwback with his deep twang. The new song was recorded live to tape and conveys getting overlooked and undervalued in the country music scene. Crockett has been putting out solid music for years and this tune is no exception.
Frank Turner - “Do One”
I’m always excited about new Frank Turner music. The latest track off his upcoming album is about survival and defiance. Turner has stated that being a 42 year old singer is not a sexy, rock and roll age, but we can all relate with the triumphant lyrics, “I’m still standing up and there’s nothing you can do”.
Hurray for the Riff Raff - “Colossus of Roads”
More great music from the fantastic Hurray for the Riff Raff. The song was written to create a space where all outsiders can be safe together - something that really only exists in people’s minds. The easy country sway holds the lyrics gently throughout the tune.
Bayside - “Castaway”
The punk-rock vets are back with what appears to be a stand-alone song. It’s fast-paced and
Icatchy and one of the best songs they’ve released in years. You’ll find yourself singing along to the chorus, especially if you catch them on tour this year.
Lil Nas X - “Where Do We Go Now?”
Just two weeks after his song “J Christ'' dropped, LNX is back with a track that is self-described as “music to match with your depression.” The painful, heartfelt lyrics of “Where do we go now?” and “I just want to be somebody new inside. I just wanna be somebody.” ache over a beautiful acoustic guitar/keyboard driven track.
The Smile - Wall of Eyes
I love early Radiohead, their later stuff confused me a bit and it never really stuck with me. I liked the first single from The Smile, the title track, “Wall of Eyes” with its gentle guitars and spooky Thom Yorke vocals. “Friend of a Friend” is fantastic with it’s jazzy piano and political backdrop. “Under Our Pillows”, reminds me of Paranoid Android-era Radiohead with its swirling guitar work from Jonny Greenwood. Greenwood is the one that stands out the most for me here, bringing his soundtrack work with him to the album.
Future Islands - People Who Aren’t There Anymore
The synthpop quintet from Baltimore are back with a break-up album! The album is full of beautifully arranged songs like “The Tower”, an anthemic, bass-thumping track. “Deep in the Night” reminds me of an ‘80s alternative prom final dance with it’s swaying synthesizers and drums. Frontman Samuel T. Herring has a gorgeous voice that conveys the anguish in every lyric. Other favorites are “Iris” and “Peach”.
Sarah Jarosz - Polaroid Lovers
Sarah Jarosz is a pure storyteller and on her latest she’s embracing a louder, full sound not found on her previous albums that were more subdued and gentle. The first song, “Jealous Moon” is pure pop-Americana with soaring vocals and driving drums/guitars. Jarosz has the kind of voice you don’t tire of. “Take the High Road” reminds me of Kathleen Edwards and the sweet sway of “Days Can Turn Around” is just about the sweetest song she’s written in years.
The Umbrellas - Fairweather Friend
With enough jangly guitars and 90’s alternative feel to their music, San Francisco’s The Umbrellas have released a solid follow-up to their debut from 2021. The band focused on taking the energy from their live shows and putting it into their recorded material. “Gone” is a fantastic, up-tempo alternative pop song with balanced dual vocals from Matt Ferrera and Morgan Stanley.
Katy Kirby - Blue Raspberry
The influence of Regina Spektor and Liz Phair are pretty obvious on Kirby’s follow-up to the fantastic Cool Dry Place. She’s discovered her voice even more and sings about struggles while finding her way in the world. There’s Spektor-style smart quirkiness over a folkish style backdrop. “Cubic Zirconia”, “Party of the Century” and the truly beautiful title track are the best of the bunch here.
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