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It’s New Music Friday and we’ve got a wide mix of genres and artists with new tunes out today. Let’s see what I’m digging today:
Ben Rector and Hailey Whitters - “Color Up My World”
To steal from Donnie and Marie, she’s a little bit country, he’s a little bit rock and roll - and when you combine their fantastic voices and talent you get “Color Up My World”. The track is a two minute, joyful, sweet bit of ear candy. It’s a perfect spring weather song.
Bon Jovi - “Legendary”
The iconic rock band has returned with an anthemic lead single to their upcoming album. It’s a return to form for the band and gives the fans everything they want from their Bon Jovi songs. It’s plenty full of cliches (references to Sweet Caroline and a brown-eyed girl) but when you’re cracking open a beer this summer, my guess is that this song will be oozing from the radio.
Willow - “Symptom of Life”
Willow’s 2021 album Lately I Feel Everything was one of my favorites of the year and I’m really loving their new single. A fantastic mix of dreamy pop and jazz (both in the music and how Willow delivers the lyrics). It’s an introspective song with more poetic lyrics than her previous music.
Ben Platt - “Andrew”
A heartbreaking new song from the Dear Evan Hansen star. What breaks our heart and makes us chemically feel off in love? Platt addresses it all in his latest song with swaying acoustic guitars leading the way. Platt’s voice is so great and his transition from Broadway singer to pop singer has been pretty seamless.
Mellow Mayhems - “Tricks”
The London-based indie trio gives props to Motown, infusing their first song with enough blues and rock and roll to satisfy lots of listeners. It’s a smooth track and I’m digging the soulful vocals of Sam Macdonald. It’s a promising start for the band - I’m looking forward to hearing more from them in the future.
Kacey Musgraves - Deeper Well
After what I thought was a wrong turn with her last album, Musgraves is back with a fantastic album full of great storytelling with a Laurel Canyon/Greenwich Village vibe. The songs are stripped down, short and sweet and cover self-care and loving yourself in tough times, especially after a divorce. There’s a late 60s to early 70s vibe and I’m here for it. Highlights include “Moving Out”, “Sway”, “Dinner with Friends” my favorite, “The Architect”.
The Black Crowes - Happiness Bastards
The Black Crowes are not fucking around. As the Robinson brothers put it, the new album is an unflinching testament to the brothers’ desire to “rekindle their love affair” with rock and roll. The album showcases the band's timeless sound revitalized with fresh energy. From the opening chords to the final crescendo, each track brims with raw authenticity and musical craftsmanship. Highlights include “Rats and Clowns”, “Dirty Cold Sun” and “Follow the Moon”.
Chuck Strangers - A Forsaken Lover’s Plea
Strangers started as a producer for artists such as Joey Bada$$, occasionally dropping in on some tracks. Ever since he’s been out in front of the mic, he’s created some fantastic boom bap tracks. Here he fills the album with eerie, minimal soundscapes with his quietly commanding lyrical style. Highlights include “Polish Jazz” and “Dead Vines”.
Charles Lloyd - The Sky Will Still Be There Tomorrow
Charles Lloyd's latest album is a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of contemporary jazz. Lloyd's virtuosity shines through every note, as he effortlessly navigates through a diverse landscape of sonic textures and emotional depth. He seamlessly blends elements of traditional jazz, world music, and avant-garde experimentation. Highlights include “Defiant, Tender Warrior” and “Booker’s Garden”.