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Happy New Music Friday! Let’s dive in on new tunes that I’m digging, from some old favorites to the son of a childhood friend.
The Collection - “The Come Down”
The Collection have been slowly releasing a number of fantastic, emotional singles over the past year or so. The latest from them is a pop gem of a song that has a bit of a throwback feel with some 80s/90s keyboards leading the way. Singer/songwriter David Wimbish has a sweet, beautiful voice with lyrics that focus on mental health/support for our friends and family. They’re an inspiring band for me and I’m excited for them to tour this fall.
Ibai Joseph - “Gaur eta Bihar”
How cool is it to find out that a childhood friend has a kid who makes great music? That’s just what’s happening here. Ibai is the son of a friend who grew up a few blocks away from me. His song is a pretty typical style of the Basque music scene right now, translated to “Today and Tomorrow”. It’s a gorgeous piece of music with Ibai playing the guitar and violin parts as well as the vocals. It’s like nothing I really listen to, which I’m always excited to discover new artists and music. Can’t wait to hear more from him!
Carly Pearce - “My Place”
The country music singer has dropped another single off her upcoming album and it’s a fantastic mix of current and classic country. Pearce’s beautiful voice shines in the track that tackles the reckoning of an ex moving on and acknowledging insecurities while putting one foot in front of the other. This one will rule country radio real soon.
Orville Peck - “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other”
The 1981 tongue-in-cheek queer country anthem song gets a redo/remake with Peck teaming up with Willie Nelson. Its classic country music blends so well with Peck’s deep, gorgeous vocals combined with Nelson’s wavering yet proud voice. Peck revealed that it was Nelson who came up with the idea for the cover duet based on the rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and legislation throughout the U.S. Bravo Willie and bravo Orville for your fantastic version.
Khruangbin - A la Sala
I first discovered the Houston trio when they worked with Leon Bridges. Since then, the band has released consistently great music. On their latest, there’s some sweet guitar play and groovy bass lines intertwined into their 70s funky retro sound mixed with distinct Latin vibes. The songs are less complex than previous releases and it works - setting the tone for a relaxed vibe of an album to chill at while sitting the afternoon away. Highlights include “Juegos y Nubes”, “Pon Pon” and “A Love International”.
Vampire Weekend - Only God Was Above Us
I wasn’t sold on the latest one from Vampire Weekend from the earlier released tracks. After listening to the full release, I’m warming up to it a bit. The pondering of life and death and existentialism oozes throughout and the tracks are all over the place musically, despite being recorded without multi-instrumentalist Rostam Batmanglij. Ezra Koenig’s voice is always a joy for me to listen to throughout the years. There’s a slacker vibe that meets The Magnetic Fields in what I’m hearing musically - some songs are tight while some are atmospheric. Highlights include “Capricorn”, “Pre-School Gangsters” and “Pravda”.
The Black Keys - Ohio Players
There’s something cleaner about the latest from the Black Keys and that’s a good thing. Full of fuzzy, funk and soulful tracks, the latest from the duo is another step in the right direction for the band. Working with guys like Beck and Noel Gallagher enhances their sound and allows for some of their best songs ever. Highlights include “Beautiful People (Stay High)”, “Only Love Matters” and “Paper Crown”.
Marcus King - Mood Swings
The new album from King, produced by Rick Rubin, tackles some really difficult subject matter - especially King’s mental health struggles. However, one could listen to it and hear hope in his lyrics. King mentioned how much Rubin helped him realize his mental health was a great writing partner and that’s where a creative spark can come from. The guitar work shines through track by track while King’s smooth vocals accompany his axe playing. Highlights include “Save Me”, “This Far Gone” and “Cadillac”.
Sinkane - We Belong
A new to me artist - the Sudanese-American soul singer might be my favorite of the week. Combining the best of R&B, funk, soul and jazz, Sinkane has created a powerful album of songs about the deep societal wounds of Black Americans. It reminds me of the best 70s music from artists like Herbie Hancock and Marvin Gaye. Sink deep into this one and explore all the corners of this soulful release. Highlights include “How Sweet Is Your Love”, “Everything Is Everything” and “Come Together”.