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Singles of the Week:
“Everybody Needs Someone” by Noah Cyrus (feat. Vance Joy)
I’ve been so impressed with Noah’s music and the latest single continues on that path. The song is about taking control of your life - Cyrus dealt with addiction and the road to recovery - and her emotive voice is fully on display. Can’t wait to hear more from Miley’s younger sister, making a name for herself.
“i/o” by Peter Gabriel
Gabriel is releasing one song every month leading up to his full-length release. The title track, as he explains it, is about input and output - around the interconnectedness of everything. We’re not these independent islands, but all connected in some way. It’s a fantastic song that marries his early work along with a modern touch.
“Cut and Dry” by Charlotte Cornfield
A nostalgic folky track from the Canadian singer-songwriter’s upcoming LP. Reminds me a lot of Big Thief and Zoey Deschenel. Some lovely melodies and a warm feel throughout makes it a fantastic song.
“Play” by Petite Noir
Working with producer Dave Sitek (from TV on the Radio), I hear the influence from him on the latest single from the Belgian-born, South-African raised singer. It’s a playful song about the ups and downs of romance.
“The Door” by Silver Synthetic
Do you need a sunny, lush earworm for your weekend? Then look no further than the New Orleans-based band’s new single. Reminds me of Velvet Crush/The Byrds/Red Kross. A power-pop song that harkens enough back to the 1960s.
Albums of the Week:
Never Enough by Daniel Caesar
The Canadian R&B star got off to a great star with collaborations with H.E.R. and fellow Canadian Justin Bieber, but has shied away from too many hot collabs on his latest album, allowing his smooth vocals to be the star. It’s crazy of me to say, but this may be one of the best R&B albums in the past ten years. Mixing the classic sounds Caesar listened to as a kid with enough modern touches. Favorites include “Valentina” and the amazing “Always”. Okay, I’ll do it - Hail Caesar!
Winner by Overcoats
Overcoats aren’t breaking ground with a new genre or sound, but their catchy, warm, engaging songs on their latest release are ear candy and must be heard. Working with Nashville producer Daniel Tashian (who worked with Kacey Musgraves), the duo hook you in with their sweet harmonizing atop of shimmering tracks. Favorites include “New Suede Shoes” and “Green Eyes”.
The Deep End by Susanna Hoffs
While Susanna Hoffs created fantastic original music with The Bangles and in her solo career, she’s also no stranger to covers - check out the incredible albums she put together with Matthew Sweet. She’s back under the covers with this 13-song set that spans decades. Adding her sweet touch with super-producer Peter Asher, it’s a joy to hear this voice again. Favorites include “Under My Thumb”, “Only You” and “Pawn Shop”
The Weakness by Ruston Kelly
One of my favorite “country” artists, Kelly has produced a fantastic “comeback” album. After a number of major life upheavals (divorce, addiction), he leaned into his love of Americana and pop-punk to create some sort of emo album with enough grit under his nails. Taking risks this time around (working with Nate Mercereau who previously worked with Lizzo and Leon Bridges), Kelly has created a fantastic album. Favorites include “Breakdown” and “Let Only Love Remain”.
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