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It’s another exciting week for new music from a wide range of artists. So let’s get to it!
Singles of the Week:
“Virgo” by Meshell Ndegeocello
On the verge of her debut-Blue Note album coming out, the fantastic singer/songwriter has dropped the first single - a funky, space-like tune that focuses on Ndegeocello’s voice and her collaboration with harpist Brandee Younger and organist Julius Rodridguez. The song is about stars aligning - just like a great artist on a great label.
“Right Kind of Crazy” by Devon Gilfillian
A sultry new track from the Nashville-based singer/songwriter. It’s a love song that focuses on the part just beyond that first flush of infatuation. It reminds me of early Maxwell and Sade. It’s got that 90s vibe that will get you moving.
“Psychos” by Jenny Lewis
A favorite here, the new album from Lewis drops in June (and it’s produced by Dave Cobb). The song is a rolling acoustic number with hooks galore and some sweet pedal steel guitar. Along with the Nashville feel, Lewis keeps her Laurel Canyon vibes.
“Solo” by The Aces
The third single from the forthcoming album by this fantastic band is a pop gem. Reflecting on past relationships, the band’s sound harkens back to some of their earlier work, with sweet harmonizing, while also channeling bands like Haim.
“Watching the Credits” by The Beths
If you caught their Tiny Desk Concert, you got an idea of how good this band is - catchy, hook-filled songs and their latest is no exception. Recorded during the Expert In A Dying Field sessions, the stand-alone track is pure joy. The best thing to come out of New Zealand since Sir Edmund Hillary.
“Softest Touch” by Khalid
Good vibes and good energy are what Khalid brings on his new song. It’s a great transition song as we head into warmer weather and sweet summer nights. His delivery has always had a hint of classic R&B while still remaining modern with sweet beats. I predict this one will be all over the airwaves.
Albums of the Week:
the record by boygenius
It’s one I’ve been waiting for and am so excited it’s finally here! The supergroup boygenius (Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus) does exactly what you’d want from putting three amazing singer/songwriters together - They amplify each other, they feed off of each other's talent and create a near masterpiece. The trading of lead vocals and styles flows so well. From the harmonious acapella opener “Without You Without Them” to the atmospheric “True Blue” and the grungy-rocker “Satanist” - they’re all great! This one will be on repeat for a long, long time.
Continue As Guest by The New Pornographers
There’s always been something about The New Pornographers, where I like a few songs off their more recent full-length releases, but then the rest feel like throw-aways. Not here. Their new album has catchy songs that come at your in layers. “Really Really Light” kicks things off with the classic harmonizing they’re known for while intertwined with complex music. Neko Case shines on the beautiful “Marie and the Undersea.” I love the breezy synth that helps drive “Firework in the Falling Snow.” It’s a fantastic album by a band that isn’t slowing down at all after over twenty years together.
The Price of Progress by The Hold Steady
If you’re looking for rock anthems like “Stuck Between Stations” or “Sequestered In Memphis” then look elsewhere. This is a grown-up, more complex Hold Steady. Full of oddball characters in complex situations, the latest from THS (celebrating their 20th anniversary) feels free and loose. Songs like “City at Eleven” and “Understudies” incorporate big sounds with sweet keyboards (from the fantastic Franz Nicolay. As always, lead singer/speaker Craig Finn delivers his lyrics and lines like a tortured author or stage actor.
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