News Music Friday (October 2, 2020)

Welcome to the first Friday in October. To quote David Byrne, “Well, how did I get here?”

To add a musical quote to today’s post…What a long strange trip it’s been. But music has been one thing I’ve held onto throughout this time in our lives. So let’s find out what’s new today.

Check out new music from the following:

- YG – The California rapper’s fifth release is pure West Coast rap. Check out the track “War Scars”

- 21 Savage – With some high-level guest appearances, the London rapper’s follow up to his big 2016 release delivers. Check out the track “Mr. Right Now”

- Laura Jean Grace – The lead singer of Against Me! has released a surprise solo album produced by Steve Albini. Check out the track “SuperNatural Possession”

- Jónsi – I love his voice and his songs bounce between industrial and trance-like. The singer of the band Sigur Rós delivers again on his new solo release. Check out the track “Salt Licorice”

- Aloe Blacc – Blacc’s release is classic R&B/soul music where his voice soars beautifully. Check out the track “All Love Everything”

- Bartees Strange – DC’s own producer and songwriter has produced a strong album full of experimental pop songs. Check out the track “Boomer”

- Born Ruffians – A Canadian indie rock band produced a catchy release full of gleaming guitar rock. Check out the track “Waylaid”

- Brent Cobb – Super producer Cobb is underappreciated as an artist himself. Classic country songs on his latest. Check out the track “Good Times and Good Love”

- Dawn Landes – She reminds me of Mary Chapin Carpenter with her soothing voice telling stories over folksy country music. Check out the track “Oh Ameila”

- Drive-By Truckers – Following up their spectacular January release, the Truckers are back with their second release of 2020. Check out the track “The Perilous Night”

- Dolly Parton – It’s never too early for holiday music and this one is from the queen. Check out the track “Christmas Where We Are”

Today’s featured artist is Dawes. I have always loved this band – Their Laurel Canyon sound has drawn me in with beautiful harmonies of storytelling over textured music. The band continues to pump out music, never letting off the gas. The lyrics touch on growing up, moving on without forgetting a child-like feeling. Bouncing between quiet acoustic tracks and fuzz guitar churners, Dawes has produced another classic that fits so well with Jackson Browne, The Eagles and so many more that came before them.