It’s been a couple weeks since we’ve had ourselves a proper round-up. That’s not to say there hasn’t been worthy tunes – we’ve just been busy prepping our next print volume. And while that’s still the case… we felt we would be doing y’all a disservice if we went any longer without our supreme music recommendations for the week. Let’s do this.
Track of the Week: Charlie Collins – Are You Even Listening?
What first intrigued me about Charlie Collins was learning she just opened up a run of shows for Gang of Youths. But what hooked me was the song itself; ‘Are You Even Listening?’ is an absolutely perfect indie-pop song. The melodies are interesting and easy to latch onto. This is summer heartbreak at its finest.
Also new this week…
Been Stellar – Kids 1995
Probably not a coincidence that this song sort of sounds like 1995, huh? This ’90s revivalism has gradually been creeping in to music this year and we are here for it. What a hook this one’s got. Long live guitars.
Echo Beach – Am I Dreaming?
Asking myself this very question whilst listening to this one. It’s as if I’ve been transported into a John Hughes fever dream. And right before I wake, there’s Darren Aronofsky going ‘Boo!’. Sort of a weird way to tell y’all this is an ’80s tinged, dark slice of heaven but I’m trying to make my English professors proud here so cut me some slack.
Idle Hours – Souvenirs
‘Graffiti on the walls of Disneyland’ is how the new Idle Hours single kicks off. Not really sure if this is a Mickey Mouse protest song or just a weird metaphor for capitalism, but either way, it lures you in. Kind of a nice groove, too.
beabadoobee – See You Soon
This is shaping up to be one of our most anticipated releases for the year. ‘See You Soon’ is another memorable track from the 21 year old. The best part? Apparently it’s about shrooms.
Mewn – Two Days
Manchester-based Mewn has drawn a lot of comparisons to Arcade Fire. Honestly, if Arcade Fire sounded a bit more like Mewn…. I’d probably enjoy Arcade Fire more. How many times should one mention Arcade Fire in a single review? Far less than this. Just listen to ‘Two Days’.
MUNA – Kind of Girl
Part of Phoebe Bridgers’ Saddest Factory Records roster, MUNA has all the qualities you’d expect: heart-on-your-sleeve candor, gentleness and melodies that stop you in your tracks. ‘Kind of Girl’ is a pop ballad anthem with a slight country edge. You can come down to the rodeo anytime, MUNA.
The Dangerous Summer – Coming Home
I’ve been a Dangerous Summer fan since album one. They’ve always been a little left-of-center in the pop-punk world. A bit heavier and less obvious. ‘Coming Home’ is no different… though not really sure how I feel about the cowboy hat in the video. Wouldn’t expect to hear this one on the ranch. Blaring in the car on a nighttime drive? Sure.
Lit – Mouth Shut
If you had told me there would be new music from Lit in 2022, I would have laughed in your face. If you had told me I would be enjoying said Lit music? No shot. Not sure what the ‘My Own Worst Enemy’ superstars have been drinking, but clearly it’s been good for the creative juices. Wouldn’t be surprised if Lit ended up on Top 40 radio again.
